SHAH ALAM, Sept 5 — The expansion of Kita Asli Battle of the Bands (KABOTBA) to the national level has provided more opportunities for Orang Asli youth to showcase their talent and explore careers in the music industry, said state executive councillor for housing and culture Datuk Borhan Aman Shah.
He said the contest, which began in Selangor in 2023, proves that talent within the community could take over bigger stages if given opportunities, support and continuity.
“We want this talent to keep growing and not be limited to contests, but brought to more professional stages,” he said when speaking at the national KABOTBA finals at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Building here yesterday.
Borhan said KABOTBA isn’t just a platform to find winners, but one to build Orang Asli youth’s confidence, refine their talent, and centre their identities and creativity.
He added that the state government wants to ensure participants who show potential continue to receive opportunities after the contest, including exposure to music industry professionals.
“Winners not only receive awards but are given the opportunity to produce songs and music videos with Luncai Emas.
“This is a start for them to get to know the industry, build networks, and open doors to produce works that can be highlighted to a wider audience,” he said.
KABOTBA is a continuation of the Asli Battle of the Bands (ABOTB), launched by the Selangor government with the Anti-Drug Association of Malaysia (PEMADAM) in 2023.
At the national KABOTBA finals, the band SRA STG from Ulu Kinta, Perak, emerged champions and took home RM10,000 in cash, a trophy and certificates, as well as an opportunity to produce a song and music video with Luncai Emas.
Mijo’s Band, also from Perak, took second place and won RM5,000, while Mayang Band from Selangor took third and won RM3,000.
The other four bands who did their all in the finals were Zangkud Band from Selangor, Kareh Band from Kelantan, Pandora Band from Pahang, and Farja Band from Johor.
