Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur is located at 73, Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, 50200, Malaysia, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s prestigious Golden Triangle district, placing guests just a short commute from the city’s renowned landmarks, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Bukit Bintang and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

Guests can make reservations for the hotel’s 268 all-suite accommodations, ranging from 80 sqm one-bedroom suites to the 745 sqm Waldorf Astoria Suite. Over the coming months, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur will unveil new culinary, wellness and social experiences.

Wellness at Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur is anchored by the Waldorf Astoria Spa and complemented by a modern wellness centre and an outdoor pool area.

Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, general manager, Etienne Dalançon, said: “Now open for reservations, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur marks the reawakening of a truly iconic address, reimagined for a new generation of discerning travellers. We look forward to welcoming our first guests as the hotel begins to come to life.”

Ahead of its opening, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur is now offering the Waldorf Astoria Indulgence Escape. The offer includes breakfast and 15,000 Hilton Honors Points for members, applicable for a minimum two-night stay.

(Source: Hilton)

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Held from 26 to 28 June 2026 under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” RWMF 2026  brought together more than 200 performers from 13 countries. While the festival continued to showcase its scale as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive world music festivals, this year’s closing story was carried powerfully by the voices of its headliners: Incognito, The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, and our own Nusantara Icon, Dato M Nasir. All reflected on Sarawak, heritage, live performance, and the role of human creativity in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. 

For YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, RWMF’s continued relevance lies in its being built on Sarawak’s real cultural identity. 

“RWMF began with only about 300 people celebrating the sape, but today it is known all over the world. Wherever we go, whether to ITB Berlin, WTM London, or other tourism platforms, people recognise Sarawak through the Rainforest World Music Festival. This is because Sarawak is very proud of its heritage, culture and traditions. With 34 ethnic groups, each with their own music, food,  lifestyle and identity, we have something real to preserve, promote and share with the world,” said  YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim. 

He added that the festival’s strength also lies in Sarawak’s continued protection and celebration of all communities, including smaller ethnic groups, while giving traditional music and cultural expressions a platform to be seen and heard by international audiences. 

This spirit was strongly reflected throughout RWMF 2026, where artistes not only arrived in  Sarawak to perform but also to experience the place, people and sounds that have shaped the festival’s identity for nearly three decades. 

Closing night headliner Incognito brought the festival to a soulful finale, uniting thousands of festivalgoers under the rainforest canopy with their signature blend of jazz, funk, soul, and global grooves. Their set closed RWMF 2026 with the kind of energy that has long defined the festival:  celebratory, open-hearted and deeply communal.

Beyond the stage, members of Incognito shared that they loved experiencing rain in the Rainforest ahead of the concert and seeing the wildlife firsthand, which made the setting feel especially real and memorable. They also spoke of their curiosity to experience more of Sarawak, from its food and local attire to its wildlife, including proboscis monkeys and orangutans. 

One of the most meaningful moments they shared was hearing the sape on the festival’s opening day. Describing it as a beautiful and memorable sound, they expressed how deeply it stayed with them- the kind of musical encounter that reflects RWMF’s greatest strength: creating space for international artists to discover Sarawak’s traditional sounds as part of a living, shared musical conversation. 

For The Commodores featuring Thomas McClary, RWMF 2026’s theme “Regenerations: Roots &  Rhythms” resonated strongly with the idea of music moving across generations. 

McClary reflected that younger musicians continue to draw inspiration from earlier sounds while creating their own identities, describing this intergenerational exchange as part of what keeps music alive. 

“It is the younger generation that is going to take music to that next level. It is inspiring to know that they have not only embraced that, but they have taken that mantle and created their own original sound and utilised the influence from the old sounds,” McClary said during the festival’s Meet & Greet session with the media. 

He added that the beauty of music lies in this meeting between generations, where nostalgic sounds continue to carry forward while allowing new voices to emerge. For a group whose music has travelled across decades and continents, The Commodores’ presence at RWMF reinforced the festival’s role as a place where legacy and discovery can coexist. 

