IN Sarawak, where the verdant rainforest meets a medley of cultures, the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) has become a beacon of celebration for music enthusiasts and culture seekers worldwide.
Over the past 25 years, this annual extravaganza has grown into a global phenomenon, drawing attendees from every corner of the world to the captivating city of Kuching. The RWMF is more than a music festival; it's a celebration of cultural diversity, fostering a global connection through the universal language of music.
A MULTICULTURAL MELODY
The RWMF transcends the boundaries of a traditional music festival, weaving together the harmonies of various cultures in a three-day spectacle. Beyond the beats and melodies that resonate through the lush Sarawakian rainforest, festival-goers are invited to immerse themselves in a plethora of workshops and activities.
The workshops curated for RWMF offer an immersive experience, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of traditional arts, crafts, dance forms and music from Sarawak's vibrant cultural mosaic. Wherever one's passion lies, the festival offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that resonate with a diverse audience.
SYMPHONY OF GASTRONOMY
While the festival is a celebration of music and culture, it also invites participants on a gastronomic adventure, offering a taste of Sarawak's rich culinary heritage. With 31 distinct ethnicities calling Sarawak home, festival-goers embark on a culinary journey, savouring delectable traditional dishes that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. From indigenous flavours to multicultural delicacies, the RWMF caters to every culinary palate.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Originating with a modest audience in 1998, RWMF has evolved into an internationally acclaimed music festival, garnering recognition such as being listed among the Top 25 Best International Festivals by Songlines Magazine for six consecutive years (2010 to 2015). The festival's lineup spans the spectrum of musical genres, featuring performances ranging from traditional melodies to world fusion and contemporary global sounds.
In its recent iteration from June 23 to 25 2023 at Sarawak Cultural Village, RWMF showcased a breathtaking ensemble of 199 musicians from 12 countries spanning three continents. The diverse lineup featured acclaimed performers, including Sarawak's own Zee Avi, Grammy Award winners Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo, and artists from Jamaica, USA, Tanzania, Iran, Maldives, the United Kingdom, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
As RWMF continues to evolve and captivate audiences, it remains a testament to the power of music in transcending borders, fostering connections, and celebrating the rich diversity of our shared global heritage.
