Psst… Less than a week to go. If you haven’t checked out Kuching Food Festival 2022. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED with a wideeee range of choices from crocodile soup to icecream Goreng!
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River Snail Spicy Noodles
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Sarawak is
HUUUUGEEEEEE, but that doesn't mean you need a whole week to have fun around Kuching. Let's see what's involved in a Kuching drive.
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Positioned as the main gateway to Central Sarawak and the largest port and commercial centre in the Rejang basin, Sibu is a thriving modern town that will charm you with its historical and cultural heritage, vibrant food scenes and beautiful waterfront life.
Although Sibu may not always be the first choice of destination when it comes to visiting Sarawak, the unique charms of Sibu town that it is a down-to-earth place filled with friendly smiles everywhere will not disappoint. For those looking for an opportunity to explore Sibu, here are some of the highlights which might inspire you to explore this vibrant town.
Sungai Merah Heritage Walk
History buffs, rejoice! In a town that is predominantly Fuzhou since migration of early settlers originating from the Fuzhou region in southern China began in 1901, it is no surprise that you will be surrounded by Fuzhou cultural heritage buildings throughout the city. You can begin your Fuzhou trail in Sibu by visiting Sungai Merah, the earliest riverine settlement of the Fuzhou Chinese in Sibu. Wong Nai Siong, a Chinese Revolutionary leader responsible for leading the Fuzhou migration to Sibu, decided after travelling for 13 days down the Rejang River that Sungai Merah was the most suitable place to start a new settlement due to its strategic riverbank location.
Sungai Merah Heritage Walk, Sibu (Photo by Sarawak Tourism Board)
The trail then led us to Wong Nai Siong Memorial Garden which was built in honour of Sibu’s principal founder and features a bronze bust of him. You can also find more information about the history of the Fuzhou community in Sibu here.
Wong Nai Siong Memorial Garden (Photo by Sarawak Tourism Board)
We finally reached the end of our heritage walk with the James Hoover Memorial Park, commemorating the renowned Methodist missionary and educator, Reverend James Matthew Hoover from the USA who helped to build 41 churches and 40 schools all over Sibu. He helped to manage the settlement after Wong Nai Siong left from 1903 to 1935. You can read more about his journey, contributions and achievements here.
James Hoover Memorial Park (Photo by Sarawak Tourism Board)
Sibu Night Market
After all the walking earlier, our stomachs began to growl in hunger. Our local guide informed us that Sibu’s night market is a must-visit place when it comes to searching for good local food at night. Our eyes glistened at the sight of assembled food ranging from Sibu’s signature Kompia (Sibu’s version of a bagel) with meat filling, inside barbequed pork, local savoury desserts such as yam cake and youtiao (a deep-fried Chinese breadstick), steamy dim sums, to local Malay cuisines and of course, satay served with peanut sauce.
While enjoying our snacks and walking around, we found ourselves in another section of the market where visitors can shop for affordable items such as souvenirs, clothes, shoes, accessories and more! This is a plus point for those who need a quick “fashion fix”, a wardrobe change or just need to buy a gift.
The market usually operates from 5 pm till 10 pm every evening and we’d say this place is definitely worth a visit as it is perfect for an evening stroll and getting to know the locals better.
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1. EAT LAKSA SARAWAK & KOLO MEE
THE two favourite signature breakfast meals of Kuching are without a doubt Laksa Sarawak and Kolok Mee. A visitor to Sarawak cannot leave without having a taste of these two iconic dishes.
Ranked the No. 1 Food in Asia by TasteAtlas and dubbed as ‘The Breakfast of the Gods’ by the late Anthony Bourdain, Sarawak Laksa consists of vermicelli rice noodles soaked in a spicy-sour shrimp-based broth made from over 30 different herbs and spices, thickened with coconut milk, topped with crunchy beansprouts, boiled prawns, shredded chicken, thin slices of omelette, a sprinkling of fresh coriander, served with spicy sambal made from pounded chillies and belacan (shrimp paste) and a freshly cut calamansi (golden lime).
Kolok Mee is a bowl of fresh noodles cooked perfectly al-dente, swirled vigourously in lard and vinegar until each strand is evenly coated, topped with slices of char siew (barbequed pork) and minced pork, dressed with chopped spring onions and sliced chillies. Kolok Mee can also be enriched with fishballs, wontons and vegetables such as choy sum. Halal versions of Kolok Mee can be found at Muslim outlets.
Sarawak Laksa
2. FEED THE ORANGUTANS AT SEMENGGOH
Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, located 20 kilometers south of Kuching, is a renowned sanctuary for the conservation of the orangutans in their natural habitat. For over 20 years, the wardens at Semenggoh Nature Reserve have been training young orangutans, who had been orphaned or rescued from captivity, how to survive in the wild. They spend most of their time roaming the forest but frequently come back to the Centre for a free meal. During feeding time, visitors will gain the golden opportunity to interact with the orangutans as they will swing down from trees for a free hand out of fruits.
3. KAYAKING AT SEMADANG RIVER
Adrenaline junkies will love the wide variety of all-inclusive day-trip adventure tours along Semadang River, ranging from river kayaking, bamboo-rafting, caving and jungle trekking. The Semadang Kayaking experience includes all kayaking, rafting and caving activities. Also, after a massive workout from kayaking, visitor can further enrich their local culinary experience with some traditional, home-cooked food using locally-sourced ingredients by the river.
4. EAT GULA APONG ICE CREAM
Good news for dessert lovers – you will love Sarawak’s Gula Apong Ice-cream. Gula Apong is a type of palm sugar made from nipah palm, which grows abundantly in the coastal lowlands in Sarawak. It has a subtly different, nuttier flavour compated to the gula melaka in West Malaysia. Vanilla ice-cream really tastes best when gula apong syrup is drizelled over it, or you can also enjoy gula apong flavoured ice cream.
5. EXPLORE MULU NATIONAL PARK
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a trip to Mulu National Park is a must when you are in Sarawak. Located in Miri, Mulu is well known for its rich biodiversity and its karst features. The varied topography of Gunung Mulu National Park includes swampy lowland rainforests, towering limestone cliffs, and lofty sandstone mountains – these provide a great diversity of habitats and are one of the reasons behind the astounding biodiversity of this reserve. Mulu’s most remarkable feature is the world’s finest karst collapse and the 50metre-tall razor-sharp limestone Pinnacles on the northern end of Gunung Api.
6. DEEP SEA DIVING AT MIRI-SIBUTI CORAL REEFS NATIONAL PARK
The Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park is a protected area, and the thriving marine life is a testament to this. There are over 40 dive sites throughout the park with something suitable for divers of all levels. Among the popular dive spots in the national park include Belais Reef, Anemone Garden and the exciting Barracuda Point where a school of the large predator can be seen swirling in a never-ending circle.
7. TREKKING AT GUNUNG GADING NATIONAL PARK
To all hikers, nature, wildlife and jungle enthusiasts – are you looking for a challenging jungle trekking adventure in a tranquil, lush, natural and timeless environment? Then Gunung Gading National Park is the place to be. Gunung Gading is home to the rare Rafflesia, which is also known as the corpse flower because of the stench it gives off while it is blooming. There are a number of treks at the park and not all of them will feature the Rafflesia, so be sure to tell your guide beforehand if you want to see it in all its glory and he will take you where you will be able to spot it. Some of the jungle trails here will also lead you to scenic waterfalls and jungle streams. Have a refreshing swim at these ice-cool waters before you leave.
8. MORNING BIRDWATCHING AT KUBAH NATIONAL PARK
Kubah National Park is situated on a sandstone plateau, mostly covered by mixed dipterocarp forest which interspersed with patches of scrub and unusually rich area of Kerangas forest, is the home of mammals, birds & many species of reptiles and amphibians. Upon arrival, bird watchers can aim to spot some endemic species like Blue-banded pitta, Bornean blue-flycatcher, Yellow-rumped flowerpecker, Bornean Black-magpie, Chestnut-crested yuhina, Dusky munia & etc.
9. EXPERIENCE THE SERENITY OF BARIO
Lying at an altitude of about 3,500 feet above sea level in the north-eastern corner of Sarawak is the famous Bario Highlands, a Kelabit territory, one of the minority Orang Ulu tribes of Sarawak. Bario means ‘Wind’ in Kelabit language. It is the gateway to the Kelabit highlands with about thirteen villages are located in & around Bario area, with Kampung Bario Asal being the first. This is a must-visit longhouse where one can see the ancient timbers of the unique kitchen darkened by the constant smoke of generations of cooking fires. Bario’s most enchanting attraction is its’ the calmness, the serenity and the natural splendour of its surroundings against a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of paddy fields at the base of mist-covered hills standing tall as far as the eye.
10. VISIT SIBU’S TUA PEK KONG
The Eng Ann Tua Peng Kong was founded more than a 100 years ago, making it the oldest and best-preserved Chinese Temple in Sibu. From the original wooden structure, it was rebuilt in 1897 with an adjacent 7-storey Goddes of Mercy (Kuan Yin) Pagoda, considered as one of the most perfectly proportioned pagodas outside of Mainland China. Tourists not only visit the temple for religious purposes but also to climb its steps to enjoy the magnificent sunset view overlooking the Rajang Rivers and the Sibu Waterfront.