McClary also expressed appreciation for performing at RWMF, describing it as an honour to be among people who share a deep love for music. 

“It is an honour to be here. Coming here and being among all of the natives here, and the love and compassion that you have for music, we really appreciate that very, very much,” he said. 

Opening night headliner Dato’ M. Nasir also brought a reflective Malaysian voice to RWMF 2026,  particularly through his comments on artificial intelligence and the future of music creation. Speaking during the festival’s media session, he described AI as a tool that may assist the creative process,  while noting that its full impact on songwriting, lyrics and artistic authorship remains an ongoing discussion. 

He added that, much like digital technology before it, AI is expected to influence the landscape of music creation. However, his reflections also pointed to a deeper question facing artists today: how technology can be used without replacing the thought, discipline, instinct and lived experience that shape meaningful creative work. 

As RWMF looks towards its 30^th edition, it is also time to reflect on the role of AI in music. AI is a valuable tool, but it should support, not replace, human creativity, cultural memory and artistic integrity. Many musicians continue to favour authentic creation over AI-generated content, 

recognising that audiences value sincerity and originality. At the same time, we must be mindful of  AI’s growing environmental footprint and energy demands. RWMF can become a platform for meaningful dialogue on using AI wisely, ethically and sustainably, while reaffirming that the heart of music will always be human. 

This made RWMF 2026 especially relevant within today’s creative landscape. At a festival grounded in live performance, traditional instruments, cultural memory, and direct exchange between artists and audiences, the conversation around AI was not treated as a rejection of technology but as a reminder that human creativity must remain at the centre of music. 

Beyond its headliners, RWMF 2026 continued to offer a wide-ranging festival experience through performances, workshops, cultural showcases, wellness activities, community experiences and family-friendly programmes set against the iconic backdrop of Mount Santubong. Over three days, audiences encountered a diverse range of musical expressions, from Afro-fusion, Basque folk, and Thai contemporary fusion to Nusantara traditions, funk, soul, and Indigenous Bornean sounds. 

Sustainability remained a key pillar of RWMF 2026, not as a separate campaign, but as part of the festival’s responsibility to the rainforest setting that gives it its identity. The festival continued implementing the ISO 20121 Event Sustainability Management System, with key initiatives including Green Ruai, the Green Warriors Waste Management Programme, structured waste segregation and recycling systems, EcoStations across the festival grounds, and the EcoGreen Planet Tree Planting Initiative. 

Through EcoGreen Planet, in collaboration with Sarawak Forestry Corporation, more than 6,000  trees have been planted across Sarawak since 2023. This year’s festival also supports further tree-planting efforts, with a target of 3,800 trees towards the broader goal of 10,000 trees. 

These efforts reflect RWMF’s continued commitment to ensuring that the festival’s environmental responsibility extends beyond the three festival days. 

As the final performances concluded and festivalgoers departed the Sarawak Cultural Village,  RWMF 2026 closed with a message that went beyond music. Through its headliners, performers,  workshops, cultural encounters and sustainability efforts, the festival showed that music remains most powerful when it is human, rooted, shared and alive. 

More than a festival, RWMF continues to strengthen Sarawak’s position as the Gateway to Borneo and a global meeting point where culture, nature, creativity and community converge. It remains a space where the world comes to Sarawak, and where Sarawak’s stories, sounds and spirit continue to travel outward. 

The Rainforest World Music Festival will return for its milestone 30th edition from 25 to 27 June 2027  under the theme “Legacy. Revolution Inspired.” As RWMF looks ahead to this landmark edition, the close of its 29^th edition serves as a powerful reminder of the festival’s enduring legacy, one that continues to celebrate cultural roots, inspire new generations and carry Sarawak’s music, stories, and spirit to the world. 

For more information on Sarawak, visit: www.sarawaktourism.com 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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Based on Agoda’s accommodation searches for family vacations made between 1 January and 30 April 2026 for stays between 22 May and 7 June 2026, Malaysia ranked first among the top destination countries searched by Malaysian travellers, recording a 60% year-on-year increase. 

