Mick Hucknall of Simply Red.
With its beachside beats, bold flavours, and global flair, the debut of Ombak Festival was an unforgettable celebration of sound, taste, and soul. The good news is the festival is making its return once again this year. From 12–14 September 2025, Ombak Festival makes its grand return to Desaru Coast with a spectacular line-up of international stars and rich cultural experiences.
Reaffirming its status as one of Southeast Asia’s premier coastal festivals, this year’s line-up is not short on excitement. Leading the bill is legendary British soul-pop band Simply Red, set to deliver their exclusive Southeast Asian performance as part of their 40th anniversary tour.
Joss Stone.
Joining them is funk icon George Clinton with Parliament Funkadelic, promising an unforgettable beachside groove, while Grammy-winning singer Joss Stone brings her signature soul sound with a preview of her anticipated 2025 album. Also making waves is Australian electronic duo Flight Facilities, who are set for their Malaysian debut.
The festival blends these global heavyweights with top Southeast Asian talent, including Thailand’s Phum Viphurit, Malaysia’s Joe Flizzow, SonaOne, and Ismail Izzani, Singapore’s The Pinholes, and Indonesia’s Diskoria and Tanayu. More regional acts are expected to be announced in July.
Culinary Showcase
Chef Andrew Walsh.
Held at the award-winning Desaru Coast resort destination, Ombak Festival is a full sensory experience across music, food, art, and family entertainment. Alongside the world-class music line-up, culinary showcases take centre stage, highlighting the richness of regional flavours.
Festival-goers can look forward to Sazón Tapas & Grill by celebrated chef Andrew Walsh, who brings a refined spin on wood-fired cuisine, while Kuala Lumpur’s Carbon KL returns with its fiery “Smoke & Fire” grilling showcase. The Flavours of Johor pavilion will celebrate local ingredients and traditional dishes in a curated culinary journey, perfect for both seasoned gourmands and curious eaters.
Carbon KL.
Festival Director Karina Ridzuan commented, “This year, we are going bigger and bolder—uniting global icons with Southeast Asian stars to create a weekend that celebrates creativity, taste, and community.”
Beyond the music and food, Ombak Kids offers interactive fun for families, including giant puppets Meera & Fiz, LEGO speed challenges, and creative workshops. Art lovers can explore block printing exhibits from Segaris Art Center and shop at Pasar Seloka, the festival’s curated artisan market.
Early bird tickets for Ombak Festival 2025 are now on sale. Attendees are encouraged to stay at one of Desaru Coast’s luxury resorts—The Westin, Anantara, or Hard Rock Hotel—for the full festival experience.
