Making waves since her South by Southwest (SXSW) debut, independent Malaysian rapper and singer-songwriter Zamaera is now lining up her most ambitious moves yet. Revealed at a press conference held at KLoé Hotel, the artist announced two major developments: the release of her new single Ikan Kekek, and her role in leading the first-ever Malaysian Stage at SXSW 2026. Curating the lineup herself, Zamaera will be joined on the stage by four Malaysian artists: I-SKY, MURTY, Lil Asian Thiccie and Zoe Tan, who together showcase the diversity of Malaysia’s contemporary music scene while staying true to their independent, authentic voices. The historic stage was independently conceived and produced by Mean Malaya Entertainment, Zamaera’s own creative company, marking a significant milestone for Malaysian music as it steps onto one of the world’s most influential cultural platforms.
Zamaera’s new single, Ikan Kekek, pushes the boundaries of contemporary Malaysian music, fusing her signature rap style with unexpected trap and techno rhythms and local influences. “Ikan Kekek is my way of showing that Malaysian music can be bold, modern, and deeply rooted at the same time,” she explains. Its unique fusion of storytelling, melodic folk motifs, and dynamic beats makes it a particularly powerful piece to bring to the international stage at SXSW, giving audiences a fresh and intimate glimpse into Malaysia’s creativity and identity.
Building on that momentum, she brings her vision to life through the “Made In Malaysia” stage at SXSW 2026. More than just a performance, the stage is a dedicated platform designed to spotlight Malaysia’s creative voices on a global scale. For this reason, Zamaera as lead artist brought together four other local artists - Zoe Tan (indie/folk), Lil Asian Thiccie (hyperpop), I-SKY (techno/edm/alt)and MURTY (rnb) - as they best represent the depth, diversity, and originality of Malaysia’s independent music landscape.
“SXSW changed my life the first time I stepped on that stage,” says Zamaera. “Coming back to lead Malaysia’s first-ever stage is deeply personal. This isn’t just about me performing, but about creating space for our voices and stories to exist confidently on a global platform. I want the world to experience the power and diversity of Malaysian music, and to discover the richness of our own culture, like in Ikan Kekek.”
Founded in Austin, Texas, SXSW is a globally recognised festival and conference that celebrates the convergence of music, film, technology, and culture. Since 1987, it has become a key platform for discovering emerging talent, having launched the careers of artists like John Mayer, James Blunt, Coldplay and Amy Winehouse. The festival continues to bring together industry leaders, media, and audiences from around the world, spotlighting the next generation of creative voices.
After her breakout SXSW debut in 2025, she embarked on a nationwide tour across Malaysia and an extensive Asian run under her Epiphany tour, performing to sold-out rooms and expanding her presence across regional markets. Her growing international footprint has opened doors to new collaborations and industry recognition, including engagements with global producers and music institutions such as Berklee College of Music. The tour not only solidified her reputation as a performer, but also positioned her as a cultural bridge between Malaysia and the wider global music ecosystem.
The Malaysian Stage by Zamaera represents more than a moment on an international lineup. It signals Malaysia’s creative future, driven by a new generation of independent artists confidently claiming space on global platforms through originality, cultural pride, and creative ambition.
This isn’t just a return to SXSW. It’s Malaysia taking the stage.
Comments
Post a Comment
Feel free to give us some love