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Lind Hotels reshape lifestyle travel in the Philippines

BORACAY, Philippines, 26 May 2026: Independent Filipino hospitality brands are beginning to reshape lifestyle travel in the Philippines — and The Lind Hotels is helping lead the shift.

Long overshadowed by larger regional markets dominated by international operators, the Philippines is increasingly gaining recognition for a new generation of homegrown hospitality brands focused on design, wellness, personalised service, and experience-led stays.

Among the companies helping to drive momentum is The Lind Hotels, an independently developed Filipino hospitality group that has steadily built a reputation through lifestyle-led destinations, strong culinary programming, wellness, and a distinctly Filipino approach to hospitality.

“Our philosophy is that Philippine hospitality can resonate globally while remaining proudly Filipino,” said Lind Hotels COO Pierre Henrichs. “Authenticity, warmth, creativity, and emotional connection are what travellers increasingly remember most.”

At the centre of the group’s success is The Lind Boracay, located on White Beach Station 1, widely regarded as Boracay’s most exclusive stretch of shoreline. The property is distinguished not only by its rare direct beachfront access, but also by an evolving guest experience that places intuitive hospitality and meaningful guest connection at the heart of the stay.

A defining milestone came in 2025 when the MICHELIN Guide made its Philippine debut. In a landmark moment for both the company and the wider industry, The Lind Boracay became the first and only hotel in Boracay to be featured by the guide, positioning the independent Filipino brand alongside internationally recognised hospitality names.

A key part of the resort’s evolution is its long-standing collaboration with The Spa Wellness, one of the Philippines’ pioneering wellness operators and the country’s first spa brand to receive Superbrand status. An accredited member of the International Spa Association (ISPA), The Spa Wellness brings an established wellness philosophy to the resort environment, helping to shape a more holistic guest experience centred on restoration, balance, and meaningful care.

Over the past decade, the group has continued refining every aspect of the guest journey, from food and beverage and wellness to lifestyle programming and personalised service.

The company’s recent evolution forms part of a broader reassessment undertaken during its 10th anniversary year, when The Lind Hotels also introduced a refreshed brand identity centred around human connection, meaningful hospitality, and more experience-driven travel.

The rebrand marked a return to the company’s core philosophy: fostering stronger people-to-people relationships across teams, travel partners, suppliers, and guests, while placing greater emphasis on the guest journey from the very first stage of trip planning through to the stay itself.

“As part of our 10-year milestone, we went back to the drawing board and asked ourselves where we were ten years ago and where we are today,” Henrichs said. “The entire brand has been refreshed. More than anything, we wanted to return to the human side of hospitality and focus on genuine connection at every touchpoint of the guest experience.”

Looking ahead, the company’s future developments in Coron and Siargao reflect both confidence in Philippine tourism and growing international demand for more meaningful, nature-driven, and experience-led travel.

At a time when travellers are increasingly prioritising authenticity over standardisation, brands like The Lind Hotels are helping demonstrate that world-class hospitality experiences can be created in the Philippines while remaining closely connected to local culture, people, and place.

“We believe the Philippines has the potential to become one of the world’s great hospitality destinations,” Henrichs said. “There is incredible warmth here, extraordinary natural beauty, and a growing confidence among Filipino brands to create experiences that feel globally relevant while remaining distinctly local.”

(Source: Lind Hotels)

JLL monitors surge in luxury hotel acquisitions

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Demand for luxury hotels in the Asia Pacific has grown dramatically, with investors increasingly viewing the asset class as both resilient and enduringly appealing to travellers regionally and globally. 

According to JLL, the volume of luxury hotel transactions in the Asia-Pacific region rose significantly by 77% between 2017 and 2025, reaching approximately USD 2.1 billion in 2025.

Photo credit: JLL. JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group Head of Advisory and Asset Management, Asia Pacific, Xander Nijnens.

Significantly, 2025 volumes represent one of the highest annual investment deployments into luxury hotels since pre-COVID times, where transactions reached over USD2.4 billion in 2019.

