Take A Trip In Time And Be Inspired By The Culture And Heritage Of Sarawak And Borneo

Welcome to twelve Museum landmark in Kuching, Sarawak!

They are treasure troves and custodians of comprehensive collections, exhibits and books on the history, natural history, tradisions and beliefs of the multi-ethnic peoples of Sarawak and Borneo unearthed through years of research. Collected, salvaged and preserved for you for 120 years.

Sarawak Museums - Your sources of real inspiration

The Sarawak Museums a major landmark in Kuching,it was in 1891 and was extended to its present form in 1911. This magnificent building of Victorian Architecture is one of the oldest museums in south East Asia.A mixed museum, it is the midst of being turned into Ethnology Museum.You will have the opportunity to see the vanishing tradisional way of life, cultures and beliefs of the indigenous multi-ethnic groups of Sarawak, their ancient weapons, arts and crafts, old photographs and models of Dayak longhouses. The walls are adorned with fascinating native murals.


Kubu Margherita

It is named after Renee Margaret, wife of Sir Charles Brookes, the second rajah of Sarawak.Its design is based on the English Renaissance fortress and castle. In 1971, it was used as a police museum and now preserved as a fort.This is one of the best known historical monuments and a major landmark in Kuching City.Construction of the building began in 1878 and was completed in 1879.It has since then served as a garrision, armory, prison, lookout and sentry point.


Textile Museum

Built in 1907 as a medical centre, it later became the headquarters of the Education Department.Its architecture is a mixture of the English Renaissance and English Colonial.This museum is housed at the Pavilion, a beautiful historical building in a the heart of Kuching City.

It is divided into four main galleries depicting the processes of the preparation of raw materials,weaving, costume motifs, accessories and wedding costumes.Visitors can see authentic local textiles and costumes made by the ethnic community of Sarawak. The exhibition flow follows the process of making a textile which starts with the raw material, through the weaving stage and ends with the finished product.Visitors are also given the opportunity of hands-on experience on the loom and 'touch
on' exhibits.



Chinese History Museum

It is situated within the popular Kuching Waterfront. The museum portrays the rich and fascinating history of Sarawak's diverse Chinese dialectical groups.This historic building, built in 1912,was used as a court by the immigrant Chinese community to administer their laws and customs before it was taken over by Chinese Chamber of Commerce for a number of years.Browsing through the interesting exhibits, visitors are able to acquire in-depth knowledge relating to the origin of each dialectical group, their respective traditional skills and cultural heritage and progress.


Art Museum

It will contain a wide collection of paintings, raging from the Brooke period to present times.Know occuping the former State Archive and Library section of the museum, this annex is to be converted into an Art Museum.

Museum Dewan Tun Abdul Razak

Situated just across the road from the Sarawak Museum. It houses several rotating exhibition galleries, an administrative centre, souvenir shop,a cafe and an activity centre.The present exhibitions are Borneo Pottery and The Ceramic Story.This hall was named after the second Prime Minister of Malaysia. It was previously used as a State Assembly Hall from 1973 until 1982 when it was converted into a museum exhibition gallery.

Natural History Museum

The museum offers you the rare privilege of seeing what might have gone of of out of sight. Here, your encounter with preserved and reassembled skeletons of mammals, invertebrates, reptiles, birds, insects, fish and shells endemic to Sarawak or Borneo which may be extinct or near extinct can be your life time experience to treasure. It is planned to be open in 2008. This museum is the site of the former administrative centre of the department.

Islamic Museum

Situated behind Dewan Tun Abdul Razak, this building was formerly known as Kolej James Brooke, or Maderasah Melayu. Sarawak in 1930 when it was used as a college to train teacher in higher Malay studies. It has a unique architecture and is said to be the only one of its kind in Sarawak. Know it has seven galleries depicting the History of Islam in Sarawak, Islamic Architecture, Islamic Science and Technology, Economy, Education and Literature, Islamic Music, Costumes and Personal Ornaments, Islamic Decorative Arts and Domestic Utensils, Islamic Weaponry and the Holy Quran Collection.

Limbang Regional Museum

This museum was an old fort built in 1897. Like the other forts, it first served as a fort to fend off the attacks of insurgent natives before it was used for administrative purposes. Burnt down in 1989, it was rebuilt on the exact site, maintaining the original design and architecture.

On display are items depicting the history and culture of the multi-ethnic people in this region, such as the indigenous musical instruments used in their locally popular bamboo band, salt making process, beadwork, bark clothes, brassware and other interesting artifacts.

