How It All Began (2009)

Before the Band: Freelancers and Friendship

Before Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums was officially formed, many of its founding members were already connected through their shared roots in the same school band — despite coming from different batches and age groups. After completing school, they continued performing at events individually as freelancers, without a formal band name or structure.

Even without an official identity, their shared passion for bagpipes and drums kept them closely connected. They would often come together for performances whenever the opportunity arose, always envisioning what it would be like to establish a proper band of their own.

This informal journey would later lay the foundation for something much greater.

Malaysia World Band Competition 2009

The First Big Step

In 2009, a pivotal opportunity emerged in the form of the Malaysia World Band Championship (MWBC). This inspired Amirul Mazlan to bring everyone together and take the bold step toward establishing a formal band. After discussions with Alif Akbar and Mohd Fahmi, the group officially formed what would become Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums.

The band’s debut lineup was modest — just 5 bagpipers, 2 snare drummers, and a bass drummer. Their goal in entering MWBC was not to win, but to mark the official beginning of the band and to gain performance experience as a united group.

To their surprise, they emerged as champions in that very first competition. The unexpected victory ignited a spark — solidifying their belief that this band had the potential to grow into something far greater.

Winning Singapore Pipe Band Competition 2016

Rising Through Competitions

That first victory ignited a passion within the band. From that point forward, Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums continued to refine their craft, expand their lineup, and compete on larger stages.

Some of the major competitions the band has participated in include:

  • Kuala Lumpur Highland Games
  • Jakarta Highland Games
  • Singapore Pipe Band Competition

These events not only challenged the band musically but also deepened their bond as a team. With every competition, they gained valuable experience, attracted new members, and earned greater recognition in the regional pipe band scene.

Scotland in Concert (Jakarta Highland Gathering 2015)

Performing Beyond Borders

As the reputation of Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums grew, so did the invitations to perform. Beyond their regular appearances across Malaysia, the band has proudly represented their name and music in several countries, including:

  • Singapore
  • Brunei
  • Indonesia
  • Cambodia

From national celebrations and corporate events to international festivals, the band has had the honour of sharing the powerful and distinctive sound of the bagpipes with audiences far beyond their homeland.

KLPD and the HyperBrass

Growing the KLPD Family

What began as a small group of friends from the same school has evolved into a diverse band made up of members from various schools, states, and backgrounds. Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums welcomes anyone with a passion for bagpipes, drums, and performance — regardless of their experience or origin.

Today, the band regularly receives calls and messages from aspiring musicians, many of whom have gone on to become core members of the group. KLPD now boasts over 40 registered members, and the number continues to grow with each passing year.

More than just a band, KLPD has become a community, a family, and a platform where passionate individuals can come together to create music and be part of something bigger.

The Journey Continues

What began as a small group of passionate musicians has since grown into a well-recognized and established pipe band, known for its versatility, dedication, and vibrant spirit.

Kuala Lumpur Pipes and Drums continues to perform, compete, and educate — proudly carrying forward the legacy that began in 2009, and always striving to inspire the next generation of musicians.