STB has launched its Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus interstate travel campaign, to give travellers the opportunity to visit Sarawak through its main tourism gateways, namely Kuching, Sibu and Miri, with Malaysia Airlines as the official airline.
Read more about our Sia Sitok Sarawak Plus campaign here.
Meanwhile you can plan your visit to our spectacular getaways now by booking flights and accomodation here.
And take advantage of the tours we have prepared for you here.
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Fresh ingredients with bold flavours gathered from the jungle.
The natural resources of the rainforests are a source of livelihood for the natives of Sarawak, and people back in the old days came up with various cooking methods and jungle food which are still put to practice to this day. Sarawakian ethnic tribes would utilize any resources found in their surroundings and nature to use as cooking tools and food sources.
In Sarawak, the jungle is your kitchen. Pic: Shutterstock
The jungle can literally be their kitchen. By using mother nature’s earthly elements and resources, Sarawakians can pull off all sorts of dishes that are deemed meals made for the gods.
Sarawak cuisine and its long traditional cooking methods have been passed down from one generation to the next. Traditional cuisine is still being served to this day at home, food stalls and restaurants in Sarawak due to its simple recipe and exquisite taste.
Wild ingredients you can find
Fresh ingredients with bold flavours gathered from the jungle. Pic: Shutterstock
In Sarawakian traditional cuisine, the freshness of the ingredients plays an important part in the jungle kitchen.
Other than the common ingredients that are easily found elsewhere like salt, ginger, and pepper, Sarawak has many indigenous ingredients to offer which can only be found in the jungle like asam paya, nibong, daun jampang and
terung asam (local eggplant) to name a few.
Buah dabai (Canarium Odontophyllum) eaten with sugar and soy sauce. Pic: Shutterstock
Aside from the famous wild vegetable midin, buah dabai is also exclusively grown here on the island of Borneo. Buah dabai (Canarium Odontophyllum from the family of Burseraceae) is a native fruit and considered a local olive. Locals would usually eat this with sugar and soy sauce.
These ingredients are available all year round and can be found in local stores.
Anything is possible in the jungle
Mother nature’s very own cooking pot – the bamboo stalk. Pic: queenbalkid
Now that you know what ingredients and resources are used to make these traditional jungle food, what about the kitchenware? What sort of equipment did the natives use to concoct these dishes back in the old days? With the resources of the jungle, one can get creative.
First off, bamboo is gathered in the wild and used as a pot to cook. Bamboo is also used to store and carry the ingredients around in the jungle. The versatility of the bamboo stalk does not stop there – it also acts as a cup.
And then there are the isip leaves which are used as a plate like the banana leaves platter in local mamak cafes. Not only that, theisip
leaves are also used to wrap rice so that the rice packs can be carried around and consumed anywhere.
Besides isip leaves, the sago tree barks are used as bowls to serve dishes in larger portions, and these choices of natural tableware are environmental-friendly.
Innovate with Mother Nature
As for traditional cooking methods in Sarawak, the methods commonly practiced are fermentation, boiling and smoked cooking.
Take ayam pansuh for example, chicken is stuffed in a bamboo stalk and cooked over an open fire. The bamboo is continuously rotated to avoid burning.
Another example is umai, a traditional delicacy made of thinly sliced raw fish fermented with asam paya (swamp fruit), lime juice, onions, chilies, and a pinch of salt. The lime juice acid works into the raw fish naturally curing the fish. Be sure to use a fish of good grade for better quality.
As for smoked cooking, locals prefer this method to cooking over the fire as it requires less wood, and the fire itself is controlled to avoid any unwanted fire hazards in the jungle.
The umai – get the one with ikan parang (Dorab wolf-herring). Pic: Dylan
The Sarawak rainforest is more than just a jungle – it is also the biggest kitchen in the world
Despite the technological advancement made in kitchen, traditional cooking in Borneo is very much alive and is still in practice to this day. Cooking traditional Sarawak food requires a delicate touch, patience and innovative thinking using the natural elements from the surrounding. With Sarawak’s rich biodiversity, there are also various types of produce found in the jungle that have health benefits.
If you are keen to learn more about Traditional Sarawak jungle food, be sure to check out this article; https://sarawaktourism.com/story/sarawak-is-more-than-just-kolo-mee/
listing out the traditional cuisine that you can find in Sarawak.
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Glimpses of the past at the well-preserved Fort Hose.. Pic: Azmir Azali Bujang)A brief look at Sarawak Forts, Sarawak’s first line of defence during the British colonial reign.
The Brooke dynasties have long relinquished their reign over Sarawak but their influence and presence during the early formative years of the land of the hornbills is still evident today. They played a significant role in the history and shaping of Sarawak.
For instance, some of the current ordinances and regulations of the state are carried over from the past. Monuments and buildings of varying importance grew in numbers during the Brooke’s administration, as did the population of the local communities during then. These building structures form an impressive part of the physical landscape of Sarawak today, and have become popular tourist attractions.
And these important structures include forts. The Brooke family built several forts across Sarawak — over 20 to be exact.
The front of Fort Margherita. Pic: ShutterstockWonder why so many forts were built during the Brooke era? After all, this was not the medieval times when it was impertinent to fend off enemies amidst warfare.
But, like the predecessors in the Middle Ages, these structures were built exactly for that — to protect the local communities from enemies. This was the very first line of defence put up for the people as James Brooke joined forces with the then Sultan of Brunei, Pengiran Indera Mahkota, as they took down a rebellion led by pirates.
Fort Alice
Fort Alice is still standing strong. Pic: Shutterstock
These forts deteriorated over the decades and restoration works were carried out to some. As a result, some of these historical buildings became magical time capsules for people to experience and appreciate as they were in their glory days.
One of these is Fort Alice in Sri Aman. The fort was built in 1864, using entirely Belian (ironwood) timber. It was also fitted with a drawbridge, lookout towers and cannons. An interesting fact is that Fort Alice was built from the materials from another structure, Fort James in Nanga Skrang. The fort was named in remembrance of Charles Brooke’s wife, Margaret Alice Lili de Windt.
Fort Margherita
Fort Margherita in all its glory. Pic: Shutterstock
Another one is Fort Margherita which is well known and popular among tourists. It was also named after Charles Brooke’s beloved wife, whose first name was Margaret. It is located along the Sarawak River in Kuching, near the Astana and opposite the city centre.
This 19th century three-storeyed fortress resembles an English castle. By 1971, the building was converted to become a police museum, and subsequently handed over to the Sarawak Government.
Fort Sylvia
Fort Sylvia
Up north in Kapit, located next to the Rajang River basin lies Fort Sylvia. It was relocated further down the river from its initial location at Nangga Baleh in 1880, and it functioned as the administrative centre for the division at that time. Fort Sylvia also doubled as the station for the Sarawak Rangers, the para-military force founded by Charles Brooke.
Fort Hose
Finally, we have Fort Hose in Marudi, which was built in 1901. Unlike the forts mentioned earlier, it did not get its name from the Brooke family, but was named after the Resident of the Fourth Division (Baram) in 1891, Charles Hose.
The fortress sits on top of the hill, overlooking the Baram river, with two large cannons positioned at the front to ward off invaders from attacking the local communities.
Old Forts, New life
Most of the surviving forts have been given a new lease of life, preserving the longstanding legacies and histories that live within their respective walls.
Fort Alice, or Sri Aman Heritage Museum is now refurbished as a gallery to showcase the stories of the Iban people and the British soldiers during the Brooke administration. The restoration efforts of this colonial building were commended, as it won the Gold Award from Malaysia Institute of Architects’ Awards 2017 under the conservation category.
Fort Margherita is a well-known tourist attraction, due to its strategic location which is nearby the new Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building. It now houses an exhibition hall showcasing the history of Sarawak under the Brooke’s rule.
The peacekeeping ceremony among the Iban, Kayan, Kenyah and Kajang people at Fort Sylvia lives on. By May 1997, the Tun Jugah Foundation took over the restoration works for this historical monument to preserve and promote Kapit’s cultural heritage. Today, Fort Sylvia serves as a museum of artefacts and historical documents. There is also a section dedicated to showcasing the mementos, uniforms, medals, and other personal possessions of Tun Jugah, one of the prominent leaders of Sarawak’s independence movement.
Glimpses of the past at the well-preserved Fort Hose.. Pic: Azmir Azali Bujang)
Over the years, authorities have converted Fort Hose into a district office, a welfare department, immigration department, Land and Survey department, information department, and even the community development office of Penan Handicraft Exhibition Centre. After the building was engulfed by fire in 1994, the local communities were quick to aid in the reconstruction by contributing Belian poles. Now, Fort Hose stands proudly as the Baram Regional Museum which showcases the illustrious heritage and culture of the Orang Ulu communities.
Although this is nowhere an exhaustive list of all surviving Sarawak forts we have in the state today, we hope to have piqued your interest to find out more about the other surviving forts state-wide.
It is crucial for all responsible parties to conserve and restore these historical monuments, not just as tourist attractions but also to tell the historical stories to future generations.
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Sarawakians pride themselves on living in a land of wonder and excitement, where endless experiences await those who dare to come. There is so much to do in Sarawak besides spending your weekend in Kuching strolling by the waterfront. Let us explore the rivers of Mukah.
