KUCHING: Visitors to the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 are getting more than a musical experience this year, with Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara’s (DBKU) free e-Penambang rides offering a glimpse into how heritage and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Introduced for the first time at the festival, the electric-powered traditional river craft forms part of RWMF’s broader sustainability efforts, complementing initiatives such as Green Ruai, Green Warriors, recycling programmes, water refill stations, and waste reduction measures that encourage more environmentally responsible festival experiences.
DBKU engineer, Abang Mohd Nashriq, said the showcase allows festivalgoers to experience how the traditional penambang has been modernised with electric propulsion while preserving its cultural heritage.
“The e-Penambang is part of our revitalisation project for the existing penambang operating along the Sarawak River.
“Traditionally, these boats were powered by petrol engines, but we have converted them to electric motors to reduce energy consumption and noise,” he said.
Festivalgoers can enjoy complimentary rides around the lake at the Sarawak Cultural Village throughout the three-day event.
Nashriq said the initiative also serves as a platform for DBKU to introduce its latest e-Penambang prototype, which is currently undergoing testing before being rolled out for public use.
He explained that while 12 traditional penambang equipped with electric motors are already operating along the Sarawak River, the vessel showcased at RWMF represents a newer model still under development.
“We hope to introduce it by the end of this year or next year, but it is still undergoing the necessary processes, so we cannot confirm the timeline yet,” he said.
Nashriq said the response has been encouraging since the festival opened today, with many visitors keen to experience the quieter, smoother ride compared with conventional petrol-powered boats.
He said the electric motor significantly reduces engine noise, providing passengers with a quieter and more comfortable ride.
“The penambang has been part of life along the Sarawak River for generations. We want people to appreciate this heritage while seeing how it can evolve through sustainable innovation,” he said.
Nashriq encouraged festivalgoers to take advantage of the complimentary rides, available until the close of RWMF on Sunday, and experience how one of Kuching’s oldest modes of transport is being reimagined for a greener future.
