PESZTA 2024 marks Malaysia Day with music, art, community

The highly anticipated PESZTA festival is back for its third year, promising an even grander celebration of music, arts, and culture. Organised by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn. Berhad (PMVSB), a subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), in partnership with Think City, Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), and several key community groups, PESZTA 2024 will take place on Saturday, 14th September 2024, in conjunction with Hari Malaysia.

The event spans various venues in Kampung Attap and beyond, including iconic locations such as Stadium Merdeka, KLSCAH, Pentago House, and more, offering a dynamic array of activities that cater to all ages.

Expanding the Festival Grounds

This year’s PESZTA promises more than ever before, with expanded activities across new and existing venues. For the first time, heritage tours and exhibitions at the restored Stadium Merdeka will showcase Malaysia’s rich history and architectural beauty. Meanwhile, the vibrant neighbourhood of Kampung Attap will continue to host art exhibitions, community markets, and performances across venues like KLSCAH, Pentago House, and Sam Mansion.

PMVSB’s Chief Executive Officer, Tengku Dato’ Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We attracted 4,000 visitors last year, and this year, we expect an even larger turnout. PESZTA 2024 will be an interactive and vibrant experience, allowing visitors to connect with local communities and discover the hidden gems of our heritage.”

Community Grants Programme Takes Centre Stage

A key highlight of PESZTA 2024 is the participation of the recipients of the Merdeka 118 Community Grants Programme, with some grantees having already showcased their work during Merdeka Weekend. Among the grantees participating in PESZTA are Eats, Shoots & Roots x YWCA, offering fresh produce, and Hanuni Halim x YWCA, displaying decoupage art.

Additionally, creative initiatives such as upcycled art from Hara Maker, plein air painting by Jamal Tommy, and furniture crafted by Re:kayu, will add to the unique experience for visitors, who can view and purchase these handcrafted items.

Workshops, Markets, and Performances

PESZTA 2024 offers a diverse lineup of activities for all tastes. Visitors can attend a film screening of Tiger Stripes by Amanda Nell Eu at KLSCAH, followed by a Q&A with the director. At the Zhongshan Building, activities include a live graffiti session by Kenji Chai, a surf-skate ramp sponsored by Rip Curl, and various interactive art installations.

Outdoor markets will offer a variety of food stalls, while live performances will showcase traditional dances, music from local bands, and even a giant puppet show by the KL Shakespeare Players. Sam Mansion will also host a “Paint & Play” session, inviting participants to embrace their creative side.

MANTAP KAMPUNG ATTAP Concert

The festival will culminate with the MANTAP KAMPUNG ATTAP concert from 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm, featuring renowned Malaysian artists such as Ning Baizura, Leaism, and SalamMusik. The concert is free entry, offering a night of live entertainment for all attendees.

Visitors are encouraged to use public transport to access Kampung Attap and Stadium Merdeka via the Maharajalela Monorail or a 10-minute walk from the Pasar Seni LRT/MRT stations. For more details on PESZTA 2024, follow Merdeka 118’s social media channels and the PESZTA Instagram page.