Call to cancel Rain Rave festival slammed as “regressive and damaging” to Malaysia’s tourism image

Peter John Jaban

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 3: Calls to cancel the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 have been blasted as “regressive, damaging and economically blind” by Sarawak rights activist Peter John Jaban, who warned that such demands risk undermining Malaysia’s booming tourism sector.

He was responding to a recent call by UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Akmal Saleh to cancel the event, which Peter said sends the wrong signal at the worst possible time for Malaysia’s tourism recovery.

He said tourism is now one of Malaysia’s strongest economic pillars, warning that political or ideological interference in event planning could hurt investor confidence and stunt growth in the sector.

“The Rain Rave Water Music Festival represents the type of modern, engaging event that positions Malaysia as a competitive and welcoming destination.

“Calls for cancellation do not reflect the aspirations of a progressive, multicultural nation. Instead of discouraging tourism-driven opportunities, leaders should focus on initiatives that create prosperity, attract global attention, and uplift the livelihoods of ordinary Malaysians,” he said in a statement.

Peter John also pointed to Malaysia’s strong tourism performance in recent years under the incumbent Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Seri Tiong King Sing, saying the sector has delivered record-breaking results since 2023.

From 2023 to 2025, tourism contributed an estimated RM899.9 billion to Malaysia’s GDP, rising steadily from RM275.8 billion in 2023, RM291.9 billion in 2024, to RM332.2 billion in 2025.

Tourism receipts also reached RM359.1 billion over the same period, while arrivals climbed from 29 million in 2023 to 42.2 million in 2025.

“These accomplishments were supported by strategic measures, including the securing of over 48 new air routes, while Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s recognition as the most connected airport in Asia Pacific and the world’s leading low-cost carrier hub further reinforced Malaysia’s accessibility to global travellers,” he added.

Peter further said that Malaysia’s tourism branding has also improved internationally, with Kuala Lumpur emerging as a trending destination, George Town recognised for food tourism, and Ipoh listed among Asia’s must-visit cities.

He said Malaysia’s return to the top of the Global Muslim Travel Index in 2025 further proves its strength as a diverse, inclusive destination.

“Beyond statistics, Tiong’s approach reflects a broader understanding of Malaysia’s multicultural identity.

“His support for events such as the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 signals a commitment to inclusive tourism, one that balances local values with global expectations,” he said.

Peter John concluded that Malaysia’s tourism future depends on innovation, openness and practical leadership.

“Minister Tiong has demonstrated that tourism policy can strengthen both national prosperity and cultural confidence. His tenure serves as a reminder that economic growth is best achieved through vision, practical leadership, and the ability to unite people around shared progress.

“Malaysia’s tourism achievements over these years stand as a testament to what focused leadership can deliver and they will remain a significant chapter in the country’s journey toward greater prosperity,” he emphasised.

On April 30, Dr Akmal reportedly questioned the government’s decision to proceed with the water festival despite the cancellation of official Raya open houses to save funds given the economic impact of the Iran war.

He also urged Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim to cancel the event, which he described as “foolish” and demanded the removal of Tiong from the federal Cabinet. — DayakDaily