Keretapi Sarong is back for its 10th edition, and this 2026 celebration in Kuala Lumpur is set to be bigger, louder and more colourful than ever. Happening on 16 September 2026, the annual Malaysia Day event will bring Malaysians together in sarongs, traditional attire and creative cultural looks as they travel by train to a secret location.
Organised by LOCCO, Keretapi Sarong 2026 will take place across 10 cities nationwide, including Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley. If you’re planning to join Keretapi Sarong 2026 in KL, keep scrolling to discover the details of one most awaited events in Kuala Lumpur before you go.
What is the Keretapi Sarong theme for 2026?
The official Keretapi Sarong theme for 2026 is “Sayang Malaysia”, a message that encourages Malaysians to celebrate the country through culture, community and togetherness. The theme was previously used in 2017 and has been brought back for this milestone 10th edition.
As LOCCO co-founder Shamsul Bahrin Zainuzzaman explained, love for Malaysia should be seen through the way people care for one another and share public spaces. To make the celebration even more memorable, LOCCO has also introduced “Joget Sarong”, the first official theme song for Keretapi Sarong, performed by Aina Abdul and Didie Shazry.
Where will Keretapi Sarong 2026 take place?
For the first time, Keretapi Sarong 2026 will also introduce a Stesen Wanita at MRT Titiwangsa on the Putrajaya Line. The station is designed for women who prefer a more comfortable experience when taking part in a large, crowded event.
Beyond Kuala Lumpur, the event will also be held in:
- Padang Besar
- Langkawi
- Kuching
- Sungai Petani
- George Town
- Ipoh
- Melaka
- Johor Bahru
- Kota Bharu
- Kuantan
This expansion makes Keretapi Sarong 2026 the biggest edition yet, with celebrations taking place from the northern region to Sarawak.
For the Kuala Lumpur edition, participants will gather at selected LRT, MRT and KTM Komuter stations before travelling together to an undisclosed final destination. The secret-location format is one of the most exciting parts of Keretapi Sarong because nobody knows exactly where the colourful crowd will end up until the day itself.
Keretapi Sarong 2026 schedule
While the full Kuala Lumpur itinerary is still subject to official updates, the general itinerary usually includes:
- Gathering at selected train stations in the morning
- Travelling together by LRT, MRT or KTM Komuter
- Singing, dancing and taking part in activities on the train
- Meeting other participants along the route
- Travelling to a secret final destination
- Joining cultural performances, music and community activities
- Taking photos with thousands of creatively dressed participants
The final location is intentionally kept secret, so avoid relying on unofficial rumours. Follow LOCCO and the official Keretapi Sarong social media accounts for confirmed information about meeting stations and timings.
Who founded Keretapi Sarong?
If you have ever wondering who is the founder of Keretapi Sarong, the answer depends on which part of its history you are referring to.
The original Keretapi Sarong movement began in 2012 under the social enterprise Random Alphabets. It was inspired by international public-transport flash mobs and encouraged Malaysians to wear sarongs while travelling together.
After a few quiet years, LOCCO revived Keretapi Sarong in 2017, turning it into the large-scale Malaysia Day celebration that people know today. LOCCO co-founder and director, Shamsul Bahrine Zainuzzaman remains one of the key figures behind the event’s growth and nationwide reach.
What should you wear to Keretapi Sarong 2026?
The best part of Keretapi Sarong is seeing how creatively people style one simple piece of fabric. You do not need to wear a full traditional outfit if that is not your personal style. A sarong can be wrapped, draped, layered or styled as an accessory.
Here are a few outfit ideas to try:
Tips for attending Keretapi Sarong
A little preparation can make the day much easier, especially when thousands of people are expected to join.
- Wear comfortable shoes because you may be walking, standing and dancing for several hours.
- Wear a face mask before heading outdoors when the air is hazy.
- Bring a Touch ’n Go card or the payment method required for your chosen train service.
- Carry a small water bottle and light snacks.
- Use a crossbody bag or belt bag instead of a large handbag.
- Choose breathable clothing because Malaysia’s September weather can be hot and humid.
- Keep your sarong secured so it does not get caught on escalators or train doors.
- Respect other passengers and avoid blocking station entrances or train doors.
- Check the weather forecast before leaving home.
Most importantly, do not wait until the last minute to plan your route. Stations and trains may be busier than usual, so give yourself plenty of time to reach the designated meeting point.
So, whether you are joining for the cultural experience, the group photos, the music or the outfit inspiration, start planning your look now. Find your station, bring your best sarong and get ready to follow the crowd. See you there !
Happy National Day Malaysia ! #SayangMalaysia
