The sounds of the rainforest are set to echo once again as the 29th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 returns to the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village from 26 to 28 June 2026.
Recognised as one of the world’s leading music festivals and recently ranked No. 8 in the Top 10 Festivals globally by the Transglobal World Music Chart, the internationally acclaimed festival will once again bring together artists, cultures, and audiences from around the world against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Santubong, the highest point in Sarawak’s capital city of Kuching.
Sarawak, located on the island of Borneo in East Malaysia, is world-famous for its breathtaking natural wonders such as its rainforests, its rich diverse culture and history.
Tickets for RWMF 2026 are now on sale with Early Bird one-day passes priced at RM235 (about US$60) and three-day passes at RM635 (about US$162), available until 31 March 2026. Festivalgoers can secure their tickets through the official festival website at rwmf.net or via the official ticketing platform Ticketmelon.
Headlining acts
Among the headliners is Malaysian legendary singer Dato’ M. Nasir, who will take the stage on 26 June 2026. A singer, songwriter, composer and producer with more than four decades of influence in the creative arts industry, Dato’ M. Nasir’s works blend traditional Malay elements with contemporary sounds and have played a defining role in shaping the Malaysian music landscape.
Taking the stage on 27 June 2026 is The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, one of the defining bands of the funk and soul era whose enduring hits such as Easy, Three Times a Lady, and Brick House continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
Completing the trio of headliners on 28 June 2026 is Incognito, the internationally renowned band led by founder Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick. Known for their groove-based, rhythm-driven sound, the band is widely recognised for timeless hits such as Always There and Still a Friend of Mine.
More exciting artists will be announced in the coming weeks, with the festival set to feature over 200 performers from 12 countries.
Interactive sessions
Beyond its spectacular evening concerts, RWMF is renowned for its immersive daytime experiences, with over 50 workshops, cultural demonstrations, and intimate mini sessions taking place across the festival grounds. Festivalgoers can take part in interactive sessions where musicians share the stories behind their instruments and traditions while engaging audiences in spontaneous collaborations.
Gastronomy showcase
RWMF 2026 will also introduce a special BIMP-EAGA gastronomy showcase, highlighting the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Borneo sub-region. Featuring flavours from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, the initiative brings together culinary partners from across the BIMP-EAGA region to present traditional dishes and regional specialities to festivalgoers.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sustainability continues to be a central pillar of the festival. Initiatives such as Green Ruai, Green Warriors, and the EcoGreen Planet tree-planting programme highlight the festival’s commitment to environmental responsibility and conservation.
Since 2023, more than 6,000 trees have been planted in conservation areas, with the initiative set to reach 10,000 trees this year, ahead of the original 2027 target, in support of long-term environmental restoration efforts.
