Kredit: Hausboom
Hausboom Music has grown from a small stage for indie artists to one of Malaysia’s most talked-about music festivals. This year, the festival took over MAEPS Serdang, promising a weekend full of music, food, fashion and local creativity. Spending the day there, it became clear that Hausboom Music has its own energy and character, though there are areas that could be refined in future editions.
The festival grounds were impressive. MAEPS Serdang is spacious and parking seemed manageable, but as the day went on it became clear that space was limited. Many attendees had to park outside the main entrance and walk some distance to reach the venue. Clearer guidance or shuttle options could make this easier in the future.
Navigating the festival started off a little confusing. Wristband redemption was at Hall C in a separate building. The idea of having it slightly apart from the main area makes sense, but without signage or staff to guide visitors, many people were unsure of where to go.
Once inside, the festival revealed its many layers. On one side there was a food fair offering the usual festival staples. It was satisfying but not groundbreaking. On another side, Lokal Fest showcased clothing and bundle items, though the layout could have been clearer and the selection of brands could have been bigger to give visitors a better sense of exploration. Further along, long queues for merchandise formed and only at the far end of the grounds could visitors find the entrance to the main concert stage. Despite the initial confusion, the variety of experiences made the festival feel alive and vibrant.
Kredit: Hausboom
Kredit: Hausboom
Kredit: Hausboom
The concert venue itself was hot and humid, as expected for a crowded indoor space. Some items were not allowed inside and were supposed to be collected later. Unfortunately, the collection point was unattended and some belongings went missing. Trash bins were also limited, leading to littering in parts of the venue. Small details like these affect the overall experience and improving them could make the festival more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
For families and anyone wanting a break from the action, the Chill Area was a welcome touch. It offered seating for visitors to rest and regroup which added to the inclusivity of the festival.
On the music side, performances were energetic and engaging, but the sound setup could have been more consistent. The volume and mixing varied between acts, with some sets feeling too loud and others too soft. Sound engineering is crucial in a festival setting and getting it right can transform a good performance into an unforgettable one.
Overall, Hausboom Music 2025 succeeds in creating a festival that celebrates music, community and creativity. There are areas to refine such as navigation, sound consistency, logistical support and interactive experiences, but the energy, ambition and focus on local talent make it worth attending.
With a few improvements, Hausboom Music could easily become one of the region’s most compelling music festivals.