Regional destinations also saw search growth, with Vietnam up 85%, China up 51%, Singapore up 43%, and Japan up 43%.

Regional city destinations also remained part of Malaysian families’ school holiday plans. Tokyo recorded a 53% year-on-year increase in family travel search interest, while Phuket grew 44%, Singapore 43%, Bangkok 33% and Osaka 19%.

The data suggests that while domestic destinations continue to lead interest in school holiday travel, Malaysian families are also considering familiar regional destinations across Asia for the mid-year break.

At the city level, however, the domestic travel story remains prominent, with Malaysian destinations appearing across Agoda’s top searched city list for the school holiday travel period.

Domestic destinations that demonstrated strong interest growth were Port Dickson, which saw a 172% year-on-year increase in family travel search interest, followed by Kuala Terengganu at 149%, Kuantan at 105%, Cameron Highlands at 100% and Genting Highlands at 85%. Other destinations, including Malacca, Ipoh, Penang and Johor Bahru also continued to see strong family travel search growth during the school holiday period.

The increase in interest across these destinations points to the variety of school holiday breaks Malaysian families are considering. Coastal destinations such as Port Dickson, Kuala Terengganu and Kuantan offer beachside escapes without the need for long-haul travel, while Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands continue to appeal to families looking for cooler weather and short-break convenience. Food and heritage destinations such as Penang, Malacca and Ipoh also remained popular among family travellers.

“School holidays are no longer just about one big family trip. What we are seeing is Malaysian families searching across a wider range of travel options, from quick domestic breaks to regional destinations that are familiar, accessible and family-friendly,” said Agoda. Country Director, Malaysia and Brunei, Fabian Teja. “The strong interest in both local getaways and regional destinations suggests that families are becoming more flexible in how they plan their holidays, whether that means a beach break in Port Dickson, cooler weather in Cameron Highlands or a city escape elsewhere in Asia.”

(Source: Agoda)

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Meanwhile, international air cargo markets continued to expand, supported by stockpiling activity as businesses sought to safeguard against potential supply disruptions and higher costs arising from the conflict in the Middle East.

In May, the region’s carriers carried a combined total of 31.7 million international passengers, a 1.1% decline compared to the same month last year. Demand, as measured by revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), increased by 1.8% year-on-year, reflecting relatively stronger traffic on longer-haul routes. The regional performance was moderated by a reduction in traffic carried by some airlines, reflecting recent adjustments to international services. At the same time, overall available seat capacity remained broadly unchanged for the month. As a result, the average international passenger load factor rose by 1.2 percentage points to 82%.

International air cargo markets continued to expand, boosted by stockpiling activity and increased shipments of technology products. Demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 2.5% year-on-year in May, while offered freight capacity expanded by 3.3%, resulting in a 0.5 percentage point decline in the average international freight load factor to 61.6% for the month.

Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General Wong Hong said, “International passenger markets remained broadly stable in May, with firm demand on longer-haul routes. Meanwhile, air cargo demand continued to grow, supported by technology-related shipments and precautionary stockpiling activity in response to evolving supply chain and geopolitical risks.”

“For the first five months of the year, Asia Pacific airlines carried a combined total of 166.8 million international passengers, representing a 3.9% increase compared to the same period in 2025. International air cargo demand grew 4.7%, supported by the continued need for the timely movement of goods amidst operational disruptions, particularly in conflict zones.

Looking ahead, Wong Hong said: “The recent easing of tensions in the Middle East may help to alleviate some concerns over supply chain disruptions and energy costs. While jet fuel prices have eased from recent highs, the average price of USD137 per barrel in the first two weeks of June continues to place pressure on airline operating costs.”

He added, “Airlines continue to face uncertainty stemming from geopolitical developments, trade policy shifts and broader economic headwinds. Rising inflationary pressures are also contributing to higher non-fuel operating costs and may weigh on consumer spending and travel demand in the months ahead.”

Wong Hong concluded, “Overall, operating conditions for carriers remain challenging. Nonetheless, Asia Pacific carriers have responded well to evolving demand patterns and remain agile in adjusting their networks and capacity deployment to capture growth opportunities and improve profitability, while maintaining strict cost discipline.”

