West Asia conflict, rising fuel costs may dampen Sarawak tourism, RWMF visitors

Abdul Karim addressing a press conference after launching the RWMF 2026 at BCCK on March 13, 2026.

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, March 13: The ongoing conflict in West Asia could create a domino effect on travel, tourism and major events in Sarawak, including the 29th Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), as rising global fuel prices push up travel costs and potentially limit international visitor arrivals.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the surge in fuel prices could affect not only the upcoming festival at the Sarawak Cultural Village from June 26 to 28, but the broader tourism sector as well.

“I am slightly worried about the fuel prices. It may affect not only this music festival, but tourism in general, including visitors from Europe, the Middle East and Asia,” he told reporters after the RWMF launch at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today.

He explained that higher fuel prices would likely lead to increased airfares while also driving up production and transportation costs across many industries.

Abdul Karim noted that if the conflict continues, the rising costs could extend beyond travel, pushing up prices of goods and daily necessities and creating a wider ripple effect across the economy.

At the same time, he pointed out that Malaysia remains in a relatively favourable position compared with some neighbouring countries due to government fuel subsidies.

“Some countries in Southeast Asia are already paying much higher prices. We are still enjoying subsidised rates, which helps reduce the burden on the people,” he said. — DayakDaily