SANDAKAN: The Sepilok Jazz 3rd Edition, a cultural event that merges the enchanting sounds of jazz with a deep commitment to environmental conservation, was successfully held on 6th and 7th September 2024 at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sandakan.
The event drew an impressive crowd of over 1,500 attendees across the two nights, celebrating not only the richness of jazz music but also Sabah’s natural heritage.
The event was officiated by Vivian Wong Shir Yee, Member of Parliament for Sandakan, and was graced by the presence of several distinguished guests, including Puan Mary Isidore Malanking, Deputy Permanent Secretary 1 of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment Sabah; Tuan Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Tourism Board; Yang Arif Tuan Saiful Azian Mokhtar, Judicial Commissioner of the Sandakan High Court; Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung, Member of the Sabah State Legislative Assembly for Tanjong Papat, along with his wife; Dr. Arthur Chung, Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (R&D), Sabah Forestry Department; Mr. Alexander Yee Kok Tsen, President of Friends of Sea Turtles Education and Research (FOSTER); and Mr. Cheong Kok Ann, the Music Director of Sepilok Jazz 3rd Edition.
The festival featured a stellar lineup of artists who captivated the audience with their performances, including:
- Soulcutz (Australia)
- Mabel Air Jazz (Philippines)
- Tonal Alchemy (Penang, Malaysia)
- Le’Lucky (Sabah, Malaysia)
- Winners of Bakat Sepilok Jazz, Suave Swing, and Trinity Jazz Band
DJ Diddy, the event’s MC, skilfully guided the proceedings, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all attendees.
Since its inception in 2022, Sepilok Jazz has grown into one of the most anticipated cultural events in Sandakan.
The festival has consistently offered a unique platform that not only showcases mesmerising jazz performances but also raises awareness and funds for vital environmental and conservation efforts, particularly sea turtle conservation on Libaran Island.
This year’s edition continued the tradition of uniting music lovers, environmentalists, and the local community in a shared mission to protect Sabah’s natural heritage.
The event provided a meaningful platform to highlight the ongoing challenges faced by conservation efforts and the crucial role of community involvement in safeguarding Sabah’s unique biodiversity.
The Sepilok Jazz 3rd Edition was a resounding success, further solidifying its reputation as a key event that beautifully intertwines art and nature, making a lasting impact on both the cultural and environmental landscape of Sabah.
