180 – Malaysia Travel Guide – Sarawak

Sarawak

Land of Extraordinary Natural Marvels

Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia, occupying the southwestern ridge of Borneo. Its verdant jungles are strewn with massive natural formations, the world’s largest cave chambers as well as endemic flora and fauna. Sarawak’s greatest assets include its UNESCO World Heritage Site and numerous protected national parks. The vast number of hornbills found here has made Sarawak to be fondly known as ‘the Land of the Hornbills’.

Its vibrant ethnic groups, coupled with the legacy of the Brooke dynasty, weave a history filled with intrigue and fascination. Kuching, the capital city, is a good place to get a glimpse into the past. Explore the extraordinary natural marvels of Sarawak!

MAP OF SARAWAK

PLACES OF INTEREST

GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gunung Mulu National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, which include complex cave networks and
rare geological formations. The park is home to thousands of animal and plant species, such as the sun bear and wild orchids. Among its attractions include the world’s largest cave passage, world’s largest natural cave chamber, razor-sharp limestone spikes and a geological formation resembling the side profile of America’s former President, Abraham Lincoln.

BAKO NATIONAL PARK

Not far away from the state’s capital city is the Bako National Park with its breathtaking landscapes and beautiful rock formations. The park is also inhabited by rare animal species such as Proboscis Monkeys and Leaf Monkeys as well as over a hundred bird species.

SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE

Damai

Described as a ‘living museum’, Sarawak Cultural Village showcases the traditional dwellings and lifestyles of Sarawak’s major ethnic groups. Situated at the foothill of Mount Santubong, this award-winning attraction is also the venue of the popular Rainforest Music Festival. Among the highlights here is the twice-daily cultural performance.

SEMENGGOH NATURE RESERVE

The 1613-acre Semenggoh Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of attractions. The most well-known is the Wildlife Centre that rehabilitates orang utans that were injured, orphaned or kept illegally. In the sprawling nature reserve, visitors can see orang utans of various ages, from adorable and mischievous young primates, to caring and protective mothers, to mature adults. Enjoy observing their antics during the feeding times (9.00am and 3.00pm) or watch them frolic in the rainforest. Other attractions include an arboretum, orchard and botanical garden.

NIAH NATIONAL PARK

Millions of bats and swiftlets, numerous historical sites, ancient tombs and a primary rainforest are among the enchanting attractions at this national park. Sprawling over 3,238 hectares, Niah National Park enjoys great popularity among history lovers and researchers for its archaeological significance. The Great Cave here was inhabited by prehistoric men nearly 40,000 years ago. Among the relics unearthed include Neolithic paintings and Palaeolithic artefacts. Another attraction is the Painted Caves, where depictions of human-like figures were found near an ancient burial site. Niah National Park is accessible from Miri and Bintulu. It is situated about 109km from Miri or 131km from Bintulu. Accommodation ranges from chalets, hostels to a rest house.

DARUL HANA BRIDGE

Kuching

The newly-opened Darul Hana Bridge or Golden Bridge is a stunning landmark in the city. Situated along Kuching Waterfront, this 335-metre ‘S’ shaped pedestrian bridge connects Kuching North and Kuching South. Meaning peace and tranquillity in Arabic, the Darul Hana Bridge features traditional and modern design elements including stylised hornbills which denote the state’s emblem. It is open daily from 6.00am to 12.00 midnight.

DARUL HANA MUSICAL FOUNTAIN

Kuching

Enjoy a dazzling show with dancing water, colourful lighting and special effects. Designed with state-of-the-art technology, this fountain has hundreds of nozzles that shoot water 25 m upwards. This fountain is situated near the Kuching Waterfront, Darul Hana Bridge and set against the new State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building.

 

Visitors can enjoy a 15 minute show along with beautiful views of the night from the riverbank of Main Bazaar. Another vantage point would be from the Darul Hana Bridge which spans the Sarawak River.

MEDAN NIAGA SATOK

Kubah Ria

This is the biggest market in Kuching with an assortment of products ranging from fresh vegetables, jungle ferns, fruits to traditional snacks and handicrafts. It has a lively and colourful atmosphere with five main complexes including a food court and cafeteria. The market is especially busy on Saturday afternoons.

SARAWAK MUSEUM

Kuching

Housed in a stately building bearing Victorian-style architecture, this museum is a repository of information on the state’s ethnography, natural history, crafts and the petroleum industry. Please take note that visitors are not allowed to bring in their cameras.

FLOATING MOSQUE

Kuching

Masjid India Bandar Kuching is located at Gambier Street, along the Sarawak River banks. The mosque is capable of accommodating 1,600 people. It is strategically located adjacent to the Kuching Waterfront, near several tourist attractions such as the Darul Hana Bridge and Darul Hana Musical Fountain. By night, the mosque will be illuminated by multi-colour LED lights.

ANNAH RAIS LONGHOUSE

Padawan

Located about 60km from Kuching, this longhouse offers a chance to experience the traditional lifestyle of the local folk. Watch cultural performances, try your hand at playing the musical instruments, learn how to prepare local delicacies or go trekking to enjoy the outdoors. Trips to Annah Rais Longhouse must be pre-arranged.

