SANTUBONG – The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 entered its second evening with distinguished royal attendance, adding prestige to one of Malaysia’s most celebrated cultural events.
Sultan Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, accompanied by Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, graced the festival held at the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Their arrival was warmly received by Sarawak’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I (Tourism), Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, alongside Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Dennis Ngau and STB Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor.
The evening also welcomed Raja Muda Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who was joined by Raja Puan Muda Perlis, Tuanku Dr. Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil, and their son, Syed Sirajuddin Areeb Putra Jamalullail.
Their presence was acknowledged by Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu and his wife. Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, was also in attendance.
The participation of the royal families underscored the enduring support of Malaysia’s monarchy for initiatives that strengthen the nation’s cultural identity and tourism industry.
Their presence highlighted the significance of RWMF as a premier international event that bridges heritage and modern creativity.
Now in its 29th edition, the festival ran from 26 to 28 June under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms”. This year’s programme emphasised reconnecting communities with cultural heritage while celebrating contemporary musical expression.
The theme reflected the festival’s mission to showcase how traditions evolve through new artistic forms. The second night featured a diverse line-up of performers from Malaysia and abroad.
The highlight was a powerful performance by American legends The Commodores, led by founding member Thomas McClary. Their energetic set captivated thousands of festival-goers, reinforcing RWMF’s reputation as a world-class stage for global music.
Since its inception in 1998, the Rainforest World Music Festival has grown into a cultural tourism landmark, positioning Sarawak as a global destination for music and heritage.
Beyond entertainment, the festival continues to serve as a platform for promoting Malaysia’s diverse traditions and fostering international connections through the universal language of music.
The royal attendance at RWMF 2026 not only added grandeur to the evening but also reaffirmed the festival’s role in uniting communities, celebrating diversity, and strengthening Malaysia’s cultural diplomacy.
