Ipoh harmonies: Unlocking the nusantara soundscape

Ipoh is setting its sights on becoming a Southeast Asian music powerhouse, drawing inspiration from Busan’s K-pop success story.

Following Unesco’s recent designation as a “City of Music,” Ipoh is ready to leverage this prestigious recognition and its vibrant Nusantara music scene to establish itself as a global music destination.

Ipoh’s Vision for Nusantara Music

Speaking to The Star Metro, Mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin envisions Ipoh as the “Busan of Nusantara music,” highlighting the South Korean city’s remarkable transformation after receiving Unesco recognition in 2014.

“K-pop artistes perform in many parts of the world including Malaysia. Busan is a model that Ipoh can follow,” Rumaizi told StarMetro.

Ipoh’s strategic plan revolves around showcasing Nusantara music, a genre encompassing the diverse musical traditions of Malaysia, Indonesia, southern Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, and the southern Philippines.

This focus aims to attract more Muslim tourists from the region to Ipoh’s cultural events, fostering deeper cultural understanding and economic growth.

Unesco’s recognition of Ipoh

Unesco’s recognition is not just a feather in Ipoh’s cap; it’s an invitation to join the esteemed Creative Cities Network (UCCN). This network, with over 350 member cities across 100 countries, celebrates cities that champion culture and creativity as drivers of development.

Ipoh’s inclusion reflects its dedication to making culture accessible and its commitment to using creativity to enhance urban life.

Rumaizi emphasises the importance of dispelling negative perceptions about music through education and engagement programs.

Ipoh plans to host a series of music events, starting small and gradually building up to larger festivals. The city council will collaborate with PORT (People of Remarkable Talent), a creative agency under the Perak government, to bring these events to life.

The Ipoh Town Hall is undergoing renovations to house a philharmonic orchestra venue and a digital studio, scheduled for completion in June.

Additional venues like the Ipoh International Convention Centre, D.R. Seenivasagam Park’s amphitheatre, and Pincer MBI Studio in Meru Raya will also provide platforms for musical expression.

As Ipoh embarks on its journey as a Unesco “City of Music,” it’s poised to celebrate its rich cultural heritage and contribute to the global music scene.

The city’s Nusantara focus, strategic collaborations, and commitment to cultural accessibility are sure to position Ipoh as a key player in the realm of creative arts, attracting not only tourists but also musicians and music lovers from across the region and beyond.