RWMF returns this June 26 with global, regional music icons including M Nasir

KUCHING (March 13): The 29th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) will feature headline performances by Dato M Nasir, The Commodores, and Incognito at the Sarawak Cultural Village from June 26 to 28.

Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the lineup reflects the diversity and dynamism of world music, blending global sounds with regional influences in the spirit of the Rainforest World Music Festival.

One of Southeast Asia’s most respected musical icons, Dato M Nasir, will open the festival on June 26 under the theme “Regenerations: Roots & Rhythms.”

“A singer, songwriter, composer and producer with more than four decades of influence in the creative arts industry, Dato M Nasir is widely recognised for his poetic lyrics and philosophical themes,” he said during the festival’s launch here.

The iconic The Commodores, featuring founding member Thomas McClary, will take the stage on the second day.

Known for defining the funk and soul era, the band has produced classics including Easy, Three Times a Lady, and Brick House.

Closing the festival on June 28 is Incognito, the internationally acclaimed band led by founder Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick.

Known for their groove-driven, rhythm-heavy sound, Incognito blends soul, funk, world rhythms, and dance music to create a warm, uplifting, and life-filled performance.

“Incognito brings together influences from soul, funk, world rhythms and dance music, reflecting the rich blend of cultures that shape their distinctive sound,” Abdul Karim said, adding that additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

In line with Sarawak’s vision of becoming a digitally empowered economy, Abdul Karim confirmed that RWMF will continue its transition towards a cashless festival environment.

“Festivalgoers will increasingly be able to make purchases across the festival grounds using e-wallets, debit cards and credit cards, whether for food, beverages, cultural crafts or festival merchandise,” he said.

Tickets will be available from today via the festival’s official ticketing platform, Ticketmelon.

Early bird sales will run from March 13 to 31, with three-day passes priced at RM635 (early bird), RM765 (pre-sale) and RM835 (door sale).

One-day passes are priced at RM235 (early bird), RM283 (pre-sale) and RM333 (door sale).

A child pass (ages 3-12) is priced at RM80, while children under three can enter for free.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy the convenience of the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) option when purchasing their tickets.

“Through this facility, festivalgoers can purchase their tickets through instalment-based payment platforms such as Atome, GrabPayLater and ShopeePayLater, allowing them greater convenience and flexibility when planning their festival experience,” said Abdul Karim.