(Source: AAPA)

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The election marks a renewed chapter for MATTA as the Association enters its next phase of growth, advocacy and industry development under a refreshed leadership team. 

Reflecting the confidence of MATTA members, Nigel Wong Chun Teim has been re-elected as President for a second term after leading the Association through a period of significant transformation and industry advancement.

The newly elected EXCO represents a balanced combination of continuity and renewal, retaining seven experienced leaders from the previous term while welcoming three new members who bring fresh perspectives and expertise to strengthen the Association’s leadership.

This composition underscores MATTA’s commitment to building on past achievements while embracing the new ideas and energy required to meet the industry’s ever-evolving needs. The leadership team will continue to drive the Association’s efforts to strengthen member engagement, advance industry advocacy, support innovation, and position Malaysia as a competitive and future-ready tourism destination on the world stage.

During the 2023–2026 term, MATTA has achieved significant milestones that have reshaped its role as the leading voice of Malaysia’s travel and tourism industry through strategic initiatives benefiting its members and the wider tourism ecosystem.

As the industry celebrated MATTA’s 50-year milestone as a leading trade association, the organisation introduced the MATTA Eco & Sustainable Tourism Initiative (MESTI), a forward-thinking initiative designed to position Malaysian travel businesses at the forefront of sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

During the term, MATTA acknowledged the growing demand for specialised travel experiences. It successfully tapped into niche industry segments including sports tourism and Muslim-friendly tourism, creating dedicated platforms and resources to help members capture these high-value market opportunities.

The Association also prioritised safeguarding the industry by introducing TRUST, an industry advocacy initiative supported by the AI-powered TravelWatch.ai platform. Designed to strengthen industry accountability, improve reporting mechanisms and support efforts to address illegal tourism activities in Malaysia, the initiative reflects MATTA’s commitment to embracing technology and innovation while working collaboratively with industry stakeholders and government agencies to strengthen professionalism and consumer confidence.

The previous term also saw multiple high-impact Business-to-Business events that strengthened ties between Malaysian travel operators and international partners. These initiatives have proven instrumental in opening new markets and expanding export opportunities for MATTA members.

Additionally, in early 2025, MATTA became a strategic partner for the Visit Malaysia Year campaign, working closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and Tourism Malaysia to amplify Malaysia’s standing as a premier global tourism destination and ensuring that member businesses are integrated into the national tourism strategy and promotional campaigns.

Throughout this period, MATTA also collaborated with the government on several critical projects that addressed industry challenges, ranging from transportation regulations to digital transformation and accessibility, demonstrating the Association’s commitment to constructive dialogue with policymakers and regulatory bodies.

(Source: MATTA)

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The additions signal growing airline confidence in MOVE as a preferred distribution channel to reach the region’s fast-growing traveller base, as the platform continues to deepen its flight inventory across full-service and low-cost carriers.

AirAsia MOVE CEO Nadia Omer said: “Travel across ASEAN is evolving rapidly, with travellers demanding greater choice and seamless control all on one platform. As a flights-first OTA, expanding our network offering is core to our mission. Securing the trust of major carriers like Oman Air, Uzbekistan Airways, FitsAir, and Hainan Airlines, particularly amidst ongoing macroeconomic headwinds and volatility, is a powerful testament to the commercial strength of the  MOVE ecosystem and the regional reach we deliver to our partners.

Each new partnership unlocks meaningful new corridors for MOVE users. Oman Air adds premium connectivity to the Sultanate and its broader global network. Uzbekistan Airways opens Central Asian routes via Tashkent, tapping surging traveller interest in Silk Road destinations. FitsAir strengthens affordable connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Colombo, with onward reach to Lahore, Dubai, Dhaka and Chennai. Hainan Airlines, one of China’s largest full-service carriers, expands domestic access from hubs in Haikou, Beijing, Chongqing, Shenzhen and Xi’an, alongside international routes across Asia, Europe and North America.

With these latest additions, MOVE continues to scale its airline partnerships as part of its broader strategy to offer unrivalled flight choices across Asia and beyond.

