The Rainforest World Music Festival

The Rainforest World Music Festival

A three days action packed event, nestled in the heart of the fabled rainforests of Borneo: since the last two decades (current year: 2017), the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) has been pulling together talents from all over the world as well as promoting the indigenous musicians from the interiors of Borneo. Music enthusiasts across the globe gather every year to witness this music carnival. And, they have not been disappointed, thus making RWMF a must attend event for anyone who loves variety in music!

When and where is it held:

Every year, during the month of July, RWMF is held in Sarawak Cultural Village, Kuching.

Sarawak Cultural Village

Getting there:

• Nearest airport: Kuching
• From Kuching, selected locations in the town centre, event shuttle vans and buses operate to bring you to the venue. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi to the Sarawak Cultural village.
• Alternatively, you can buy the whole package from their official website.

Accommodation:

The accommodation options nearby the venue are limited and tend to get booked up well in advance. There are camping options also available to be booked in advance as well. Alternatively, there are a lot of options available in the town centre.

Experience it:

Daytime is packed with various arts, music and dance workshops by various participating groups from different countries. From swaying your hips to the rhythm of the music to wooing your partner with some sassy dance steps, you have a lot of new skills to pick up from these workshops.

Tahitian Musicians during workshop

Indigenous band hosting music and dance workshop

Various foods and drinks stalls are setup with a wide range of local delicacies: you are never going to run out of options to keep you fueled.

Fish BBQ

Local herbs and rice dish

Then, as the azure skies start turning violet, get yourself a spot on the ground as the crowds start pulling. The evening kicks off with the first performance for the night, as the crowd burst in roars of applause.

Happy Panda Notes:

Rainfall is not uncommon during this time, but fret not! To get the most out of it during the rain, carry a waterproof bag to protect your stuffs. Grab some beer or local wine and get drenched while dancing the night away to the beats of the music. Most of the crowd move to the shades. So, you can have all the ground by yourself. Best experience ever!

Some performances and workshops from RWMF 2017: https://youtu.be/Fd3zuHy4xhg

Ideal Time Commitment: A long weekend

Pocket pinch: $$