05/06/2026

LYFE FRIDAY | JUNE 5, 2026

24

Bringing Sarawak to world

S TYLED like a modern pop group, five young men calling themselves The Next – Sarawak’s first M-pop (Malaysian pop) boy band – are on a mission that goes beyond simply making a name for themselves in the local music industry. Their ambition is to introduce Sarawak’s culture to the international stage through a unique approach, including incorporating five languages into their debut single titled The Next , which was released on April 17. The group comprises Mike Harris Eddie Kuwing, better known as Mikey, 21, Bryan Luna Rowland (Bryx), 20, Mohamad Fariz Izwan Sonny (Rizze), 19, Arthur Elvis Josh Magdalene (Elvis), 18, and Nur Afif Azrai Zahin Norazi (Fiv), 17. The core identity of The Next is shaped by the members’ diverse ethnic backgrounds, namely Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Kenyah and Chinese. Speaking about its debut track, the group said the use of Malay, English, Iban, Bidayuh and Korean in the introductory single and its music video forms part of their distinct identity, setting The Next apart from other pop groups. According to Elvis, who is also the group’s music producer, Sarawak’s ethnic languages were intentionally incorporated to bring local culture into the mainstream modern pop scene. “We do not need to imitate the entire K-pop methodology. Instead, we should take pride in Sarawak’s culture and present it as something fresh in our music industry,” he told Bernama. For Bryx, the use of the Iban language in their song is more than just a gimmick – it is o M-pop group The Next incorporates diverse languages into music

The Next is currently working on their upcoming single Toxic Love . – BERNAMAPIC

Malaysia examination this year, said his biggest challenge has been balancing studies with group training. “After school, I head straight to training, and if there are night classes, I go for those too. Then I stay up doing my homework until morning,” he said. The group is currently working on their upcoming official single titled Toxic Love , which is scheduled for release at the end of this year. They are also planning to produce a five track mini album next year, including songs themed around the Gawai festival and Hari Raya. The Next also dreams of bringing Sarawak’s identity to the international stage, including performing at major events such as the 2027 SEA Games.

part of the group’s mission to introduce Sarawak’s culture to international listeners. “The Iban lyrics ‘kami datai ari jauh meri salam bekelala’ mean ‘we come from afar to extend our greetings.’ Even if outsiders do not understand Iban, we hope they can start getting to know our language and culture through our song,” he told Bernama. The members of The Next comprise contestants who passed auditions for Sarawak Got Talent before undergoing nearly three years of intensive training beginning in 2023. During that period, they followed a K-pop style training routine, including up to eight hours of dance and vocal training daily alongside backup dancers. Meanwhile, the youngest member, Fiv, who will be sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran

Fan Fan set to fill Arena of Stars with love FANS of Mandopop are in for a heartfelt and unforgettable evening as Fan Fan, also known as Christine Fan, brings her Between Us 2026 Fan Fan World Tour to Malaysia for the very first time this August. Taking place on Aug 8, 6pm at Arena of Stars, the concert promises an emotional journey through the songs and memories that have accompanied generations of listeners through love, friendship, heartbreak and hope. Celebrating over 25 years in music, Fan Fan has become one of the most recognisable voices in Mandopop, known for her gentle vocals and uplifting ballads that have resonated deeply with audiences across Asia. From cherished classics such as Zui Chu De Meng Xiang (The First Dream), Dao Bu Liao (Can’t Reach), Hei Bai Pei (Black and White), Yi Ge Xiang Xia Tian Yi Ge Xiang Qiu Tian (Like Summer, Like Autumn) and Zui Zhong Yao De Jue Ding (The Most Important Decision) , her songs have become timeless anthems for many, carrying memories that continue to stay close to the heart. Titled Between Us , the concert reflects the emotional bond built through music and memories over the years. Through familiar melodies and heartfelt storytelling, Fan Fan hopes to bring audiences back to moments of youth, friendship, love and personal growth, while creating new memories together in the present. More than just a concert, Between Us 2026 is designed as an intimate reunion between Fan Fan and her fans. Alongside a selection of her most beloved hits, audiences can also look forward to immersive stage elements and interactive touches inspired by the shared memories and emotional connections formed through her music. With a warm and sincere stage presence, the show promises an evening filled with nostalgia, comfort and togetherness. Tickets are priced from RM288 to RM688. Fan Fan is known for her gentle vocals and uplifting ballads that have resonated deeply with audiences across Asia.

Wave to Earth to hold Malaysia concert in November SOUTH Korean indie rock band Wave to Earth is set to return to Malaysia as part of its upcoming global The Pieces Tour , which will include a Kuala Lumpur stop on Nov 22 at Idea Live Arena.

Wave to Earth trades explosive rockstar energy for something softer and more introspective, leaning into the dreamy melancholy that has made the trio one of indie music’s most recognisable names.

Promoted by Live Nation, the extensive tour will begin in September in Vancouver before travelling across 21 cities in North America, including Chicago, Boston, Seattle, San Francisco and New York City’s Radio City

rock sound and emotionally driven music. Their 2023 album 0.1 Flaws and All featured breakout single Bad , which reached number one on Spotify’s Viral 50 Global chart, while hit song Seasons has accumulated more than 500 million streams globally. The band currently boasts over seven million monthly listeners on Spotify and has previously performed at major festivals including Lollapalooza in Chicago, Chile and India. Tickets for the Kuala Lumpur show are on sale now.

Music Hall. The band will then continue across Asia this November with stops in Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo and Kuala Lumpur. The trio, made up of Daniel Kim, John Cha and Dong Q, also confirmed that a new album is set for release this summer, following the recent launch of their latest single Heaven and Hell . The track marks the group’s first new release since 2024 EP Play with Earth! 0.03 . Since debuting in 2019, Wave to Earth has steadily built a strong international following through its dreamy indie

The band’s tour poster reflects its signature blend of nostalgia, intimacy and late-night indie rock emotion.