After years of eager anticipation, the stage is finally set for the return of one of Malaysia’s most celebrated cultural showcases, none other then the 11th International Folk Dance Festival (TARI’25 ASWARA). Hosted by the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA), this prestigious event brings together ASEAN and international dance communities in a spectacular celebration of heritage, creativity, and unity.

This year’s edition shines a spotlight on the rich and colorful traditions of ASEAN nations, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to fostering regional harmony through the arts… a meaningful step as the nation gears up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026).

Back after several years, TARI’25 ASWARA once again underscores ASWARA’s role as Malaysia’s premier hub for dance and cultural performance. Rector Prof. Dr. Tan Awang Besar describes the festival as a “platform where artists, scholars, and cultural institutions exchange ideas and preserve the richness of traditional dance heritage.”

He adds that this comeback edition is designed to inspire both professionals and enthusiasts alike… opening doors to creative collaboration, knowledge exchange, and artistic growth across borders.

Festival Director Dr. Norsafini Jafar shares that for the very first time, TARI will embrace a regional ASEAN dance theme, showcasing the beauty and diversity of folk traditions from Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and beyond. This new direction marks a milestone for ASWARA’s Faculty of Dance… expanding cultural dialogue beyond Malaysia’s borders and reinforcing its mission to advance ASEAN cooperation through the arts.

Taking place from 19 to 23 November 2025 at ASWARA and Zepp Kuala Lumpur, the festival will feature over 600 participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, and Sri Lanka.

Beyond breathtaking stage productions, visitors can also look forward to seminars, masterclasses, and workshops designed to bridge traditional and contemporary expressions…. nurturing the next generation of dancers, choreographers, and cultural researchers.

Among the highlights is the vibrant opening number, “Rampaian Molek Sepilin”, which unites three beloved Malay folk dances… Zapin, Inang, and Joget into one seamless medley. The performance captures the elegance and dynamism of Malay culture, accompanied by live vocals from Hazraniza Dollah, winner of Anugerah Industri Muzik (AIM24)for Best Traditional Song. Her soulful performance promises to set a grand tone for the festival’s opening night.

Another highly anticipated piece, “Echo of Borneo”, will pay tribute to the traditional dances of Sabah and Sarawak. Performed by ASWARA’s talented Diploma and Bachelor’s students, it celebrates East Malaysia’s unity and diversity through vibrant rhythms, intricate costumes, and storytelling movements that honor indigenous heritage.

The excitement continues with the Gala Night at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, featuring both international and Malaysian troupes performing alongside the Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia (OTM) from Istana Budaya. Audiences can also look forward to the timeless Malay dance “Ketam Bawak Anak” from Perlis…. a piece that beautifully encapsulates northern Malaysia’s storytelling traditions. Enhanced by live orchestral accompaniment, the Gala promises an evening where artistry, heritage, and innovation meet under one dazzling stage.

For more details and updates on TARI’25 ASWARA, follow:
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🌐 Website: ASWARA Edu
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