Enter Mukah, the deceivingly sleepy capital of Mukah division. This central region is located along the coast of Sarawak. It is also commonly associated with Pesta Kaul (Kaul festival) which is celebrated by the Melanau community.
The veins of Mukah. Pic: Shutterstock
The rivers of Mukah
The Melanau heartland has an abundance of nature interweaved with culture. It has been this way for centuries. There is no denying that the geographical location of this idyllic town illustrates how the rivers, Batang Mukah, Batang Oya, Batang Igan and Batang Rajang, plays a significant role in the lives of people who live here, creating a nurturing bond between nature and its inhabitants.
So, what can we look forward to in Mukah?
To find out more we need to learn about the Melanau people first. According to anthropologists, Melanaus are among the original settlers of Sarawak (The Report: Sarawak 2008, 2008). The name “Melanau” itself was said to be given to the inhabitants of the coastal swamp flats and the riverbanks of Sarawak’s central region by one of the Sultans of Brunei.
Pesta Kaul unites the Melanau people and the community in Mukah. Image: STB
In the early days, the Melanau people adhered closely to a belief system that intertwined their lives with their surrounding nature. You can see how prevalent this is in Pesta Kaul, a ceremonial festival to appease the spirits of the sea, Ipok.
Pesta Kaul
On the festive day of Pesta Kaul, offerings such as food, cigarettes and betel nuts are placed on poles called seraheng, which are then brought to the river in a boat procession to please the spirits. Next, bapak Kaul (‘father’ or leader of the Kaul festival) scatters yellow rice around the food offerings as an invitation to Ipok to feast on them. This is followed by prayers and chants to Ipok to increase providence for the coming year.
Over the years, regardless of the diversity of various religious beliefs and practices, Pesta Kaul traditions and activities still play an important role in bringing the community together.
Traditionally, Melanaus have been mostly farmers, traders, and sago producers but they have been recognised as fine boat builders and fishermen. There is no coincidence that Pesta Kaul is held during the northeast monsoon in April. During this period, the seas are very rough, and the villagers often must endure flooding, which spells hardship for the Melanaus and their livelihood.
The rivers are considered the cradle of civilisation in Mukah, and they continue to serve its inhabitants till today. Fishing is one of the major sources of livelihood as it is a vital industry to the local people. Pay a visit to the local fish market and you will be delighted to discover a range of fresh-from-the-sea produce such as local red snappers, pomfret, stingray, mackerel, terubok and shrimps.
Sago
Another important source of income for Mukah inhabitants is sago production. Sago is derived from sago palms trees. They grow abundantly on the coastal areas of Mukah due to its fertile, swampy peat soil. The locals have cultivated sago for centuries and it has become an integral part of their daily lives. Sago based local delicacies such as tebaloi and kuih sepit are popular amongst the locals and tourists alike. These foods have become the pride of the Melanau community.
The sago palm trees are transported via the rivers in Mukah to the factories for processing. Mukah is truly a living example of nature, culture and inhabitants cohabiting and functioning as one ecosystem.
To discover more about fascinating Mukah and its interesting activities, check out https://sarawaktourism.com/tours_activities/mukah-melanau-cultural-heartland/
Get ready to immerse yourself in the culture, nature, and excitement of this coastal town as you traverse along the scenic rivers that tell a thousand tales.
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Your favourite Sarawak dish was just crowned the Best Asian Food by TasteAtlas, with a score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. With such a recognition, we now know why the late Anthony Bourdain called Sarawak Laksa “The Breakfast of the Gods” and he’s absolutely right.
TasteAtlas, the world’s first interactive food map, describes dishes and ingredients from all over the world. The platform allows users to search by ingredient, place or dish, providing a wealth of food knowledge just at the click of a button. It calls itself as a “world atlas of traditional dishes, local ingredients and authentic restaurants”.
Source: TasteAtlas website: https://www.tasteatlas.com/
Sarawak Laksa
Sarawak Laksa is unique because its influences are not from one dominant community where the dish was originated by the Kuching Peranakan (Straits Chinese) community. Instead, it’s a cornucopia of local tastes and flavours unique to the varied people of Borneo.
Sarawak Laksa is a noodle dish made up of vermicelli rice noodles soaked in a shrimp-based broth brewed from 30 different herbs and spices, thickened with coconut milk then topped with beansprouts, boiled prawns, shredded chicken, slices of omelette and fresh coriander. A local secret to enhance its flavour is to add a squeeze of lime and some sambal belacan (shrimp paste).
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Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind and experience living with the indigenous people of Sarawak. Replace hot hotel showers with cool and refreshing river dips. Forget artificial air-conditioners as you enjoy the cool and fresh air of the natural surroundings. Get connected to nature as you embark on an authentic Sarawak longhouse experience.
Sarawak is truly a celebration of different cultures. Malaysia’s largest state is home to 27 ethnic groups speaking 45 different languages and dialects. Each group boasts their very own unique stories, beliefs, traditions and cultures.
Enjoy the culinary delights of the different cultures, dance to traditional music played by master musicians on unique Sarawakian instruments, listen to the stories, folklore and legends of the respective ethnic groups and discover the meanings of the tribal tattoos. No indigenous-living experience is more complete, authentic and fulfilling than spending a day with the local community at a longhouse — usually located approximately an hour’s drive away from the nearest city or town. Other longhouses may require boat rides that cut through forests.
Morning view outside Sarawak Cultural Village longhouse architectural model. Pic: Damian Pankowiec
What is a traditional Sarawak longhouse experience?
Sarawak is a constantly evolving state and this has seen many of the longhouses being rebuilt with bricks and mortar. Despite this, there is still a number of longhouses located all across the state that has remained true to their roots. Many of these also provide lodging for guests to provide them with an authentic Sarawak longhouse experience.
Bear in mind though that the experience provided aims to be as genuine as possible. As such some of these longhouses may not have access to direct electricity and may require generators to keep electrical appliances and devices running. It is therefore recommended to bring your own portable power sources for your needs. But fret not – you would probably not use your smart devices much as the longhouse communities have plenty of activities planned for you to partake in and enjoy.
A ruai is a long communal space in a traditional longhouse. Pic: Robas
A traditional longhouse is – as the name implies – a house that extends in length. It can accommodate up to thirty families. The house stands on stilts and a large area of the structure is made up of a long communal space called ruai. Upon arriving at a longhouse, you will be immediately greeted by the chief and the community with the traditional welcoming ngajat dance alongside tabuh music. Thereon, let the food and celebrations begin.
Activities
A stay at the longhouse truly allows you to take a step back and smell the roses. You will find yourself enjoying the views and the morning sunlight as you lounge and relax at the ruai in the mornings. Watch the locals go about their daily activities as they harvest their crops. The surrounding land, functions like an extension of the longhouse. It is usually laden with crops, produce and farm animals. These lands are owned by the families of the community, but some families own bigger farming plots further from the longhouse of which will require longer travel.
If you do not mind mosquito bites – as well as a bit of dirt under your nails – you might enjoy keeping the locals company during their bumai business. Sipping cold coffee from plastic flasks in the afternoon during bumai breaks and enjoying the lush-green view and fresh forest air is a humbling and rewarding life experience.
Weaving rattan mats and baskets in the longhouse. Pic: Matyas Rehak
If you are more of an indoor person, you can choose to partake in a number of activities at the
ruai. When not busy raising the young ones, the local women will carry out handicraft projects. These include weaving mats and baskets from rattan. On some occasions, you may get to observe an indigenous woman weaving ceremonial cloth on a large wood loom. You can also give it a try and see if this is a skill you can bring home with you.
Eat like the locals
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and the Sarawakians know this. Do not be surprised if you are served a meal as heavy as that of lunch and dinner for breakfast. If your refreshing morning cold bath of gathered water does not wake you, the bitter but aromatic freshly brewed coffee prepared by your host will perk you up after a good night’s sleep on a floor mattress.
Dinner is often served on the rattan mat spread out on the floor in the evenings. The local delicacies are wide-ranging – from chicken cooked in bamboo, the Dayak’s tomato-like sour eggplant cooked with clear soup and dried fish, to fermented Chinese herring or kasam terubok, stir fried cangkuk manis and taro roots.
Priceless experiences and memories
A cosy family bedroom at the longhouse for guests of all ages. Pic: Sarawak Tourism Board
As you start preparing to leave for your home, take one last look around the longhouse. You will be amazed at how sturdy the structure is even after decades of withstanding the hot and humid climate of Sarawak and the tropical storms associated with the Borneo rainforests.
Feel the cool rattan mats beneath your bare feet and hear the morning roosters crowing from their coops. The children will gather in the
ruai
to observe with keen eyes as you gather your belongings, and to bid farewell.
You take one last Instagram photo with your host and the chief. You strap on your sandals at the bottom of the stairs and make your way back to the city with a gift of home-brewed rice wine gifted by your host, a warm heart filled with priceless memories and an amazing Sarawak longhouse experience.
We love an ideal kampung retreat. Experiences at different villages and communities will bring about different surprises. Check out the
Iban Longhouse Tour
and
Mongkos Longhouse Daytrip
or visit the best of multiple tribes with the
Sarawak Cultural Village
package.
