Experience Borneo’s Soul: 2026 Rainforest World Music Festival
- Rafflesia SMM2H
- May 18
- 3 min read
Today, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) is recognised as Sarawak’s largest and most iconic music festival, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world for a unique celebration of music, culture, and diversity.
The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) was born from a 1997 collaboration between Canadian musicologist Randy Raine-Reusch and the Sarawak Tourism Board, they began talking about whether Sarawak could host its own world music festival. Officially launched in 1998 at the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village. What began as an intimate gathering of 300 attendees evolved into a world-renowned cultural landmark that drew 20,000 fans by 2006. Last year’s edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival, themed “Connections: One Earth, One Love,” became the biggest festival in RWMF history, attracting around 30,000 visitors across the three-day event.
29th edition from June 26th to 28th, 2026, at the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village, this year’s festival is themed “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms”. It is far more than just a concert series; it is a three-day immersive experience into the heart of Borneo’s heritage and global musical diversity.
A Lineup of Legends and Innovators
The 2026 roster is a masterful blend of legendary icons and contemporary innovators, featuring over 20 acts from 12 countries and more than 200 performers.
Night 1 (June 26): Headlined by Dato’ M. Nasir, the "Sifu" of Malaysian music, who will bring his signature blend of Nusantara poetry and contemporary rock to the stage.
Night 2 (June 27): Get ready to groove with American funk legends The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary. Expect timeless hits like "Easy" and "Brick House" to light up the rainforest.
Night 3 (June 28): British acid jazz pioneers Incognito will close the festival with their soulful, global rhythms.
Daytime Discovery and Gastronomy
For families and residents, the daytime sessions are often the most rewarding parts of the festival. You can participate in over 50 interactive workshops held inside traditional ethnic longhouses. These sessions allow visitors to learn the stories behind ancient instruments and engage in spontaneous jam sessions with international performers.
New for 2026 is the BIMP-EAGA Gastronomy Showcase, featuring authentic flavors from the Borneo sub-region, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is a fantastic opportunity to sample regional delicacies—from savory Sarawakian staples to exotic treats from our neighbors—all in one location.
Sustainability at Its Heart
Sarawak’s commitment to environmental conservation is front and center through initiatives like the EcoGreen Planet program.
Green Warriors Waste Management Programme — aims to achieve a 40% landfill diversion rate by promoting better waste management and recycling practices during the festival.
EcoGreen Planet Tree-Planting Programme — a sustainability initiative that is on track to plant 10,000 trees ahead of schedule.
The Perfect Gateway to the "Real Sarawak"
For SMM2H holders, events like RWMF represent the unique, multicultural identity of Sarawak. The festival offers a unique "village" atmosphere where you can rub shoulders with artists during the day and lose yourself in the rhythm of the jungle by night.
Located only 45 minutes from Kuching city centre, the venue offers a peaceful rainforest atmosphere while remaining highly accessible. Many visitors choose to stay at the nearby Damai Beach resorts to fully soak in the festival spirit and enjoy the local nature.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets are available now, with 3-day passes priced at RM765 and single-day passes at RM283, child at RM80, free for children below 3 years old. Whether you are already part of the SMM2H community or are looking for a reason to make the move, the Rainforest World Music Festival 2026 is the perfect opportunity to discover the heart and soul of Borneo.
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