Remember When Trance Was Everywhere?

(Future Music Festival Asia (FMFA), 2013)

If you were part of Malaysia's dance music scene in the late 2000s and early 2010s, you'll probably remember a time when trance was everywhere. For many Malaysian ravers, one of those unforgettable moments came when A State of Trance (ASOT) arrived at Future Music Festival Asia (FMFA). ASOT grew into one of the world's biggest trance brands, bringing together some of the genre's most influential artists and introducing countless fans to the sound that defined an era. Seeing names like Armin van Buuren perform on Malaysian soil felt like a milestone for the local trance community.

Back then, trance was one of the driving forces behind electronic music culture. Festival lineups featured trance heavyweights, club nights were packed, and every week seemed to bring a new anthem that fans would replay for months.

When the Scene Started to Change

( ASOT 600 Kuala Lumpur / FMFA crowd )

But as dance music evolved, so did the tastes of festival audiences. Big room EDM exploded onto main stages, house music became increasingly commercial, and techno found a new generation of followers. Naturally, promoters followed the trends, and trance slowly became less visible than it once was. To many people, it felt like the genre had faded away.

The reality, however, is very different. While trance may no longer dominate festival lineups, its community never disappeared. Fans continued showing up, smaller events continued happening, and the music kept finding new listeners. What makes trance different is that people don't just listen to it, they connect with it. Long after trends come and go, that emotional connection is what keeps the genre alive.

A Community That Never Left

( Transmission Malaysia, 2025 )

More recently, events like Transmission reminded everyone that Malaysia's appetite for trance is still very much alive. Thousands of fans once again gathered to celebrate the music they love, proving that the passion never disappeared.

For many, it wasn't just another festival. It was a reunion. Familiar faces returned to the dancefloor, classic anthems echoed through the crowd, and a new generation of ravers experienced the magic of trance for the very first time. It was a reminder that while the spotlight may have shifted over the years, the community has always remained. The question was never whether the fans were still here. It was simply, what comes next?

The Next Chapter Begins

That's where Sanctuary enters the story.

This month, Sanctuary will bring together a lineup that few trance fans would want to miss. With legendary names such as Paul van Dyk and Aly & Fila leading the charge, alongside Ben Gold, Richard Durand, David Forbes and David Rust, the festival promises everything from uplifting classics to harder, high-energy sounds that continue to push the genre forward.

Maybe trance music in Malaysia never died after all. Maybe it was simply waiting for its next chapter.

Tickets are already selling fast, click this link and secure yours now! Be sure to follow Evolution Events Asia for updates, announcements and more event information!