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People of different generations, races and cultures have different beauty standards. For example, drooping shoulders on women in ancient China were considered beautiful, whereas westerners regard flat shoulders on women as more attractive. Sarawak also has its own definition of beauty - let us kick things off with the ring ladies of Borneo.
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There was once a traditional healer whose wife fell ill. In a dream, the healer was told to carve out a piece of tree and string it with pineapple fibres. He was instructed to use this newly crafted musical instrument to play tunes for his wife to aid her healing. He did exactly that once he awoke and miraculously his wife got well.
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Explore the secrets of Sarawak's Semadang, a tourist location well known for its Kayaking and bamboo rafting adventures.Semadang may not be the first location that comes to mind when we think of tourist stops in Sarawak, but this scenic site certainly has many exciting adventures and experiences to offer. Located approximately an hour and a half from Kuching City, Semadang sits at the fringe of Jalan Puncak Borneo, tucked away in the Padawan district. Adrenaline junkies will have a field day here as Semadang takes pride in being the epicentre of some exciting water activities such as kayaking and rafting.
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If there is one fruit that can divide people in the world of food, it is undoubtedly durian, the King of Fruits. Popular in Southeast Asia, durians - as well as Sarawak's wild durians - are tropical fruits with a thorny exterior and has a fearsome reputation for its pungent smell which can linger for hours. Despite this, it should still be on your top 10 exotic food to try at least once. The ‘King of Fruits’ Durian.
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Learn more about Sarawak's wildlife.Sarawak is a land of hidden treasures. Approximately two-thirds of Sarawak’s land area is covered in dense rainforests. This means that it is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the land. Let us look at some of these wildlife that call Sarawak home.
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Sarawak has an equatorial climate. This means that Malaysia’s largest state experiences year-long summer-type temperatures. Approximately two-thirds of Sarawak’s land area comprise tropical rainforest. The state also experiences high amounts of annual rainfall. All of this translates to a hot and humid climate with average temperature of around 28 degrees Celsius. To combat the heat, Sarawakians have incorporated cool desserts into their diets to...
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Some of us eat to live while others live to eat. As we continue to live with Covid-19 in Sarawak, we are reminded on the importance of keeping ourselves safe by complying with current health regulations and precautionary measures. We can however look back at previous celebrations and festivals to remind us of what we have to look forward to in the near future.
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Sarawak is blessed with natural beauty and resources. It boasts a large collection of flora and fauna that is endemic to the island of Borneo but many are unaware of the treasures Sarawak possesses under the sea. Take a dive into the mesmerising world that is hidden under Sarawak’s waters.Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National ParkThe Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park is located in Miri, Sarawak.
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Sarawak is truly a celebration of different cultures. Malaysia’s largest state is home to 27 ethnic groups speaking 45 different languages and dialects. Each group boasts their very own unique stories, beliefs, traditions and cultures. Lets explore the Iban Lifestyle.The Iban people are the largest ethnic group of Sarawak. They were known and feared in the past for their legendary headhunting customs.
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The world has gone crazy for cats. From online videos to photo sharing sites, content creators are trying to capitalise on the popularity of our feline friends. Businesses are also trying to take advantage of this in the form of cat cafes and cat libraries. But did you know Sarawak has always understood the significance of cats in culture? Introducing Kuching, the cat city.
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KUCHING, 16 June 2021- Fans of the iconic Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) are going to be able to relive the feel of the iconic event virtually this year when the event gets underway this Friday. RWMF 2021, a virtual experience featuring a retrospective of past RWMF performances and new pre-recorded sessions with homegrown acts will be shown on RWMF’s official site www.rwmf.net, TVS and Shopee Live from 6pm to 7.30pm every day from 18-20 June.
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Take a step back in time as you walk through the ancient town of Siniawan. The century-old town is located in the Bau district, approximately 21km from Kuching or a drive of about 40 minutes. It holds historic significance and is well known among Sarawakians for its rustic charm and traditional wooden shop houses.
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Sarawakians love to eat and we take pride in our food. Sarawak is home to 27 ethnic groups, each with their own unique stories, beliefs, traditions, cultures and, of course, food.From the world-renowned Sarawak laksa to our own version of sashimi and everyone’s favourite kolo mee. Let us take a look at what are the local delicacies that fuel Sarawakians.
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Miri has plenty to offer for those who know where to look. Sarawak’s second largest city is home to many famous attractions, hidden gems and surprises that will wow and charm you. The coastal city offers beautiful seas and beaches, diving spots, mountains and cave systems that make it stand out as a travel destination like no other.
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Tropical rainforests make up two-thirds of the land area in Sarawak. This means that Malaysia’s largest state is filled with a plethora of amazing flora and fauna. Those interested in experiencing the beautiful wildlife that Sarawak has to offer can do so by making a quick stop to the Kubah National Park, located approximately 40 minutes from Kuching. The Kubah National Park is filled with amazing plants and animals but today we will take a ...
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Sarawakians are familiar with the undisputed “King of Fruits”, the durian. The fruit enjoys extreme popularity among Malaysians but there are also those who are turned away by its pungent taste and aroma. But did you know that there is more than one way to enjoy eating “durian”?
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Sarawak Tourism Board continues the collaboration with Grab Academy for second cohort of Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing driver. KUCHING, 12 April 2021 – Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in collaboration with Grab Malaysia (GRAB) today certified 1,000 Grab drivers for the ‘Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing drivers’ with the objective of making them as Sarawak Tourism Ambassadors.
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Sarawak, a city that has all the conveniences of a modern place also comes with non-cityish attractions such as mysterious caves and beautiful rainforests. It is a contrasting nostalgic mix of modern meets nature.How do the locals live? This is a question that has often been asked.
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The beauty of the natural scenery is hard to put into words; to truly appreciate it, one needs to experience it in person. Take a big step towards Sarawak’s Borneo in Malaysia where mysterious rainforests, various kinds of wild animals, and marvelous underwater world awaits you.Follow this guide to unveil the mystery in Sarawak.
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KUCHING - Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) today officiated its second participation at the international virtual marketing trade shows and fairs by participating in ITB Berlin NOW.Held annually in Berlin, Germany, ITB Berlin is the world’s largest travel trade fair that gathers over 10,000 exhibitors from up to 180 countries to exhibit their most innovative product and services in the travel industry.
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Wildlife conservation is a top priority for the government of Sarawak. The State is home to 22 national parks, four wildlife sanctuaries and five nature reserves covering a total of 710,884 hectares; offering refuge and sanctuary for many endangered species endemic to Borneo, including the orangutan, proboscis monkey, sun bear, brindled deer, dugong, Irrawaddy dolphin, sea turtle and many more.Bindi Irwin is the daughter of wildlife conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin.
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Petrosains PlaySmart™ Kuching features interactive exhibits and offers engaging and scientific based activities and programmes similar to the activities organized at Petrosains, The Discovery Centre in Suria KLCC. Located at the ground floor of the multipurpose hall block at Kuching Civic Centre, PlaySmart™ was established to extend the science centre experience to communities in Sarawak and to bring Petrosains closer to these communities.
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Chinese New Year in Sarawak provides the state with an opportunity to showcase its unique racial and cultural integration. This article highlights the festival in one of Sarawak’s major cities – Miri. Whether you celebrate Chinese New Year or not, being in Miri during Chinese New Year, is truly an extraordinary experience.
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If exploring amazing coral reefs or shipwrecks from World War II are one of the things that float your boat, then you will be pleasantly surprised by Sarawak’s fascinating underwater world. Kuching and Miri offer remarkable diving locations suitable for divers of all levels. Whether you are new to diving, your diving skills need some refreshing, or you are an experienced diver looking for a safe and local dive destination, there are operators providing scuba courses or guide services as well as rental of diving equipment to ensure you have an unforgettable underwater experience.
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Whilst in San Francisco in 2006, after having spent an entire day drawing and walking around the city, Enrico Casarosa initiated the idea of a drawing marathon, which he subsequently named ‘SketchCrawl™’. Although drawing, sketching or other passions concerning creativity are often regarded as something done in solitude, Enrico felt that the concept would be more...
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Calling all hikers, nature, wildlife and jungle enthusiasts! Are you looking for a challenging adventure holiday that involves jungle trekking in a tranquil, lush, natural and timeless environment? If you are, then look no further than Sarawak as it offers many packages dependent on your capabilities but all inclusive of mesmerising landscapes; magnificent jungles bursting with diverse wildlife and flora and pristine national parks. Jungle trekkers have an awesome choice of trekking routes, from mild to more challenging ones.
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Remember the final scene from the old-time favourite 1990 movie, Home Alone, when Kevin rushes downstairs on Christmas morning only to find his family was gone? Fast forward to the end of the movie and after all the adventures, the heartfelt moment when his mother returned home and hugged him before being reconciled with the rest of his family. Home with the family.
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There are many unique experiences in the beautiful Land of the Hornbills, but one that few people think of or are even aware of is a cycling adventure through spectacular heritage sites, quaint, rural villages alongside dense jungles, mighty rivers and mountains often wrapped in a gentle mist.
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Hi Everyone, WE NEED YOUR STORIES. Kuching Old Bazaar was one of the first bazaars in Sarawak. The area has witnessed many changes over the past 200 years of its history. They are gathering and writing the story of Kuching's old bazaar: the traditions, kinship and family trees, cuisine, lifestyle & festivals.