Museum Arkeologi Niah

The museum was built in 1998. Situated close to the archaeological sites of the world famous Great Niah Cave. It also exhibits the stone-age artifacts from caves and culture of the people living in this area now. The museum gives visitors the unique experience of seeing the way of life of the pre-historic people who dwelled in the cave 40,000 years ago.

Museum Wilayah Baram

Originally known as Fort Hose, it was built in 1898 as a fort on top of the hill overlooking the mighty Baram River to thwart the onslaught of marauding rebels opposed to the Brooke Regime.Although burnt down in 1994, it was rebuilt on the exact site following the original design and architecture before it was declared as a museum.

Items on display comprise historical and cultural artifacts belonging to various ethnic groups living in the area. Other exhibits include the present day economic and other activities of the local people.

Petroleum Museum

This museum completed in 2005, is built to keep in perpetuity the history of petroleum industry in Sarawak and its enormous contribution to the development and prosperity of Miri City and Sarawak in general.This museum sits atop Oil Well Hill(formerly Canada Hill) next to the Grand Old Lady, a derrick that was once the site of the first oil production in Sarawak built in 1910.Through amazing displays and interactive exhibits, visitors are able to appreciate the role played by science and technology in oil exploration, production, refining and distribution.

WELCOME TO KUBAH NATIONAL PARK AND MATANG WILDLIFE CENTRE

WELCOME TO KUBAH NATIONAL PARK AND MATANG WILDLIFE CENTRE





Situated approximately 20 km west of Kuching is the Kubah National Park. It is dominate by sandstone plateau and cover an area of 2,230 hectares. it was gazetted as a National Park in 1989.


The Matang Range formed a scenic backdrop at the park which includesthree mountains - Gunung Serapi,Gunung Selang and Gunung Sendok that can be seen clearly from Kuching.
Kubah National Park is an easy and enjoyable day trip from Kuching.The Park is a Mixed Dipterocarp forest and has one of Borneo'swidest selections of palms and orchids.


The crystal-clear waters of fast flowing streams run down a series of waterfalls, some as high as 10 metres. The tranquil and picturesque setting makes it a popular destination for day trippers.
Kubah is mostly covered by mixed dipterocarp forest, but it also has one of the widest selections of palms and orchids in Borneo. The varied wildlife includes bearded pig, mouse deer, black hornbill and many species of amphibians and reptiles.


However, Kubah's wildlife tends to stay deep in the forest so it is not really a park for "wildlife encounters" (Bako is unbeatable in that respect). Kubah's appeal lies in its rainforest scenery, its waterfalls, streams and bathing pools and the 93 species of palm found within its boundaries.
Kubah National Park offers four trails and one of it leads to Gunung Serapi.Trekking Gunung Serapi is fun and looks easy because of the tarred road but can bequite challenging as the return trip take about 5 to 6 hours.


Wooden shelters are located along the various trails. The Main Trail passes through dipterocarp forest and links the various trails of the park. The Palmetum is the park's showcase trail, passing through an area rich in palms. The Selang trail leads to a view point about 45 minutes walk from the HQ.


After about 30 minutes you come to a very steep sectionwhere ropes are provided to help with the climb. At the end of the trail you'll find a raised wooden platform complete with a bench chair and some superb views of Matang and the Santubong peninsula.


On top of mountain is the telecommunication Tower, which is a restricted area.The Waterfall Trail is the most popular trail in the park.It passes through mixed dipterocarp forest and incorporates a number of plankwalk sections that cross streams and swampy land.


From the HQ, it takes about 1 hr 30 mins to reach the waterfall.The Rayu trail leads from the park HQ to the Matang Wildlife Centre and takes about 3-4 hours (one way). First follow the main trail before turning right to begin a relatively easy descent through the rainforest.
Visitor to Kubah National Park will have the chance to see the plant lifeof Borneo as the forest area dominating the park is rich in palms trees and orchidswhich include species like licuala, Rattans, Pantu, Pinanga, Appendicula, Dipodium and Eria.The Park is also a haven for a wide variety of butterflies.


Mid-way along the trail you'll find some rainforest giants, and pass numerous Bintangor trees which are currently the subject of Aids research. At the end of the trail you enter a swampy section (watch out for leeches) before coming to a crystal clear stream and the riverside picnic areas at the Wildlife Centre. Note that you can also start both the Waterfall and Rayu treks just past the 900 feet point on the Mount Serapi path.


The trek from the road to the waterfall takes about 45 minutes and begins with a steep descent on a wooden staircase that winds its way down the forested slopes. The dipterocarp forest, interspersed with patches of scrub and kerangas. Is alsohome to a variety of wildlife which include bearded pigs, mouse, deer, squirrels,black hornbill, amphibians and reptiles.Chances of seeing the animals are quiteslim here as compared Bako National Park, as the animals tend to hide deep in theforest.


