Kuching Archives | Page 13 Of 13

What to do at Santubong, Sarawak?

Published on January 8, 2018

Travel

Santubong Peninsula, with its rich history and great landscape is only a 35-minute drive from Kuching.

Behind its mountain peaks lies an age-old legend of jealousy and rage between Puteri Santubong and her sister Puteri Sejinjang.

Hailing from a celestial kingdom, the princesses were not above sibling rivalry. One fateful day, the princesses fought violently with each other over who was the more beautiful.

Sejinjang hit Santubong’s head, after which the latter fell to the earth, becoming Mount Santubong.

Before she fell, however, she managed to throw the beam of her weaving loom at Sejinjang. The impact broke Sejinjang’s body, and the pieces scattered into the ocean, forming nearby islands Pulau Satang, Pulau Talang-Talang and so on.

With the family feud in the mythical past, Santubong is a famous place for both locals and foreign tourists alike, the beauty of these two sisters still living on to this day through the scenic views of both the rainforest and the South China Sea.

Here are 10 things to do while visiting the Santubong Peninsula:

1. Climb Mount Santubong

The number one thing to do (provided you have the passion and stamina) is to climb to the Santubong summit.

It is moderately difficult since it has some steep climbs assisted by rope ladders.

The climb takes about 3 to 4 hours to the summit and up to 3 hours to hike down.

Do not take the climb lightly as there have been cases of climbers becoming stranded out of exhaustion.

It is advisable to depart from the park rangers’ office no later than 8am and take at least 3 litres of water for each person.

Nonetheless, the views from the top are definitely rewarding.

Santubong (15) — The view from the top of Mount Santubong.

2. No energy to climb to the top? Just hike around it.

If you don’t have the energy to climb to the top but still want to enjoy the rainforest, hike around it.

At Santubong National Park, you can either follow the red trail up to the summit or the blue trail for an easier alternative.

The blue trail takes around two hours to complete and will lead you to one of the waterfalls.

If you take the blue trail of Santubong National Park, you'll find yourself on this hanging bridge. — If you take the blue trail of Santubong National Park, you’ll find yourself traversing this hanging bridge.

3. Take a dip in one of the jungle pools

While you are paying Mother Nature a visit, you might at as well take a refreshing dip in one of its jungle pools.

Both blue and red trails at the national park have waterfalls to offer.

The waters are relatively shallow at all the waterfalls and may be only waist-deep at most.

Take a relaxing dip at one of the waterfalls at Mount Santubong.

4. Explore the coastline, not just Damai Beach

Apart from Damai Beach, there is another less famous but equally beautiful beach located at Santubong Peninsula.

Situated at Kampung Santubong, Pantai Puteri offers a scenic view of its coast.

It is a great place for beach combing as you can walk as far as the mouth of Santubong River.

There are plenty of weird-looking rock formations to explore as you draw closer to the estuary.

Be alert to your surroundings because if you are lucky enough, you might spot a kingfisher or two.

Here are some photos taken at Pantai Puteri:

5. Kayak along the shoreline

Another way to enjoy the shoreline is to kayak along it.

Permai Beach Resort and Damai Beach Resort offer kayaks for rent at affordable prices.

There are other recreational activities as well such as scuba diving, snorkelling and stand up paddleboards.

Each of them allows visitors to look at Santubong from different perspectives.

Kayaking is a relaxing way to explore Santubong.

6. Have a taste of Sarawak culture

Visiting a new place would not be complete without having a taste of its culture.

Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) is an award-winning living museum depicting the cultural heritage of major racial groups in Sarawak.

There are seven unique houses which invite visitors to have an insight of the traditional life: the Bidayuh longhouse, Iban longhouse, Orang Ulu longhouse, Chinese farmhouse, Melanau tall house, Malay house and Penan hut.

Do not miss their cultural performances held at its theater twice a day at 11.30 and 4pm.

Once a year, SCV also plays host to the world renowned Rainforest World Music Festival.

Santubong (12) — One of the performers from Kobagi Kecak (Indonesia) during Rainforest World Music Festival 2016.

7. Swim in the South China Sea

Put on your bikinis or swimming trunks and just have a swim – but don’t forget to put on some sunscreen first!

8. Visit historical sites

The history of Santubong can be traced as far back as the 7th century.

The artifacts found in the area shows that the peninsula was a trading port between Borneo and China.

One of the historical places to visit at Santubong is Sultan Tengah Mausoleum.

It is located right before the junction to Santubong village.

The first and only Sultan of Sarawak, Sultan Tengah died in 1641 and was buried together with his family members.

Other historical sites include Batu Bergambar near Sungai Jaong, Cursed Crocodile Stone in Santubong village and archaeological site of Bongkisam.

Santubong (10) — Miss the crowd by visiting Santubong during weekdays.

9. Explore Damai Craftworld and Event Centre

It was formerly known and still preferably called Damai Central.

The place has wide variety of facilities and services to offer which include barbecue pits, camp ground, event venues, food courts and crafts bazaars.

