Rules & Regulations

ASIA ARTS FESTIVAL MALAYSIA 2026

Official Rules & Regulations (Updated: 15 April 2026)

Introduction

Participation in the Asia Arts Festival Malaysia (hereinafter referred to as the “Festival”) is subject to the rules and regulations set out herein (“Rules & Regulations”).

By registering for the Festival, all participants agree to abide by these Rules & Regulations. The Festival Organiser reserves the right to amend, update, or withdraw any part of these Rules & Regulations without prior notice, particularly in matters relating to health, safety, or regulatory requirements.

1. General

1.1 The Festival is open to all participants.
1.2 Registration closes on 20 June 2026. Early bird registration closes on 31 May 2026.
1.3 All entries must be submitted via the official registration form (Google Forms). No alternative submissions will be accepted unless authorised.
1.4 Registration fees must be paid in full via bank transfer to secure participation.
1.5 All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, except at the sole discretion of the Festival Organiser.
1.6 Late entries may be accepted at the discretion of the Festival Organiser.
1.7 Entry into the theatre is by ticket only. All participants are required to hold a valid ticket.
1.8 The Festival Organiser reserves the right to postpone, cancel, or modify the Festival due to unforeseen circumstances.
1.9 Categories may be cancelled due to insufficient entries. In such cases, refunds may be issued at the discretion of the Festival Organiser.

2. Performance Categories

Participants may enter the following categories:

  • Piano (all grades)

  • Vocal (all genres and styles)

  • Instrumental (all instruments – Western and ethnic)

  • Dance (all genres and styles)

3. Performances

3.1 Participants may enter multiple categories with separate applications.
3.2 The decision of adjudicators and organisers is final and binding.
3.3 All repertoire, music, costumes, and choreography must be age-appropriate.
3.4 Inappropriate content may result in penalties or disqualification.
3.5 Performances must adhere to stipulated time limits.
3.6 Performances exceeding time limits may be stopped.
3.7 Diploma & Above categories must perform from memory.
3.8 Participants must provide their own accompanists where required.

4. Music Submission

4.1 All backing tracks must be submitted in MP3 format by the Closing Date.
4.2 File naming format:
ParticipantName.Title.Category
4.3 Participants must bring a backup copy (USB drive).
4.4 Music must be appropriate and free from offensive content.
4.5 Participants are responsible for ensuring compliance with copyright laws.

5. Props & Equipment

5.1 Props are permitted for dance performances.
5.2 Participants are responsible for transport, setup, and removal.
5.3 Props must comply with safety standards.
5.4 The Festival Organiser is not liable for injury or damage caused by props.

6. Health & First Aid

6.1 Participants are responsible for their own first aid supplies.
6.2 The Festival Organiser does not provide medical equipment or treatment.

7. Awards & Recognition

7.1 Every participant will receive a trophy and certificate of participation (except choral categories awarded at school level).

Score-Based Awards: Gold Trophy – 80 marks and above.

Silver Trophy – 60 marks and above

Bronze Trophy – 40 marks and above

Top Achievements

7.2 Top 3 participants in each category will perform at the Showcase: STARS of AAF 2026.
7.3 Top soloists (Dance, Piano, Instrumental, Vocal) will have the opportunity to represent Malaysia in the Grand Finals in Singapore (12 July 2026).
7.4 Selected Dance Groups (Top 3) will be invited to compete at IOIC 2027 (International Online Dance Competition).
7.5 The Festival reserves the right to withhold awards if performance standards are not met.

8. Media Release & Promotional Use

8.1 By participating in the Festival, all participants (and parents/guardians of minors) grant permission to the Festival Organiser to:

  • Photograph and record performances and event activities

  • Use such media for promotional, marketing, and educational purposes

8.2 This includes usage in:

  • Websites and social media

  • Promotional materials and advertisements

  • Press and media coverage

  • Future Festival campaigns

8.3 Participants acknowledge:

  • No compensation will be provided

  • All media remains the property of the Festival Organiser

  • Media may be used globally without limitation

9. Indemnity & Liability

9.1 Participants must be physically fit to perform.
9.2 The Festival Organiser may refuse participation for health or safety reasons.
9.3 Participation is at the participant’s own risk.
9.4 The Festival Organiser is not liable for:

  • Injury

  • Loss or damage to property

  • Financial or indirect losses

10. Personal Data Protection

10.1 By registering, participants consent to the collection and use of personal data for:

  • Event administration

  • Communication and marketing

  • Legal and regulatory compliance

10.2 Data may be shared with third-party service providers where necessary.
10.3 Data may be transferred internationally in connection with Festival operations.

Final Note

The Festival Organiser reserves the right to interpret and enforce all rules. All decisions are final.