The festival will bring together music, culture, creativity and communities from across Borneo under the theme ‘Beyond Jazz’.

The 2026 edition marks a new chapter for the festival, expanding beyond its traditional concert format into a broader festival experience that celebrates Borneo’s people, cultures and creative connections. 

Tickets for Borneo Jazz Festival 2026 will go on sale at midnight on 3 October 2026 via the official website, Jazzborneo.com.

The festival will feature stronger participation from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei and Indonesia, alongside Malaysian, regional and international performers representing seven countries. Across two evenings, audiences will experience 10 acts spanning jazz, contemporary R&B, hip-hop, electronic music, jazz fusion and other contemporary sounds.

The Honourable Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, said: “Twenty editions is an important milestone. It reflects the passion for music, creativity and cultural exchange that has sustained Borneo Jazz over the years. As we enter this new chapter, it is also an opportunity to look forward. ‘Beyond Jazz’ reflects the direction we want the festival to take, growing beyond the traditional concert experience into a wider platform for music, culture, creativity, tourism and community, while remaining firmly connected to Borneo.”

The 2026 programme will present five acts each night at the Main Ballroom of Pullman Miri Waterfront, with performances running from 1900 to midnight.

The opening night on 4 December will feature Elisha Tiga Eksperiment from Brunei, Marter from Japan, LaidThis Nite from Indonesia, Q Sound from the US, and Dato’ Zainalabidin & Julian Chan Jazz Orchestra from Malaysia.

The second night, 5 December, will feature Nathanie Ngu from Sarawak, Greg Tan & Ai Furusato under Berklee Asia Rising, Matthew Sayersz & Marclesia Karim from Indonesia, Brekky Boy from Australia, and Platina Jazz from Sweden.

Beyond the main concerts, the festival will introduce the Borneo Jazz Festival Village, a free-entry outdoor experience next to Pullman Miri Waterfront operating from 1000 to 2200 on both days.

The family-oriented space will feature food and beverage offerings, retail, arts and crafts, family activities, live performances, community experiences and interactive brand activations.

Speaking on behalf of Diamond Sponsor A&W Malaysia, Chief Operating Officer Angelina Fernandez said: “We are proud to support Borneo Jazz Festival 2026 and celebrate one of the region’s most anticipated music and cultural events. This partnership is especially meaningful as A&W begins a new chapter in Sarawak with the opening of our first Miri outlet. We look forward to growing alongside the community and creating more ‘Good Food, Good Times’ moments with Sarawakians.”

The Village will also feature the All Borneo Pavilion, bringing together participation from Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei and Indonesia and further reinforcing the festival’s Borneo-wide character.

The collaboration with Berklee Asia Rising, a programme under Berklee College of Music, will strengthen the festival’s talent development efforts, with performers Greg Tan and Ai Furusato joining the programme. Workshops, masterclasses and collaborative sessions will give musicians and emerging talents opportunities to exchange knowledge, build skills and explore diverse musical perspectives.

Complementing the festival programme will be the Borneo Jazz Fun Run, a non-competitive 5km run open to participants of all ages. Taking place on 5 December 2026, the run will flag off at 0630 in front of Pullman Miri Waterfront and finish at the same location.

With Borneo Jazz taking place in the heart of Miri city centre and Pullman Miri Waterfront serving as its official venue, the wider surroundings will form part of the overall festival experience, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors, local communities and festival- goers while generating activity for local businesses and the tourism industry.

Festival-goers and music lovers are encouraged to save the date, as Borneo Jazz Festival 2026 promises two unforgettable nights of world-class performances, culture and community celebration in the heart of Miri. 

Tickets will go on sale at midnight on 3 October 2026 via Jazzborneo.com.

For more information on Sarawak’s attractions, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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Held from 12 to 19 September 2026, the programme combined market-specific familiarisation trips in Kuching, Mulu and Miri with direct business networking between visiting travel partners and Sarawak tourism industry partners.

Sarawak Connect marks a significant step in STB’s efforts, bringing multiple key market clusters together under one coordinated travel trade programme for the first time. 

Held under the theme “From Partners to Packages,” the initiative was designed to strengthen trade relationships, deepen destination knowledge and create opportunities for continued collaboration.

Each market cluster followed a curated familiarisation programme, with itineraries tailored to reflect the interests and characteristics of its respective market. This allowed participating travel partners to experience different facets of Sarawak first-hand while gaining a deeper understanding of the destination and its tourism offerings.

“Sarawak Connect brought our key trade partners from Domestic Malaysia, ASEAN and North Asia together under one coordinated initiative,” said Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board.

