London, May 2026 – The countdown has begun for one of the world’s most captivating music festivals as the 29th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 returns from 26–28 June 2026 at the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village, Malaysia.
Organised in the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforest, the internationally acclaimed festival promises an unforgettable celebration of global rhythms, cultural unity, sustainability, and immersive rainforest experience, under the overarching theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms”.
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, RWMF continues to strengthen its reputation as a must-experience cultural and music event on the world stage. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Santubong, the festival brings together international performers, indigenous traditions, and audiences from around the world in a uniquely Malaysian and global experience.
Held annually in Kuching, Sarawak, the three-day festival celebrates the diversity of world music through vibrant evening concerts, daytime workshops, cultural showcases, craft displays, and culinary experiences. The festival has grown into an internationally recognised event welcoming tens of thousands of festivalgoers from across the globe.
This year’s theme, “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” reflects a powerful reconnection with cultural heritage while embracing contemporary musical expression. The festival invites visitors to reconnect — with the earth, with each other, and with themselves — through music, culture, community, and the natural beauty of Sarawak, and Malaysia.
Among the highly anticipated headliners is Dato' M. Nasir, who will perform on 26 June 2026. A legendary singer, songwriter, composer, and producer with more than four decades of influence in the creative arts industry, Dato’ M. Nasir is celebrated for his poetic lyrics and philosophical themes that seamlessly blend traditional Malay influences with contemporary sounds.
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 timeless hits including Easy, Three Times a Lady, and Brick House continue to resonate across generations.
Completing the trio of headliners on 28 June 2026 is Incognito, led by founder Jean-Paul 'Bluey' Maunick. Renowned for their groove-based fusion of soul, funk, jazz, and world rhythms, the band is widely recognised for iconic tracks such as Always There and Still a Friend of Mine.
The festival is expected to feature over 200 performers from 12 countries, bringing together local and global acts in an unforgettable rainforest setting.
Beyond its spectacular evening performances, RWMF is renowned for its immersive daytime programming. Festivalgoers can experience more than 50 workshops, cultural demonstrations, and intimate music sessions where artists share the stories behind their instruments, traditions, and musical heritage through spontaneous collaborations and interactive experiences.
RWMF 2026 will also introduce a special gastronomy showcase highlighting the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Borneo sub-region. Featuring flavours from Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, the initiative brings together culinary partners from across the region to present traditional dishes and regional specialities to festivalgoers. The programme celebrates the shared food heritage of the region while offering visitors the opportunity to experience a wider range of authentic Borneo and regional flavours during the festival.
Sustainability remains a central pillar of the festival. Environmental initiatives such as Green Ruai, Green Warriors, and the EcoGreen Planet tree-planting programme underscore RWMF’s ongoing commitment to conservation and eco-conscious living.
Since 2023, more than 6,000 trees have been planted in conservation areas including Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary, Bukit Lima Nature Reserve, and Piasau Nature Reserve. The initiative is expected to reach 10,000 planted trees this year, surpassing its original 2027 target in support of long-term environmental restoration efforts.
A kaleidoscope of culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals best describes Sarawak, home to more than 34 ethnic tribes with their own unique traditions, lifestyles, music, and cuisine. As Malaysia’s largest state, Sarawak is endowed with some of the world’s oldest rainforests, dramatic cave systems, winding rivers, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity — making it one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations.
As the countdown to RWMF 2026 begins, music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travellers are invited to be part of an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and connection. Whether attending for the music, the community, the cultural immersion, or the breathtaking natural surroundings, the experience promises to be unforgettable.
Visitors are also encouraged to extend their stay beyond the festival to discover the many experiences Sarawak and the rest of Malaysia have to offer — from vibrant cities and cultural heritage to tropical islands, ancient rainforests, wildlife encounters, and world-renowned cuisine. As a gateway to Borneo and Southeast Asia, RWMF provides the perfect opportunity to combine an unforgettable festival experience with a wider journey through Malaysia’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.rwmf.net
For more media information, please visit the Tourism Malaysia corporate site at https://www.tourism.gov.my
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About Tourism Malaysia:
Tourism Malaysia, officially known as the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, operates as an agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia. Tasked with the comprehensive promotion of Malaysia as a prime tourism destination, Tourism Malaysia has established itself as a prominent entity within the global tourism landscape. Its efforts have borne fruit, with Malaysia attracting a significant influx of tourists, registering an impressive 26.1 million arrivals in 2019 alone. This places Malaysia firmly among the ranks of the world's leading tourism destinations. For more information visit: https://www.tourism.gov.my
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