The rhythm and style of Pop Yeh-Yeh, which once shaped the landscape of popular music in Malaysia, will be celebrated again through Retro Bangkit – Pesta Pop Yeh-Yeh 2026, which will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 2pm to 7pm at the Anniversari Theatre, Perdana Botanical Garden, Kuala Lumpur.
The programme organised by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) through the Department of Culture, Arts, Tourism, and Sports (JKKPS) is part of DBKL's ongoing efforts to provide space and platforms for artists and the community to collectively enliven arts, music, and cultural activities in the capital.
Bringing the spirit of "Nostalgia Returns * Legends in Action * New Talents Sought", Retro Bangkit not only reminisces the glory of 1960s music but also serves as a platform to reintroduce the identity, style, and influence of Pop Yeh-Yeh to today's generation.
The organisation of this programme also brings together two generations of artists and legends who have coloured the development of the local music scene with the new generation, who have the opportunity to recognise, appreciate, and continue the musical heritage.
Among the main attractions are special performances by names that are synonymous with the world of Pop Yeh-Yeh and local entertainment, namely Datuk Jeffrydin, Datuk J-Sham, and the iconic personality Ayahanda Rani Kulup.
Their performance will be accompanied by the Kipidap Family Group, while Bob Ringgo will act as the host throughout the programme.
The meeting between legends, musicians, and the new generation is hoped to create an experience that not only brings nostalgia but also shows that music rooted in Pop Yeh-Yeh still has its own place and appeal in the development of contemporary music.
In addition to legendary performances, Retro Bangkit also features the Pop Yeh-Yeh Idol Competition 2026, a singing contest created to discover new talents who can revive the spirit, style, character, and music of Pop Yeh-Yeh.
Participation is free, thus opening up opportunities for the new generation to recognise and interpret Pop Yeh-Yeh music through their own approaches and personalities without losing the fundamental identity of the genre.
The winners of the competition will receive cash prizes, with the Champion taking home RM1,000, the Runner-up RM500, and the Third Place RM300. In addition, five participants will also receive consolation prizes of RM100 each.
Participant registration starts at 2pm, followed by the preliminary rounds from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. The best participants will then advance to the Top 5 Final Round of Idola Pop Yeh-Yeh 2026 at 5.30pm.
Those interested in participating in this competition can contact the organisers immediately via WhatsApp at +60 14-641 4295 to get more information and register.
Through an approach that combines elements of nostalgia, legendary performances, and the search for new talent, this program is expected to serve as a bridge between generations and ensure that the treasure of local popular music continues to be recognised, appreciated, and inherited.
The public, especially fans of Pop Yeh-Yeh music, families, and the younger generation, are invited to attend and enliven this program. Admission is free.
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Anniversari Theatre, Perdana Botanical Garden, Kuala Lumpur
Admission: Free
Organised by: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) through Department of Culture, Arts, Tourism, and Sports (JKKPS)