“Each market cluster followed its own tailored itinerary, but the goal was shared: to give travel agents first-hand experience of Sarawak as the Gateway to Borneo — from our culture and adventure to our nature, food and festivals.

We hope the knowledge and connections they gained from the familiarisation trips and the B2B session will translate into new and enhanced packages that bring more visitors to the state.”

A key part of the programme was the Sarawak: Gateway to Borneo Business Networking Session, held on 17 September at The Ranyai Ballroom, The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching.

The session brought participating travel partners from Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Thailand and China together with Sarawak tour operators, destination management companies, accommodation providers, attractions, community-based tourism operators, travel associations and connectivity partners.

Through direct B2B discussions, participants exchanged market insights, explored potential itineraries and discussed opportunities for joint promotions, tourism product development and future collaboration.

The session also laid the groundwork for continued engagement across the respective market clusters, allowing visiting travel partners and Sarawak industry partners to strengthen connections, exchange ideas, and identify areas for further collaboration beyond the programme.

The business networking session complemented the familiarisation component of Sarawak Connect by connecting participants’ first-hand destination experiences with the tourism products, services and industry partners available in Sarawak.

Approximately 20 travel agents from Kuala Lumpur and Johor followed programmes featuring adventure, culture, nature, gastronomy and Muslim-friendly tourism experiences in Kuching and Mulu. Shared highlights included Gunung Mulu National Park, the Penan community experience at Batu Bungan, Kuching Waterfront and the Borneo Cultures Museum. 

The Kuala Lumpur itinerary also featured a cycling and gastronomy experience, while the Johor programme included kayaking at Semadang.

The Thailand delegation followed a broader Miri–Mulu–Kuching circuit, combining destination experiences, tourism product familiarisation and engagement with local industry partners. The itinerary gave participants broader exposure to Sarawak’s tourism offerings across Northern Sarawak and Kuching.

The China delegation, comprising 24 travel agents, participated in a Kuching–Mulu programme featuring heritage, culture and nature experiences. Its itinerary included Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak Cultural Village, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and selected heritage attractions.

Following Sarawak Connect, STB will continue engaging participating travel and Sarawak industry partners to build on the relationships and opportunities established during the programme, with future engagement reflecting the needs of each market cluster.

Through the initiative, STB aims to strengthen long-term engagement with key tourism markets, deepen travel trade understanding of Sarawak and encourage greater collaboration in bringing the Sarawak: Gateway to Borneo experience to travellers across these markets.

For more information on Sarawak’s tourism attractions, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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This year, the festival added another dimension to that experience by demonstrating how sustainability can be woven naturally into every stage of the visitor journey. 

From responsible consumption and waste management to meaningful partnerships that supported festivalgoers throughout the three-day celebration, RWMF 2026 showed that sustainability is not simply a message to be communicated — it is something to be experienced. 

Set against the backdrop of the iconic Sarawak Cultural Village and Mount Santubong, festivalgoers spent their days moving between cultural workshops, traditional craft demonstrations, indigenous music performances, food experiences, and evening concerts featuring artists from around the world. Throughout that journey, practical initiatives helped make the festival experience more enjoyable and encouraged visitors to play their part in caring for the environment. 

Among the organisations supporting this shared vision was F&N Malaysia, whose contribution extended beyond providing refreshments to promoting responsible participation in simple, accessible ways. 

This year’s partnership was especially meaningful as F&N celebrates 60 years in East Malaysia,  marking six decades of growing alongside the communities of Sabah and Sarawak. 

“East Malaysia has been an important part of F&N’s journey since 1966, so supporting this festival is a natural extension of our connection to the community. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the richness of tradition, foster cultural exchange, and continue supporting communities, in line with what we stand for — Pure Enjoyment, Pure Goodness,” said Leong Wai Yin, Director of Marketing and Modern Trade Sales, F&N. 

For a festival that unfolds almost entirely outdoors beneath the rainforest canopy, keeping visitors refreshed is an important part of creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Through trusted brands including 100PLUS and Borneo Springs, F&N supported festivalgoers as they explored the extensive festival grounds, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the performances, workshops, and cultural activities that define RWMF. 

The partnership also reflected the festival’s growing emphasis on sustainability through practical actions that encouraged participation rather than prescription. 

Festivalgoers were invited to recycle used beverage cartons at the Borneo Springs booth in exchange for complimentary Borneo Springs drinking water, transforming responsible waste disposal into a simple yet meaningful festival experience. An interactive display also introduced visitors to F&N’s broader sustainability journey, helping to raise awareness of responsible consumption and environmental stewardship in an engaging and accessible way. 

