KUCHING: Early response to the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2026 remains encouraging despite higher air travel costs, which have emerged as one of the main challenges facing the tourism industry this year.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said concerns over rising airfares had been among the issues closely monitored ahead of the festival, particularly following developments in the Middle East that could affect global travel costs.
As a destination that relies heavily on air connectivity, Sarawak remains vulnerable to fluctuations in flight prices, which could influence visitor arrivals to major events such as RWMF.
“One of the things I worried about when the conflict in the Middle East began was the domino effect it could have on many sectors, including airfares.
“I acknowledge that flight ticket prices have increased and that could certainly affect Rainforest. However, ticket sales remain strong and the response from visitors from Kuala Lumpur and various countries has been very encouraging,” he told reporters after officiating at the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) 2026 here today.
Abdul Karim said the continued interest reflected the strength of the RWMF brand among international visitors, including dignitaries and members of the diplomatic community who choose to attend the festival in a personal capacity.
He added that several members of royal families are also expected to attend the three-day festival with their families.
“This shows that what we have been working on all these years is being well received.
“People also see Rainforest as a safe place. Parents who allow their children to attend are confident that the environment is well managed, and we want to ensure it remains free from unwanted activities,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Sharzede Datuk Salleh Askor, said ticket sales have continued to show positive momentum despite the higher cost of air travel.
She said official figures would only be announced on the festival’s opening day, but early indications suggest sales are on track to match or come close to last year’s performance.
According to her, most ticket buyers so far have come from Southeast Asia, particularly Singapore, Brunei and Peninsular Malaysia.
“We have received strong support from Peninsular Malaysia as well as neighbouring ASEAN countries.
“For long haul markets, the numbers from Europe are not as high this year, but Australia is performing well and we also hope to see continued growth from the Indian market,” she said.
Sharzede added that STB has also partnered with Malaysian Aviation Group (MAG), the festival’s platinum sponsor, to offer travel packages aimed at making it easier for visitors to attend the event.