Following the pandemic, luxury hotel transactions rebounded strongly, particularly in 2023, returning to levels comparable with 2019. In 2025, luxury hotel transactions accounted for almost 20% of all hotel deals, more than double the 8% share recorded in 2017 and surpassing even the 16% achieved during the pre-pandemic high, reinforcing investor confidence in the long-term value and performance characteristics of luxury hospitality assets.

“The luxury hotel segment in Asia Pacific is experiencing a defining moment measured by both its remarkable resilience throughout the pandemic cycle and beyond, and increasingly via a convergence of wealth accumulation and evolving consumer. As a result, we’re seeing sustained appetite from an increasingly diverse investor base, including private wealth and cross-border capital, all seeking exposure to assets that combine prestige, capital preservation, and long-term growth fundamentals,” says JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group Head of Advisory and Asset Management, Asia Pacific, Xander Nijnens.

A fundamental shift is underway in how luxury hotels capture market share. While these properties have always commanded premium rates, the occupancy gap between luxury and mainstream hotels is now narrowing, signalling that luxury hotels are year-round performers with strong, sustainable demand.

This performance evolution is attracting both capital and development activity. Luxury hotel supply has grown at a steady 4% annually over the past decade, maintaining approximately 8% of the total market, with moderate growth expected through 2030. This disciplined expansion has avoided the oversupply traps that historically challenged the sector, creating favourable supply-demand dynamics for investors.

Global and regional operators are launching differentiated concepts to capture specific guest preferences, from wellness-focused retreats to culturally immersive experiences. In particular, the ultra-luxury segment has become increasingly fragmented and brand-driven. For investors, this brand proliferation offers opportunities to position assets within distinct market niches and capture premiums through strategic partnerships.

“The luxury hospitality landscape has fundamentally evolved. We’re seeing properties adapt to changing guest preferences while maintaining the premium positioning that makes them attractive investment assets. The combination of strong rate power, strategic repositioning, and heightened demand from affluent travellers positions the segment favourably for continued growth. We also see moderating supply growth in the coming years, providing owners with more pricing power,” says Marina Bracciani, Vice President, Hotels Research Lead, Asia Pacific.

Despite significantly higher operating costs — almost double those of the overall hotel market in the region — due to elevated staff ratios, premium F&B offerings, and personalised services, luxury hotels achieve gross operating profit margins comparable to the overall market. The ability to command substantial rate premiums while maintaining competitive margins demonstrates the segment’s pricing power and operational sophistication.

However, performance varies considerably across markets, with luxury hotels in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Seoul emerging as clear winners. The ultra-luxury segment has demonstrated even more pronounced outperformance than the broader luxury category.

(Source: JLL)

Voco brand signs Phuket hotel

BANGKOK, 26 May 2026: IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced a management agreement with Phuket HA 2 Co Ltd for voco Phuket Patong, marking the rapid expansion of the brand in Thailand following the voco brand debut in Bangkok last year, with four more properties in the pipeline signed in quick succession.

Opening in 2028, the newly built 307-room voco Phuket Patong will be situated within the mixed-use development Abov Patong, a landmark comprising hotels, branded residences, and comprehensive facilities, including a clubhouse, a theatre, multi-zone swimming pools, and a Kids Club, on the hillside of Patong in Phuket.

From left to right: Nada Anerutteva, Strategic Marketing & Communication Consultant, ABOV Patong, Wuthikrai Kulsirisawad, Chief Executive Officer, ABOV Patong, Pathana Jitsaereetham, Director, Development, Thailand, IHG, Kate Gerits, Director of Operations, Thailand, IHG

Voco Phuket Patong joins IHG’s fastest-growing premium brand and a global portfolio of 137 voco hotels open and operating, including voco Bangkok Surawong, voco Bandung Setiabudi, voco Scenia Bay Nha Trang, with an additional 113 hotels in the development pipeline*, promising travellers a dependable yet approachable premium stay experience.

IHG Director Development Thailand, Pathana Jitsaereetham, said: “Voco Phuket Patong will strengthen IHG’s diverse portfolio in Phuket, which features seven hotels across five brands — InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, and Holiday Inn Express. With voco Phuket Patong, we’re excited to offer our guests even more choice and exceptional experiences, ensuring there’s a stay for everyone.”

