The shores of Desaru Coast just wrapped up what can only be described as a musical and cultural tsunami: the Ombak Festival 2025. From September 12 to 14, this three-day extravaganza transformed the tranquil Johor coastline into a vibrant, aural playground, proving that it was “The Ultimate Weekend.”
A Star-Studded Lineup for the Ombak Festival 2025 Under the Stars
Music lovers from across the region flocked to the festival’s main stage, which was set against the stunning backdrop of the South China Sea. The atmosphere was electric with an eclectic mix of global legends and rising stars. The main stage was dominated by a phenomenal lineup, including Simply Red, who performed an exclusive Asian show to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Funkadelic master George Clinton brought his legendary funk, making sure everyone got their groove on. Meanwhile, the soulful Joss Stone serenaded the crowd with timeless classics and a sneak peek of her new album.
The energy continued with Australian electronic duo Flight Facilities, who made their long-awaited Malaysian debut, setting the night to an unforgettable soundtrack. The festival wasn’t just about international icons, but it also celebrated the best of Southeast Asia’s talent. Regional icons like Joe Flizzow, SonaOne, and Phum Viphurit proved that ASEAN’s creative scene is more vibrant than ever. The incredible blend of global and local artists made the Ombak Festival 2025 a truly unique experience.
Beyond the Beats: A Feast for the Senses
While music was the heart of the event, Ombak Festival 2025 was a full-sensory experience. Foodies were in paradise with a curated selection of culinary delights. From fine-dining tapas by Sazón to the smoky goodness of Carbon KL’s grills, there was a flavour for every palate. The “Flavours of Johor” section also ensured that local tastes were celebrated, offering a delicious tribute to the host state.
The festival grounds became a living canvas of creativity. Attendees got to admire stunning modern Malaysian art from the Segaris Art Center, join lively drum circles, and even try their hand at the traditional Zapin dance in a special workshop. The Pasar Seloka bazaar offered artisanal crafts, while a vinyl pop-up and mahjong sessions added a laid-back, local charm.
There Was Fun for the Whole Family at The Ombak Festival 2025
One of the standout features of the Ombak Festival 2025 was its commitment to being a family-friendly destination. The dedicated Ombak Kids zone was a hit, featuring crowd favourites like the LEGOLAND Speed Building Challenge and the charming 10-foot puppets, Meera & Fiz. This year, the festival also partnered with Kiddocare, offering trusted childcare services that gave parents the freedom to fully immerse themselves in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
The festival not only provided an extraordinary weekend of entertainment but also solidified Desaru Coast’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class cultural events. With its unique blend of music, food, arts and family fun, the Ombak Festival 2025 truly made waves, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year!
