Tourism Malaysia Brings Back the Legendary Rainforest World Music Festival with a Focus on Music, Culture, and Eco-Friendly Celebration – Travel And Tour World

Monday, May 19, 2025
Tourism Malaysia proudly announces the comeback of the much-loved Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), scheduled for the twentieth to twenty-second of June, two thousand twenty-five. This extraordinary event will be held at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching, the bustling capital of Sarawak, situated on the rich and diverse island of Borneo. Surrounded by verdant rainforest-covered hills and the sparkling South China Sea, Kuching provides a dynamic cultural setting for this renowned global music and heritage festival.
Marking its twenty-eighth edition, the festival continues to bring together enthusiasts of world music, talented artists, and travelers from across the globe amid Borneo’s breathtaking rainforest. It offers a deep sensory experience of music, culture, and unity, all while embracing a strong commitment to sustainability.

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Celebrating under the banner “Connections One Earth One Love,” this festival seeks to bridge cultures through the powerful and universal medium of music. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Santubong—a verdant, jungle-covered peak overlooking the South China Sea—the Rainforest World Music Festival creates an immersive atmosphere perfect for its musical festivities. In 2025, the event will bring together more than one hundred eighty artists representing twenty countries, presenting an eclectic mix of musical styles and cultural traditions.
Global Stars Local Voices and Sustainable Travel
Continuing its tradition of cultural richness, the 2025 edition of RWMF will present a dynamic lineup that includes celebrated international performers alongside outstanding local musicians.

Featured artists include:

• Earth Wind and Fire Experience led by Al McKay (USA): A tribute act honoring the iconic funk and soul legends, fronted by seven-time Grammy winner Al McKay.
• Otyken (Russia Siberia): A Siberian Indigenous ensemble famed for their throat singing and unique instruments such as the khomys, vargan, and morinhur.
• At Adau (Malaysia): A group from Sarawak that masterfully blends traditional Bornean sounds with modern musical influences.
• Kuntaw Mindanao (Philippines): A vibrant Filipino group known for their energetic and colorful performances.
• La Chiva Gantiva (Colombia Belgium): A fusion band combining Afro-Colombian beats with rock and funk energy.
• Seppuku Pistols (Japan): A high-octane Japanese punk band delivering electrifying shows.
• Sinaran Collective (Malaysia): A Malaysian ensemble celebrated for blending heritage music with contemporary rhythms.
• Buddha Beat (Malaysia): A unique group mixing reggae vibes with traditional Malaysian sounds.

Beyond the nightly performances, the festival features daytime workshops on music, cultural exhibitions, and a variety of food stalls, ensuring a rich, all-encompassing cultural journey for visitors.
RWMF 2025 remains deeply committed to environmental stewardship, standing as one of Asia’s most eco-friendly festivals. Sustainability is embedded throughout—from responsible waste handling and ethical sourcing to climate awareness and collaboration with local communities. Central to these efforts is The Green Ruai, an interactive eco-hub where attendees can participate in workshops, engage with enlightening exhibits, and measure their carbon footprints. More than a green space, The Green Ruai offers a place for learning, contemplation, and reconnecting—where ancient indigenous knowledge meets cutting-edge environmental solutions.
Sarawak A Haven of Culture and Nature
Known for its extraordinary natural wonders and cultural wealth, Sarawak captivates visitors with its dense rainforests, dramatic limestone caves, and rich biodiversity. The region invites travelers to explore pristine environments through hiking, kayaking, and wildlife encounters. Its cultural tapestry is equally impressive, with indigenous customs, traditional dances, and flavorful cuisine deeply woven into the everyday life of this unique Malaysian state.
Mr. Sulaiman Suip, Director of Tourism Malaysia London, shared the importance of RWMF for Sarawak and Malaysia: “The Rainforest World Music Festival is an incredible platform to showcase not only the cultural richness of Sarawak but also the spirit of inclusivity and diversity that defines Malaysia. The festival brings together musicians from all corners of the globe while celebrating local talent, allowing the world to discover Sarawak’s rich heritage. Through this event, we continue to promote Sarawak as a must-visit destination and encourage sustainable tourism that benefits both the local community and visitors alike. Importantly, it also serves as a celebration of all that Malaysia has to offer, inspiring greater awareness and visitation in the pivotal lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026.”
After drawing a record-breaking crowd of twenty-six thousand attendees last year, the 2025 edition of RWMF aims to exceed this milestone, further establishing itself as Southeast Asia’s leading cultural festival.
Tickets are on sale now, starting at RM two hundred eighty-three (about fifty pounds) for a single-day pass and RM seven hundred sixty-five (around one hundred thirty-seven pounds) for a three-day pass. Children aged three to twelve can purchase tickets for RM eighty (roughly fourteen pounds), while children under three enter free of charge.
Where to Stay
Sarawak presents an impressive variety of lodging choices to fit every taste and budget—from eco-conscious rainforest retreats and charming heritage inns to upscale seaside resorts. For those seeking authentic cultural immersion, numerous homestays within indigenous villages offer a rare glimpse into local customs, traditional cuisine, and everyday life. These community-managed accommodations contribute significantly to sustainable tourism and help support local livelihoods. Whether you prefer the vibrant city life of Kuching or a peaceful countryside escape, visitors receive warm Malaysian hospitality and a meaningful connection to Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage.
Book Your Stay
Cove 55 is an exclusive boutique hotel nestled at the base of Mount Santubong, just a thirty-minute drive from Kuching, the city hosting the Rainforest World Music Festival. This elegant retreat boasts lush gardens, pristine white architecture, and a stunning 30-metre infinity pool that extends over the South China Sea. Surrounded by verdant jungle and endless ocean views, Cove 55 offers an ideal sanctuary after a day of musical celebration. Luxury Escapes currently features a seven-night package at Cove 55 priced at £2,775, which includes return flights via Malaysia Airlines to Kuching Airport with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur. The offer covers accommodation in a Garden Room for two adults on a half-board basis.
Reaching Kuching has never been more convenient. Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, the official carriers, are providing discounts of up to twenty percent on flights to Sarawak. Apply promo codes MHRWMF25 for Malaysia Airlines or FYRWMF25 for Firefly when booking. Reservations must be made by June twenty-second, 2025, with travel dates from June fourteenth to June twenty-ninth, 2025.

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Tags: event news, malaysia, malaysian tourism, Rainforest World Music Festival, RWMF 2025, TOURISM MALAYSIA, Tourism news, travel festivals, Travel News

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