GUNUNG GADING NATIONAL PARK

Lundu

Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, stands as the main attraction in this national park. The species here is called Rafflesia tuan mudae, which can grow up to one metre in width. Forest lodges are available for overnight stays. This park is about two hours’ drive from Kuching. Visitors can call ahead to find out if the Rafflesia is in bloom.

SIBU CENTRAL MARKET

Recently refurbished, the Sibu Central Market offers interesting and lively sights of traders selling a variety of items in a clean and hygienic setting. This is the largest market in Sarawak, offering everything from exotic fruits and vegetables of the rainforest to handicrafts and poultry. The Sibu Market is situated along Jalan Channel opposite the Express Boat Passenger Terminal.

CAT MUSEUM

Petra Jaya, Kuching

Enjoy an interesting display of all things feline! Exhibits range from feline art, souvenirs, a pictorial collection of cats, to statues and legends that are associated with these adorable furry friends.

HOMESTAYS IN SARAWAK

Experience the unique cultures of Sarawak by living with the different ethnic groups. In a homestay programme, visitors can stay at an Iban, Bidayuh or Orang Ulu longhouse, a Malay kampung (village) house, or even a Melanau house. There are 30 homestay villages in the state. Among the well-known villages are:

  • Santubong Homestay, Santubong
  • Kampung Darul Islam Belimbing Homestay, Padawan, Kuching
  • Abas Homestay, Kampung Panglima Seman, Kuching

LAMBIR HILLS NATIONAL PARK

Miri

Lambir Hills National Park is said to have one of the world’s greatest levels of plant diversity. Its 6,952 hectares of land is covered in lowland dipterocarp and heath forests. Its tall trees rise to a height of 45 metres and the forest canopy is home to 237 species of birds. Visitors can access this park within 40 minutes’ drive from Miri.

SARAWAK RIVER CRUISE

Kuching

Since time immemorial, Sarawak River has been intertwined with the state’s history, culture and livelihood. A river cruise is a great way to recapture the charm of the bygone era. View Kuching’s historical landmarks along the riverbanks such as Brooke Gallery (Fort Margherita), Kuching Waterfront, Main Bazaar, Chinese Museum, new Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building and many more. Watch the sunset from the Sky Deck and enjoy light refreshments or enjoy a dinner on board.

IBAN LONGHOUSE TOURS

Batang Ai, Lemanak and Skrang

Enjoy a longboat journey that takes you into the heartland of the Iban tribe. These tours take visitors to the traditional longhouse settlements to experience the culture and lifestyle of one of the largest and well-known ethnic groups in Sarawak. The Iban people are famed for their warm hospitality and visitors can see activities such as blowpipe demonstrations, basket weaving, cooking in freshly cut bamboo tubes, native dances and many more.

THERE’S MUCH MORE IN SARAWAK

Long-staying visitors can head to many other places of interest that are waiting to be explored. There are many museums and heritage buildings around Kuching. Miri, the second largest city in Sarawak, is an oil-rich destination with sculptures of seahorses which stand as the icons of the town. The recent discovery of the Miri Reef has made the city popular among reef diving enthusiasts. A number of star-rated hotels are available here. More attractions await at the towns of Sibu, Bintulu and Kapit. Many of these towns serve as the gateways to the interiors and national parks.

Kuching

  • Sarawak Tourism Complex
  • Main Bazaar
  • Tua Pek Kong Temple
  • Kuching Mosque
  • State Mosque
  • Chinese History Museum
  • Textile Museum
  • Tun Jugah Pua Kumbu Museum
  • Tanoti House
  • Kuching Wetlands National Park
  • Kampung Panchor Dayak Hotspring
  • Santubong National Park
  • Tanjung Datu National Park

 

Matang

  • Kubah National Park
  • Matang Wildlife Centre

Damai and Santubong

  • Beaches
  • Golf resorts
  • Santubong Wildlife Cruise

 

Pulau Talang and Pulau Satang National Parks

Miri

  • Grand Old Lady (Miri’s first oil well)
  • Seahorse Island
  • Luconia Shoals
  • Miri Public Park
  • Miri City Fan
  • Luak Bay Esplanade
  • Lian Hua San Temple
  • Loagan Bunut National Park
  • Bario Highlands

Sibu

  • Rejang Esplanade
  • Mist Garden
  • Eng Ann Tua Pek Kong Temple
  • Sungai Merah township
  • Bukit Aup Jubilee Park

 

Sri Aman

  • Batang Ai National Park

 

Bintulu

  • Similajau National Park
  • Taman Tumbina

 

Limbang

  • Merarap Hot Springs
  • Ba’kelalan Highlands

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

SHOPPING

Shopping in Sarawak is an adventurous experience. The state’s many ethnic groups are known for their intricate crafts and souvenirs. One of the state’s most popular crafts is the Sarawakian beads. Colourful beads of all sizes are fashioned into necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. Another must-have item is the pua kumbu textile. This hand-woven fabric can be used as wall hangings, table covers and shawls. Sarawak pottery has gained a name for itself for its distinct designs and carvings. In some places, visitors can watch pottery-making. Bamboo mats are another popular item. These mats come in various sizes and are a great idea to enhance your home decor. Some shops even offer packing and delivery arrangements for a fee.

