KUALA LUMPUR, January 29 — The vibrant and iconic Keretapi Sarong event has received its first international recognition, winning the Best ASEAN Cultural Preservation Effort Award 2025 at the ASEANTA Excellence Awards. Held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Johor Bahru, the accolade honors the event’s eight-year journey in promoting Malaysia’s cultural heritage and fostering unity.
Organised by LOCCO, a cultural platform celebrating Malaysia’s heritage, Keretapi Sarong has grown into a symbol of pride, drawing thousands each Malaysia Day to don traditional sarongs and travel by train. “This award reflects our shared love for cultural heritage and highlights the importance of preserving traditions for future generations,” said Shamsul Bahrin Zainuzzaman, Director of Keretapi Sarong and Co-Founder of LOCCO. The 2024 edition saw record participation with 25,250 attendees nationwide, underscoring the event’s growing significance in promoting unity and cultural pride.
This recognition marks a milestone for LOCCO and Keretapi Sarong, emphasizing their impact in blending tradition and modernity to showcase Malaysia’s cultural narrative. With support from local communities and brands, the initiative continues to inspire Malaysians while gaining attention across ASEAN as a model for cultural preservation.
