Rainforest World Music Festival, Sarawak
Prepare for an exhilarating journey into the heart of world music as the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) makes its much-anticipated return to the enchanting jungle stage of Sarawak, Malaysia. Taking place from 28th – 30th June 2024, at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching, Sarawak, the 27th edition of RWMF will unite music enthusiasts from across the globe in an unforgettable celebration of the vibrant tapestry of world music.
Tickets are now available to purchase, starting from £47 for a one-day experience or just £107 for the full three-day extravaganza of music, culture, and community.
The Rainforest World Music Festival is an annual music festival, well known and loved for showcasing a diverse array of world music performances. Celebrating cultural diversity and heritage, the festival serves as a platform for artists from around the globe to come together and share their music with audiences worldwide.
RWMR will this year embrace the theme of ‘Evolution.’ As the festival continues to take bold strides towards sustainability and responsible tourism, it invites attendees to join in the journey towards a more environmentally conscious future. From eco-friendly initiatives to advocating for greener practices, RWMF 2024 aims to inspire positive change.
Featuring a diverse lineup of 21 acts in total, the festival brings together 68 international musicians from 14 countries across 6 continents, alongside 63 talented local artistes. Collectively, these acts command a huge global fanbase of 12 million, comprising followers from platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The festival promises an incredible fusion of sounds and rhythms.
One of the most anticipated highlights of RWMF 2024 is the debut performance of Grammy and Golden Globe award winner, KITARO. Renowned for his contemplative musical journey and captivating melodies, KITARO is set to mesmerise audiences with his unique blend of acoustic instrumentation, offering a spellbinding experience like never before. Joining him as a headlining act is none other than West Malaysia’s own Dato’ Zainalabidin, whose iconic hit song ‘Hijau’ has resonated with audiences for over three decades. Known for his profound passion for humanity, heritage, culture, and the environment, Dato’ Zainalabidin’s music promises to inspire and uplift, embodying the spirit of unity and harmony. Representing East Malaysia is Sarawak’s own Belle Sisoski, who is well-known for using her creative platform to raise awareness about indigenous rights, environmental and musical conservation in Sarawak.
Visitors from around the world are warmly welcomed to join RWMF 2024 for an immersive and holistic experience. From the rich tapestry of diverse cultures to the pulsating rhythms of world music, the festival promises to be a celebration of harmony, diversity, and culture, uniting people through the universal language of music and dance.
Sarawak is a diverse state in Malaysia located on the island of Borneo. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant festivals, Sarawak is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Malaysia. Sarawak is home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world, as well as stunning limestone caves, waterfalls, and beaches. Visitors can go trekking, caving, kayaking, and diving to experience the state’s natural wonders. Sarawak hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. As well as the RWMF, Sarawak also hosts the annual Gawai Dayak festival, a traditional celebration of the end of the harvesting season, culminating in traditional dancing and merriment, and the Kuching Food Festival. The annual Food Festival event promotes the state’s tourism and food industry and reflects Kuching’s title as the ‘UNESCO City of Gastronomy’. The festival welcomes a multitude of enthusiastic foodies who are eager to savour the lineup of food stalls brimming with local and international dishes.
These festivals are a great way to experience Sarawak’s culture and food firsthand.
Malaysia’s allure is found in the exquisite fusion of its diverse cultural tapestry, breathtaking natural landscapes, culinary delights from a melting pot of flavours, hospitable locals, and progressive development. Among the nation’s array of cultural festivities, the Rainforest World Music Festival stands as a shining example, inviting the world to partake in its rich tapestry of music and culture with open arms.
Where to Stay: Cove 55 is a luxurious private boutique hotel at the foot of Mount Santubong. Located half an hour from the park-filled city of Kuching – the location of the RWMF – this luxurious boutique retreat features lush gardens, pristine white exteriors and a 30-metre infinity swimming pool suspended directly above the South China Sea. Surrounded by jungle and the endlessly shimmering ocean, this perfectly manicured hideaway is the perfect place to retreat after enjoying the musical festivities. Luxury Escapes is offering a 7-night package at Cove 55 for £2,775 including return flights with Malaysia Airlines into Kuching Airport, Via Kuala Lumpur. Price includes accommodation in a Garden Room based on 2 adults sharing a room, on a Half Board basis. To book: www.luxuryescapes.com.
For more information and ticket bookings to the RWMF, please visit RWMF website. One-day passes start from RM283 (approximately £47) in advance or RM333 (approximately £56) on the door. Three-day passes for the full festival are RM635 (approximately £107).
