Sarawak

Embracing Local Flavours

Start your adventure by visiting the famous Bako National Park, which is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and various ecosystems. The park features beautiful rainforests, mangrove swamps and scenic beaches. You may observe the uncommon proboscis monkeys, wander along several routes whilst enjoying spectacular views or witness unusual rock formations like the sea stacks at Pandan Kecil Beach.

Photo credit : shamakemaros

As the day comes to a close, visit the Topspot Food Court; a popular dining destination for both locals and tourists alike. Savour local seafood while taking in the bustling environment and city views from this rooftop food court. 

Cultural Immersion Amidst Scenic Views

Start the day strong with a hearty breakfast at Mee Jawa Rabak, which is famous for its flavourful gravy and tender noodles. This popular breakfast spot is where you will get an authentic taste of Kuching's culinary legacy and local morning culture.

Next, check out the Sarawak Cultural Village to learn about the region's rich cultural highlights. This living museum depicts the traditional lifestyles of several indigenous groups. Explore models of traditional residences, witness cultural performances and take part in hands-on activities such as crafts and games. Also at the Sarawak Cultural Village, is where you will find seven traditional houses representing the rich cultural diversity of Sarawak’s ethnic groups. Each house offers a unique architectural style and insight into the lifestyles of the respective community it represents.

You will have the opportunity to explore the Orang Ulu Longhouse, which is constructed several feet above the ground, set amidst lush tropical flora. Inside, you will find it loaded with musical instruments capable of producing a variety of unique sounds. The round head-house with bamboo galore and carvings is known as the Barok, which is filled with wooden masks, war drums, gongs and weapons. It also serves as the gathering place for the Bidayuh warriors. The Barok is intricately connected to the longhouses of the Bidayuh people, a community composed of tribes such as the Jagoi, Biatah, Bukar-Sadong, Selakau and Lara.

In Sarawak, the Orang Ulu ethnic groups, particularly the Kenyah and Kayan communities, are well-known for their Sapelele performances. The Sapelele is a smaller variant of the classic Sape, a lute-like instrument of high cultural value among the Orang Ulu. The Sapelele, like the Sape, is featured in traditional musical performances, frequently accompanying dances and rituals.

You will also be able to meet the Iban people, one of Sarawak's largest indigenous populations. Traditional Iban clothing features beadwork, vivid colours and intricate designs, and is customary for rites or key festivals like Gawai Dayak.

In addition, here is where you can witness and learn more about the distinct lifestyles of various tribes: the Iban people are most known for their Pua Kumbu weave. Pua Kumbu – made using a combination of ikat dyeing technique and backstrap loom weaving – is distinctive in its use of fibres and dyes peculiar to Borneo's jungles.

Other houses in the village include the Penan Hut, representing the nomadic Penan people, the Orang Ulu Longhouse, featuring beautiful wood carvings as well as the towering Melanau Tall House. You will also find a more modern-style Malay Townhouse and a quaint Chinese Farmhouse, offering a wholesome glimpse into Sarawak’s multicultural identity. The two pictures above are of Melanau Tall House and Penan Hut respectively.

In the afternoon, stroll through Jalan Main Bazaar, a historical area perfect for souvenir shopping. Browse local antique stores or purchase handicrafts as well as one-of-a-kind souvenirs while appreciating the colonial-era architecture.

This is a great place to purchase textiles, beading and handicrafts locally made in Sarawak. Unique products include wood carvings, handmade baskets, and indigenous Iban Pua Kumbu (woven textiles).

As the sun sets, take a Sarawak River Cruise for a pleasant opportunity to explore Kuching through a different lens. Enjoy views of prominent monuments such as Astana, Fort Margherita and the State Legislative Assembly Building, which are all brilliantly lit in the evening.

Complete your day with dinner at Mom's Laksa, which is known for serving one of Kuching's beloved varieties of Laksa Sarawak. Enjoy the rich and spicy broth with fresh prawns, chicken and vermicelli noodles in a pleasant, local atmosphere.

Iconic Landmarks and Culinary Delights

Fuel up for the morning with another popular Sarawakian delicacy, Mee Kolok, at Laila Cafe. Enjoy springy noodles mixed with mild soy sauce and topped with minced meat plus veggies.

Next, the Cat Monument is a must-visit photo spot, which represents Kuching since the word Kuching in the Malay language translates to ‘cat’. This amusing spot features several cat monuments and a humorous feline motif around the city.

Explore Tua Pek Kong Temple, one of Kuching's oldest Chinese temples. Discover the intricate architecture and colourful statues set against a serene atmosphere, unravelling the local Chinese community's history with spirituality through its vibrant exteriors

In the afternoon, visit the Borneo Cultural Museum. This contemporary museum offers a thorough look at Borneo's rich cultural and ecological history through interactive displays.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Kuching Waterfront, a bustling location with stunning vistas and a dynamic atmosphere. Enjoy street entertainment, local food booths and stunning views of the Sarawak River as well as its surrounding monuments.

As nightfall approaches, cross the Jambatan Darul Hana pedestrian bridge, featuring spectacular views of Kuching, particularly when beautifully lit at night.

End the day with a hearty meal for dinner at My Village Barok, which is known for its traditional Malay food. Enjoy traditional dishes such as ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo) in a warm, rustic setting.

Local Markets and Culinary Traditions

Kick off your final day by visiting Pasar Satok, a lively market where you can experience local life by shopping for fresh food and interesting knick knacks. Explore the stalls offering fruits, veggies, seafood and traditional crafts while engaging with friendly locals.

Wrap up your Kuching adventure by learning how to make Sarawak's famed layered cake, Kek Lapis, at Kek Lapis Warisan. Participate in a hands-on session, try out different flavours and take home your creation as a delectable gift.