These initiatives complemented the festival’s broader sustainability aspirations by demonstrating how everyday choices—even something as simple as recycling a beverage carton—can collectively contribute to a cleaner and more responsible event environment. 

The activation also reflected F&N’s broader sustainability efforts, including the use of 100% recycled PET (rPET) bottles for Borneo Springs drinking water, its commitment to zero waste to landfill across its beverage and dairy manufacturing operations, and community recycling initiatives that encourage greater environmental awareness beyond the festival grounds. 

As large-scale cultural events continue to evolve, partnerships such as these demonstrate how organisations can contribute meaningfully without detracting from the festival experience itself. Rather than taking centre stage, initiatives that support visitor wellbeing, encourage responsible behaviour, and complement the festival’s sustainability goals become part of the experience, enriching the overall journey for festivalgoers. 

This reflects the very spirit of RWMF, where music, culture and nature exist in harmony.  Sustainability is not treated as a standalone initiative. Still, it is integrated into the way visitors experience the festival—from appreciating indigenous traditions and biodiversity to making conscious choices that help preserve the environment in which the festival takes place. 

As the curtains closed on another successful edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival, visitors departed with memories of unforgettable performances, meaningful cultural exchanges, and the unique atmosphere that only Sarawak can offer. 

Equally significant was the festival’s continued demonstration that world-class cultural events can inspire more responsible ways of gathering and celebrating. Through collaborations with like-minded partners such as F&N Malaysia, RWMF 2026 showed how sustainability, community and culture can come together to create an experience that resonates well beyond the final encore.

For more information on Sarawak’s tourist attractions, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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RAYS 2026, the third edition of the Rainforest Youth Summit, was organised by the State  Government of Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism,  Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), and supported by the Ministry of Youth,  Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MYSED).

Held in Kuching from 24 to 26 June  2026, the summit convened delegates, speakers and partners from across ASEAN and beyond. 

Hosted in Sarawak, one of the world’s most ecologically significant rainforest regions, RAYS  situates climate and sustainability dialogue within the realities of living landscapes, communities and cultures. 

Held under the summit theme, Youth: Many Ways, One Planet, the forum created a space for young people to move beyond discussion and contribute to shared priorities in climate action, sustainability, governance, and collective responsibility. 

As the first initiative of its kind at RAYS, the Planet Futures Forum was introduced not as a standalone summit activity, but as the foundation for a continuing youth-led platform that carries discussions, priorities and recommendations beyond the summit. 

Guided by the principle of Two-Eyed Seeing, the forum brought together indigenous wisdom alongside Western knowledge systems and practices, recognising that meaningful and lasting solutions require diverse perspectives, lived experiences and ways of knowing. 

The discussions were organised around three key thematic areas: 

• Ways of Knowing  

• Living with the Earth  

• Power & Responsibility  

Supported by the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health as Knowledge Partners, delegates developed and refined recommendations that were relevant, evidence-informed and grounded in the realities faced by communities and young people today. 

The forum resulted in the selection of nine priority recommendations across the three thematic areas. These recommendations were subsequently presented during the Declaration Congress,  where delegates endorsed the Preliminary RAYS Youth Declaration 2026. 

The endorsement marked a significant outcome of RAYS 2026, reflecting a shared commitment among delegates to carry forward youth priorities into future conversations on climate,  sustainability and community action.

Throughout the forum, delegates were supported by Knowledge Holders and Allies, including YB  Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak; Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of Sarawak Tourism Board;  as well as RAYS speakers including Diwigdi Valiente, Dr Dzaeman Dzulkifli and others who contributed perspectives from governance, conservation, indigenous leadership and environmental practice. 

Closing the session, YB Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu underscored that the Preliminary RAYS Youth Declaration represents the beginning of a longer journey. He encouraged delegates to continue strengthening the document through consultation, dialogue, and collective ownership, with the aspiration that it would inform future action and decision-making. 

The Planet Futures Forum is intended to continue beyond RAYS 2026. Following the summit, the  Preliminary RAYS Youth Declaration will undergo further consultation through a region-wide survey, giving young people beyond the RAYS community the opportunity to share their perspectives and strengthen the recommendations. 

The feedback gathered will contribute towards the development and publication of the Final RAYS  Youth Declaration. This will ensure that the priorities identified during the forum continue to evolve through wider youth participation, dialogue and collective ownership. 