Voco Phuket Patong is located just 150 metres from Patong Beach and close to entertainment areas, shopping malls, and dining options. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, two bars, a spa, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre. 

The signing strengthens IHG’s scale in Thailand, where the company now has more than 80 open and signed hotels nationwide, and further builds on voco hotels’ momentum with four additional properties set to open in Bangkok and Phuket.

(Source: IHG)

Travel Meet Asia convenes in Jakarta

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Indonesia’s leading travel trade show returns to Jakarta from 23 to 24 June, bringing together 1,500 industry professionals and spotlighting Brunei as the Official Partner Country alongside the launch of Visit Brunei 2027.

Travel Meet Asia 2026 will return to Jakarta on 23 to 24 June, bringing together key industry leaders and international exhibitors from the MICE, Corporate and Leisure sectors.

Photo credit: Messe Berlin Asia Pacific. Travel Meet Asia.

The event will take place at Swissôtel Jakarta PIK Avenue, reinforcing Jakarta’s position as a strategic hub for travel and tourism exchange.

Organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific, Travel Meet Asia continues to grow as a leading marketplace and knowledge platform, with more than 1,500 participants, over 400 quality buyers, 100+ exhibitors and 60+ speakers expected to attend in 2026.

Messe Berlin Asia Pacific Executive Director Darren Seah said: “Travel Meet Asia has established itself as a vital platform for meaningful business exchange and industry dialogue in Southeast Asia. With Jakarta as our host city once again, we look forward to welcoming a growing community of travel professionals and to spotlighting Brunei as our Official Partner Country. The launch of Visit Brunei 2027 adds a strong dimension to this year’s event, highlighting the region’s dynamic and evolving tourism landscape.”

Visit Brunei 2027 launch

Brunei Darussalam, the Abode of Peace, will take centre stage as the Official Partner Country of Travel Meet Asia 2026. This milestone reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening its global tourism presence through authentic cultural offerings and pristine nature-based attractions. Visitors are invited to discover a serene destination where unspoiled rainforests, rich biodiversity, and enduring traditions come together to create truly memorable journeys.

“We are honoured to be named the Official Partner Country for Travel Meet Asia 2026, a vital platform for regional tourism connectivity. This partnership offers a strategic opportunity for Brunei Darussalam to showcase our unique blend of rich cultural heritage, pristine rainforests, and warm hospitality as we build momentum toward Visit Brunei Year 2027. 

“Through the Brunei Pavilion, we invite visitors to discover our diverse offerings, upcoming initiatives and curated experiences. We warmly welcome industry partners to experience first-hand what makes Brunei a peaceful, authentic, and distinctive destination in Southeast Asia,” said  Acting Director of Tourism Development Department, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, Hajah Nur Fariza Munyati binti Haji Abd Aji.

Travel Meet Asia 2026 builds on its strategic collaboration with ASITA (Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies), following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen Indonesia’s tourism and MICE sector. The partnership supports Indonesia’s role as a key regional hub for tourism and business exchange.

The 2026 edition will feature a 20% increase in exhibition space compared to the previous year, reflecting strong industry demand and growing market confidence. Confirmed exhibitors include leading hospitality brands, destination representatives and travel service providers such as Accor, Adaaran Maldives, Churchill Safaris, Finland Pavilion, New World Saigon and Tokyu Hotels.

The event offers networking opportunities to engage with key buyers from Southeast Asia and international markets. Participating buyers include Azza Travel & Tours Pte Ltd, Bandar Tour, Chacha L Tours & Travel, Mavp Travel & Tours, MG Bedbank, Myduta Tour, Smile Holiday, Webbeds, Wolo Travel, and Xiaomi.

Buyers from key markets, including Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, are expected to participate.

Running alongside the show, the conference programme will provide in-depth insights into key Southeast Asian travel markets, with sessions curated across six broad themes: Market Insights and Trends, Travel and Destination Marketing, Hospitality and Alternative Accommodations, MICE and Corporate Travel, Travel Technology, and Transportation and Mobility.