Oman Air, Uzbekistan Airways, FitsAir, and Hainan Airlines join 75 other carriers that have partnered directly with MOVE. Complementing these direct partnerships, MOVE also has a selection of about 700 other airlines through its authorised suppliers for travellers to choose from. Beyond flights, the platform offers access to over a million hotels, airport transfers, attractions, online duty-free shopping, travel insurance and more.

(Source: AirAsiaMove)

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Available through Golden Destinations’ flagship cruise division, GD World Cruises, the specially chartered sailings will offer Malaysian travellers holiday escapes to Phuket and Krabi in Thailand aboard Star Voyager.

The deployment will feature five departures between 5 and 22 December 2026, offering two- and three-night itineraries designed to cater to families, couples, groups of friends, corporate incentive groups, MICE travellers and holidaymakers seeking a memorable year-end getaway. 

By sailing directly from Port Klang in Malaysia, travellers can enjoy a convenient and hassle-free cruise holiday, making it one of the most convenient and value-packed holiday options during Malaysia’s peak year-end travel season.

This collaboration combines Golden Destinations’ expertise in curating travel experiences with StarCruises’ hospitality, entertainment and onboard offerings, delivering exceptional value and memorable experiences for Malaysian travellers.

Five school holiday sailings from Port Klang

Travellers can choose from five specially arranged departures throughout the December school holidays:

• Sailing 1: Departing 5 December 2026, Saturday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Visits Phuket and Krabi, experiencing two of Thailand’s most popular beach destinations in a single voyage.

• Sailing 2: Departing 8 December 2026, Tuesday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Ideal for a mid-holiday escape, this sailing offers the opportunity to unwind at sea while enjoying world-class onboard experiences.

• Sailing 3: Departing 18 December 2026, Friday (two- night Krabi Cruise). A short escape to Krabi, ideal for a relaxing weekend without the need for an extended leave.

• Sailing 4: Departing 20 December 2026, Sunday (two-night Phuket Cruise). A short break to Phuket, combining island excitement with the comfort of a cruise holiday.

• Sailing 5: Departing 22 December 2026, Tuesday (three-night Phuket–Krabi Cruise). Round off the school holidays with a festive getaway before returning in time for Christmas and year-end celebrations.

StarDream Cruises President Michael Goh said: “Golden Destinations has been a valued travel partner over the years, and we are delighted to collaborate on this Star Voyager charter programme. As one of Malaysia’s leading travel specialists, Golden Destinations’ extensive experience in developing cruise holiday offerings and deep

An understanding of the local market will help bring these exciting sailings to more travellers seeking a convenient year-end getaway from Port Klang.”

Bookings are now open through Golden Destinations’ nationwide network of travel partners and authorised agents. 

Visit: https://www.facebook.com/gdgoldendestinations.  

(Source: StarCruises)

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The opening day was marked by a walkabout by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, who visited key festival activations across the Sarawak Cultural Village to experience first-hand how RWMF 2026 brings together culture, sustainability, community participation, food, innovation and responsible tourism within one festival setting. 

Held under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” RWMF 2026 transforms the iconic festival grounds in the foothills of Mount Santubong into a global meeting point where heritage, creativity and cultural exchange come alive through the universal language of music. 

During the walkabout, YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim was briefed on several festival highlights, including Green Ruai, the Rainforest Flavours gastronomy activation at the Global Village Pavilion, food and beverage offerings across the festival grounds, sustainability operations, and community-led experiences designed to enhance the visitor journey throughout the three-day festival. 

A key highlight of the walkabout was Green Ruai, which carries the theme “Roots of Change, Future  of Sustainability.” Located near Rumah Gasing, Green Ruai serves as a dedicated sustainability platform showcasing practical green innovations, community-based initiatives, and environmentally responsible solutions that support the festival’s broader sustainability direction. 

Among the featured showcases is DBKU’s E-Penambang at the Sarawak Cultural Village lake, presenting an environmentally friendly interpretation of Sarawak’s traditional river-transportation heritage. 