All the jungle trails meander through the cool forest and provide opportunities toobserve the rich variety of plant life. The picturesque waterfalls provide perfect spots forpicnics and cool refreshing dips after the energetic walks through the forest.


The new Belian trail is about 1 hour's easy walking and as well as huge Belian (Borneo ironwood) trees, there is a wide variety of other plant life. Colourful forest birds including the maroon woodpecker, white rumped shama, chestnut-naped forktail, and rufous-collard kingfisher are often heard and seen, and giant squirrels are frequently spotted jumping from tree to tree.


Accommodation Facilities:


Kubah Park HQ: Type 4' Forest Lodge, RM 225 per house (kitchen, 2 bedrooms (6 beds), air-con, TV, hot water and verandah). Type 5' Forest Lodge, RM 150 per house (3 bedrooms (10 beds), fan and common cooking facilities). Hostel, RM 15 per person.
Matang Wildlife Centre: Type 5' Forest Lodge (2-bedrooms, each with double bed) RM 150 per house. Hostel, RM 15 per person or RM 40 per room (4 beds), Campsite RM 5 per person.


Matang Wildlife Centre


Matang Wildlife Centre, part of Kubah National Park, houses endangered wildlife in large enclosed areas of rainforest or spacious cages. The main attraction is the Orang Utan training programme, where young Orang Utans, who were either orphaned or rescued from captivity, are taught how to survive in the wild. The best time to see the Orang Utan is at feeding time (see below). As well as the Orang Utans, the Centre includes spacious enclosures housing Sambar Deer, Crocodiles, Sun Bears, Civets and Bear Cats, and three large aviaries featuring Hornbills, Eagles, Kites, Storks and a host of other birds native to Sarawak.


There are some pleasant rivejside picnic spotsa short walk from the information centre and four jungle trails. The Pitcher Trail, which follows a circular path through the forest, takes approximately two hours and trekkers should not have too much difficulty in spotting the various specious of pitcher plants that litter the forest floor at the sides of the trail. The Rayu trail leads to the Kubah Park headquarters and takes 3-4 hours. The Sungai Buluh trail leads to two secluded waterfalls and takes 2-hours (one way). There is an information centre, accommodation facilities and a small canteen just a short walk from the car park.


Animal Feeding Times


Orang Utan : 9.30 am and 3.30 pm dailyHornbills : 9.30 and 3.30 pm dailySambar Deer : 9.30 am and 3.30 pm dailyCrocodiles : 3 pm every Sunday


Flora and Fauna


Mixed dipterocarp forests predominate with patches of scrub and kerangas adding variety. The area is rich in palms and orchids which include species of Licuala, Rattans, Pantu, Pinanga, Appendicula, Dipodium and Eria are found in abundance.


The cool forest, the nearby mangrove and the dissected terrain is home to a considerably large wildlife population. This includes the mouse deer, squirrels and the bearded pig. The loud calls of the black hornbills (kenyalang), can be distinctly heard as you walk through the park. This venerable bird features prominently in many Iban religious ceremonies. Other notable inhabitants of the park are varieties of amphibians and reptiles.


Planning an Itinerary


Visit the Matang Wildlife Centre and see some of the endangered wildlife species of Sarawak in their natural environment. Visitors will also gain valuable insights into efforts to conserve these species and their habitats.


Jungle trails meandering through the cool forests provide opportunities to observe the rich variety of plant life found here. If you're quiet enough you may hear the loud "gronk" of the hornbills echoing through the forest canopy.


The picturesque waterfall is provide perfect spots for picnics and cool refreshing dips after the energetic walks through the forest. Rest a while and take in the beauty of your tranquil surroundings before moving on to new pursuits. For an insight into the local culture visit the nearby longhouse (Rumah Jugah) on the banks of Sungai Rayu.

Getting There:


Kubah is only 21 km from Kuching whilst Matang Wildlife Centre is 35 km from town. Travel agents can arrange tours to the park, or take Matang Transport Co. bus No. 11 or a local mini-bus (see Travel Connections). Bus 11 passes Kubah Park HQ but it does not go all the way to Matang Wildlife Centre.


If you are heading to Matang Wildlife Centre ask to be dropped off at the turning for the Polytechnic. You may be in for a long wait; at the time of writing there is no regular bus service to the Wildlife Centre. Local mini-buses (bos sewa) serve the villages in the Matang area but the service is irregular.


If you do see a small white bas sewa, flag it down and ask the driver to drop you off at the Centre. The only other alternative is to try and hitch a ride. The one-way taxi fare is RM 30-35 - negotiate a 'wait and return' fare or arrange a pick up time. Alternatively, local tour operators run day trips to both the National Park and the Wildlife Centre.


