RWMF 2024 Day 2: Heavy Rain Fails to Dampen Spirit of Festivalgoers
KUCHING, June 29 – The heavy rain did not dampen the spirit of festivalgoers who danced the night away at the 27th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) held at Sarawak Cultural Village earlier tonight. Despite the storm, the audience’s enthusiasm remained unabated, showcasing their resilience and love for music.
The majority of the participants came well-prepared for the inclement weather. Many were seen holding up their umbrellas or wearing raincoats, displaying their determination to enjoy the festival despite the heavy downpour. The rain, which started unexpectedly, posed a challenge but did not deter the crowd from participating in the event.
Due to the rain, the second-day concert, which was originally scheduled to start at 6 pm, was rescheduled to 8:15 pm. During the delay, the crowd took shelter in various buildings within the Sarawak Cultural Village. This unforeseen intermission did little to diminish their excitement, as they eagerly awaited the continuation of the performances.
As the rain subsided, many festivalgoers flocked back to the main arena, waiting eagerly for the performances to begin. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement as they braved the residual drizzle to enjoy the much-anticipated concert.
The concert was opened by Sarawakian sape songstress Alena Murang, who captivated the audience with her singing while playing the sape. Her performance set the tone for the night, blending traditional melodies with contemporary vibes.
Following Alena Murang, the audience was treated to a variety of performances from international and local artists. Taiwanese singer Nini mesmerized the crowd with her soulful voice, while the Algerian Tuareg desert rock quintet ‘Imarhan’ delivered a powerful performance that resonated with the audience. The Sabahan rock band ‘Tuni Sundatang’ brought a unique flavor to the night with their energetic set.
The highlight of the night was the appearance of Malaysian music legend Dato Zainal Abidin, who concluded the second night of RWMF 2024 with an unforgettable performance. His presence and musical prowess left a lasting impression on the audience, marking a memorable end to the night’s festivities.
Gracing the concert were the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and his wife, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin Abdul Rahman. Their attendance added a touch of prestige to the event, underscoring the significance of RWMF in promoting cultural exchange and musical diversity.
Despite the heavy rain, the second day of RWMF 2024 proved to be a testament to the unyielding spirit of festivalgoers and the captivating power of music. The event showcased a rich tapestry of performances, bringing together artists and audiences from diverse backgrounds in a celebration of culture and music.
