KUCHING, JULY 1: The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) marked its triumphant return after a three-year break, captivating a crowd of 19,180 festival-goers from around the globe.
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) announced that RWMF 2024 is scheduled for June 28th to 30th, while also revealing that a portion of the ticket sales will contribute to STB’s ecoGreen Planet tree-planting initiative. This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s Greening Malaysia Programme, addressing climate change and preserving biodiversity.
Get ready to dance to the beats of the Grammy-winning Gipsy Kings at RWMF 2023!
The three-day event, held from June 23rd to 25th held at Sarawak Cultural Village, showcased the talents of 199 musicians, delighting audiences with world music performances.
On the festival’s final day, RWMF established a Malaysian Book of Record (MBOR) for the “Most Percussionists in a Music Festival,” bringing together an astounding total of 2,763 percussionists.
Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, accepted the MBOR certificate on behalf of STB, emphasizing the message of ‘Unity in Diversity.’
According to STB CEO Sharzede Salleh Askor, this gathering of percussionists aimed to convey the importance of diversity and inclusion. She highlighted that the RWMF fosters creativity, celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures and showcasing the festival’s appeal that extends beyond music.
“RWMF has evolved significantly since its inception in 1998, capturing the imagination of visitors with its cultural experiences, culinary delights, and the camaraderie shared among local and international performers and attendees.
“The festival’s grand finale featured Big Mountain, known for their hit song “Baby, I Love Your Way,” drawing an enthusiastic crowd to the Jungle Stage,” she said in a statement.
Get ready to dance to the beats of the Grammy-winning Gipsy Kings at RWMF 2023!
Festival-goers embraced Responsible Tourism practices, leaving the grounds immaculate shortly after the concert—a testament to STB’s success in promoting environmental consciousness among RWMF attendees.
Chatusram, a group from India, praised the festival’s sustainability efforts, including waste management, reduced plastic usage, and even seed-based badges. Sustainability and responsible tourism have been consistent focal points for Sarawak’s tourism industry, championed by STB since 2019.
Throughout the event, RWMF implemented eco-friendly measures such as seed paper for festival tags, banning single-use plastics, encouraging the use of reusable water bottles, and providing free shuttle services to reduce carbon emissions.
Get ready to dance to the beats of the Grammy-winning Gipsy Kings at RWMF 2023!
Memorable performances included Grammy Award winners Gipsy Kings featuring Tonino Baliardo, renowned for their hit “Bamboleo,” as well as acts like Rastak from Iran, At Adau from Malaysia, and the Sarawakian international artist Zee Avi’s captivating homecoming to RWMF. – TVS
