Miri, Malaysia - The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) has set a two-year target for the Miri International Jazz Festival (MIJF) to attain international fame as enjoyed by the Rainforest World Music Festival.
Its chief executive officer, Gracie Geikie, said even though the MIJF had not received any specific ranking as compared to other jazz festivals worldwide, it had gained tremendously interests since 2006.
"In the first year, we were nowhere. But now, we are in the international jazz network," she told a press conference on the third MIJF that would be held on May 9 and 10 at ParkCity Everly Hotel.
The STB is hosting the jazz festival in collaboration with several government departments and agencies and the private sector with the aim of turning it into a leading tourism-driven music festival in the region.
Among the bands expected to participate are Amar Sundy (Algeria), Borneo Jazz Quartet (Malaysia), Charmaine Clamor (Philippines), Diamond Dave and the Doodaddies (Australia), T`lventielke (Holland), Habana Sax (Cuba), Mood Indigo (United Kingdom), Oma Sound (Japan) and Rumba Calzada (Canada).
Gracie, who is MIJF advisor, said the bands were the best from over 60 jazz groups from Malaysia and elsewhere that had applied to take part, and some were willing to give a show for free due to the recognition given by jazz musicians to the festival.
She said the MIJF aimed to draw 6,000 music lovers worldwide and could be distinguished from other jazz festivals in Malaysia as its objective was primarily to promote tourism.
In line with the objective, tour packages such as "Jazz & Jungle" and "Jive and Dive" have been drawn up to enable the visitors explore the natural attractions around the city and at the same time enjoy quality jazz music.
Source: www.resultsfoundation.com (15 Maret 2008)