The showcase reflects how cultural memory, local identity, and green innovation can be brought together in a way that is both educational and relevant to contemporary sustainability conversations.

Green Ruai also features collaborations and showcases involving renewable energy solutions, solar-powered infrastructure, clean energy systems, community-based sustainability initiatives, eco-friendly products and innovative approaches to waste and resource management. These initiatives reflect RWMF’s continued effort to make sustainability visible, accessible and participatory for festivalgoers. 

Over three days, RWMF 2026 featured a diverse international and regional line-up spanning world music, soul, funk, groove, Nusantara traditions, Afro-fusion, Basque folk, Mongolian and Southeast Asian contemporary sounds. The festival continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive cultural festival experiences, bringing together artists, audiences and communities in a setting that is uniquely Sarawak. 

The opening day offered festivalgoers an immersive experience beyond the concert stage, with afternoon music workshops, cultural demonstrations, wellness sessions, interactive activities and community engagements taking place across the festival grounds. These activities allowed visitors to connect directly with artists, traditions, and stories from around the world while experiencing the cultural richness of Sarawak and Borneo. 

According to YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, RWMF continues to play an important role in strengthening Sarawak’s global visibility as a cultural tourism destination. 

“For nearly three decades, the Rainforest World Music Festival has shown how culture can bring the world together while strengthening appreciation for heritage, community and sustainability. RWMF is more than a festival. It is one of Sarawak’s strongest international platforms, reflecting who we are as the Gateway to Borneo and demonstrating how culture,  nature and responsible tourism can coexist meaningfully,” he said. 

He added that the festival’s on-the-ground activations demonstrate how Sarawak continues to strengthen responsible tourism through practical, visible initiatives. 

“What we see at RWMF today is not only music and performance, but a wider ecosystem of culture, food, craft, sustainability and community participation. Initiatives such as Green Ruai and the E-Penambang showcase are important because they demonstrate how heritage and innovation can work together. This is the kind of meaningful tourism Sarawak wants to champion, where visitors enjoy the festival while also learning about our culture, environment and way of life,” he said. 

Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Tourism Board, said the 2026 theme reflects the festival’s evolution as it approaches its 30th anniversary next year.

“Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms captures the spirit of this year’s festival beautifully. ‘Roots’ reminds us of the cultural heritage, traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. At the same time, ‘Rhythms’ reflects renewal, creativity and the way music continues to evolve through collaboration and contemporary expression,” she said. 

“This year, we see that theme coming alive across the festival through the performances, workshops, cultural storytelling, food, craft, sustainability initiatives and the shared energy of festivalgoers. RWMF continues to show that culture is not static. It is lived, shared, renewed and carried forward,” she added. 

The evening programme culminated in a highly anticipated performance by Malaysian music icon Dato M Nasir, whose poetic storytelling, timeless repertoire and enduring influence in the regional music landscape captivated audiences gathered beneath the rainforest canopy. His performance set the tone for a weekend dedicated to celebrating cultural identity, artistic innovation, and the power of music to transcend borders. 

In addition to the main concerts, festivalgoers can look forward to a full programme of immersive experiences throughout the weekend, including more than 50 workshops and activities across the festival grounds. These include music and dance workshops, artist-led sessions, cultural storytelling, traditional craft demonstrations, wellness activities, family-friendly programmes, cultural performances, and community-led activities. 

The programme also features the BIMP-EAGA and ASEAN Gastronomy Experience through  Rainforest Flavours at the Global Village Pavilion. Curated by the Culinary Heritage and Arts Society Sarawak (CHASS), the activation showcases distinctive regional flavours and shared culinary traditions from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia, including Sarawak. 

Rainforest Flavours highlights heritage ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, local food stories, and authentic food showcases, offering festivalgoers a deeper taste of Sarawak, Borneo, and the wider region. This complements RWMF’s celebration of music, culture and community by positioning food as another important expression of shared heritage. 

Festivalgoers can also enjoy approximately 50 food and beverage vendors across the festival grounds, offering Sarawakian favourites, traditional local cuisine, international street food, Western delights, barbecue specialities, artisanal desserts, tropical fruits, vegetarian selections, festival-style bites and a wide selection of beverages. 

