If you’re a fan of Japanese idols, then you’ll be familiar with the name AKB48. The renowned girl group has made a name for themselves as one of Japan’s biggest idol groups – figuratively and literally – and has been a symbol of Japanese pop culture for almost two decades. The iconic girl group has also established a fan base here in Malaysia – and this year, they’re introducing a new sister group to the world: KLP48!
The soon-to-debut musical act joins the ranks of JKT48, BNK48 and MNL48 as the latest international sister group under the 48 Group, representing our very own Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia! The group will debut later this year, so as we count down the days to their highly anticipated debut, here are some fun facts about KLP48, their members and what fans can expect after their official launch:
KLP48 Is The First AKB48 Sister Group To Be Based In Malaysia
As mentioned, KLP48 will be the first AKB sister group based in Malaysia, becoming AKB48’s tenth international sister group and the fourth group based in Southeast Asia. Like the rest of the 48 Groups, KLP48’s name reflects the group’s representative city – Kuala LumPur 48. However, there is no limitation on who can join the group, so we’ll see Malaysian and foreign members debuting as KLP48 members.
The Group Has 4 Confirmed Members So Far
As for members, KLP48’s first-generation lineup will include four Japanese members who were previously members of AKB48 and STU48. The four members who transferred to KLP48 are Kokoa Kai (Formerly STU48), Suzuha Yamane (Formerly AKB48), Yurina Gyoten (Formerly AKB48) and Haruka Kurosu (Formerly AKB48). In preparation for their official debut in Malaysia, the Japanese members have also started learning Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) and showed their skills through their social media posts.
The Trainees & First Generation Candidates Include Several Notable Faces
The auditions for the first generation also sparked conversation amongst fans after videos and photos revealed that two former 48 members have participated. The two members are former JKT48 member Devi (full name Made Devi Ranita Ningtara) and former MNL48 member Yzabel (full name Dana Yzabel Divinagracia). Unfortunately, we can’t confirm whether Yzabel and Devi will end up in the final lineup – but it’s safe to say that their participation in the audition has already raised interest in KLP48’s debut.
@klp48_official What songs do you want KLP48 to sing?🎤Lagu apa yang korang nak dengar dari KLP48?
The Group Will Follow The Traditional 48 Group System & Have Their Own Theatre In KL
Like the other 48 Group teams, KLP48 will also follow a generation system, meaning the lineup will change as time goes on because new members debut to the group and older members can graduate. KLP48 will also likely have general elections (senbatsu) to determine member placements for their title tracks. The group will also have a special theatre where they will perform. While KLP48 have yet to disclose the location of their Kuala Lumpur theatre, it will be in the city where fans can easily get to and see the girls perform live.
The final line for the first generation of KLP48 should be announced by August 2024, with the group’s official debut set for the third quarter. In the meantime, stay tuned to their official website and social media accounts for the latest updates on the group!
