Zamaera brings Malaysia’s first showcase to SXSW 2026 with “Made in Malaysia” stage

For the first time in its nearly four-decade history, South by Southwest (SXSW) will host a dedicated Malaysian national music showcase.

On March 15, the Made in Malaysia stage arrives at Las Perlas, bringing a new wave of Malaysian artists to one of the world’s most influential music festivals.

Curated and headlined by Malaysian rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer Zamaera, the showcase represents a landmark moment for the country’s independent music scene.

Each year, SXSW draws thousands of artists from around the globe, making it a launchpad for cultural movements and cross-collaboration.

The Made in Malaysia stage offers international audiences a rare window into a scene that has been rapidly evolving, but has largely remained under the global radar.

Bringing together artists working across hip-hop, R&B, indie, hyperpop, and electronic music, the lineup reflects the genre-fluid identity shaping modern Malaysian music. The showcase will feature performances from curator and headliner Zamaera, who leads the showcase with her fearless blend of hip-hop, trap, and electronic sound. She’s joined by Murty, who delivers smooth, modern R&B layered with South Asian and Malaysian influences.

Zoe Tan is a New York–based indie singer-songwriter known for intimate melodies and thoughtful storytelling. Rounding out the lineup are Lil Asian Thiccie, whose hyperpop, techno, and hip-hop hybrid sound reflects the experimental edge of Malaysia’s new music wave, and electronic producer I-SKY, known for high-energy techno and EDM sets. Opening the evening is Texas-based DJ VÖ.A_2000, setting the tone with club-ready selections.

“Our music may sound global, but it’s unmistakably Malaysian,” Zamaera explains. “Every track carries the mix of languages, influences, and stories that shape our culture. With the Made in Malaysia stage, we’re not just performing songs — we’re sharing our identity, our creativity, and our voice with the world.”

Home to more than 32 million people, Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia’s most culturally diverse nations, shaped by Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous communities. That diversity has long influenced the country’s music, but in recent years, a new generation of independent artists has begun blending local sounds, languages, and cultural references with globally recognizable genres.

The result is a sound that moves effortlessly between hip-hop, R&B, electronic music, indie songwriting, and experimental pop.

The Made in Malaysia stage captures that creative momentum at a time when global audiences are increasingly curious about emerging music scenes across Asia.

While countries like South Korea and Japan have long maintained strong international music exports, Malaysia’s independent artists are only beginning to break into wider global conversations.

Each artist on the lineup represents a different perspective within the country’s ever-evolving soundscape.

Behind the showcase is a larger vision. In addition to performing, Zamaera is the founder of Mean Malaya Entertainment, an independent label and entertainment company focused on creating opportunities for emerging Malaysian artists. The Made in Malaysia stage reflects that same mission and provides a platform where local creativity can meet global audiences.

As SXSW continues to serve as a crossroads for music discovery, the debut of the Made in Malaysia stage signals the arrival of a scene ready to be heard beyond its borders. For one night in Austin, Malaysia’s next generation of artists will step onto a global stage, bringing with them the sounds, stories, and cultural energy of a country whose music is only beginning to reach the world.

For more information on the event, visit here.