Catch the Wave: Ombak Festival 2025 Brings Global Acts and ASEAN Vibes Back to Desaru

Returning for its second year, Ombak Festival promises a three-day celebration of music, food, art, and family fun – set against the scenic coastal backdrop of Desaru Coast this September… the ultimate weekend!

After drawing strong regional crowds in its debut year, Ombak Festival returns to Desaru Coast from September 12 to 14, 2025, with a promise of even bigger talent, bolder programming, and deeper cultural resonance. Taking its name from the Malay word for “wave,” Ombak flows with rhythm and connection – blending global headliners with Southeast Asia’s most exciting musical and creative voices for what is fast becoming one of Malaysia’s most compelling festival experiences.

This year’s mainstage lineup is impressive. British icons Simply Red are set to headline with their only Southeast Asian performance, celebrating 40 years in the industry. Joining them are funk legends George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic, soul powerhouse Joss Stone, and Australia’s acclaimed DJ duo Flight Facilities, making their long-awaited Malaysian debut. Sharing the spotlight are regional favourites including Phum Viphurit (Thailand), Joe Flizzow, SonaOne and Ismail Izzani (Malaysia), The Pinholes (Singapore), Diskoria and Tanayu (Indonesia), and Vanthan (Cambodia) – with additional ASEAN acts to be announced soon.

But the music is just one part of the story. Ombak Festival’s other stages will be equally lively, with DJ takeovers by Singapore’s Blackout Agency (featuring Miss Lil, Sivanesh, Zig Zach, Ouissam, and JonnyVicious), indie favourites like Kyoto Protocol, Golden Mammoth, and The Filters, and regional standouts including Masia One & The Jah Jah Army and Don West.

OMBAK 2025: MAIN STAGE HIGHLIGHTS

While the star power is strong, Ombak is also a fully immersive lifestyle and arts experience. Food lovers can enjoy curated offerings like Sazón Tapas & Grill by Andrew Walsh, the return of Carbon KL’s flame-driven ‘Smoke & Fire’ kitchen, and a spread called Flavours of Johor showcasing the best of local cuisine.

Creative expression takes centre stage through art installations, block printing demos by Segaris Art Center, and upcycling workshops by Pulau Pulao. Festivalgoers can also explore a bustling artisanal marketplace curated by Pasar Seloka or learn mahjong from All Tiled Up in a nod to local tradition with a modern twist.

For younger attendees, the dedicated Ombak Kids zone returns with favourites like the LEGOLAND Speed Building Challenge, giant puppets Meera & Fiz (commissioned by Thailand’s Nice Monster studio), and interactive play spaces from Mereka Games and Go Fly Kites. Family-focused, inclusive, and full of whimsy, it ensures there’s something for every age group.

Festival Director Karina Ridzuan calls this year’s edition “a bigger, bolder expression of our intentionally diverse ethos,” noting that 2025’s expanded lineup is part of a broader vision to turn Ombak into Southeast Asia’s must-attend festival. With Malaysia holding the ASEAN Chair in 2025 and momentum building for Visit Johor and Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the festival is well-timed to shine on a regional stage.

Hosted at Desaru Coast – home to five-star beachfront resorts including The Westin, Anantara, and Hard Rock Hotel – Ombak Festival pairs its vibrant programming with luxurious comfort and easy access. Early bird tickets are available now at ombakfestival.com and via Ticketmelon, with pricing as follows:

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