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Kuching, 9 November 2020 – Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) along with nine (9) local travel and tour operators will virtually take part in the the first-ever virtual World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global travel market held annually in London. After 40 years of having a physical event, WTM London 2020 is hosting a completely virtual event from 9-11 November 2020.
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It’s Friday night and you have just arrived home after a long day at work. You’re thinking of grabbing coffee and a quick bite, but that’s when you notice the piles of dirty laundry in the corner of your room! Don’t let that spoil your Friday night because in Sarawak, you can go somewhere for a nice cup of coffee, perhaps with cake or a croissant, while getting your laundry done…how is this possible?
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You have numerous amazing memories of fun-filled holidays to far off places. You made new friends, you have the souvenirs, you are rejuvenated and recharged, feeling better than ever and cannot wait to go on your next trip. But then you remember the credit card bills and doubt sets in! Getting on a plane for an overseas holiday is great fun but there’s always a price to pay.
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Sarawak Tourism Collaborates with Grab Academy to Introduce First of its Kind “Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing drivers”. Kuching, 26 October 2020 – Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in conjunction with Grab Malaysia (Grab) today launched the ‘Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing Drivers’, targeting 1,000 Grab drivers, with the objective of making them...
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Puteri Santubong and Puteri Sejinjang. An endearing tale of two princesses. Of jealousy, of heartache, of rage. A tragic ending albeit only a famous myth. But there is more to the glorious land of Sarawak than its myths, folk tales and legends. Sarawak has been in the spotlight for over a hundred years.
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A tourist experiencing Sarawakian longhouse hospitality & culture. Your flights and accommodation are booked. Your bags are all packed. Your travel documents are ready. It is now time for that long-awaited vacation.
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Picture of "Aria" for illustration purposes only. Aria carefully lifted the lid of the antique heavy brass jewellery box. It was old, rusty and had seen better days, but to her, it was a precious family treasure, but even more precious was the contents of the box. She took out a sparkling multi-strand. Intricately made from intertwined tiny glass beads, the beaded necklace looked a...
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With the MCO coming to an end, but international travel still way too uncertain, it’s time to explore Malaysia and in particular, Sarawak. Sarawak is unique in so many ways; so much so that even if you’ve been there before, we’re confident our list of beyond-the-usual recommendations will encourage you to make another trip.
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What’s the best way to plan a holiday when the whole world is on offer? Many travellers pick a country: they decide to ‘do’ Japan, visit Vietnam or travel round Thailand. Or else, they opt for an experience: amble round Angkor Watt, full moon party in Phuket, laze on the beach in Bali, or meditate in Mysore.
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Kuching – An old town for newcomers! All cities have their own mythologies. They announce an idea of their grand and special status to every newcomer, declaring their character through vaulted train stations, impressive edifices or triumphal arches. But Kuching, only 200 years old, is itself the city of the newcomer: a city of Brunei noblemen coming to control a territory, of adventurous immigrants looking for a new life, of an English family establishing a new country, of colonial powers expanding their territories.
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Serian – Checkpoint of the South Serian is the southern Sarawak gateway to everywhere. As you come up from Kuching, the first sense of Serian is a giant roundabout adorned with a giant durian. This is the compass, heading to the Indonesian border at Tebedu in one direction and then the interior in another, up past Balai Ringin and on to Sri Aman, Betong, Sibu, and the rest of the state.
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While travelling is still restricted at the moment, there is no harm to dream on travelling in an exotic land of Sarawak, the Land of the Hornbills.Especially when the biggest state in the country will be celebrating its most important festival - Hari Gawai or Harvest Festival on June 1, though in a controlled Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).While we wait to travel again, let's have a virtual tour on what makes Sarawak unique. And the best place for this is Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV), an award-winning Living Museum located just across the Damai Beach Resorts and Hotels.
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MEE Kolok or kolo mee is certainly one of Sarawak’s iconic dishes, received further fame when Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin mentioned Restoran Mee Kolok Hj Salleh based in Kuching, Sarawak during his recent announcement on the Prihatin Rakyat economic stimulus package for SMEs. If Sarawak Laksa has been dubbed as “Breakfast of the Gods” then Kolo Mee is another firm favourite among Sarawakians and some even dream of it when far away from home.
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Did you know that this drink was first enjoyed at the Fresh Food Court at 7th Mile Bazaar in Kota Sentosa, Kuching? TEH C Peng Special or 3-layer tea is a favourite local drink that you can find throughout Sarawak. Okay, for the uninitiated, let's break up the name definition.
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IT IS no secret that Malaysia’s tourism sector has been greatly impacted by the Covid-19 outbreak, similar to the fate suffered by so many countries worldwide. It will be necessary for the authorities and stakeholders to have strategic plans in place, when the movement control order (MCO) is lifted, to make travellers feel safe while travelling.
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Hari Gawai or Gawai Dayak as called by our East Malaysian brethren that falls on the 1st of June, is an auspicious day pf thanksgiving and merrymaking. Marking the ending of the harvest season.Hari Gawai is celebrated with fantastical displays of cultural practices that span thousands of year. a very important dish that's served during this enthralling holiday is Manok Pansuk.
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Sarawak has a reputation for diverse cultures but what is not so well known is the delectable food these diverse cultures have created. But wait, you may think that under a global lockdown it’s impossible to taste any of Sarawak's unique cultural food and normally you’d be right. But not anymore.
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“As the sun rose, the imposing mass of Santubong appeared, like a great fortress commanding the entrance to the Sarawak River.” Odoardo Beccari Santubong is a short, 30km drive from Sarawak’s capital, Kuching, but it is truly out on its own limb. It is, in fact, a peninsula but feels more like an island.
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Sarawak's State Government Guidelines For The Re-opening Of Economic & Social Activities During The Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) COVID-19.Garis Panduan Untuk Pembukaan Semula Aktiviti Ekonomi Dan Sosial Negeri Sarawak Semasa Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan Bersyarat (PKPB) COVID-19.
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If you ask anyone who has been to Sarawak what they enjoyed most about their trip, one of the top three answers would be our outstanding hospitality. Even though we are made up of over 40 sub-ethnic groups, one common thread that holds us together is the extraordinary love and compassion we have for our communities. Amid the unseen fears of the coronavirus lockdown, Sarawakians of all backgrounds, ethnicities and ages still find time for generous...
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Imagine waking up to a delightful cacophony of tropical birdsong. But wait, if this is the tropics, why is the air around you so crisp, cool and light? One long breath instantly refreshes you. What’s going on? You are in the tropics, but in a traditional kampung (village) home in the highlands of Borneo. You get up and look out the window to see villagers going about their daily chores as they and their ancestors havebeen doing for centuries, children running around and playing, all against a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop of paddy fields at the base of mist-covered hills standing tall as far as the eye while the sun makes an almost apologetic appearance over the horizon.
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When people talk about beauty, what comes to mind? Generally, its fair skin, long legs, silky hair, and pointed noses. Western media has done a lot to influence what we think is beautiful. Yet if we look past this bias, we find that not everyone has the same beauty ideals. In Sarawak indigenous beauty is far different from the Eurocentric beauty standards.
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2020 is an encouraging year for Sarawak Tourism Board as we wet the Visit Sarawak Campaign Phase Two into action. We are satisfied with the positive growth of visitors to Sarawak last year, receiving 231,498 more visitor arrivals compared to 2018 (2018: 4,430,921 & 2019: 4,662,419) – a growth rate of +5.22%.As part of this, we achieved a significant rise in visitor arrivals from the domestic market, with a growth rate of +11.3%.
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Tattoos have been an integral part of Sarawakian tribal culture for centuries. Yet in the face of rapid development and the migration of rural communities to the cities and further afield, this ancient art and knowledge of its origins and significance were almost lost. However, efforts are underway to preserve this important cultural practice that turns a blank canvas into a journey through life.
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The music of the Borneo rainforest is recreated using a combination of different instruments. The deep, hypnotic drumming of the beduk (long drum) represents the density of the jungle. While the whistles from the selingut (nose flute) and the chimes of the jatongutang (wooden xylophone) create a cacophony of birdsongs so common on a glorious morning.Listen a little closer, you might even hear the strumming of ...
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Sarawak is home to numerous indigenous cultures, all with their own cultural practices, traditions and festivals that contribute to the colourful tapestry that makes up Sarawak’s unique identity. These cultures and traditions reflect and shape values, beliefs, and aspirations, thereby defining the people of Sarawak and their identity. It is important to preserve cultural herita...
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Many of Sarawak’s indigenous communities have called the state home for thousands of years. All these communities contribute to Sarawak’s unique culture and colour.With so many different communities, it is no surprise then that the state is home to a wide variety of cultural festivals. These festivals ensure the remembrance of their cultures and heritage stays alive amidst the relentless onset of modernisation.
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With a population of 2.6 million, Sarawak is the 4th most populous state in Malaysia and covers the largest of all the states. To put it into perspective, it is bigger than the whole of Peninsular Malaysia.Some of the major tribes in Sarawak include the Iban, Melanau, Bidayuh, Penan, Kayan, and Kenyah. These tribes and others, make up around 40 sub-ethnic groups, which means it is the most diverse state in a very multi-racial country.