(Source: Messe Berlin Asia Pacific)

Malaysians check out lesser-known places

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed that value is emerging as an important factor in how Malaysians travel in 2026, influencing everything from accommodation choices to destination planning. 

According to Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, 63% of travellers are willing to consider lesser-known destinations if it means lower costs, signalling a shift toward more intentional and cost-conscious travel behaviour.

Agoda’s findings also highlight how this value-driven mindset is reflected in both spending habits and destination choices. Malaysian travellers are showing a clear preference for travel that delivers value without sacrificing the overall experience. 

Nearly two-thirds (64%) expect to spend USD50 or less per night on accommodation in 2026, while 59% say price is the single most important factor when choosing where to stay. This reinforces that value not only influences openness to discovering alternative destinations but also shapes spending decisions.

Beyond spending considerations, Agoda’s findings also point to a shift in how Malaysians are planning their trips and what they prioritise when they travel.

Local and frequent travel remain part of the picture

Malaysian travellers are also adjusting how often and how far they travel, as value-driven decisions make shorter, more frequent, and closer-to-home trips more appealing. 47% expect most of their trips in 2026 to be domestic, while 37% plan to take four to six trips over the year. The most common trip length is four to seven days (42%), reflecting a shift toward travel that is more manageable, cost-conscious, and easier to fit into everyday life.

Even with affordability a priority, Malaysians are still considering experiences they value most. Relaxation is the top reason Malaysians expect to travel in 2026, cited by 69% of respondents. Culinary experiences follow at 33%, highlighting the continued role food plays in destination appeal. Travel also remains deeply social, with 59% planning to travel with family and 28% expecting to travel with their spouse or partner.

Agoda Country Director Malaysia and Brunei Fabian Teja said: “Malaysian travellers are planning more carefully and placing greater emphasis on value. Agoda’s latest findings show that cost matters, but so does making each trip count. Travellers are looking for options that help them manage their budgets while still enjoying the experiences that matter most, whether that is rest, time with loved ones, or discovering good food. Agoda brings these elements together by making it easier to book flights, accommodation and activities in one place with great value deals.”

(Source: Agoda)

Explora Journeys unveils Summer 2028 Collection

SINGAPORE, 26 May 2026: Explora Journeys has opened sales for its Summer 2028 Journeys Collection, a milestone season defined by the arrival of Explora VI. 

Her debut in August 2028 brings the fleet to its full six-ship scale, realising the brand’s original vision on time and exactly as planned at its inception. Spanning 178 destinations across 27 countries, the new collection represents a significant expansion of the brand’s global presence, with all six ships sailing the world’s oceans together for the first time.

Photo credit: Explora Jouneys

The new collection captures the Mediterranean’s allure alongside the landscapes of Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland. From the Alaskan wilderness to the historic waterways of the North American East Coast during the height of the autumnal shift, every itinerary is shaped by the philosophy of unhurried discovery. 

Overnights in cities like New York, Reykjavik and Istanbul are balanced with visits to remote island retreats such as Korčula and the Faroe Islands. In many ports, late departures allow guests to experience the evolving energy from day to night, offering a more soulful connection to each destination.

Summer 2028 Overview

Explora I: From April through October, the ship visits six countries and 25 destinations in the Mediterranean, meandering through the island constellations of the Aegean to the sculpted shores of the Adriatic. Guests can uncover the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Turkish Coast, experiencing the nightlife of Mykonos with a late departure and the cultural vibrancy of Istanbul with an overnight stay. 

Explora II: Exploring the Western Mediterranean, North Africa and the French and Italian Rivieras, the ship visits 36 destinations across Iberia and the Atlantic edge from April through October. Itineraries weave from the vibrant Balearic Islands to the lush landscapes of Madeira, featuring an overnight stay in Lisbon and late departures from eight ports, including Ibiza, Capri and Casablanca.

Explora III: Returning to the wilderness of Alaska from May through September, the ship navigates 20 destinations across the US and Canada. Itineraries feature scenic sailings through the Inside Passage and the Gulf of Alaska, providing an unparalleled vantage point of Hubbard Glacier, alongside calls at Juneau, Skagway, and smaller communities such as Wrangell and Klawock.

