Carlsberg Malaysia has released Rhythm of Harvest, a music video showcasing the identity, gratitude and belonging in Sabah and Sarawak, where every note, gesture and story holds meaning. From the vibrant cultural attire and expressive choreography to traditional sounds and visual tributes — from the hornbill in flight to the peaks of Mount Kinabalu — every element is thoughtfully brought together to honour the harvest celebrations.
The evolution of the collaboration with local artists, such as Nelson Lip and T. Bagak, led to the creation of Rhythm of Harvest, a cultural celebration that combines traditional music, dance, costume, and storytelling. This year, the focus shifts with the film trilogy People Behind The Rhythm, which highlights the local voices and experiences connected to the celebration, offering a more personal insight into the harvest season.
“‘Rhythm of Harvest’ was always about celebrating Sabah and Sarawak in a way that feels true to the people and communities it represents. With ‘People Behind The Rhythm’, we wanted to step back and let those voices come through — because these are their stories, told in their own way. This is what Raikan Bersama Sabah & Sarawak means to us,” said Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.
People Behind The Rhythm is a film series directed by award-winning Sarawakian filmmaker Sarah Lois, highlighting stories influenced by local communities and their traditions. The three films delve into the harvest experience, focusing on personal journeys of reconnecting with roots, the role of music in preserving memory, and the evolution of traditional movement across generations. The series emphasizes authenticity and respect through collaboration with local communities, reflecting Lois’s Kelabit heritage.
Among those featured is Melina William, lyricist of Rhythm of Harvest, who reflects on how music carries identity across distance. “In rediscovering my roots through music, I realised that the sounds of home stay with us wherever we go. For those who are far from home, music has a way of bringing us back — and that’s something we can be proud of, because no matter where we are, we all carry a piece of home within us,” she said.
Choreographer Arthur Darren shares how movement bridges tradition and modern expression. “Every movement carries a story. With Rhythm of Harvest, it honours the roots of our traditional dance while expressing it in a way that today’s generation can connect with. It’s about carrying our culture forward, not leaving it behind,” he said.
Carlsberg’s Raikan Bersama Sabah & Sarawak unites people, celebrating their heritage, identity, and lasting traditions through shared stories and the rhythm of the fields.
To find out more about the harvest celebrations and ongoing promotions, visit https://bestwithcarlsberg.my/harvest and follow @CarlsbergMY on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. The brand is reminding to #CELEBRATERESPONSIBLY: if you drink, don’t drive.