Rainforest World Music Festival 2025: A Celebration of Global Rhythms and Sustainability in Sarawak
From 20 to 22 June 2025, the Sarawak Cultural Village in Kuching will once again resonate with the vibrant sounds of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF). Now in its 28th edition, this iconic three-day event continues to blend world music, cultural exchange and environmental consciousness in the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforest.
This year’s festival boasts an impressive roster of over 200 performers from 20 countries, showcasing a rich tapestry of musical traditions and contemporary fusions. Headlining acts include the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire Experience by Al McKay (USA); the Siberian indigenous ensemble Otyken; and Sarawak’s own At Adau, known for their dynamic fusion of traditional and modern sounds.
Other notable performers are N’famady Kouyaté, a Guinean multi-instrumentalist blending Mandingue rhythms with funk and jazz; Seppuku Pistols, a traditional Japanese ensemble renowned for their raw performances; and Meruked, a Sarawakian band merging the ethereal tones of the traditional Bornean sape instrument with post-rock soundscapes.
RWMF 2025 continues its commitment to environmental stewardship. Central to this is The Green Ruai, an interactive eco-hub where attendees can participate in workshops, engage with enlightening exhibits and measure their carbon footprints.
The festival also emphasizes sustainable procurement, collaborating with vendors to use biodegradable tableware and avoid single-use plastics. Creative initiatives like the #Urbins project involve local communities in designing artistic recycling bins, promoting environmental awareness through art.
Beyond the music, RWMF offers a plethora of cultural experiences. Daytime workshops, cultural displays and craft exhibitions provide attendees with insights into diverse traditions. Food stalls serve authentic local cuisines, allowing visitors to savour the flavours of Sarawak.
The festival’s location, nestled at the foot of Mount Santubong, offers a unique setting where nature and culture intertwine. This immersive environment fosters a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich heritage and biodiversity.
Organisers anticipate a record attendance of 30,000 visitors, surpassing previous years. To facilitate travel, Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are offering exclusive flight discounts for festival-goers.
As the countdown begins, RWMF 2025 promises an unforgettable experience, uniting music lovers from around the globe in a celebration of rhythm, culture and sustainability.
