What Makes Sarawak Special? The Untold Wonders of Borneo’s Hidden Gem

Sarawak is fresh yet familiar, offering a perfect blend of Malaysian warmth, Bornean wildness, and an easygoing charm that’s hard to resist. If you’re a Singaporean looking to skip the usual tourist throngs without compromising on convenience or depth of experience, Sarawak is the perfect place for you. 

Also read: The Ultimate Youth Adventure Guide to Exploring Sarawak’s Caves, Reefs & Waterfalls!

Experience Sarawak’s culture through food

1. Unearth the secrets of black pepper plantations in Kuching

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Did you know that Sarawak is one of the world’s top producers of black pepper? Known for its bold aroma and robust flavour, Sarawak black pepper is a staple in gourmet kitchens around the globe. 

You can also join guided tours to pepper plantations and see how this culinary treasure is grown, harvested, and processed. It’s an eye-opening way to connect with Sarawak’s agricultural heritage while meeting the people who keep this tradition alive. Consider picking up vacuum-sealed peppercorns or ground pepper as a culinary souvenir; they’re compact, practical, and pack a punch in more ways than one!

2. Savour the uniqueness of Bario rice

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No culinary journey through Sarawak is complete without experiencing the distinct flavour of Bario rice. Cultivated by the Kelabit people 1,000 metres above sea level in the cool highlands of Bario, Bario rice is prized for its delicate texture, slightly nutty aroma, and high nutritional value. 

If you’re up for an adventure, visiting the “land of a hundred handshakes” itself is a rewarding experience. The journey takes you deep into Sarawak’s lush highlands, where you’ll be welcomed into traditional villages, learn about age-old farming practices, and enjoy rice dishes prepared the way locals have for generations.

But if your itinerary is tight, don’t worry, you can still bring a taste of Bario home. This coveted rice is readily available at local markets in Miri and Kuching, making it easy to enjoy Sarawak’s highland flavours even on a short trip.

3. Indulge in many layers of flavours with Sarawak’s kek lapis

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Sarawak’s kek lapis is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. With its vibrant stripes and intricate patterns, this cake has become a cultural icon, symbolising celebration, craftsmanship, and Sarawakian hospitality.

While traditionally served during festive occasions like Hari Raya and Gawai, you’ll find these colourful creations across Sarawak year-round. Savour a slice with a warm cup of teh tarik, or bring a beautifully packed cake home as a souvenir!

Discover nature like no other in Sarawak

1. Meet orangutans up close at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

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At Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, you can witness one of Borneo’s most iconic inhabitants — the orangutan, in a semi-wild environment! Semenggoh focuses on rehabilitation, giving rescued orangutans a safe space to learn survival skills before returning to the forest.

Unlike a zoo, orangutans in this centre are encouraged to forage for food independently, with supplementary feeding sessions acting as viewing opportunities for visitors. It also plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of orphaned or rescued orangutans, with successful releases back into the wild. 

This close encounter with Sarawak’s iconic “man of the forest” provides a powerful reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism.

2. Wander the ancient forests of Gunung Mulu National Park

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Next on the list is Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering limestone pinnacles, ancient rainforests, and vast cave systems. Adventurers can test their nerves on the park’s canopy walk, one of the world’s longest, suspended high above the forest floor with sweeping views of the jungle canopy. 

The park also has elevated boardwalks and catwalks, which offer a gentler way to explore while still providing close encounters with wildlife and nature.

3. Step into a world of nocturnal wonders at Sama Jaya Nature Reserve

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If a journey all the way to Gunung Mulu National Park feels too far, rest assured, you don’t have to leave the city to experience Sarawak’s greenery. At the Sama Jaya Nature Reserve in Kuching, you’ll find an oasis of nature right in the urban landscape. By day, its shaded trails invite peaceful walks or jogs, but come nightfall, the forest reveals a whole new side of itself.

Don’t miss the Urban Forest Night Walk, a guided walking tour that lets you experience the reserve after dark. This is the first and only night walk of its kind in an urban setting in Sarawak, and it offers a chance to see and hear things you’d never notice during the day. As you walk through the jungle, spot nocturnal species of birds, frogs, and even flying lemurs!

Uncover hidden adventures throughout Sarawak

1. Pedal through stunning landscapes at the Kuala Baram in Miri

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For the active adventurer, cycling along the serene stretches of Kuala Baram in Miri offers an invigorating way to experience Sarawak’s coastal charm. Imagine the wind in your hair as you cycle past picturesque fishing villages, verdant landscapes, and perhaps even catch glimpses of local life unfolding along the riverbanks. 

The region’s appeal for cyclists is further highlighted by the annual Kuala Baram Cycling Race, an event that draws cyclists from both local and international communities to compete on its roads. Its relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for various fitness levels, promising a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle. 

2. Journey to Borneo’s southernmost tip

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The next adventure leads you to the very southern tip of Sarawak and Borneo Island, where the pristine Teluk Melano Coastline and Serabang Beach await. Located in the Tanjung Datu National Park area, this remote and untouched paradise offers breathtaking vistas of the South China Sea meeting the lush rainforest. 

This region is a haven for nature lovers, with its secluded beaches, diverse marine life, and opportunities for jungle trekking. The tranquil beauty of Teluk Melano and Serabang Beach is a testament to Borneo’s unspoiled natural heritage; it is truly a place where the island’s wild beauty is on full display.

3. Visit the family-friendly Borneo Happy Farm to learn more about animals

Image credit: Borneo Happy Farm | Official Website

Finally, for a delightful family-friendly experience, head to the Borneo Happy Farm. Located just a 45-minute drive from the Kuching city centre, this agro-tourism park offers a blend of educational and recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for visitors of all ages.

The farm features a variety of friendly animals, from horses and ducks to water buffaloes, giving children and adults alike the chance to interact up close. Beyond animal encounters, the farm showcases agricultural practices and sustainable farming methods, offering hands-on learning experiences such as cultivating mushrooms or growing organic vegetables.

It’s a fun, engaging way for families to discover the rhythms of rural life in Sarawak, and a memorable opportunity for children to connect with nature and agriculture in an interactive setting.

With each journey, Sarawak leaves a lasting impression that lingers long after you’ve returned home. It’s a place where every taste, trail, and encounter tells a story, offering an escape that is both relaxing and deeply enriching. Now it’s your turn to experience the wonders of Sarawak for yourself!

Brought to you by Sarawak Tourism Board