The Sarawak International Band & Orchestra Festival (SIBOFest) 2024 was held at Lodge Secondary School from 17-19 September and at DUN Sarawak on 20 September. The event gathered youth wind bands, orchestras, educators, and musicians from various regions, focusing on music education, performance, and cultural engagement.

The festival featured a series of workshops, masterclasses, and performances, with a particular emphasis on collaboration between participants. Notable guests included the Aikodai Meiden High School Symphonic Band from Japan and other international musicians. The program included interactive workshops, cultural experiences such as visits to the Borneo Cultures Museum, and practical sessions on instrument repair by Japanese technicians.

The Finale Gala Concert was a key highlight, showcasing performances of pieces like Palladio by Karl Jenkins, We Are the World by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, showcasing the unity and diversity of musical talents.

The concert also featured a world premiere of the SIBOFest 2024 theme song composed by Keigo Makino. The festival’s culmination reinforced the core values of musical excellence, camaraderie, and education, as young musicians took centre stage alongside international artists, creating lasting memories and forging new friendships.

The festival also provided professional development opportunities, including on-site instrument repair services by Japanese technicians and workshops on instrument care. These services not only enhanced participants’ skills but also supported the local music industry by promoting the development of the instrument market and post-pandemic recovery for musicians and bands.

The Band Lab, the organiser, in collaboration with various sponsors and the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak, ensured the event's success. SIBOFest 2024 not only amplified the visibility of Sarawak’s music community but also promoted tourism and investment, contributing to the region’s cultural and economic growth.

With over 220 active participants and observers, the festival was an enriching experience for all, leaving a meaningful impact on both participants and the local community. As the festival concluded, there was a strong sense of excitement for future editions of SIBOFest, with the hope of continuing to nurture the talents of young musicians and further promoting Sarawak’s cultural heritage on the global stage.