
The Sarawak International Band & Orchestra Festival (SIBOFest) 2024 was a four-day music festival held in September 2024. It served as a platform that united youth wind bands and orchestras, industry experts, educators, and musicians from across Malaysia, fostering a dynamic environment for interactive workshops, cultural immersion, and captivating performances. The overarching theme for the festival was "Music, Culture, and Friendship," embracing the core values of musical excellence, camaraderie, and education. Through this event, the festival celebrated the diverse heritage, arts, culture, and educational opportunities present in Sarawak. SIBOFest 2024 concluded with a spectacular Finale Gala Concert on 20 September at the prestigious Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Sarawak, featuring performances by both local and international musicians, including At Adau and the award-winning Aikodai Meiden High School Symphonic Band from Japan. A major highlight was the world premiere of the SIBOFest 2024 theme song, "Cat on the Waterfront," composed by 20-year-old Japanese composer Keigo Makino, inspired by the Sarawakian Kenya song "Bampa Lale" Ame’ Tuyang’. The concert celebrated the dedication and creativity of the participants, with performances of iconic songs like Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie's "We Are the World" and Pharrell Williams' "Happy," alongside classical and original works. Additionally, the Band Lab marked its 5th anniversary, showcasing its achievements to an international audience.