KUCHING: Sarawak will begin 2025 with a nostalgic event as the popular 1970s band Boney M starts their 50th anniversary tour here on Jan 4.
State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the band, led by original member Maizie Williams, has chosen Kuching as the first stop on their tour.
"We feel honoured to start the year with such a popular international band coming to our shores. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this iconic band live on stage," he said at a press conference on Monday (December 16).
Abdul Karim said the concert would help Sarawak's tourism sector reach its target of five million visitors next year.
He emphasised that entertainment plays an important role in developing tourism and enhancing Sarawak's appeal as a premier destination.
"Events such as the Rainforest World Music Festival, Borneo Sonic, and Kuching Jazz Festival have put Sarawak on the global stage and attracted visitors to the state," he added.
Zaid Zaini, the executive director of event promoter Front Row Entertainment Sdn Bhd, said the Boney M show at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching aligns with Sarawak's ambition to host cultural events.
"By choosing Kuching to kick off their anniversary tour, they are helping to position Sarawak as a rising alternative destination for live music events," he said.
Founded in 1974, Boney M is a disco group renowned for hits like "Rasputin", "Daddy Cool", "Ma Baker", and "Rivers of Babylon".
Local band At Adau, known for blending traditional and modern instruments, will be the opening act at the Kuching show.
After Kuching, Boney M will perform in Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
Zaid also said the concert is the first event in the company's inaugural Front Row Live Series in Sarawak next year.
He mentioned that the series would contribute to making Sarawak a vibrant and popular destination.
The other events in the lineup include a stand-up comedy fest in Kuching and a music concert in Miri.
