Featuring renowned local artists like Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Datuk M. Nasir, and Dayang Nurfaizah, the event is built on the concept of regional cultural diversity.

The Gala Night's Creative Director, Mohd Azli Othman, said the performances are divided into several segments, starting with a children's performance before continuing with the main performances by local artists.

"Each performance highlights the unique culture and identity of the ASEAN member states, accompanied by a visual performance by sand artist Bernice Wong from Penang, which depicts iconic regional monuments set to orchestral music," he told Bernama today.

Unlike previous editions, which focused more on creative ethnic songs, Mohd Azli said this year’s programme features a variety of musical genres showcasing the prowess of Malaysian vocals and the uniqueness of its voices, symbolising the nation’s cultural strength.

The uniqueness of the performance is also highlighted through the involvement of three orchestra entities—the Malaysian Traditional Orchestra, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra—performing together on the same stage for the very first time.

The performance is led by Istana Budaya as the main coordinator, in collaboration with the organising committee of the ASEAN Summit.

After facing various challenges in developing the performance concept since last year, Mohd Azli hopes tonight’s show will serve not merely as entertainment, but as a platform for cultural unity and a symbol of ASEAN solidarity grounded in harmony and mutual respect.

“At the end of the event, all participants from Malaysia and ASEAN member states will come together to sing a song as a symbol of regional unity,” he added.

-- BERNAMA