SHAH ALAM: A rhythm echoes through the fields – shaped by the rustle of rice paddy, carried in song and brought to life through movement passed down across generations. Rooted in the spirit of harvest, Carlsberg’s Rhythm of Harvest is more than just a music video; it is a reflection of identity, gratitude and belonging in Sabah and Sarawak, where every note, gesture and story holds meaning.
From the vibrant cultural attire and expressive choreography to the traditional sounds and visual tributes to icons of the land – from the hornbill in flight to the peaks of Mount Kinabalu and the Rafflesia in bloom – every element is thoughtfully brought together to honour the harvest celebrations.
Building on the collaboration with local artists, including Sabahan artist Nelson Lip and Sarawakian artist T. Bagak – whose rice-inspired Carlsberg packaging designs reflected the harvest as a symbol of life and sustenance – the journey evolved into Rhythm of Harvest, where traditional music, dance, costume and storytelling come together in a vibrant cultural expression
This year, the lens shifts behind the scenes. Created by locals, for locals, ‘People Behind The Rhythm’ is a film trilogy that spotlights the voices behind the celebration, capturing the lived experiences and creative journeys behind Rhythm of Harvest and offering a perspective on the harvest season.
“‘Rhythm of Harvest’ was always about celebrating Sabah and Sarawak in a way that feels true to the people and communities it represents.
“With ‘People Behind The Rhythm’, we wanted to step back and let those voices come through – because these are their stories, told in their own way. This is what Raikan Bersama Sabah and Sarawak means to us,” said Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Stefano Clini.
Through three films, People Behind The Rhythm traces the stories that shaped the work – from the communities whose traditions inspired it, to the creatives who brought it to life. The series is directed by award-winning Sarawakian filmmaker Sarah Lois, whose storytelling is deeply rooted in her Kelabit heritage and shaped by close collaboration with local communities to ensure authenticity and respect.
Each film explores a different facet of the harvest experience – from personal journeys of reconnecting with one’s roots, to how music preserves memory and how traditional movement continues to evolve across generations.
Among those featured is Melina William, lyricist of Rhythm of Harvest, who reflects on how music carries identity across distance. “In rediscovering my roots through music, I realised that the sounds of home stay with us wherever we go. For those who are far from home, music has a way of bringing us back – and that’s something we can be proud of, because no matter where we are, we all carry a piece of home within us,” she said.
Choreographer Arthur Darren shares how movement bridges tradition and modern expression. “Every movement carries a story. With Rhythm of Harvest, it honours the roots of our traditional dance while expressing it in a way that today’s generation can connect with. It’s about carrying our culture forward, not leaving it behind,” he said.
To find out more about the harvest celebrations and ongoing promotions, visit https://bestwithcarlsberg.my/harvest and follow @CarlsbergMY on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
