A Cultural Extravaganza at the Sarawak Cultural Village
SANTUBONG (June 28): The highly-anticipated Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) returns with its 27th edition today at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV), attracting a diverse global audience eager to celebrate music, art, and culture.
An International Gathering
The Vergara Family from Brazil
Among the attendees was the Vergara family who came all the way from Brazil. Marc Vergara, 65, who is French, and his Brazilian wife Rosalia Pineiro, 57, were attending the RWMF for the first time with their daughter Alice, 18.
Marc shared his initial impressions, highlighting the festival’s fantastic ambiance and lively spirit. “We previously visited Mulu (in Miri) for four days before flying in for the festival here, though only for a day. I enjoyed seeing the crowd here,” he told The Borneo Post, while praising the “delightful cuisine” in Kuching.
Rosalia admired the picturesque and bustling festival environment teeming with people. Echoing her mother, Alice said she enjoys meeting new acquaintances. “I recently encountered another girl with my name who kindly helped me locate food here,” she said.
From Australia: Juliet Schneemann and Family
Meanwhile, all the way from Canberra, Australia, Juliet Schneemann, 40, and her son Theodore, were braving themselves crossing SCV’s iconic narrow bamboo bridge. Juliet said the last time she attended the RWMF was about nine years ago.
“This year, there are a lot of foods and cultural things to see. I think Sarawak is very interesting because it’s very culturally diverse. We also think that it is very clean compared to different parts of Southeast Asia, and it has a beautiful environment,” she said when met.
Melanie Chapman: A First-Time Visitor
Melanie Chapman, 69, a retired Australian teacher, was met with her son-in-law and grandson, all prepped for tonight’s music performances. “I love this festival. I think it’s absolutely brilliant. The people are so friendly, and the food is amazing,” she enthused.
Chapman, who also hails from Canberra, revealed that this was her first time attending the RWMF, and she is looking forward to an amazing weekend.
A Celebration of Music and Culture
Diverse Performances
The Rainforest World Music Festival is renowned for its diverse lineup of performances featuring artists from across the globe. Attendees can expect a rich tapestry of sounds ranging from traditional folk music to contemporary world music, all performed against the backdrop of the stunning Sarawak rainforest.
Workshops and Activities
Beyond the performances, the festival offers a variety of workshops and activities aimed at immersing attendees in the local culture. These include traditional dance workshops, craft demonstrations, and cooking classes, providing a hands-on experience of Sarawak’s rich heritage.
A Feast for the Senses
Food plays a significant role in the festival experience. The SCV is dotted with stalls offering an array of local and international cuisines, ensuring that visitors can savor the flavors of Sarawak alongside the music and cultural activities.
Looking Forward to the Weekend
As the festival unfolds over the next few days, attendees can look forward to a packed schedule of performances, workshops, and cultural experiences. The RWMF continues to be a beacon for cultural exchange and appreciation, drawing in visitors from all corners of the globe to celebrate the universal language of music.
The Global Impact of RWMF
The Rainforest World Music Festival has not only become a significant cultural event for Sarawak but also a symbol of global unity through music. It showcases the power of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving and celebrating diverse musical traditions.
Environmental Awareness
The festival also promotes environmental awareness, with various initiatives aimed at reducing its ecological footprint. From waste management practices to promoting eco-friendly products, RWMF strives to set an example for sustainable event management.
Conclusion
The 27th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend. With its vibrant performances, engaging workshops, and rich cultural exchanges, the RWMF continues to be a highlight on the global music festival calendar. As the sun sets over the Sarawak Cultural Village, the music will rise, bringing people together in a celebration of harmony and diversity.