KUALA LUMPUR: Well-known Māori artist Rob Ruha will take the stage at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2025 in Sarawak, bringing his globally celebrated “haka soul” sound to Malaysian audiences for the first time.
Ruha, of Te Whānau-ā-Apanui and Ngāti Porou descent, is a multi-award-winning musician and Arts Laureate whose music blends traditional Māori performance with genres such as R&B, soul and reggae.
His unique style and lyrical themes, deeply rooted in cultural identity, love, hope and empowerment, have earned him millions of streams on platforms like Spotify.
“My heritage plays a fundamental part in what I think my music is.
“I not only write predominantly in my first language, Te Reo Māori, but the themes and messages I champion in my waiata are of my people, to my people, and for the world,” Ruha said.
New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia, Michael Walsh, expressed his excitement about sharing Ruha’s music with Malaysian audiences.
“We know there is huge interest in Māori culture and performing arts in Malaysia, particularly haka.
“Therefore, we are proud to share one of New Zealand’s most exciting Māori artists with the region this year,” Walsh said.
Ruha’s impressive portfolio includes accolades such as the Aotearoa Music Award for Best Māori Album, Best Worship Album, and Best Soul/R&B Artist.
He is also celebrated for his mentorship of the Māori youth choir Ka Hao, whose viral hit “35” gained millions of streams and international recognition.
Beyond music, Ruha has made significant cultural contributions, serving as the musical director for Māori language adaptations of Disney blockbusters like Moana, Frozen, The Lion King and Coco.
“This is my first time in Sarawak, and I am excited to visit.
“I’ll be performing a couple of new songs and a special set exclusive to the festival, incorporating kapa haka elements.
“I’m really looking forward to soaking up the environment, being inspired by other artists, meeting the locals, and eating Sarawakian food,” said Ruha.
Ruha is set to perform at the Rainforest World Music Festival on June 21 and will also serve as one of the keynote speakers at the Rainforest Youth Summit, held from June 18 to 20.
His appearance is part of New Zealand’s broader cultural diplomacy efforts to celebrate 50 years of dialogue partnership with ASEAN.
“2025 is a significant year for ASEAN, New Zealand, and Malaysia.
“It marks a golden jubilee of partnership, and we are proud to celebrate this legacy under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship,” Walsh said.