Explora IV: From May through October, the ship traverses Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea, uncovering 51 destinations across 15 countries. Guests can cycle along the historic canals of Amsterdam or stroll the royal parks of Stockholm during overnight stays, while 11 maiden calls, including Runavík in the Faroe Islands and Djúpivogur in Iceland, reveal the region’s more remote shores.

Explora V: Between May and September, the ship explores the Baltic Sea, the Norwegian fjords and the North Atlantic before reaching the volcanic coastlines of Iceland and Greenland. The season then transitions to the North American Eastern Seaboard with overnights in New York City and Quebec City and late departures from Halifax and Boston.

Explora VI: From August to November 2028, the newest ship in the fleet sails the Mediterranean, completing 13 sailings. Starting with her maiden journey from Rome to Barcelona, itineraries weave through Sicily, Sardinia and the French Riviera. As the season mellows into October and November, the ship ventures into the Adriatic to explore the historic ports of Trogir and Dubrovnik, as well as the UNESCO-protected Bay of Kotor.

(Source: Explora Journeys)

T’way Air bargains on summer travel

SEOUL, South Korea, 26 May 2026: T’way Air is offering fare discounts across 18 Japan–Korea routes. Bookings made through 31 May are eligible, with travel valid through 24 October 2026.

The discounts apply to flights between five Korean cities — Seoul (Incheon), Cheongju, Daegu, Busan, and Jeju — and seven Japanese cities: Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Okinawa, Kumamoto, and Saga.

Photo credit: T’way Air.

Offers available through 31 May

UP to 10% off bookings with promo code 26 MAY, departures from Tokyo (Narita), Osaka, Fukuoka, Saga, Kumamoto, Sapporo, and Okinawa, for travel through 24 October 2026.

¥3,000 Regular Coupon on round-trip bookings, downloadable through 31 May, travel through 24 October 2026.

Summer and fall are Korea’s busiest travel months. In Seoul, the Changdeokgung Palace Moonlight Tour lights up the historic grounds in May, while the Seoul International Garden Show fills the city with colour from May through October. 

Fried chicken and beer under the lights along the Han River, warm hotteok at Gwangjang Market, brunch in Yeonnam-dong’s cafés, and late-night runs to the convenience store.
Further south, Waterbomb Festival brings music and crowds to Seoul and Busan in July and August, with Busan closing the season in October as host to its International Film Festival and Rock Festival.

About T’way Air
T’way Air is a South Korea-based low-cost carrier (LCC) providing reliable air travel services since 2010. The airline operates a fleet that includes Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft, as well as Airbus A330, A320 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, serving customers across 60 destinations in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, as well as Oceania, Europe and North America. 

(Source: T’way Air)

Alaska serves the London-Seattle route

LONDON, 26 May 2026: Oneworld Alliance expands its presence at London’s Heathrow Airport to 14 member airlines, now that Alaska Airlines has introduced a direct London-Seattle service.

This summer, oneworld airlines will offer nearly 2,800 weekly departures directly connecting London Heathrow to over 160 destinations in more than 60 countries. Alongside an extensive global network, oneworld customers enjoy premium facilities at LHR, including 13 First and Business Class lounges offered by British Airways, American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Qatar Airways across Terminals 3, 4 and 5.

Flight attendants of all 14 oneworld carriers serving London Heathrow.

London is also the leading destination for international travellers planning round-the-world trips, with 71%  of bookings made so far this year on oneworld’s website, including the city as part of a multi-stop itinerary. 

Last year, around 29 million oneworld customers flew from, to or through London Heathrow, of which almost 30% were connecting between oneworld member airlines. 

Oneworld’s CEO Ole Orvér said: “With service from the most oneworld carriers and nearly 400 daily departures, London Heathrow is a cornerstone of our global network, where our members work together to deliver smooth connectivity for millions of customers every year. It is also one of the world’s leading business travel markets, with more than 160,000 premium seats offered weekly by our airlines, and we are delighted to welcome Alaska Airlines as it launches its inaugural Seattle service from Heathrow, further expanding travel choices for oneworld customers.”

