The Rise of Electronic Dance Music (EDM) in Sarawak
A Growing Scene
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has steadily gained a foothold in Sarawak, evolving from a niche subculture into a vibrant musical movement that resonates far beyond local nightlife venues. While rave festivals were a rarity in the state, larger gatherings have emerged, connecting homegrown talents with international acts and introducing a wider array of EDM influences to Sarawak’s audience.
One standout event in this resurgence is the Borderland Music Festival. Launched in 2023 at Coco Cabana in Miri and later hosted at the Sarawak Cultural Village, the festival has garnered significant regional attention and helped elevate Sarawak’s profile on the global electronic music landscape.
The Visionary: Tiger Ming
At the forefront of this transformation is Tiger Ming, co-founder of the Borderland Music Festival and a pivotal figure in Sarawak’s EDM scene. Born Ing Xiang Ming in Ipoh, Perak, he discovered electronic music at 13, captivated by artists like Deadmau5 and Skrillex. Despite an early feeling of isolation in his musical preferences—where mainstream pop prevailed among his peers—his passion eventually found its community at his first rave at 17.
“Surrounded by people who shared my passion, I felt like I belonged for the first time,” he recalls. This sense of belonging ignited a relentless dedication to EDM, leading him from a festival-goer to a DJ and organizer in the scene.
Shaping the Future of EDM in Sarawak
Ming’s journey took a transformative turn in 2022 when he performed at the Neon Borneo Festival in Miri, the first show he did post-COVID-19. Initially considering stepping away from the industry out of fatigue, the vibrant energy of the Sarawak audience rejuvenated his perspective. “That night in Sarawak changed my life. I saw a crowd that was hungry for something more,” he shares.
Motivated by the potential he observed, Ming dedicated himself not just to performing but to building a platform for the local community. “It was about creating a space where others could feel what I felt at 17,” he explains, showcasing his vision of fostering an inclusive environment for music lovers.
Community and Collaboration
Ming emphasizes the importance of collaboration over competition, believing that a united approach can strengthen the local ecosystem. He views Sarawak’s audience as one of its greatest assets—knowledgeable, passionate, and open to diverse sounds. The positive feedback from international artists who have performed at the festival validates this growing community.
“You always hear it from the artists—Sarawak has one of the best crowds,” he notes. This collective energy contributes to the rapid development of the local scene, which, although still in its growth phase, shows promise through its continuous evolution.
Building an Ecosystem
The support from local government officials, including Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and his deputy ministers, has been instrumental in raising Sarawak’s profile. However, Ming acknowledges that the region faces challenges, such as developing production capabilities and meeting international festival standards.
“Building an ecosystem takes time. There are challenges, but it is part of a natural growth process,” he states. Despite these hurdles, the collective drive of local suppliers, production teams, and creative partners contributes to a supportive environment that nurtures talent and fosters sustainable growth.
A Vision Beyond Borders
As the EDM scene in Sarawak matures, Ming’s long-term vision remains clear: establishing Sarawak as a leading hub for electronic music in Southeast Asia. He imagines a future where local artists can confidently showcase their talents on international stages while providing audiences with world-class experiences without needing to travel abroad.
“EDM is not just about parties. It is about unity, culture, and community. Sarawak is ready for this narrative,” he asserts, capturing the essence of what he believes is a powerful, culturally rich movement that transcends music.
