“Water Music Festival” (Songkran-Style) Confirmed for May; Planning Underway in Bukit Bintang

The highly anticipated Water Music Festival has been officially confirmed to take place in the heart of Kuala Lumpur from May 1 to May 4, 2026. Initially sparking debate due to its resemblance to Thailand’s Songkran, the event is a cornerstone of the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) aims to transform Bukit Bintang into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration, drawing both international tourists and locals. Although the festival will be filled with water-based entertainment of high degrees, the organizers are liaising closely with the city authorities to control traffic and guarantee the safety of the population in this crowded commercial hub.

Adjustments to Songkran-Style Event for Local Sensitivities

Following feedback regarding cultural appropriateness, the government has assured that the Water Music Festival will be modified to align with Malaysian values. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi insisted that the fun, “Songkran-style” aspects will still be present though the program will be adjusted to local sensitivities and will not be controversial. Such an adaptation that is in the Malaysian style will most probably see a reduction in the activities that are allowed in water as well as a greater focus on the performances as well as the heritage that is being practiced so that the event can bring the community together as opposed to splitting it apart.

Disclaimer: Stay updated with the latest news in Malaysia, from politics to business trends, while also catching up on the latest news in sports covering matches, scores, and tournaments. Explore the latest news in entertainment with celebrity updates, movies, and shows, and don’t miss the latest news in games, featuring trending releases and esports highlights.