Explore Sarawak Like a Local: Honest Travel Tips from a Malaysian Chinese Guy

Hey, it’s Kenny again — your friendly Malaysian Chinese guy who’s still surviving this full-time mission of discovering every state in Malaysia, one nasi lemak at a time. Now let me tell you something: Sarawak is wild. And I mean that in the best way possible. It’s like a nature documentary and a cultural festival had a baby, and that baby grew up to be super chill and kinda mysterious. I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Borneo this hard, but here we are. From deep caves to tribal heritage and surprise boat rides, Sarawak gave me one heck of a ride — sometimes literally in the back of a pickup truck.

sarawak
Sarawak

Sarawak is one of those places that quietly steals your heart. Located on the island of Borneo, it’s Malaysia’s largest state — but somehow still feels like a hidden gem. With its lush rainforests, mysterious caves, and rich cultural heritage, Sarawak offers a completely different vibe compared to Peninsular Malaysia. It’s where orangutans swing freely, old longhouses tell stories of generations, and every sunset feels like a reward for being there.

Whether you’re into nature, culture, or just want to escape the city noise, Sarawak gives you space to breathe and explore at your own pace. It’s peaceful, wild, and full of little surprises that make you pause and go, “Wow, I didn’t expect that.” And honestly, that’s what makes it special.

NUM 1 : Fairy Cave — Nature’s Cathedral (RM 1)

Fairy Cave
DetailInfo
LocationBau, about 40 mins from Kuching
PricesRM 1
Hours8:30 AM – 4.30 PM

NUM 2 : Siniawan Night Market — Vintage Feels & Local Flavours (Free Entry)

Siniawan Night Market
Siniawan Night Market

love this place so much I came here twice in one trip. Imagine an old-school street with wooden shophouses lit up with lanterns, packed with food stalls. I had wild boar satay, drank sugarcane juice from a bag, and watched uncles dance to old Chinese songs. It felt like a time warp, but with better lighting.

DetailInfo
LocationSiniawan town (30 mins from Kuching)
PricesFree entry (food prices vary, RM 5–15 per dish)
HoursSunday, 6 PM – 11 PM

NUM 3 : Borneo Cultures Museum — Mind-Blowing & Air-Conditioned (RM 20)

Borneo Cultures Museum
Borneo Cultures Museum

f you thought museums were boring, think again. This one is modern, interactive, and surprisingly fun. I played with touchscreens, walked through tribal houses, and actually learned something about our ancestors — imagine that! And yes, I went mostly for the aircon at first, but ended up staying for 2 hours.

DetailInfo
LocationKuching city
PricesRM 20 (locals), RM 50 (non-Malaysians)
Hours9 AM – 4:45 PM (closed on Mondays)

NUM 4 : Kampung Budaya Sarawak (Sarawak Cultural Village)

Kampung Budaya Sarawak
Kampung Budaya Sarawak
DetailInfo
LocationNear Damai Beach, about 45 mins from Kuching
PricesRM 20 (locals), RM 50 (non-Malaysians)
Hours9 AM – 5 PM

NUM 5 : Kubah National Park — Jungle, Frogs & Hidden Waterfalls (RM 10)

Kubah National Park
Kubah National Park

Let me be honest — I went here just to see the famous tiny frog the size of a peanut. Didn’t see it, but I ended up finding a waterfall that looked like a secret elf shower spot. The hike is not too tough, unless you get distracted by weird mushrooms like I did. Pack water and maybe some bug spray.

DetailInfo
Location30 mins from Kuching
PricesRM 10 (Malaysians), RM 20 (non-Malaysians)
HoursOpening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM

Sarawak felt like opening a storybook that’s been sitting on the shelf way too long. Every page surprised me — from quirky markets to misty caves, from indigenous traditions to hidden trails. It’s massive, diverse, and incredibly welcoming. If you’re tired of the same-old tourist spots and want something raw, real, and ridiculously friendly, put Sarawak high on your list. Just be ready to eat a lot, sweat a bit, and maybe fall in love with Borneo like I did. Until next time — happy wandering!