HANDS Percussion Unveils Camaraderie: Unite in Rhythm

Malaysia’s leading contemporary drum ensemble HANDS Percussion proudly presents its latest production, Camaraderie, running from November 14 to 16, 2025 at PJ Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC, 1 Utama).

Derived from the French word meaning a spirit of trust and deep connection beyond friendship, Camaraderie explores the essence of human bonds through rhythm, memory, and cross-generational performances that transcend time and tradition.

Concert Highlights

Reimagined Classics · Cross-Border Collaboration

HANDS’ signature works return to the spotlight with new vitality.

This year, HANDS collaborates with the ITA Ensemble, infusing the music with fresh textures and cross-cultural layers. Electronic remix meets live drumming, expanding the boundaries of percussion and uniting modern artistry with cultural roots.

Two New Works

Kenangan: composed by long-time collaborator Teuku Umar, founder of Gangsapura Gamelan. Inspired by Malay gamelan, the piece captures 17 years of shared friendship and artistic journey.
A new work inspired by Teochew culture, weaving rhythm and colour into a dialogue between tradition and modernity. Drawing from mythological imagery, the piece reflects on heritage while paving the way for the future.

A Stage of Generations

One of the most moving moments will feature a performance from HANDS’ Principal Percussionist, Jimmy Ch’ng, with his daughter. Their duet reflects both a touching father-daughter bond and the enduring spirit of mentorship. Adding to this sense of continuity, Yanhou, the youngest member of HANDS will be joining the ensemble. This marks a symbolic passing of the torch to a new generation.

Multi-instruments and Dialogues
Camaraderie also features the cello, guzheng, gamelan, and a collaboration with DeafBeat (Malaysia’s pioneering deaf percussion ensemble), creating rich layers of sound and movement that highlight the beauty of diversity.

Camaraderie 3

Camaraderie 2

Camaraderie 1

Featuring

HANDS Percussion presents Camaraderie in collaboration with ITA Ensemble, DeafBeat, and the HANDS Percussion Academy.

Founded in 1997, HANDS Percussion has been at the pinnacle of promoting Malaysian original percussion works and fostering cross-cultural artistic exchanges. Rooted in the tradition of the 24 Festive Drums, HANDS continues to push artistic boundaries. The ensemble showcases the unique identity of Malaysian drumming on international stages.