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Layer upon colourful layer of summery flavours that really do melt in your mouth. A concoction of charming tastes to titillate your tastebuds. On the northwest of Borneo lies Sarawak, where the mouthwatering Kek Lapis Sarawak (Sarawak (layer cake) comes from!Most Malaysians have heard of and tried Kek Lapis Sarawak but outside of Malaysia it only has a small, loyal following of people introduced to it by expat Sarawakians.
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As a digital nomad in Southeast Asia, there’s a good chance you’re used to doing things the unconventional way. If that’s the case, you ought to read on and learn about the place dubbed the next Chiang Mai. We’re talking about Kuching, Sarawak.
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Sarawakians and the jungles of Borneo have lived in harmony for centuries. And one way we stay healthy is by incorporating the medicinal plants found around us into our diets or using them as a cure when we are sick or injured.We’ve come to deeply respect and appreciate the delicate ecosystem of the jungle and all that live inside it. We believe that by taking care of nature, nature will take care of us!
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It takes a lot of geological ducks to line up neatly in a row and stay there for a few million years to create a cave. All over Sarawak, home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, those ducks have lined up numerous times as many of the most spectacular caves in the world were discovered and continue to be discovered right here.Many of those already discovered are now ready for you to explore.
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Sarawak Tourism Collaborates with Grab Academy to Introduce First of its Kind “Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing drivers” Kuching, 26 October 2020 – Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) in conjunction with Grab Malaysia (Grab) today launched the ‘Sarawak Ambassadors Programme on e-learning for e-hailing Drivers’, targeting 1,000 Grab drivers, with the objective of making them Sarawak Tourism Ambassadors.
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Can you handle not going out during the short-lived summer holidays in August? The annual Sarawak Kuching Festival is underway. What attracts people worldwide to this annual festival?
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Kuala Lumpur, 8th September 2019 – ‘Sarawak Ethos’, the latest initiative by the Sarawak Tourism Board (‘STB’) in collaboration with Old Kuching Smart Heritage (‘OKSHE’), was showcased at the 16th Piala Seri Endon (PSE) Competition Finals, held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre today. The showcase revealed a range of Sarawak batik collection to boost visibility of the Sarawak ‘brand’, encapsulating various aspects of Sarawak in the design.
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From the Zulu warriors in South Africa, to the ancient Egyptians of North Africa, to the pilgrims of the Middle East or South America, beads have a presence in many cultures but the one commonality is that they have always been more than an eye-catching accessory. The story of the beads of Borneo is no exception.
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Ask any Malaysian what is the first thing that comes to mind when they think of Sarawak and we bet most of them would give you the same answer: Magnificent mountains, wildlife, age-old rainforests, beautiful beaches and colossal caves. This natural landscape allows for extraordinary biodiversity to exist while nurturing some of the world’s best-kept secrets… Or should we say, creatures?
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WHEN Malaysian-born Ping Coombes came out with a cookery book, Malaysia, after winning MasterChef UK in 2014, a fan remarked that she should include East Malaysian cuisines of Sabah and Sarawak to complete her repertoire of Malaysian recipes.Point taken, she makes it her mission to embark on a culinary adventure to Sabah and Sarawak.
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婆罗洲爵士音乐节表演阵容第14届婆罗洲爵士音乐节将于7月19日至21日（星期五至日）在美里Coco Cabana举行，在享受爵士音乐的同时，乐迷也有机会尝试到当地美食以及购得手工艺品。三天的表演节目将由国际爵士乐团呈现高水准的爵士音乐表演，每一晚则由好几组爵士乐团表演。以下为即将在婆罗洲爵士音乐节舞台演唱的爵士乐歌手简介： 陈胤希Jasmine Chen (中国)陈胤希是中国目前最活跃的爵士歌手之一。
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SFC lays last batch of reef balls in Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park.The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) completed their deployment of 1,750 artificial reef balls in Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park (MSCRNP), deploying the remaining 600 balls successfully at Niah-Suai waters on 26 March.
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National Geographic's article; Exploring a Massive Cave Labyrinth Hidden Under Borneo. This article featured on March 2019 issue of National Geographic Magazine, and covered the many wonders that can be found in the Gunung Mulu National Park.By Neil Shea
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Kuching has been awarded the status "World Craft City" by the World Crafts Council. Karim and others having a look at the AHPADA-WEFT Forum poster’s during the launching of conferment on Kuching City for Craft by World Craft Council at Old Court House, Kuching.
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Sarawak’s Islamic Heritage Museum (Muzium Islam Sarawak) will be having a programme in 2019 called “A Special Artefact of the Month.” This features a different artifact each month to be highlighted in a special display, relating to the history and culture of the Muslim communities around the world and in Sarawak.
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KUCHING, Oct 22 — Located at the Old Court House building in the old part of Kuching city, the Ranee Museum can easily be spotted by anyone keen to get a glimpse at Sarawak’s pre-independence history.Opened on Sept 24 this year, the museum was set up by Brooke Heritage Trust co-founder Jason Brooke, a direct descendant of Charles Brooke, the second Rajah of Sarawak, and bears the tale of Sarawak’s historic and cultural heritage.
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28 women calling themselves Bicycle Buddies from the UK and Singapore are currently in Kuching today to cycle in the Sarawak rainforest for charity. The group began their cycling adventure from 22 to 28 September 2018 covering a distance of 50km to 60km per day passing through Annah Rais Longhouse in Padawan, Seniawan bazaar, Kubah National Park and ended in Lundu bazaar.
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The Show Caves, the Pinnacles and the Headhunter’s Trail Our group of intrepid explorers went to Mulu National Park to take on the Pinnacles, before proceeding to Limbang via the Headhunter’s Trail. The entire expedition took five days total, and all treks to the Pinnacles are set at a minimum of 3 days and two nights for the safety of the trekkers.
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热带雨林世界音乐节 | 第三天 | 2018年7月15日 | 节目表 地点：砂拉越文化村 （Sarawak Cultural Village）
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热带雨林世界音乐节 | 第二天 | 2018年7月14日 | 节目表地点：砂拉越文化村
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热带雨林世界音乐节（RWMF2018）第一天表演阵容世界有名的热带雨林世界音乐节不只是晚上看看那几组国家民族乐队表演就回家，其实这个音乐节的节目丰富得让喜欢世界音乐的乐迷们想一直待在砂拉越文化村！例如，喜欢研究各国传统乐器的朋友们可以在下午3时30分到比达友长屋见识亚洲和非洲“琵琶”的音乐切磋，在这个迷你环节，您将见识砂拉越的沙贝琴“Sape”与云南的秦琴、非洲木琴、日本的“Gottan”三弦的音乐切磋！想知道各国的传统管乐器乐手集聚在一起会擦出什么样的火花吗？那记得下午2时30分记得前往Amphitheatre，看看各国乐手们如何用中国的葫芦笙、韩国的胡笛、砂拉越的鸟笛、巴尔干木笛和斯凯岛的哨子等等吹进您的心！
