Sarawak
The state of Sarawak shares East Malaysia with Sabah but is a vastly different destination to its neighbour with a greater degree of ethnic and tribal diversity leading to a more interesting culture and more varied cuisine. Most people who live in Sarawak use the intricate network of waterways to get about. Visitors are encouraged to do so too, although taxis and hire cars are available in the larger towns for those who prefer more conventional means of transport. Separated from Peninsular Malaysia by 650km (404 miles) by the South China Sea, Sarawak can be reached by direct flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Situated on the banks of the River Sarawak, Kuching is a charming historic town, as well as being a gateway to a huge hinterland of dense tropical rainforest and mountain ranges. Villages on stilts still cling precariously to the river banks. Kuching has many places of interest worth visiting. A visit to the Sarawak Museum affords valuable insights into the history, wildlife and anthropology of Borneo. The Court House, built in 1847, is adorned with local art forms and is regarded as one of the finest buildings in Sarawak. The Hong San Temple, built in honour of the God Kuek Seng, dates back to 1895. The Chinese community reveres Kuek Seng, who became a god 1000 years ago. It is supposed that he grants all requests from his devotees. At the heart of Kuching, the splendour of Sarawak State Mosque, with its magnificent gilt domes is a majestic sight. Situated at the Junction of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Main Bazaar, Tua Pek Kong Temple is Kuching’s oldest Chinese temple, which dates back to 1876.
Overnight excursions can be made up the Skrang River, with accommodation provided in longhouses. There are also downriver trips to Santubong, an ancient trading post on the coast.
The Bako National Park, covering an area of approximately 26 sq km (10 sq miles), has interesting wildlife and vegetation, including carnivorous plants, long-nosed monkeys and Sambar deer. Excursions are organised from Kuching.
Gunung Mulu National Park, a World Heritage Site, has over 3500 different plant species and is home to an abundance of wildlife including exotic birds and butterflies, fish and mammals. Small Borneo gibbons swinging through the trees are a common sight. The magnificent limestone caves in the park are the main tourist attraction, and include Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave and The Cave of the Winds.
Other excursions, often via Miri, can be made to the Niah Caves, which show evidence of human existence dating back to 5000 BC. The caves are also valued for their guano and bird’s nests, the latter being used to make soup. Many of the caves – and some are more easily accessible than others – may be visited with a guide.
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