KUALA LUMPUR, 16 July 2026 – Japanese idol phenomenon AKB48 will make its highly anticipated return to Malaysia to headline Japan Expo Malaysia 2026 (JEMY 2026) with an exclusive concert on 25 July 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
The performance marks AKB48’s first appearance in Malaysia in nearly two years since the group’s successful concert in Kuala Lumpur in 2024, giving local fans another opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most influential and internationally recognised pop acts live.
A special treat awaits fans as AKB48 will perform its upcoming single live for the very first time at JEMY 2026. The new single will be officially released in Japan on 19 August 2026.
AKB48 is widely credited with redefining Japan’s modern idol industry and has built a global following through its unique “idols you can meet” concept, energetic live performances and ever-evolving roster of members.
AKB48 returns
Since its debut in 2005, the group has released numerous chart-topping singles, sold millions of records, and inspired a network of sister groups across Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia, where local adaptations have cultivated an active and growing idol fan community, including Malaysia’s own KLP48.
Known for fan-favourite songs such as Heavy Rotation, Aitakatta, Flying Get and Koisuru Fortune Cookie, AKB48 continues to be one of Japan’s most enduring entertainment exports, attracting audiences across generations with its high-energy stage productions and interactive performances.
As the headline act of JEMY 2026, AKB48 is expected to draw fans from Malaysia and across the region. Tickets for the exclusive concert start from RM180 and are now available for purchase via http://www.etix.my.
Japan Expo Malaysia 2026 is from 24 to 26 July 2026 at Hall 6, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. As one of the flagship events under Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the expo celebrates Japanese culture through music, food, tourism and pop culture. Admission to the expo is free.
JEMY is organised by Siam Connection Sdn Bhd and G-Yu Creative Co. Ltd, and supported by the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), The Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur, Tourism Malaysia, and the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB).
For more information, visit http://www.japanexpomalaysia.com and follow Japan Expo Malaysia on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.
