AUSTIN, TEXAS, 4 March 2026 – Heads up, SXSW fans! On 15 March, Malaysia makes its SXSW debut with the Made in Malaysia stage at Las Perlas. Five independent artists bring bold, boundary-pushing sounds: R&B singer Murty, indie-leaning songwriter Zoe Tan, hyperpop and hip-hop artist Lil Asian Thiccie, electronic producer I-SKY, and the trailblazing rapper and singer-songwriter Zamaera. Known for her innovative style, Zamaera has already turned heads at SXSW 2025 and at multiple festival showcases. She leads the night in bringing Malaysia’s vibrant music scene to one of the world’s biggest stages.
Hailing from Malaysia, a Southeast Asian nation of 32 million people known for its mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures, these five artists showcase music that blends local traditions, cultural textures, and global influences. With 4,400 musicians set to perform across more than 300 live showcases this year, the Made in Malaysia stage stands out, representing five of only six Southeast Asian acts selected for SXSW 2026. It marks a rare opportunity for US audiences to hear Malaysia’s freshest independent voices live.
“Our music may sound global, but it’s unmistakably Malaysian,” Zamaera said. “Our music interweaves local slang and cultural references, and every track reflects the mix of local and international influences that make Malaysia unique. With the Made in Malaysia stage, we’re not just performing songs, we’re sharing the stories, flavors, and spirit of our culture with the world.”
SXSW 2026 – Made In Malaysia Stage
Date: 15 March 2026
Venue: Las Perlas – Austin, Texas
Set Times:
7:45 PM – 8:45 PM | VÖ.A_2000
8:55 PM – 9:25 PM | Zoe Tan
9:35 PM – 10:05 PM | Murty
10:15 PM – 10:55 PM | Zamaera
11:05 PM – 11:35 PM | Lil Asian Thiccie
11:45 PM – 12:45 AM | I-SKY
Come early, stay late, and catch Malaysia live
Meet the Trailblazers
Zamaera (Hip Hop / Trap)
Zamaera is a Malaysian rapper and producer who refuses to play by the rules. She mixes hip hop, trap, and electronic beats with unmistakable Malaysian textures, spinning rapid-fire flows and hooks that stick in your head long after the show ends. Her latest single, Ikan Kekek, is a perfect taste of her sound: global, local, unpredictable, and full of edge. On stage, Zamaera doesn’t just perform, she owns every moment, delivering a set that’s as bold and vibrant as Malaysia itself.
Zoe Tan (Indie / Singer-Songwriter)
Zoe Tan combines subtle melodies with intimate storytelling, creating songs that are personal yet universal. Her indie-leaning tracks feature Malaysian cultural nuances woven into contemporary sounds. Based in New York, she draws listeners in with delicate harmonies and authentic emotion, offering a performance that is immersive, soulful, and unforgettable.
Murty (R&B)
Murty delivers smooth, modern R&B layered with South Asian and Malaysian influences. His voice glides over vibrant production while his lyrics capture the heartbeat of Malaysia’s urban music scene. On stage, Murty is captivating, effortlessly commanding attention while creating moments that are both moving and infectious. His latest single, MISS YOU, showcases the kind that makes you stop and listen, maybe even text someone you probably shouldn’t
Lil Asian Thiccie (Hyperpop / Pop / Hip-Hop)
Lil Asian Thiccie is a whirlwind of creativity, hopping between hyperpop, trance, techno, and hip-hop with ease. Her performances are colorful, playful, and full of energy. With EPs like DVD-R and tracks such as Get Munni, she is one of Malaysia’s boldest rising stars. Expect beats that surprise, hooks that stick, and a presence that keeps you on your toes.
I-SKY (Techno / EDM / Alternative)
West Malaysian producer and DJ I-SKY transforms every set into an intense dance journey. His blend of EDM, techno, and alternative sounds creates moments that are inventive, immersive, and compelling. His recent track LOCKED IN with Lil Asian Thiccie shows off his fearless experimentation. On stage, I-SKY energizes the crowd and takes them on a ride that is pure rhythm, excitement, and sonic adventure.
Texas-based DJ VÖ.A_2000, also known as Annie, opens the night with infectious beats and precise mixing. With Vietnamese roots and a knack for reading the crowd, she sets the tone for an unforgettable evening, getting the party moving from the first track.
This isn’t just a return to SXSW. It’s Malaysia taking the stage.
About Zamaera
Zamaera is a Malaysian rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer redefining what it means to be an independent artist. Known for her fearless fusion of hip hop, trap, and electronic sounds, she’s made waves from underground stages to international platforms like SXSW. With razor-sharp lyricism, a powerful live presence, and a deep-rooted commitment to authenticity, Zamaera is leading a new generation of Malaysian artists—loud, proud, and unfiltered.
She is also the founder of Mean Malaya Entertainment, an independent music label and entertainment company dedicated to fostering creative freedom for Malaysia’s most innovative artists.
Catch her latest music and more of her vibes via her social channels: orcd.co/z_ik
About South by Southwest (SXSW)
SXSW dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW is known worldwide for conferences and festivals that celebrate the convergence of technology, film and television, music, education, comedy and culture. The annual event serves global professionals through sessions, showcases, screenings, exhibitions, and networking that consistently generates unexpected discoveries when diverse communities come together. SXSW 2026 runs March 12-18 in downtown Austin, preceded by SXSW EDU March 9-12. Learn more at sxsw.com.