Welcome To Kubah National Park and Matang Wildlife Centere!!!

Welcome To Niah Cave: One Of The World's Largest Limestone Cave

Welcom To Niah Cave: one of the world's largest limestone caves

Tips:
Archelogy Museum that you should not missed. Go visit! Cross this river by boat and start your advantures walking. Is a long walk into the cave. Don't forget to bring some light food and mineral water. Also a good torch light!!

Itinerary : From Miri, take a scenic country drive past forests, oil palm and rubber trees, small villages and longhouses with rice fields, pepper and market gardens. At the Park, cross the Niah River by boat to visit the Archaeology Museum and then take a 3-kilometre walk on a raised plankwalk through virgin rainforest to the cave entrance. Get your camera ready for West Mouth is indeed one of the largest and most beautiful cave entrances. Framed by creepers with overhanging stalactites, the view takes in the lush greenery of the surrounding rainforest.When in season, witness bird nest collection by the locals. Explore the magnificent cave system and surrounding jungle. View prehistoric wall paintings and remnants of prehistoric human settlements. Return to Miri. Niah National Park has chalets for those who would like an overnight stay to best enjoy and appreciate the park. There are two walking trails to explore and the Iban longhouse is nearby.

Niah Cave

Niah Cave is one of the world's most significant archaeologicalsites since the 1954 discovery of Stone Age human settlements. The Niah national park is home to the popular Niah cave, one of the world's largest limestone caves. Within the Gunung Subis limestone massif of north Borneo is a series of caves that have been used for burial and settlement over many millennia.

The park itself covers an area of forest and limestone, all together about 3102 hectars in size.Niah Cave in Borneo is important because of the "Deep Skull", an anatomically modern human skull recovered from deep within the deposits and dated to 42,000 years ago.

In year 1958, old remains of a modern human (Paleolithic Era - earliest stone age) was found by Tom Harrison and his archaeology team at a dig of West Mouth of the Great Cave, this discovery was finally proved by modern scientific dating techniques.

Niah Cave is located on the north side of the island of Borneo, inland from the South China Sea some 12 kilometers. The park is nice and the big cave is interesting,i have visited Niah Caves near Miri. it's a great cave to be visited. You could see people havest bird nest inside the cave. althought is a long walk to the cave, but you will enjoy it!!

That's interesting, because that date makes Niah Cave the site of one of the oldest established evidence of modern human beings outside of Africa. The Great Cave Niah is another attraction to tourism in north east region of Sarawak (Miri). It is the place of oldest modern human settlement and civilization found in this region.

Birds Nest

Million of cave swiflets that live in the cave make their nests purely from their own salivary secretions, and when the nests are cleaned and cooked they produce the famous birds nest soup, which is as highly regarded in Chinese cuisine as caviar is in the West.

Marvel at agile collectors perched precariously on flimsy bamboo poles reaching 80 metres high into the darkness to collect the prized bird nests (when in season) while below voices of guano collectors can be heard. Besides bats and swiftlets, lookout for giant buttress roots and pandanus, exquisite orchids, luminous fungi and all manner of unusual insects and invertebrates.
Prices vary to the quality of the bird nest. Collecting the nest from the cave ceiling is a dangerous and difficult job, thus the price of birds nest is so high.

Obviously such a valuable commodity is a magnet and highly business potential for poachers who will collect the bird nest unlawfully, therefore the caves are constantly monitored by park wardens, to prevent illegal collectors. What a great excitement to be HERE!

The Painted Cave

As you enter into the Great cave, darkness start to conquer!! Your torch light is so small and you are alone to go theu about 1km under the darkness of Niah cave!!!

A wall painting that depicting the boat journey of the dead into the afterlife. Most importantly the painted wall was explained by the discovery of a number of death-ships on the cave floor - a boat-shaped coffins containing the remains of the deceased. The death-ships burials have been dated as ranging between 1 AD and 780 AD.

The human figures and the boats of the painting probably respresenting warriors and hunters with longboats carrying the soul of the deceased on the journey to the land of death or resting place. The atmosphere of the painted cave is very relaxing, it is easy to understand that why the early inhabitants had chosen a suitable resting place for their ancestors afterlife.

You also have a small tinny torch light to guide you. Are you dare to go thru the mystery of Niah caves? The passage at entrance of the Great Cave leads to a large chamber known as the Padang, where there is shaft of sunlight stream down from large holes in the cave roof to illuminate the bizarre rock formations in the Burnt Cave. You still have chance to quit! behind me is the entrance of the Great Cave, as you can see the sun light coming in.