Kuala Lumpur is set to move with rhythm and colour this 19 – 23 November 2025 as the 11th International Folk Dance Festival (TARI’25 ASWARA) returns after years of anticipation. Hosted by the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA), the festival brings together over 600 dancers and performers from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, and Sri Lanka in one extraordinary celebration of unity through dance.
This year’s edition embraces the vibrant traditions of ASEAN, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to regional harmony through artistic collaboration, a meaningful step leading into Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026). The festival’s comeback promises a spectacular mix of heritage and creativity, reaffirming ASWARA’s role as Malaysia’s premier hub for dance and cultural performance.
According to Prof Dr Tan Awang Besar, Rector of ASWARA, “This comeback edition is set to inspire both professionals and enthusiasts, offering new opportunities for collaboration and artistic growth across borders.” Festival Director Dr Norsafini Jafar added that, for the first time, TARI’25 will adopt a regional ASEAN dance theme, showcasing the beauty and diversity of folk traditions from neighbouring countries, expanding cultural dialogue beyond Malaysia’s borders.
Among this year’s most anticipated highlights is Rampaian Molek Sepilin, an opening medley of Zapin, Inang, and Joget, performed with live vocals by Hazraniza Dollah, winner of AIM24’s Best Traditional Song. Her soulful performance is set to open the festival with elegance and pride. Another showcase, Echo of Borneo, celebrates the dances of Sabah and Sarawak, performed by ASWARA’s Faculty of Dance students as a vibrant tribute to East Malaysia’s unity and indigenous spirit.
The excitement peaks at the Gala Night at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, where international and Malaysian troupes will share the stage with the Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia (OTM) from Istana Budaya. The evening promises a captivating fusion of traditional music, choreography, and modern stage design, a fitting finale for this celebration of heritage and innovation.
Beyond the performances, TARI’25 also offers seminars, workshops, and masterclasses designed to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary expressions. These sessions invite everyone, from dance lovers to curious newcomers, to connect, learn, and move together.
Whether you’re a dancer, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who loves cultural experiences, TARI’25 ASWARA invites you to witness how movement can unite hearts across borders.
Save the dates: 19–23 November 2025 at ASWARA and Zepp Kuala Lumpur!
Purchase your ticket here!
Follow for updates:
Facebook: ASWARA, Fakulti Tari
Instagram & X: @aswaraofficial | @tari_aswara
TikTok: @fakultitariaswara
