KUALA LUMPUR, Kitaro, a Grammy and Golden Globe Award-winning Japanese artist renowned for his groundbreaking electronic-instrumental music, is set to headline the upcoming Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2024 organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB).
STB in a statement said that the three-day RWMF from June 28 to 30 will be themed ‘Evolution’, embracing the evolution of music expressions, the unity found in diversity, honour the wisdom of indigenous traditions and cultivate harmony that transcends boundaries.
“Alongside Kitaro, Malaysia’s very own Datuk Zainal Abidin who is famous for his three decade-old hit song ‘Hijau’, will also be headlining at the RWMF this year.
“On top of that, representing East Malaysia is Sarawak’s own Belle Sisoski, who is well-known for using her creative platform to raise awareness about indigenous rights, environmental and musical conservation in Sarawak,” the statement read.
Other international acts include Alright Mela Meets Santoo (Pakistan/France), Bourbon L
assi (Australia/Malaysia), Imarhan (Algeria/France), Krakatau Ethno (Indonesia), Nini (Taiwan/USA), Rizal Hadi and Folk (Indonesia), Rhythm Rebels Featuring Selonding Bali Aga (Indonesia) and Tribal Tide (Singapore).
Attendees to RWMF 2024 will also be entertained by other Malaysian acts such as The Borneo Collective (East Malaysia), Adrian G (West Malaysia), Alena Murang (East Malaysia), Nisa Addina (East Malaysia), Salammusik (West Malaysia), The Colour of Sound’s Malaysia (West Malaysia), Tuni Sundatang (East Malaysia) and Zarul @OurBodySound (West Malaysia).
Meanwhile, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah in the same statement said that RWMF 2024 which transcends its role as a mere music festival; also embodies the theme of ‘Evolution’, where sustainability, responsible tourism and cultural exchange blend in perfect harmony to converge.
“We anticipate to surpass RWMF 2023 attendees for the entire festival weekend, creating a platform f
or key opinion leaders, environmental advocates, and youth changemakers,” he said.
Ticket options for RWMF 2024 cater to every enthusiast, from the coveted three-day pass priced at RM635 for adults, granting access to the entire weekend of festivities, to the one-day pass for adults offering early bird pricing at RM235, pre-sale at RM283 and door sale at RM333.
“Children aged three to 12 can join in the excitement with a one-day pass priced at RM80, while admission is free for children below three years old. Exciting giveaways await ticket purchasers in support of Sarawak tourism’s ongoing responsible tourism and sustainability initiatives,” he said.
STB chief executive officer (CEO) Sharzede Datu Salleh Askor said RWMF has always been a beacon of cultural celebration, a vibrant tapestry of diverse musical traditions and a champion for the indigenous voice of the world.
“In this 27th edition, we are taking an important step forward. We are transforming the festival into a dynamic platform that advocates s
ustainable practices in tourism and conservation,” he said.
RWMF 2024 will be showcasing a total of 20 acts, comprising 68 international musicians from 14 countries across six continents, together with 63 Malaysian artists.
For more information and ticket bookings, please visit the official Rainforest World Music Festival 2024 website at www.rwmf.net.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency