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婆罗洲爵士音乐节艺能大赛 | Borneo Jazz Talent Search 2018年婆罗洲爵士音乐节（Borneo Jazz 2018）很荣幸宣布今年将举行首届艺能大赛！而第二次的选拔赛将在2018年3月31日举行，欢迎民众踊跃报名参加。主办艺能大赛旨在为来自婆罗洲（砂拉越，沙巴和汶莱）新一代音乐人提供特别的机会和平台，获选的入围者将有机会于5月11日至12日（星期五和星期六）在砂拉越美里Coco Cabana举行的婆罗洲爵士音乐节表演......！以下为婆罗洲爵士音乐节首届艺能大赛的奖品：冠军：1千500令吉奖金亚军：1千200令吉奖金季军：1千令吉奖金最佳表演（单曲）：1千令吉奖金最佳原创作品：1千令吉奖金
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继续促进古晋旅游产品销售·中国旅游业者来考察独立皇宫酒店营业总监陈华德(前排左起)、砂拉越旅游局中国市场经理刘艾玲与中国旅游业者们合影。(古晋22日讯）为了推广古晋的旅游景点和促进古晋旅游产品的销售量，砂拉越旅游局于本月20日至22日期间赞助亚航-中国旅游业者考察团的地接费用，同时也分别获得古晋独立皇宫酒店(Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites）和亚航赞助酒店住宿和往返机票。3天2夜的考察团吸引9位来自中国旅游机构代表参加，即亚航、世纪假日、嗨游天下、广东中妇旅国际旅行社有限责任公司越秀分公司、爱旅度假、洲游假期、深圳职工国际旅行社以及深圳新景界环亚假日旅游有限公司。
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细细品味古晋像古晋（Kuching）这样的地方，怎么可以错过？（图/优米生态营、合成图/砂拉越旅游局（图/优米生态营）古晋，被大自然环抱的一座可爱的小城！你在这里，邂逅您美妙的假期，一定是一个不错的选择，地道的，传统的华人文化交织于当地风俗，既不陌生又那么新鲜！
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(图:郑海龙/优米生态营)初识砂拉越有亚洲亚马逊之称的砂拉越在众多度假游客眼中显得默默无闻。他缺少了那份张扬，却享有着浪漫美好而又历经过不可思议的历史沧桑，它就是静静地展现其雍容大方的魅力。
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为了推广砂拉越旅游业，亚航(Air Asia)邀请11位来自中国的媒体和网红到古晋(Kuching)，进行5天4夜的旅游体验，同时也获得砂拉越旅游局赞助与协助。随同11位中国媒体还有两名来自亚航和大马旅游局广州代表，他们是于2017年12月12日抵达古晋，行程包括了砂拉越文化村、实蒙谷野生动物保育中心、参观华族历史文物馆、走古晋老街探古味、皮划艇、新尧湾百年老街夜市寻美食等等。 来自亚航(中国)的代表心瑜美女在砂拉越文化村试穿了加央族(Kayan)的传统服装，是不是很漂亮？暴走姐妹花的美女在砂拉越文化村，穿在伊班族(Iban)传统服装与伊班妇女合影。媒体朋友们享用美食时合影。
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2017台北國際旅展 •艾成謝佳見為砂拉越站台！（台北日訊）馬來西亞觀光局展館在今年的台北國際旅展可說是“星光閃閃”，因為兩位大馬藝人艾成（Eison）和謝佳見（Melvin Sia）要為砂拉越（Sarawak）站台！出生於砂拉越古晉（Kuching）的艾成將在10月28日（星期六）下午3時至3時30分，在馬來西亞觀光局展台上分享砂拉越美食；以及在10月30日（星期一）下午3時45分至4時再一次現身分享和介紹艾叻沙。
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（台北日訊）什麼？只需拍個照就有機會贏走萬元台幣大獎？沒錯！為了讓更多人認識馬來西亞最大的州屬-砂拉越（Sarawak），以及推廣砂拉越最具代表性的美食之一“叻沙”（Laksa），砂拉越旅遊局在今年的台北國際旅展特別舉辦“艾叻沙砂拉越”拍照贏獎競賽，送出的獎品總值高達￥26100台幣！
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越南岘港旅游部到古晋考察古晋日讯-为了向砂拉越学习生态旅游、国家公园管理以及所施行的保育工作，3名来自越南岘港旅游部的官员日前到古晋进行旅游考察。岘港旅游部是在今年8月9日在吉隆坡举行的岘港旅游发展会活动上，与砂拉越旅游局代表会面之后，较早前便到峇哥国家公园了解有关保育工作和保养维修管理，尤其是岘港旅游部最近有意在岘港打造出像峇哥国家公园的生态旅游景点。最令岘港旅游部印象深刻的是峇哥国家公园弃用水泥；以树木来建造楼梯。 此外，公园的存在也为当地居民提供了不少的就业机会。3名越南岘港旅游部官员在古晋进行考察期间，也获得砂拉越森林局的接待，并在该局解说员的陪同下参观实蒙古野生动物护育中心。
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KUCHING,Saturday – Three officials from Danang Department of Tourism, Vietnam led by Truong Thi Hong Hanh, Deputy Director of Danang Department of Tourism were in Kuching from August 15 – 19, 2017. Accompanying the Deputy Director are Phan Minh Hai, Deputy Manager of Planning& Development Division and Nguyen Duc Vu, Deputy Director of Son TraPeninsula Management Board.
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KUCHING, Thursday – CaboCuba Jazz is coming to the Borneo Jazz Festival this May 12 to 13, at ParkCity Everly, Miri.Based in the Netherlands, these eight musicians originate from Venezuela, Cape Verde, Colombia, Spain, Puerto Rica and Cuba, led by powerhouse Dina Medina, who won the “Best Female Singer of Cape Verde” in 2012.
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KUCHING, Friday – Borneo Jazz will organise, for the first time, a Networking Session entitled “Jazz Money, Do They Mix?”
on Saturday, May 13 from 2.00pm, at the Ruai Bar at ParkCity Everly Hotel. This inaugural session will be conducted by veteran international music producer, Patrick Lee-Thorp.
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KUCHING, Monday – Japanese Jazz veterans, Osaka Monaurail will be performing their ‘superheavy funk’ Jazz at Borneo Jazz in May 13 to 14 at ParkCity Everly, Miri. From their humble beginnings in Osaka University in 1992, Osaka Monaurail has gone from a large band of over 20 musicians, to a 10 person Jazz machine, collaborating with soul/funk legend Marva Whitney, one of James Brown’s original Funky Divas, and producing two albums, three European tours and two Japanese tours before she passed away in 2012.
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您是否是一位热心服务的人？您是否希望能有机会锻炼自己某方面的技能和发挥自己的强项？您是否想拥有筹办国际性大型活动的宝贵经验？如果是的话，欢迎申请加入2017年婆罗洲爵士音乐节（Borneo Jazz）的志工队！我们目前正在招募多名志工，以协助投入参与Borneo Jazz的举行。志工的招募截止日期是4月7日（星期五），我们鼓励有意申请者选择自己所适合参与的志工工作项目，即联系人、舞台管理、供应商管理、销售策划、活动秘书处、交通、发问卷调查，以及媒体中心人员。今年的Borneo Jazz订于5月12日及13日（星期五和星期六）在美里（Miri）易贝利酒店（Park City Everly Hotel）举行，并由砂拉越旅游局主办，砂旅游、艺术及文化部支持，大马旅游局以及马航赞助。成功获选成为志工者可获得进出Borneo Jazz场地的准证、食物津贴、2件志工T恤以及参与证书。更难能可贵的是，志工可以赚取筹办国际性大型活动的第一手技术与经验；在接待和服务来自...
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Written by: Maartje from Quokka Travel Bako National Park is conveniently situated, just 40 km from Kuching, the capital of Sarawak. This makes Sarawak's smallest National Park perfect for a day trip for nature lovers. Bako NP has 18 beautiful hiking trails of different length and is home to many flora and fauna species. Make sure you will spot the famous proboscis monkey, the shy silvered leaf monkeys and the bearded pigs. Your day trip to Bako NP won't be complete without them!
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亲爱的砂拉越游客,本次调查的目的是为了了解您在砂拉越的旅游体验。这项调查是由婆罗洲研究所，马来西亚砂拉越大学（Institute of Borneo Studies, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak ），简称IBS, UNIMAS 和砂拉越旅游局（Sarawak Tourism Board，简称STB)联办实行的。您只需要花大约20分钟完成调查，而您给予的合作将对这项研究带来很有价值的贡献。虽然这些开放式的问题都是选择性回答的，我们依然希望您愿意抽些时间与我们分享您在砂拉越的旅游体验。所有资料与信息都将保密。只有汇总数据将被分析和阐明，调查结果仅仅是为了达到研究目的。完成调查后，您需提供您的姓名和电子邮件地址（选择性回答），我们就可通过电子邮件发送一张官方证明书（样品在最后一页）给您以表示我们的感激。
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为了推广古晋的旅游景点，砂拉越旅游局举行了香港航空-上海与南京代理体验之旅（Familiarization Trip，简称FAM Trip）。砂拉越旅游局希望透过这项体验之旅能发展古晋的文化体验旅游，并建立起国外的代表机构与本地旅行社的良好的关系。 5天4夜的体验之旅获得9位来自上海和南京的旅游机构和航空公司的代表参加，即上海豪乐得国际旅行社有限公司、同程旅游集团、上海携程国际旅行社、香港航空有限公司上海办事处、中国国旅（江苏）国际旅行社有限公司、江苏广电国际旅游有限公司、南京中北友好国际旅行社有限公司、中国康辉南京国际旅行社、香港航空（南京）。体验之旅的费用往往是由酒店、旅游景点管理公司或单位、航空公司和旅行社等共同分担。因此砂拉越旅游局十分感谢古晋独立皇宫酒店(Merdeka Palace Hotel Suites) 提供全程的招待服务，同时也感谢本地的旅行社Cat City Holidays Sdn.Bhd.和Bel-Air Travel
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This trip is aim to discover Uma Bawang, Apo Koyan Chalet and its cultural, plus introducing the unique Bakun “Jelatong” (Floating house) located on Belanum river including the exciting and fun activities such as fishing, trekking, river and lake cruise.
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A getaway for those whose minds are weary (but their bodies are not). Last October, I, along with a handful of international media, boarded the Twin Otter turboprop plane from Miri airport for a 50-minute ride to the rural village of Bario, located in the northeast of Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state.
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Kuching was the port of call for the second time in 2014 for the expedition cruise ship, National Geographic Orion. The hundred and seven passengers were given a Sarawak welcome at the Sim Kheng Port, Kuching on the 4th of October. After visiting Bako National Park, the multi-national visitors went on a Kuching City Tour.
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We found our way to this wondrous highland of Bario (3,200m ASL). Windy, cool and pleasant temperature with friendly people to match. This trip was all about the celebration of Kelabit food, farming, culture and forest heritage - The Bario Food Festival (Pesta Nukenen)
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SARAWAK, Malaysia – The 17th annual Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), to be held in Kuching city as well as the 9th annual Borneo Jazz and 2nd annual Asia Music Festival, both to be held in Miri city, Sarawak is currently accepting applications for volunteers.
The 2014 RWMF will be held on June 20th – 22nd, while the Borneo Jazz 2014 and Asia Music Festival 2014 will be held on May 9th – 10th and October 3rd – 4th respectively.
The Festivals are made possible year after year because of the hard work of over 200 volunteers yearly. Next year, all the three Festivals are looking for individuals or groups to help in the logistics, technical and operational aspects of the event management, event marketing and its operational plan. This volunteer program is designed to provide an overall understanding of the operational aspects of the festivals in order to ensure the success of the musical events organized by Sarawak Tourism Board.
Those interested to volunteer for these musical events in Malaysia may register respectively on RWMF website at www.rwmf.net, Borneo Jazz website www.jazzborneo and Asia Music Festival Website www.asiamusicfestival.net. This is only the application process where those interested in taking part are registered, while the successful applicants will later be notified via email or telephone.
The festival event management areas will require volunteer skills as liaison officer for performing artists, as well as schleppers for handling of the musical instruments among others. These volunteers are required to work during the workshop as well as concert and practice sessions. Volunteers for the event marketing management will participate in sales promotion, product development of festival tour packages, management information, media and public relations program as well as Media Centre operation. Event operation management areas will oversee the site readiness, vendor management, admission and gate operation, event secretariat, equipment and materials preparation and transportation.
The volunteer program has seen many repeated volunteers and it provides not only a learning platform but also a time to get together. Although ideal employee attributes will vary from role to role, all volunteers must be able to conduct themselves in line with the Festival’s core values, which is integrity and teamwork.
With more than 500 officials, media and performers making up the team at the Festivals, the volunteers are sure to meet new friends, sharing experience, learn the new skills, and most importantly gaining new experience in event management.
The festival organizer will provide T-shirts to be worn while on duty. The volunteers will be assigned to perform duties on shift, which covers day or night festival program. The volunteers maybe needed to run the selected management areas a few days before the festival starts in order to ensure festival readiness.
Closing date for Borneo Jazz and RWMF submission form is on 4th April 2014, while Asia Music Festival submission form will close on 4th September 2014. Other information about the Festival such as the program, packages and many more will be updated on each websites from time-to-time.
The Festivals project coordinators, Fiza (left), and Mona showing the volunteer form which are available for download from the festival’s website.
Issued by Corporate Communications Unit SARAWAK TOURISM BOARD
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The festival will consist of talks, walks, workshops, outdoor activities and entertainment to keep nature lovers occupied and children captive. Held from 9th to 10 November 2013, each activity will either be led or presented by an authority of the subject matter. So, if you are into natural and historical heritage of significant regional and global value, this activity-packed festival has something for you.
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The Kuching Waterfront will be a sight to behold come 15th September when a parade of gaily decorated boats will take place on this eve of Malaysia Day. Watch the iconic river taxis - the 'penambang' - dressed up for the occasion. Kids will be mesmerised by the myriad colours and the spectacle of multi-coloured water vessels in one area will be attractive to anyone.
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The Niah National Park's caves is important for the local communities, with edible bird's nest and guano collection providing valuable employment and income. Archaeologically, it was a major centre of human settlement as early as 40,000 years ago, and features one of the world’s largest cave entrances. Palaeolithic and Neolithic burial sites, and iron-age cave paintings.
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The cruise ship will make her maiden port of call at Bintulu Port on November, 12, 2013 10am. Bintulu, Sarwak is one of the three stops for Star Cruises' first ever 4D/3N cruise off the western coastline of Borneo. The other two ports of call are Kota Kinabalu, Sabah and Brunei's Bandar Seri Begawan.
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In this video we see adventurer and explorer Ben Fogle experience a tai chi class. Master Wong, who has been teaching tai chi for 20 years, believes this martial art is a great way to maintain your health and shows Ben some moves. Ben also pays a visit to the Sarawak Craft Pavilion, an art gallery and restaurant which represents the local Sarawakian culture. Ben is introduced to Mary who works within the Pavilion demonstrating how to weave.
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he picture of Alfred Russel Wallace may not be instantly recognisable to many Sarawakians but he is a 19th century British naturalist who had put Sarawak on the map with his book 'The Malay Archipelago' AND his monumental paper 'Sarawak Law'. This paper prompted Charles Darwin to publish his ideas on 'The Origin of Species'. Two mountains outside Kuching are synonymous with Wallace's work; Mt.
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RaisingExplorers.net gives you the run down of the top 5 things to do in Kuching city itself.These are all within the city itself.
1. Relax by the riverside - Shady pedestrian pathways, overhung by trees, and decorated with flowerbeds, become fairyland at night, the colourful lights reflected in the river below.
2. Check out Kuching's Cat Statues - It's coincidence that in Malay 'kucing' means 'cat', there are three main cat statues around town.
3. Take a stroll through Chinatown - Kuching has an old Chinatown, centred around Jalan Carpenter, and a new Chinatown, which is a busy commercial area, along Jalan Padungan, which is worth a visit for its markets.
4. Take a river cruise - Whether you get on board the tiny, putting sampans that ferry people to and fro across the river, take a fast boat out to the mangroves downriver, or do one of the many touristy sunset cruises on offer, it's worthwhile to get out on the water.
5. Kuching's museums
- covering all things natural, historical, artistic, anthropological and ethnological.
The Kuching Waterfront with Mt.Serapi in the distance.photo credit: raisingexplorers.netRead and view the complete interesting article and photos at Raising Explorers.
Sarawak... where adventure lives
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The buffalo race festival, also known locally as 'Pesta Babulang', is significant to the Bisaya community in Limbang. The Bisaya is one of the twenty-seven ethnic groups of Sarawak. This year’s Pesta Babulang 2013 will be held at Batu Danau, Limbang from June 7-9. As always, it will highlight the many facets of Bisaya unique culture, traditional foods and local handicrafts to visitors.
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Hornbill - 'Burung Kenyalang' in Malay or Burung Enggang in Iban is cast as the latest landmark in Damai Central, Santubong, Kuching. The statue stands at 7 meter high and the wings spanning 9 meter wide.Damai Central, just a 40 minutes drive from Kuching town, an innovative resort-styled multipurpose complex built in Sarawak ethnic-concept design. The famous
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Join adventurer and explorer Ben Fogle as he explores the waterfront of Sarawak's capital city, Kuching. Ben discusses some of Sarawak's more romantic history, meets local residents and shops for feline fruit in the market. Then join Ben for dinner at Kuching's Junk Restaurant when he meets the owner and finds out the story behind the name. Visiting the waterfront, the markets and the fun restaurants are all "must do" activities when in Sarawak which offers unforgettable travel experiences.
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The closing date for Rainforest World Music Festival Borneo Jazz Festival t-shirt design submission has been extended till 31st January 2013. This contest is opened to all students of higher institutions of learning. Winners stand to win tickets worth up to RM1,650 and get to have their design/s worn the world over. A certificate of recognition is also awarded to the winning institutions.
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Damai Central, Santubong Peninsular 2013 will be an exciting year for tourism in Sarawak. In fact it will be till 2014. Come July 2013, Sarawak will begin a year of celebration to commemorate her 50th Anniversary of gaining independence from the British. Our state went on to form Malaysia with Sabah, Singapore (pulled out in Aug '65) and the Federation of Malay states two months later; September 16, 1963. The official celebration - Visit Sarawak Year will end June 2014. Expect plenty of exciting events lined up. By the way, 2013/2014 is also the Visit Malaysia Year.
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Nanga Sumpa has long been a popular destination for that authentic Iban culture (longhouse) experience. Located 1 1/2 hours longboat ride from the Batang Ai Longhouse Resort managed by Hilton, Sri Aman, this isolated village offers wild orang utans spotting and adventure treks.
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The highlight of this trip is the Belanum or locally known as Jelatong – the floating house. What makes it more interesting is because this Belanum is floating on Bakun reservoir – the world’s second tallest concrete rock - filled dam size 695sqKM, about the size of Singapore. So far there’s only one Belanum that caters for visitors which belong to Mr Luhat.
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The northern region of Sarawak is home to the 'Orang Ulu' tribe; a collective name to represent the various ethnic sub-groups. They include the Kelabits, the Lun Bawang, the Berawans and the shy and semi-nomadic Penans. In the region above Kapit and the Pelagus Rapids, the Orang Ulu people literally known as "upriver people", consists of the Kayans, Kenyahs, Kajangs, Lahanans and the Punans.
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Take a quick look around Kuching and you will certainly notice a historic building or site, stately and unique, enchanting always; these are just some of the attractive charms of the city. Singularly or clustered, these fascinating cultural and historic icons are found at almost every turn and step you take around the city.
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Bidayuh is a collective name for several indigenous groups of people living the southern part of Sarawak. They are noted for their hospitality and warm smiles. The name "Bidayuh" means "people of the land". "Bi" mean "people" or "orang" and "Dayuh" mean "Land". They are also known as the Land Dayaks, a term first used during the time of James Brooke, the first White Rajah (king) of Sarawak.
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Bario means ‘Wind’ in Kelabit language (the correct pronunciation is ‘Bariew’). Lying at an altitude of between 3400 to 6000 feet above sea level in the north-eastern corner of Sarawak is the famous Bario Highland, a Kelabit territory, one of the minority Orang Ulu tribe of Sarawak. As it is in the highland, the weather is different from the low land, here it is colder at night hotter during the day time as compared to the low land weather. There are about 13 villages located in around Bario area, while Kampung Bario Asal is the original village of Bario.
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