Energetic show: A file photo showing a lion dance performance by the Nam Wah Kangkar Pulai Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe.
JOHOR BARU: Traditional dance groups are expecting an increase in demand for cultural performances next year in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026.
Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak founder and president Rosalind Kamis said interest in Sarawakian and Sabahan culture has been growing in Peninsular Malaysia.
“For now, we have not received any confirmed bookings for next year, but I believe they will start coming in as we get closer to Gawai next year.
“Usually, the demand for cultural performances from Sabah and Sarawak sees a spike from the end of May until the middle of July.
“I think it will be the same next year, but perhaps the numbers may be higher as more cultural events are expected to be held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026,” she said.
She said though Gawai falls on June 1 and 2, and Kaamatan on May 30 and 31, the festivals in Sarawak and Sabah respectively are typically celebrated throughout the month.
Rosalind, a Lun Bawang from Limbang, Sarawak, who lives in Kuala Lumpur, said she has noticed growing interest among people from the peninsula to learn traditional dances.
“In the past, the majority of those attending our workshops (with Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak) were Sarawakians or Sabahans residing in Peninsular Malaysia.
“But now, many people from the peninsula have also joined in,” said the traditional dance performer, who is also a fashion designer.
Meanwhile, Nam Wah Kangkar Pulai Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe president Datuk Teoh Booi Fooi said they were also anticipating more bookings next year.
“Even this year, we are already seeing an increase in requests for performances during cultural events and officiating ceremonies. The demand comes not only from the Chinese community, but also from others who want to include cultural elements in their functions,” he said.
Teoh said he expects to start receiving bookings for 2026 after this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival, which is expected to fall in September.
“For now, we have yet to receive bookings for Chinese New Year, but they usually start after the Mid-Autumn Festival.
“We expect the same for cultural events in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, and are prepared to welcome them.
“Even now, outside the festive season, we are receiving an average of about eight bookings every month,” he added.
