THE organisers of Sarawak’s Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) said today they are on target to reach the 20,000 visitors after early-bird tickets reportedly sold out.

The 26th edition of the RWMF, June 23-25, is expected to feature 199 musicians from 12 countries with Grammy Awards winner, Gipsy Kings – featuring Tonino Baliardo from France – to headline the festival.

The Gipsy Kings have notched global hits such as Djobi Djoba and Bamboleo.

Other international performers include Big Mountain, best known for their hit song Baby I Love Your Way; Safi Theatre from Tanzania; Rastak from Iran; Fasylive from Maldives; Afriquoi from the UK; Chatusram from India; Rizal Hadi & Folk from Indonesia and Ethno Thai Fusion Sound Band from Thailand.

The line-up will also include performers from Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Malaysian talent expected to perform this year includes:Zee Avi, Suk Binie, Aseana Percussion Unit, Nadir, Steve Thornton & Afroasia, Sada Borneo, Tuku Kame, Nading Rhapsody, Geng Wak Long, Buloh Bekocak, At Adau, Meruked, and Orang Orang Drum Theatre.

Using the theme “Reflections”, this year’s RWMF is designed to offer festival-goers “an opportunity to engage with world music and cultural traditions, while connecting with and embracing its underlying themes and values”.

One of which is to create an ecologically sustainable festival, including banning single use plastics, encouraging upcycling of used materials and exploring innovative solutions to waste management.

“It is also a time to reflect on the connection with nature and embrace diverse musical styles to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around,” Sarawak Tourism Board said.

Adult ticket prices start from RM230, while a child one-day pass is RM80. – May 4, 2023.