By Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 22: Grammy and Golden Globe award winner Kitaro, renowned for his groundbreaking electronic-instrumental music, and Dato Zainal Abidin, known for his hit song ‘Hijau’, are expected to enchant festive-goers at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) this year which is slated to take place from June 28 to 30 at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).
In its 27th edition themed ‘Evolution’, the festival’s lineup is truly exceptional, boasting a diverse array of 20 acts featuring 68 international musicians from 14 countries across six continents, alongside 63 Malaysian artists.
This exciting amalgamation of sounds and cultures promises to create a musical fusion of unprecedented magnitude, showcasing the richness of global musical traditions right in the heart of Sarawak.
Collectively, these acts command a massive global fanbase of 12 million.
Addressing the launching the RWMF 2024 today, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah anticipates that the three-day festival could surpass the previous recorded number of attendees of about 20,000 in 2023.
“RWMF transcends its role as a mere music festival, it embodies the theme of ‘Evolution’, where sustainability, responsible tourism and cultural exchange blend in perfect harmony.
“It aims to leave a lasting impact not only on sustainability but also youth empowerment, cultural preservation and an indigenous-centred approach,” he highlighted.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chief executive officer (CEO) Datu Sharzede Salleh Askor emphasised that the RWMF has always been a beacon of cultural celebration, a vibrant tapestry of diverse musical traditions and a champion for the indigenous voice of the world.
“In this edition, we are taking an important step forward. With the Evolution of RWMF, we are transforming the festival into a dynamic platform that advocates sustainable practices in tourism and conservation, paving the way for the next 25 years of this festival,” she said.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, STB chairman Dato Dennis Ngau, permanent secretary to the Ministry Datu Sherrina Hussaini and Hemisphere Corporation Sdn Bhd CEO Mark Ferguson were among those present.
Alongside Kitaro and Zainal Abidin, another act to anticipate include Sarawak’s very own Belle Sisoski, who is well known for using her creative platform to connect with the younger generation and introduces them to the rich variety of Sarawak’s traditional instruments through her music.
Other international acts include Alright Mela Meets Santo (Pakistan/France), Bourbon Lassi (Australia/Malaysia), Imarhan (Algeria/France), Krakatau Ethno (Indonesia), Nini (Taiwan/USA), Rizal Hadi and Folk (Indonesia), Rhythm Rebels featuring Selonding Bali Aga (Indonesia), and Tribal Tide (Singapore).
Attendees to RWMF 2024 will also be entertained by other Malaysian acts such as The Borneo Collective, Alena Murang, Nisa Addina and Tuni Sundatang from East Malaysia, as well as Adrian G, Salammusik, The Colour of Sound’s Malaysia and Zarul @OurBodySound from West Malaysia.
Ticket options for RWMF 2024 range from the coveted three-day pass priced at RM635 for adults, granting access to the entire weekend of festivities, to the one-day pass for adults offering early bird pricing at RM235, pre-sale at RM283, and on-spot price of RM333.
Children aged 3-12 can join in the excitement with a 1-day pass priced at RM80, while admission is free for children below 3-years-old.
For more information and ticket bookings, visit the official Rainforest World Music Festival 2024 website at www.rwmf.net.
