KOTA KINABALU: Japanese and international audiences responded strongly to the contemporary Borneo sound of Sabah-based ethnic fusion band Tompuvan – The Sound of Borneo at a music festival in Japan.
The band represented Malaysia at the World Music and Dance Festival (WMDF) 2026 in Hakodate, Hokkaido.
Its member Daniel Filex James said the response exceeded the band’s expectations.
“We were honestly surprised by the response we received in Hakodate. We came with the intention of sharing our music and culture, but we did not expect the audience to connect with our sound so strongly.
“Seeing Japanese and international audiences enjoying our music, moving to the rhythm and showing genuine interest in our traditional instruments was an unforgettable experience for us,” he told the New Straits Times.
Held annually since 2008, WMDF brings together musicians, dancers and cultural performers from different countries for cultural exchange and international collaboration.
The 2026 edition featured about 33 international artists and groups from countries including Malaysia, Thailand, Costa Rica, France, Australia, Poland, Argentina, the United States and the United Kingdom, alongside performers from Japan.
During the festival, Tompuvan performed contemporary Borneo music incorporating traditional instruments, indigenous musical elements and modern arrangements.
Daniel said the experience reinforced the band’s belief that traditional music could evolve while retaining its cultural identity.
“Traditional music is our identity, but it can also continue to grow. We believe we can preserve the roots while exploring new sounds and arrangements that are relevant to today’s generation.
"Our mission was to promote Sabah at an international level. We wanted people to know that Sabah is not only known for its beautiful nature, but also has a rich cultural heritage and incredible traditional musical instruments.
“We want to show the world that Borneo has its own sound, its own identity and its own story.”
Tompuvan sees innovation as part of preserving traditional music, using indigenous instruments and musical elements in contemporary compositions and performances to keep the heritage relevant to younger generations.
“For us, preserving heritage does not mean keeping it frozen in time. We want to keep the spirit and identity of the traditional music alive while allowing it to evolve,” Daniel said.
Beyond its performances, the festival allowed Tompuvan to meet musicians and cultural practitioners from different countries, exchange ideas and develop potential international collaborations.
Tompuvan said it would continue expanding its international network and seeking opportunities to perform at world music and cultural festivals, while encouraging young Sabah musicians to be proud of their roots and believe that traditional music can reach audiences beyond Borneo.
Comments
Post a Comment