Sustainability remains a core pillar of RWMF 2026, with the festival serving as a live implementation platform for the ISO 20121 Event Sustainability Management System as it progresses towards sustainable event management and responsible tourism development. 

On-the-ground initiatives include Green Ruai, the Green Warriors Waste Management Programme, structured waste segregation and recycling initiatives, nine EcoStations across Damai Sentral and Sarawak Cultural Village, and the EcoGreen Planet Tree Planting Initiative. 

Through EcoGreen Planet, implemented in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation, more than 6,000 trees have been planted across Sarawak since 2023, and the programme is on track to plant 10,000 trees this year. These efforts reinforce RWMF’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while encouraging festivalgoers to engage in responsible tourism practices. 

RWMF 2026 is made possible through the strong support of its official partners and sponsors, who continue to play a vital role in strengthening the festival’s global reach, cultural impact and sustainability commitments. 

Malaysia Airlines and Firefly serve as the Official Airline Partners, supporting connectivity and travel access to Sarawak. TV Sarawak (TVS) returns as the Official Broadcast Partner, extending the festival’s reach to audiences across Malaysia and beyond, while Astro Radio, comprising Era FM  Sarawak, Sinar FM, Mix FM and Lite FM, serves as the Official Radio Partner. Rip Curl joins as the Official Apparel Partner, contributing to the festival’s lifestyle and creative expression ecosystem. 

A diverse network of partners across the sustainability, hospitality, beverage, mobility, media, and corporate sectors further supports the festival. These included Cuckoo International (Malaysia)  Sdn Bhd, F&N Marketing Sdn Bhd as Non-Alcoholic Beverage Partner, Plaza Merdeka, The  Waterfront Hotel Kuching, Media Exchange, Avis Budget Malaysia, Carlsberg Marketing Sdn Bhd, Solarvest Borneo Sdn Bhd (Sarawak), PETROS, and Trienekens (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd. 

As RWMF 2026 continued through the weekend, audiences enjoyed world-class performances, cultural discoveries, sustainability showcases, and meaningful encounters that celebrated the diversity of global music while reinforcing Sarawak’s position as the Gateway to Borneo and one of Asia’s most compelling destinations for cultural and sustainable tourism. 

For more information on Sarawak, visit: www.sarawaktourism.com 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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Held from 24 to 26 June 2026 under the theme “Youth: Many Ways, One Planet,” RAYS 2026 reinforces Sarawak’s growing role as a regional platform for youth leadership, sustainability dialogue, environmental stewardship and responsible tourism. 

This year’s participation reflects a strong diversity of youth voices from across all 11 ASEAN countries and the wider international community, including new representation from Timor-Leste, alongside delegates from varied disciplines, communities and lived experiences.

The summit builds on the success of its previous editions, which collectively convened youth participants from 37 countries, engaged over 80 organisations and brought together diverse voices across disciplines and regions. In its third edition, RAYS continues to evolve beyond dialogue by strengthening youth participation in climate governance, applied learning and long-term sustainability action.

The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak and Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak. 

In his officiating remarks, he said: “The future cannot be built for youth without youth. RAYS 2026 is a meeting point between youth leadership, environmental stewardship, indigenous knowledge, science, creativity, policy, culture and community, a platform for young people to move from concern to contribution.”

Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board, RAYS 2026 is designed as a platform for youth, Indigenous leaders, scientists, and changemakers to exchange knowledge and co-create solutions. 

Throughout the three-day programme, delegates will participate in keynote dialogues, plenary sessions, workshops, youth-led discussions, cultural exchanges, networking sessions and curated experiences aimed at translating ideas into practical action.

“RAYS 2026 is more than a three-day summit. It is a pathway for learning, leadership and action, where young people are not only here to receive knowledge, but to bring knowledge, build relationships and carry their commitments forward,” said Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board.

