In the thick of Hari Raya 2025, Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts is back for its 24th edition this May, as Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay celebrates the art of the Nusantra, with music, dance, theatre and more that encapsulates the rich history, heritage and creativity of the region.

This year’s festivities are headlined by local theatre company Teater Kami, with a production of A. Samad Said’s literary classic SALINA. In 1950s Kampung Kambing, Salina fights to survive the harsh realities of post-war Singapore—trapped in poverty, entangled in a toxic relationship, and forced by circumstance into work as an escort. Around her, a community of Malay and Indonesian migrants, once full of hope, now battle despair in a nation still reeling from the effects of World War II. Adapted by Cultural Medallion recipient Atin Amat, SALINA is a gripping tale of resilience and survival, set against the backdrop of a community rebuilding itself.

Hafidz Rahman takes us on a deeply personal journey with My Name Is (NOT) Khan, a monologue exploring his obsession with all things Bollywood. Harith knows his Bollywood inside out. He can tell Amrita Rao from Amrita Arora, Rimi Sen from Sushmita Sen. He knows Duggu, Lolo, and Bebo like they’re old friends. He’s memorised the Navarasas, the Ankhein Khuli choreography by the beat, and every lyric of Bholi Si Surat. But there’s one thing he isn’t: Indian. Harith is as Malay as they come. This is one for the fans and lovers of Indian cinema – be sure to catch all the references.

For the first time, renowned Indonesian choreographer Hartati brings her work to the Esplanade with Jarum Dalam Jerami (Needle in a Haystack), a contemporary dance performance where movement expresses what words cannot. Reinterpreting the saying “like looking for a needle in a haystack,”  the work is a response to Indonesia’s evolving social landscape over the past two decades. Rooted in the legacy of her mentor Gusmiati Suid’s renowned Api Dalam Sekam (Fire in the Husk) (1997), a piece that reflects the turbulent political climate in Indonesia during the final years of the New Order regime under President Suharto, Jarum dalam Jerami goes beyond mere homage, creating a dialogue with the older work in a reflection of what is left behind when the world shifts around us.

And what is the Nusantara without its rhythm and music? At the Esplanade Annexe Studio, three incredible artists from the region take us on a journey through folk, pop, and rap. Born in Sarawak and musically shaped by Kuala Lumpur’s indie circuit, Malaysia’s Noh Salleh is driven by storytelling and raw emotion. He constantly pushes his creative boundaries with each release, including his latest singles, Nirmala and Rahsia Tuhan, with the latter amassing over 12 million plays and its music video surpassing 7 million views. 

Fresh off the release of his highly anticipated fifth album, Hardcore RomanceIndonesia’s Pamungkas is known for his meticulous, hands-on approach to every aspect of his music—writing, production, mixing, mastering, and even designing his own album artwork. He also founded his own record label, Maspam Records, driven by his belief in forging his own path and shaping his unique creative journey. He has performed a sold-out tour and graced the stages of renowned festivals such as We The Fest and Java Jazz 2020, earning recognition over the years as one of Indonesia’s most exciting artists.

In a special tribute, come together celebrate Datuk Habsah Hassan, a beloved lyricist whose words have shaped some of the most well-loved songs in the region. Dari Sudut Hati, Habsah Hassan is a star-studded concert honouring her artistry, which has given voice to love, longing and joy across generations. Whether it is the quiet ache of Merisik Khabar or the spirited call to unity in Cinta Nusantara, Habsah delicately crafts songs that serve as windows into the unique facets of the human experience, capturing emotions with grace and precision. 

Be sure to also experience Pesta Raya’s free programmes. This year, celebrate dikir barat group Kelana Purba’s 30th anniversary, enjoy pop hits from Kaki Nyanyi, alumni from Mediacorp’s reality singing competition, and witness the grace and discipline of silat through performances around the centre. Finally, round up your Pesta Raya experience by wandering through the Pesta Raya x Me-You Market, where a curated selection of vendors from across the Nusantara bring together lifestyle, craft and culture for all to peruse and enjoy.

As Pesta Raya returns once again, come immerse yourself in the arts, and share moments of joy, nostalgia, wonder and connection in the same space as so many other people, learning and listening to their stories and histories told, as everyone comes together to celebrate Malay culture at the Esplanade this May.

Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts 2025 runs from 1st to 4th May 2025 at the Esplanade. Full programme and tickets available here