KUCHING: Visitors to the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 embraced more than just world music on the festival’s opening day, flocking to the Malay House and Melanau House at the Sarawak Cultural Village to explore Sarawak’s rich selection of traditional handicrafts and locally made products.
The two heritage houses quickly became popular stops as festivalgoers browsed stalls showcasing handcrafted items created by local entrepreneurs representing Sarawak’s diverse ethnic communities.
Many visitors took their time admiring the intricate craftsmanship, asking exhibitors about the techniques and stories behind each creation before making purchases.
For the entrepreneurs, the internationally recognised festival offers more than a platform to generate sales. It also provides an opportunity to introduce Sarawak’s artistic heritage and cultural traditions to both local and international visitors.
The exhibition featured a wide range of handmade products, including beadwork, woven items, wood carvings, traditional textiles, ethnic accessories and souvenirs, reflecting the state’s rich multicultural identity.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, many visitors immediately wore the bead necklaces, bracelets, headpieces and ethnic accessories they had just purchased, bringing even more colour to the festival grounds.
Foreign visitors also embraced the experience, with many seeking assistance from exhibitors to properly wear traditional beadwork and headpieces, allowing them to immerse themselves in the festival’s cultural ambience.
Throughout the festival site, ethnic-inspired attire and accessories were a common sight, reinforcing RWMF’s identity as a celebration of cultural diversity from around the world.
Beyond handicrafts, local entrepreneurs also used the festival to promote a variety of Sarawak-made products.
Among the products drawing attention were items made from ikan bulu, alongside natural beauty products produced using locally sourced ingredients and an assortment of traditional foods that proved popular with visitors.