A key highlight of this year’s summit is the Planet Futures Forum, a collaborative climate simulation that enables youth to step into the realities of how climate decisions are shaped. Through scenario-based negotiation, systems thinking, and collective decision-making, participants will explore the trade-offs, constraints, and shared responsibilities involved in real-world climate governance. 

The forum is designed to build youth capacity in design thinking, negotiation and collective decision-making, while contributing towards the development of the RAYS Youth Declaration.

The summit will also produce the inaugural RAYS Youth Declaration, capturing the aspirations, commitments and recommendations of young people towards a more sustainable future. The declaration will serve as a reference point for continued youth engagement, reflecting the summit’s commitment to ensuring youth voices are heard beyond the three-day programme.

RAYS 2026 also marks the launch of the RAYS Fellowship Programme, a 12-month leadership journey for selected young leaders focused on collective climate governance and applied action.

Rooted in the principle of “Many Ways, One Planet,” the fellowship will support fellows in practising shared leadership, engaging with Indigenous and local knowledge-holders, contributing to governance proposals, and translating summit dialogue into action through guided monthly learning, applied governance work and collaborative cohort engagement.

Together, the Planet Futures Forum, RAYS Youth Declaration and RAYS Fellowship Programme demonstrate the long-term direction of RAYS as a platform that extends beyond a one-off summit.

They reflect Sarawak’s commitment to nurturing a generation of youth leaders equipped to collaborate across borders, cultures and disciplines while shaping practical solutions for climate resilience, biodiversity protection and sustainable development.

As part of the programme, RAYS delegates will participate in selected cultural and experiential activities linked to Sarawak’s broader cultural and sustainability ecosystem, including curated experiences that showcase the connections among rainforest, community, and culture. 

Delegates will also attend the opening day of the Rainforest World Music Festival 2026, highlighting the intersection of culture, community and conservation.

Funded and organised by the State Government of Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board, RAYS 2026 is endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak, and supported by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak, together with strategic partners ASEAN, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and UN Tourism.

For more information, visit: https://www.sarawaktourism.com/web/home/index/

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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Nestled between a centuries-old tropical rainforest and the Andaman Sea, the resort is a sanctuary for travellers seeking a connection to both the island’s natural beauty and their personal well-being.

“The opening of Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort reflects Hilton’s commitment to bringing its flagship brand’s experience to Malaysia’s most renowned leisure destinations,” said Alexandra Murray, area vice president and head of South East Asia, Hilton. “As the country continues to solidify its position as a highly sought-after global destination, we are strategically growing a portfolio that meets the evolving demands of the modern traveller. By bringing Hilton’s world-class hospitality to the beauty of Burau Bay, we are offering a sophisticated new benchmark for full-service hospitality in Langkawi.”

Spanning almost 22 acres, the resort features 251 rooms and suites ranging from Terrace and Deluxe Rooms to Executive Suites, each offering a private terrace or balcony overlooking the rainforest, mountains or sea. 

The resort’s four restaurants. Guests can enjoy authentic Asian flavours paired with international classics at Gingerfire, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant. 

MINGZHU introduces a rare speciality concept to the island, honouring the complex, spice-driven traditions of Yunnan’s ethnic tribes. 

Trattoria Mare is an elevated seaside destination where Italian flavours meet the Andaman coast, offering a sophisticated alfresco experience.

The wellness experience extends across the resort’s three distinct swimming pools — a family-friendly hub, a dedicated kids’ pool and a secluded adults-only retreat — complemented by five rock pools. 

The opening reinforces Hilton’s strategic momentum in Malaysia, adding to its diverse portfolio, which includes the recently opened Hilton Shah Alam Glenmarie and Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu Tuaran. The resort’s debut sets the stage for a landmark year of growth, with Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur and Conrad Kuala Lumpur poised to elevate Malaysia’s luxury hospitality landscape later this year.

Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort is part of Hilton Honors. To celebrate the opening of Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort, Hilton Honors members can earn 5,000 points with a minimum three-night stay. This offer is valid from now to 31 October 2026

Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort is located at 103 Teluk Burau, Mukim Padang Matsirat, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia. 

(Source: Hilton)

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