In this way, the Planet Futures Forum establishes a longer-term pathway for youth voices to inform future dialogue and meaningful action. It reflects the belief that a more sustainable future cannot be shaped by one generation, sector or knowledge system alone, but through many voices, many ways of knowing and one shared Planet. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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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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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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Held from 5 to 7 June 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, MIDE 2026 was themed “Forged by the Ocean — Two Decades of Passion, Purpose and Protection”. The theme united dive industry professionals, marine tourism stakeholders, conservation advocates and travel trade partners to strengthen collaboration and advance regional dive tourism development.

The recognition reflects STB’s continued efforts to elevate Sarawak’s presence in the regional marine and dive tourism sector through a creative and engaging destination showcase. Sarawak’s marine tourism offerings were highlighted through its rich underwater attractions, including the Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park, the pristine waters of Kuching and Sematan, Satang Islands, and historic World War II shipwreck dive sites, all of which continue to form key pillars of Sarawak’s marine tourism portfolio under Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).

Marine and dive tourism remain an important niche segment for Sarawak as we continue to diversify our tourism offerings and strengthen our presence in key international markets.

Our participation at MIDE 2026 provided valuable opportunities to reconnect with industry stakeholders, reinforce strategic partnerships, and showcase Sarawak’s unique underwater experiences to both trade partners and dive enthusiasts,” said Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor.

STB’s participation at the Sarawak Pavilion, located at Booth A010–A012, successfully showcased the destination under the brand identity “Sarawak – More to Discover”, while serving as a dedicated platform for engagement with both trade partners and dive enthusiasts.

Throughout the three-day expo, the Sarawak Pavilion attracted strong visitor engagement through immersive destination video screenings, visual showcases of Sarawak’s underwater landscapes, and promotional activities designed to sustain visitor interest and highlight the state’s marine tourism offerings. 

The booth’s creative presentation and destination storytelling contributed to STB being recognised with the 3rd Place Best Booth Creative Award at MIDE 2026.

The participation also facilitated meaningful business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) interactions, enabling Sarawak-based dive operators to connect directly with international buyers, travel agents, and dive enthusiasts, while generating new business leads and exploring future collaboration opportunities, including joint promotions and familiarisation (FAM) trips.

STB strengthened its industry engagement through networking sessions with key dive operators and tourism stakeholders, further reinforcing strategic relationships within the marine tourism sector.

The participation at MIDE 2026 further underscores STB’s commitment to sustainable tourism development, highlighting the importance of protecting marine ecosystems while promoting responsible diving experiences that ensure the long-term preservation of Sarawak’s underwater heritage.

Overall, STB’s participation at MIDE 2026 successfully strengthened destination visibility, enhanced industry engagement, earned recognition for creative booth presentation, and reinforced Sarawak’s

positioning as a premier dive destination in Southeast Asia.

For more information, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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The collaboration reflects both parties’ commitment towards strengthening accessibility in Sarawak while supporting broader efforts to position the destination as the Gateway to Borneo. 

The partnership also highlights the growing importance of regional collaboration in supporting tourism growth, improving travel accessibility, and strengthening destination visibility across international markets.

The MoU was signed by Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, Chief Executive Officer of STB, and Yang Mulia Puan Colonel Norsuriati Haji Sharbini, Interim Chief Executive Officer of RB. The signing was witnessed by Dylan Redas Noel, STB Marketing Director of North Asia and New Markets, and Alirahim Haji Abdul Rani, Manager Integrated Marketing of RB, representing STB and RB, respectively.

The ceremony was held in the presence of Dato Dennis Ngau, Chairman of STB, and Song Kai, President of Beijing Longway International Travel, RB General Sales Agent in the People’s Republic of China, as well as tourism industry stakeholders and trade partners in Shanghai.

Dr Sharzede said connectivity continues to play an important role in supporting tourism growth and strengthening how destinations position themselves within the increasingly competitive global travel landscape.

“Strategic collaborations such as this are important in strengthening accessibility, enhancing destination visibility, and creating greater opportunities to encourage travel into Sarawak and the wider Borneo region. As the Gateway to Borneo, connectivity remains an important component in supporting our ongoing tourism growth and international outreach efforts,” she said.

The partnership comes at a strategic time as STB continues to strengthen its tourism engagement efforts across China and North Asia through targeted destination marketing initiatives, trade collaborations, and consumer engagement programmes.

Through this collaboration with RB, both parties will strategically advance tourism promotion initiatives while enhancing seamless travel access into Sarawak. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to elevating Sarawak’s global presence, strengthening regional connectivity, and positioning the destination as a compelling gateway to Borneo’s rich and diverse experiences.

