This month, the sounds of drums, strings, chants and melodies from around the world will echo through the rainforests of Borneo. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Mount Santubong and the lush greenery of Sarawak’s tropical rainforest, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) has become one of Asia’s most distinctive cultural events and a major draw for international visitors. From 26–28 June 2026, the festival will once again welcome music lovers from across the globe to the Sarawak Cultural Village for a celebration of music, culture and connection.
Since its humble beginnings in 1998, RWMF has grown into an internationally recognised festival that attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually. And yet, despite its success, the event has remained true to its original vision: bringing together artists from different cultures and traditions in an intimate setting, where performers and audiences can interact, learn and share experiences. The result is a festival atmosphere unlike any other, where global music traditions are celebrated not in concert halls or urban arenas, but within one of the world’s oldest rainforest ecosystems.
The festival experience extends far beyond the evening performances. Throughout the day, visitors can participate in interactive workshops, cultural presentations, instrument demonstrations and jam sessions with musicians from around the world. These smaller sessions offer a rare opportunity to meet with artists, learn about the stories behind their music and even join in performances. Traditional dance demonstrations, local handicrafts and food stalls add further depth to the experience, creating a vibrant showcase of both global and Sarawakian culture.
The 2026 edition will be held under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” reflecting the festival’s commitment to honouring cultural heritage while embracing new creative influences. More than 200 performers are expected to take part, representing a diverse mix of musical styles and traditions. This year’s programme features internationally renowned acts including Malaysian music icon M. Nasir, legendary American funk and soul group The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, and British acid-jazz pioneers Incognito. Alongside these headline performers, audiences can discover emerging artists and traditional musicians from across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.
One of the festival’s greatest strengths is its ability to showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity. Home to more than 30 ethnic groups, Sarawak is a place of remarkable music heritage, along with dance and storytelling traditions. Indigenous instruments such as the sape—a beautifully carved lute associated with the Orang Ulu communities—often feature prominently throughout the festival, giving visitors a deeper appreciation of the region’s living cultural heritage.
For travellers, RWMF also serves as an ideal gateway to explore the wider attractions of Sarawak. Visitors can extend their stay to discover the UNESCO-listed caves of Mulu, cruise through mangrove forests in search of proboscis monkeys, explore traditional longhouses or trek through some of the oldest rainforests on Earth. Combined with Sarawak’s renowned hospitality and unique cultural experiences, the festival offers far more than a weekend of music.
As global travellers increasingly seek authentic, meaningful and memorable experiences, the Rainforest World Music Festival continues to stand out as a celebration of artistic exchange, creativity and communion between cultures. For those planning a visit to Malaysia this June, the festival promises an unforgettable opportunity to experience the rhythms of the world in the heart of Borneo.
