Sepilok Jazz Hits Fifth Milestone, Global Stars and Turtle Triumphs

4 May 2026

SANDAKAN: Friends of Sea Turtles Education and Research (FOSTER), organisers of Sepilok Jazz, will bring the festival to life on 4 and 5 September 2026 (Friday and Saturday) at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sepilok.

Now in its fifth year, this distinctive Sabah cultural and eco-tourism event expects over 5,000 visitors, its largest audience yet.

Beyond the music, Sepilok Jazz boosts local entrepreneurs, spotlights emerging artists and youth talent, fosters cultural exchange, and heightens conservation awareness.

Blending top-tier performances with environmental stewardship, it has become a purpose-driven platform linking culture, conservation, and community. The 2026 edition enjoys proud support from the Sabah Tourism Board, bolstering Sabah's status as a premier eco-cultural destination.

FOSTER President Alexander Yee Kok Tsen announced the launch at the Night of Groove event on 30 April 2026 at Mango Garden, Sepilok, held to mark International Jazz Day. Sabah artists Amado Degullacion Jr and Ivan Hii (Sepilok Jazz Youth Ambassador) performed, highlighting local talent and the festival's commitment to nurturing young musicians.

"At its core, Sepilok Jazz delivers more than entertainment," Yee said.

"It funds conservation, especially sea turtle protection on Libaran Island. Ticket proceeds have enabled the release of over 45,000 turtles to date, proving our tangible impact."

He added, "Attendees become active conservation contributors, turning music appreciation into environmental action."

Star-Powered Lineup with International Flair

Acclaimed Malaysian artist Shila Amzah headlines this milestone edition. A star across Asia, especially China, where she won Asian Wave and shone on I Am a Singer, she boasts sold-out tours in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.

Music Director Cheong Kok Ann praised her involvement, "Shila's excellence and generosity elevate Malaysian talent globally. Her China fanbase will amplify Sepilok Jazz's reach, while supporting our sea turtle work."

A curated lineup of Malaysian jazz musicians joins her, alongside artists from Italy, Indonesia, Singapore, and China. Expect classic, contemporary, fusion, and world jazz styles.

Five Years of Growth and Impact

2022 (Inaugural) Intimate two-night event with local artists; ~150 attendees; sparked media buzz.

2023: Added workshops, youth slots with pros; set September first-weekend tradition; introduced Prelude Night.

2024, Launched Sepilok Jazz Academy and Bakat contest (85 entrants); international judges (e.g., Wilson Quah, Ian Baxter); artists from Australia, Philippines; conservation site visits; bigger RDC stage.

2025: 115 contestants (including Singapore); performers from West Malaysia, Korea, Germany, Singapore, Hungary; Jeremy Monteiro as advisor; official merchandise; Sundatang showcases; more Libaran visits.

The 2026 edition builds on this with 120+ Bakat contestants (including Penang), Youth Ambassador Ivan Hii, FOSTER Annual Review, and a proposed Borneo Big Band Symposium with Jazz Association Youth Association Singapore, expanding into education and regional ties.

The RDC's rainforest setting immerses audiences in nature, pairing music with biodiversity activities. It draws locals, domestic travellers, and internationals, encouraging longer stays and deeper eco-engagement, aligning with Sabah's tourism vision.