Yang Mulia Puan Colonel Norsuriati binti Haji Sharbini, Interim Chief Executive Officer of RB, noted: “We are pleased to strengthen our collaboration with Sarawak Tourism Board and our valued partners in China, as we continue to build on a long-standing relationship rooted in shared growth and connectivity. China remains a key market for Royal Brunei Airlines and the wider Borneo region, and together we see strong opportunities to position Brunei and Sarawak further as

compelling destinations for travellers seeking authentic cultural, nature, and wellness experiences.

Through our established network and ongoing partnerships, we remain committed to enhancing regional access and welcoming more visitors to discover the richness and diversity of Borneo.”

Separately, STB recently launched its first Campus Roadshow & Student Engagement Programme in collaboration with Qunar at Zhejiang International Studies University in China. The initiative was

aimed at introducing Sarawak to university students and young travellers through interactive tourism showcases and engagement activities highlighting the destination’s culture, adventure, nature, food, and festivals. Together, the MoU with RB and STB’s recent engagement initiatives in China reflect a broader strategy to strengthen Sarawak’s international market presence through connectivity, destination visibility, trade engagement, and consumer outreach. These efforts continue to support Sarawak’s positioning as the Gateway to Borneo while enhancing the destination’s accessibility and appeal across key international markets.

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board).

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At a time when international tourism markets are navigating shifting travel sentiment, economic pressures, and geopolitical developments, the commitment shown by both public- and private-sector partners reflects the enduring trust placed in RWMF’s cultural relevance, international reputation, and long-term tourism value.

Speaking during the RWMF 2026 Sponsors’ Appreciation Day held last week at Sheraton Hotel Kuching, YB Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Tourism Sarawak, representing YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative

Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, said the continued support received for RWMF reflects growing confidence in Sarawak’s tourism direction and the international value of culture-led tourism.

“Festivals such as RWMF do far more than entertain. They shape destination identity, strengthen international visibility, encourage cultural exchange, and create meaningful connections between people and places,” he said.

“Through RWMF, the world not only hears music. The world encounters Sarawak, our rainforest, our traditions, our communities, our hospitality, and our spirit.”

The appreciation event brought together sponsors, strategic partners, media organisations, tourism stakeholders, collaborators, and supporting agencies contributing towards the upcoming 29th edition of the festival.

This year’s sponsorship ecosystem reflects continued industry confidence and collaborative support across multiple sectors, reinforcing RWMF’s role as an established regional platform for cultural exchange, destination visibility, tourism engagement, and international connectivity.

Official partners for RWMF 2026 

Malaysia Airlines and Firefly are the official airlines.

TV Sarawak as the Official Broadcast Partner, Astro Radio comprising Era FM Sarawak, Sinar FM, Mix FM and Lite FM as Official Radio Partners, and Ripcurl as the Official Apparel Partner.

The festival is further strengthened by organisations across the sustainability, hospitality, beverage, media, mobility, and corporate sectors, including 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.

Together, these sponsors, partners, and collaborators play an important role in strengthening RWMF’s reach, experience, and continued growth as one of Sarawak’s key cultural and tourism platforms.

Sarawak Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor said RWMF continues to be shaped by the collective commitment of partners, sponsors, media, collaborators, vendors, performers, crew, and tourism stakeholders who contribute to the festival experience.

“One of the most meaningful things about the Rainforest World Music Festival is that no single organisation can build it alone,” she said. “Every edition of RWMF is shaped by people and partners who continue to contribute their time, expertise, resources, creativity, and belief into making the festival what it is today.”

She added that each sponsor and strategic partner contributes to different parts of the visitor journey, from accessibility and hospitality to media visibility, sustainability implementation, mobility, and the overall festival experience.

As part of its ongoing sustainability efforts, RWMF 2026 will continue to implement initiatives such as Green Ruai, Green Warriors, recycling, water refill stations, waste-reduction measures, and eco-conscious festival operations to encourage more responsible festival experiences and visitor behaviour.

RWMF 2026 is expected to feature over 200 performers from multiple countries, building on the festival’s growing international profile as one of the region’s established music and cultural festivals. The festival was also ranked No 8 in the Top 10 category at the Transglobal World Music Chart – Festival Awards 2025.

Taking place under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms,” RWMF 2026 continues to highlight the evolving relationship between heritage and contemporary cultural expression while reinforcing Sarawak’s positioning as the Gateway to Borneo.

The Sponsors’ Appreciation Day concluded with sponsor appreciation presentations, a group photo session, and media engagement activities, celebrating the partnerships and collaborations that continue to shape Sarawak’s cultural and tourism landscape ahead of RWMF 2026.

For more information on Sarawak attractions and tourism, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board. 

(Source: Your Stories — Sarawak Tourism Board)

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