Main shopping spots around Kuching are:

  • Main Bazaar
  • Kuching Waterfront Bazaar
  • Sarakraf Pavilion (Jalan Tabuan)
  • Sarawak Handicraft Centre (Round Tower)
  • Jalan Padungan
  • Medan Niaga Satok
  • India Street
  • Jalan Penrissen

DINING

Sarawak’s traditional delights are simply superb for those who are adventurous enough to give it a go. Coastal areas such as Damai and Santubong offer a variety of seafood dishes. The state is also a leading producer of pepper and pineapples. In the cool climate of Kelabit Highlands, the natives cultivate a special rice called Bario Rice. It is harvested by hand using age-old methods. The equally cold highlands of Ba’kelalan is gaining popularity for its crunchy apples.

For decades, Sarawak has been exporting high quality swiftlet’s nests. Aside from the local food, visitors can enjoy Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Western food in Kuching. Major hotels around the state serve a variety of continental cuisine. Sarawak’s authentic dishes include:

 

Sarawak Laksa

This signature dish consists of noodles served with an aromatic, tangy soup.

 

Mee Kolok

Handmade yellow egg noodles are used to prepare this tasty dry dish. The noodles are tossed with lard, garlic oil and black vinegar to give it the special flavour and taste. Muslim stalls offer a halal or pork-free version of this dish.

 

Bubur Pedas

Literally meaning ‘spicy porridge’, this dish is made with condiments such as yam, bamboo shoots and wild ferns. It is popular during the Muslim fasting month.

 

Manok Pansoh

A specialty of the Dayak ethnic group, this dish is made of chicken and ginger. It is cooked in a bamboo log over an open fire to seal in the aroma and flavour.

 

Ikan Terubok Masin

The salted terubok fish is popular in Sarawak. It tastes best when grilled.

Sarawak Layer Cake

Pretty and colourful, the Sarawak layer cake has a mosaic-like look. They are usually homemade and taste simply delicious with a cup of coffee.

 

Bird’s Nest Soup

This highly prized Chinese delicacy is said to have medicinal properties. Try it at upmarket restaurants.

 

Sarawak Pepper

Bottled Sarawak pepper can be purchased at most departmental stores, supermarkets and mini markets. It is locally produced and fresh.

 

Sarikei Pineapple

Sarikei is known as ‘the pineapple capital of Sarawak’. The variety grown here is juicy, and low in acid and sugar. Other specialties of Sarawak include Umai, a raw fish salad and Tabaloi, a traditional sago cookie.

TRANSPORTATION

By Air

Sarawak is well-connected to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia’s capital city) as well as several other international destinations. The main airport is the Kuching International Airport. There are a number of other airports and airstrips in Sarawak, situated in Miri, Bintulu and Sibu. Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier, provides daily direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching with connecting flights to other towns. The flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kuching takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Direct flights are also available from Kuala Lumpur to Sibu, Miri and Bintulu.

In addition, the budget carrier AirAsia operates flights to Miri, Bintulu, Kuching and Sibu from KLIA2. Air Asia also flies to Kuching form the state of Penang, Johor & Kelantan. Malindo Air flies daily from KLIA.

Sarawak is also accessible by air from the neighbouring state of Sabah, and Labuan as well as Singapore, Indonesia and Hong Kong. The airlines that provide air links to Sarawak include Silk Air, Scoot Air, Royal Brunei Airlines and Wings Air for Pontianak (West Kalimantan) route. For further information on airlines route, please visit the website of the respective airlines.

 
By Sea

There are regular ferry services to Sarawak from Labuan and Brunei Darussalam. The staging points are situated in Limbang and Lawas.

 
By Road

It is possible to take a bus from Brunei Darussalam to Miri. The journey takes about five hours. The route Pontianak (Kalimantan Barat) to Kuching is also available via Tebedu immigration post.

 

Getting Around

Getting around Kuching is simple with the easy availability of buses and taxis. Taxis are mostly available in front of major hotels and shopping malls.

Despite the vast size of the state, getting around Sarawak is fairly convenient with a good network of rural air services. Airports are situated in Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, Mulu and Limbang. MASWings, a subsidiary of Malaysia Airlines Berhad, connects the interiors such as Bario, Ba’kelalan, Lawas, Long Banga, Long Seridan, Long Lellang, Marudi, Mukah and Tanjung Manis which are equipped with STOL ports.

Overland transfers are possible via the Trans Borneo Highway which connects Sarawak to Sabah and Brunei Darussalam. Visitors are encouraged to get adequate information from the Tourist Information Centres on the duration of journey and routes.

For more information, contact:
Tourism Malaysia Tourist Information Centre:
  • Kuching International Airport
+6082 627 742 / 246 575

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MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS