Starting year 2019, the name of Melaka River International Festival has changed to the Grand Cultural festival (GCF) Melaka River 2019, with a brand new logo to showcase the colour of Melaka. The GCF has been given a new identity as well as extra elements to make the festival more vibrant, colourful and happening from 21 November to 1 December at Pengkalan Rama Square, Melaka. Melaka River International Festival (Festival Antarabangsa Sungai Melaka) is Melaka State Government event and has been organized yearly by the Melaka River & Coastal Development Corporation (PPSPM) since 2007. The event was formerly known as Melaka River Fiesta (Pesta Sungai Melaka) and it was changed to Melaka River International Festival on 2014.
On 23rd November, the official opening ceremony of GCF would feature cultural performances, musical theater, inaugural openings, fireworks shows and the largest drums event of various ethnic groups in Malaysia apart from presenting the epic of Melaka history. You will also have the opportunity to watch performances by favourite local artists like Siti Nordiana, Sherry Alhadad, Naim Daniel and Harris Baba.
In addition, there are exclusive performers from 13 countries such as Bulgaria, Venezuela, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia and many more, showcasing their unique musical, cultural and dance performance, and leaving you a wonderful and memorable moment.
Their grand shows will be held for two consecutive days on 23rd and 24th November, and will be followed by a pocket event at several venues along the Melaka River until 29 November.
- Main Stage at Pengkalan Rama Square
- Boat Cruise from Taman Rempah
- Tun Fatimah Hotel
- The Stadthuys (Red House Building)
- Boat Cruise from Quayside
- Mouth of Melaka River Square
- Taming Sari Revolving Tower
Various attractive activities have been lined up such as the illuminating decorated boat parade, dragon boat race, cultural and musical performances and a variety of interesting competitions and activities are held to serve as a celebration for the fascinating diversity and liveliness of Melaka. Most of the activities consist of international and domestic level programmes with participation of local and foreign individual or team in various categories.
Key Highlights for GCF 2019
International Conference on River
To discuss and enhance knowledge about river and coastal conservation, development and management in more effective way other than being a major annual river festival
Opening Ceremony of The Grand Cultural Festival Melaka River 2019
Celebrate the grand official opening and witness the historical moment of an attempt by 1,500 drummers to break the Malaysia Book of Record for the Largest Drum Event.
The Grand Cultural Night
Enjoy the colourful cultural performance and dances by local and international performers on this glorious night.
Jetrace Challenge
Watch the enthralling Jet Ski competitions participated by local and foreign riders from Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand.
Fashion Show & Launch of Batik Melaka
Relax and be entertained by fashion show of batik Melaka Design as well as entertainment from famous local artists like Siti Nordiana, Khai Bahar, Sherry Alhadad, Naim Daniel and Harris Baba.
River Muaythai Championship
River Muaythai Championship will feature local and international boxers from Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Thailand and Philippines.Don’t miss the special appearance of favourite artist Faizal Tahir during the Muaythai International Championships.
More about River Festival
In every river festival, the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Melaka come alive in the festival to welcome visitors warmly making sure they take only the best experience home. There are numerous types of activities that consist of international and domestic level programmes with participation of local and foreign individual or team in various categories.
Various attractive activities have been lined up such as the illuminating decorated boat parade, dragon boat race, cultural and musical performances and a variety of interesting competitions and activities are held to serve as a celebration for the fascinating diversity and liveliness of Melaka. Don’t miss the colourful and joyous opening ceremony too.
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Program Schedule
Gallery
For more information on GCF2019, kindly visit http://gcf2019.my or official facebook page @gcfmelaka or email to info@fsam13.my