At London Heathrow, oneworld member airlines operate from:

Terminal 3: Alaska Airlines (effective 22 May 2026), American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Japan Airlines, Qantas, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines

Terminal 4: Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways, Oman Air, Royal Air Maroc

Terminal 5: British Airways and Iberia oneworld’s global hubs

(Source: Oneworld)

Masala Wedding Fair back for 13th edition

BANGKOK, 25 May 2026: Thailand’s premier Indian wedding exhibition, the Masala Wedding Fair, returns for its 13th edition with its most expansive and refined showcase yet. 

Together with the Masala Food Festival, the event boasts two worlds that naturally complement one another: celebration and flavour, all under one roof.

The highly anticipated two-day fair will be held on Saturday, 6 June and Sunday, 7 June at the Thai Chitlada Grand Ballroom on the second floor of Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park. 

Guests can expect showcases from over 100 exhibitors from Thailand and India, spanning fashion, fine jewellery, culinary experiences, and beverage offerings, complemented by enchanting live performances in dance, vocal, and sound.

With the Masala Food Festival component, the food and beverage line-up of this year’s fair is presented on a notably grander scale, banding together a refined mix of Indian and continental offerings. 

Guests can look forward to Japanese highlights from ISAO, Fatboy Izakaya, and Masu Maki & Sushi Bar, accompanied by a distinguished Indian selection including bespoke desserts from Marigold by Chef Garima Arora, the two Michelin-starred chef behind Gaa, as well as dining destinations NILA, Chit Chaat, Indus, Saras and Punjab Grill. Guilty and Gordon Ramsay Restaurants bring a global reference point that needs little introduction. At the same time, Plant Passion, Kynd Kulture, and Sunbird introduce a health-forward thread running through the wider offering. The beverage programme follows suit in its proportions, with Italasia presenting premium wines and spirits, along with tastings, alongside PRAKAAN, Thailand’s first single malt whisky. For fans of Indian spirits, guests can sample from a diverse array of premium Indian whiskeys, gins, and even feni.

Accompanying the food and beverage offerings, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival presents a wider lifestyle and shopping experience spanning fashion, jewellery, and fragrance. 

Featured designers include Suwannee by Sam, a Thai-Indian couture label, alongside Lenskart eyewear and MY ONLY FRAGRANCE from Kyoto, a bespoke perfumery experience centred on personal scent creation. In fine jewellery, Rawat Jewels, Khanna Jewellers, and Envie Jewellery present collections that showcase intricate craftsmanship for both special occasions and everyday wear. 

For guests curious about Indian heritage, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival offers an immersive encounter with cultural traditions and celebrations alike.

Expect a varied programme of performances spanning Indian dance, vocal showcases, and musical acts that capture the vivacious energy and spirit of a grand Indian wedding. In addition to entertainment, this year’s edition introduces the tradition of Ayurveda through bespoke offerings presented at the exhibition.

Be it a search for destinations, wedding vendors, culinary affairs, retail therapy, or simply drawn to the vibrancy and flavours of Indian culture, the Masala Wedding Fair & Masala Food Festival offers a full-spectrum experience.

Key Information:

Date: 6 & 7 June 2026

Location: Thai Chitlada Grand Ballroom at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park

199 Sukhumvit Soi 22, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toey, Bangkok, 10110 

Time: 1100 to 2000.

Admission is free.

About Masala 
Masala is a multi-faceted brand recognised as the voice of Thailand’s Indian community. Producing a range of print and digital media publications, the brand caters to the Thai-Indian lifestyle, covering travel, dining, business, fashion, culture, and people stories that impact society, while also serving as an authoritative guide to Indian weddings across the country.

Confidence soars for RWMF success

KUCHING, 25 May 2026: The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 continues to receive strong backing from strategic partners across aviation, media, sustainability, hospitality, mobility, and corporate sectors, reaffirming industry confidence in one of the region’s internationally recognised music and cultural festivals.

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.

YB Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Tourism Sarawak delivering his speech representing YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak during the RWMF 2026 Sponsors’ Appreciation Day held today at Sheraton Hotel
Kuching.

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)