By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Feb 28: The Earth, Wind & Fire Experience (EWF), a dynamic ensemble led by seven-time Grammy Award winner Al McKay, will headline the 28th Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), set to take place at Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) from June 20 to 22.
Known for their genre-defying fusion of funk, soul, R&B, jazz, and African rhythms, EWF has captivated audiences across generations with timeless hits such as September, Boogie Wonderland, and Let’s Groove.
Joining the RWMF 2025 lineup is Otyken from Siberia, Russia, an indigenous group renowned for their powerful throat singing and mastery of rare Siberian instruments.
Also performing is At Adau, a Sarawakian band that blends Sape melodies with Bidayuh, Iban, and Orang Ulu percussion, highlighting Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
The festival will also feature international acts including Gaga Gundul (France & Indonesia), Kuntaw Mindanao (Philippines), Kulāiwi (Hawaii), La Chiva Gantiva (Colombia & Belgium), Manhu (China), Rob Ruha (New Zealand), Seppuku Pistols (Japan), N’famady Kouyaté (Guinea & UK), Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band (Thailand), Seffarine (Morocco, Cuba, Spain, USA & Iran), and Tal Fry (India).
Malaysian artists set to take the stage include Buddha Beat (Penang), Naungan (Malaysia), Buloh Berkocak (Sarawak), Meruked (Kuching), and Mathew Ngau Jau with Lan E Tuyong (Sarawak).
Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said that after last year’s record-breaking attendance of 26,000 festival-goers, the 2025 edition aims to attract 30,000 visitors.
“This year, we are expanding beyond the traditional festival grounds to Damai Central, transforming it into a lively space open to the public.
“Here, you’ll discover a dynamic mix of free arts, crafts, and wellness activities—from traditional craft-making and dance showcases to yoga sessions and indigenous healing practices,” he said at the official launch of RWMF 2025 at Theatre Hotel today.
With the theme “Connections: One Earth, One Love,” RWMF 2025 will feature 170 performers from 20 countries, offering a vibrant mix of global rhythms and indigenous artistry.
Beyond the music, RWMF 2025 continues to embrace sustainability through eco-stations, tree-planting programs, and plastic-free initiatives, ensuring the festival remains a cultural celebration with a strong environmental focus.
Early Bird tickets, available from March 8 to 31, offer the best deals, with a One-Day Pass for adults priced at RM235 and a Three-Day Pass at RM635.
Pre-sale tickets are priced at RM283 (One-Day) and RM765 (Three-Day), while door sales will cost RM333 (One-Day) and RM835 (Three-Day).
Children’s tickets (ages 3-12) are available at RM80, while entry is free for those under three.
Group discounts start at RM250 per ticket. Attendees can also enjoy exclusive airline discounts through Malaysia Airlines and Firefly, making travel to the festival more convenient and affordable.
Speaking to reporters after the launch, Abdul Karim reassured the public that RWMF remains a safe and family-friendly event.
“So far, Alhamdulillah, all the music festivals that we organise or support have not faced issues with drugs or excessive alcohol consumption.
“While alcohol is available for sale, the festival has maintained a responsible and controlled environment,” he said in response to concerns about security, particularly following incidents at other festivals in Malaysia.
Security measures for RWMF 2025 will be further strengthened, including coordinated enforcement with police, customs, and security agencies, increased undercover police presence, outsourced private security, and K9 units for drug detection at entry points.
Additionally, the number of shuttle buses to the venue will be increased from fewer than 15 last year to 20 this year to manage crowd movement efficiently. Pick-up points will be announced soon.
Also present at the launch were Deputy Minister for Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) deputy permanent secretary Desmond Douglas Jerukan; Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chairman Dato Dennis Ngau; and STB chief executive officer Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor. — DayakDaily
