The festival has pledged to plant 10,000 trees by 2027, in line with its 30th anniversary goals: Sarawak Tourism Board
Bringing together 184 performers from 20 countries, the 28th Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) brings showcasing a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary music.
In a press statement, Sarawak Tourism Board says that through performances, workshops and cultural showcases, the festival offers an immersive experience that celebrates global diversity, community, and connection through music.
According to the statement, leading this year’s international lineup is the Earth, Wind & Fire Experience by Al McKay, a celebration of the legendary band’s timeless legacy. Known for fusing funk, soul, R&B, jazz and African rhythms, Earth, Wind & Fire has left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
Guitarist Al McKay, a seven-time Grammy Award winner and former musical director of the band, now leads the Al McKay Allstars, an ensemble of top Los Angeles studio musicians. Performing hits like “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,”* and “Let’s Groove,” the group is set to deliver an electrifying, authentic live experience that honours the spirit and sound of one of music history’s most influential acts.
The tourism promotion organisation says that adding to the global flavour is Otyken, a 10-member indigenous group from Siberia in Russia. Known for their hypnotic throat singing and use of rare ethnic instruments such as the khomys, vargan, and morinhur (horsehead fiddle), Otyken’s music offers a powerful cultural immersion rooted in nature, ancient rituals, and the wisdom of nomadic Siberian tribes.
Their songs performed in Khakass, Chulyms, Dolgans, and Russian, create a sonic landscape that is as spiritual as it is modern.
Representing Sarawak on the global stage is At Adau, a popular local band that blends the melodic tones of the traditional Sape with the percussive power of Bidayuh, Iban, and Orang Ulu rhythms. Having been part of RWMF since 2014, its elevation as a headliner this year is a significant moment, reflecting the festival’s dedication to nurturing Sarawak’s indigenous musical heritage and placing it alongside celebrated international acts.
According to the statement, beyond its diverse music programme, this year’s RWMF continues to champion environmental sustainability. A key feature is the Green Ruai, a dedicated space that showcases eco-innovations and promotes responsible practices. In this space, visitors can engage in hands-on workshops, explore sustainability exhibits and even calculate their carbon footprints. New this year is an expanded network of carbon calculation stations, offering festival-goers practical advice on reducing and offsetting their environmental impact.
The festival has pledged to plant 10,000 trees by 2027, in line with its 30th anniversary goals. A portion of ticket sales will go directly towards this initiative, adds the statement.
Additional eco-friendly measures include waste separation stations, free water refill points, biodegradable tableware, and a complete ban on single-use plastics. Additionally, free shuttle services will also be provided to reduce the festival’s carbon footprint from transport.
Debuting this year at the festival is the Open Stage, a space where musicians and attendees can come together for impromptu jam sessions. Whether a professional performer or an inspired visitor, anyone is welcome to join the music-making, further reinforcing the festival’s spirit of openness and connection. For the first time, festival gates will open at 10:00, offering an extended day of performances, workshops, and cultural discovery.
To enhance accessibility and encourage travel to Sarawak, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly will serve as the Official Airline Partners for this year’s festival. During the music festival, travellers can access promotional fares with up to 20 pc off flights to Kuching by using the codes MHRWMF25 (Malaysia Airlines) and FYRWMF25 (Firefly) during the booking period from March 12 to June 22, which will be valid for travel between June 14 and 29.
Dersenish Aresandiran
“MAG airlines are honoured to continue supporting the highly anticipated 28th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival as the Official Airline Partner, bringing music enthusiasts from around the world to the Land of the Hornbills. We are delighted to return this year, reaffirming our commitment to fostering cultural exchange and connectivity. This strategic partnership with the Sarawak Tourism Board underscores our dedication to strengthening Malaysia’s tourism sector and showcasing the unique heritage of Sarawak. As the Gateway to Asia and Beyond, we remain committed to enhancing accessibility and seamless connectivity, inviting global travellers to immerse themselves in Sarawak’s rich cultural tapestry. With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, we look forward to continuing our role in enhancing connectivity and providing seamless travel experiences for visitors discovering Malaysia’s diverse cultural and natural attractions,” says Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer, Malaysia Aviation Group.
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