Monkeys can easily be spotted even at Damai Central.

10. Sit back, have a beer and enjoy the sunset

This is perhaps the best thing to do at Santubong.

Plop down on one of the seats at Escobar at Damai Craftworld and Event Centre, have a sip of a cold beer and then simply enjoy the sunset.

Santubong (11) — The sun setting at Santubong.

Top 5 Places To Go in Kuching For That Panini Craving

Published on May 15, 2017

Lifestyle

Panini is not a typical dish you normally look for in Kuching… but that doesn’t mean you won’t have those cravings for this grilled sandwich-y goodness.

In the name of our love of food, KajoMag went on a mission to look for the best place to find Panini (so you wouldn’t have to).

By checking out these top five spots, you might be able to complete this list everyday this week:

Munch Café

Munch Café serves a blend of local as well as Western dishes; varying from a steaming hot bowl of noodles to a plate of thick and toasted sandwiches.

At Munch Café, their plate of Panini consists of two pieces of Focaccia bread grilled to perfection stuffed with chicken slices, sun dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, served with a side of salad, which cost RM12.80.

desert munch cafe — Cool sweet dessert (Photo source from Munch Cafe facebook page)

Other items available in Munch Café worth trying includes scones, their bagel with smoked Norwegian smoked salmon (my current favourite), mee sua as well as the various types of cool desserts which are perfect for hot weather.

It’s self-serve, meaning that customers will have to get their own eating utensils, dipping sauce or extra plates at the utensil counter provided in front of the café. The Munch Café is open from 6.45 am until 3 pm every day except Sunday.

Check out their Facebook page to know more: https://www.facebook.com/MunchCafe/

The Museum Café and Shop at The Main Bazaar

MCS — The interior of Museum Shop and Cafe

Located at the Main Bazaar in Kuching, the exterior of the cafe looks more like an antique shop.

Entering the Museum Café and Shop is like stepping into a part of the Sarawak Museum itself.

Every inch of the place is either covered in shelves filled with traveling books, cabinets showcasing beautiful jewellery for sale and precious trinkets.

It might be tricky walking around the café as it is cramped with small tables and chairs for customers.

However, it the best place to relax and chat or even read a book during a rainy day while enjoying a cool drink.

Taking advantage of the Instagram-worthy background, I spent about 15 minutes trying to take the perfect picture of my food before giving up and devouring my Smoked Duck Panini with cheese.

Besides smoked duck, customers can opt to have beef bacon, turkey ham, chicken, tomato, onion or tuna Panini.

Curious about what the café looks like? Why not pop by on Wednesdays for their weekly talk. From 5.30 pm to 7.00 pm, the talk features various topics on hobbies, interest and travel.

You may also check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/sarawakmuseumshopandcafe/

Tease by Jase’s Tea Room

Panini served with a side of french fries

At RM16, the Panini served at Tease is a bit more costly than those mentioned in this list.

That being said, I find the Panini – served warm with a side of French fries on a wooden platter – completely satisfactory.

I think the best way to devour this wholesome goodness is by downing it with a glass of milkshake — I think the best way to devour this wholesome Panini goodness is by downing it with a milkshake

Located at Icom Square, Tease is that sort of place to go if you have a last minute assignment to complete.

Those who prefer a private yet comfortable space to be alone might find a decent sized spot with a cushy sofa in the corner of the café partially hidden by a book shelf, while those who might come in with a large group may opt for the long cafeteria style table with high stools.

The natural light coming through the glass windows makes you feel like you are outdoors.

To know more about this café, check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/teasebyjasestearoom/

Coffee Obsession

Filling and savoury without being too overwhelming

I had some difficulty spotting this café (located at Lorong Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce) the first time, as it is located on the first floor.

For RM9.90, the beef slice Panini that I had for lunch was filling without being too overwhelming.

The soft wholesome bread complements the smokiness of the beef slice and the crunchy texture of the lettuce. It is an easy and pleasant meal for those who are in the mood for a light lunch.

Besides the one I’ve sampled, you can also opt for other choices such as the chicken or turkey ham slices.

Besides the food, my favourite feature of the café is the book shelf in the middle of the eatery. So while waiting, you can read a book or magazine to fill up the time.

Popular for a small gathering party, the café will sometimes be closed for big parties, so bear in mind to check their Facebook page for their opening status.

Coffee Obsession is open from 12 to 11.30 pm every day except Thursdays.

Check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/coffeeobsessioncafe/

Seattle Coffee & Tea Kuching at Merdeka Palace Hotel and Suites

Paninia dn sandwiches offered at Seattle Tea & Coffee Kuching (Picture source from Seattle Tea & Coffee Kuching) — Panini and sandwiches offered at Seattle Tea & Coffee Kuching (Picture source from Seattle Tea & Coffee Kuching facebook page)

Merdeka Palace Hotel and Suites is strategically located in close vicinity to Kuching’s historical sites.

Surrounding the hotel is the Sarawak Museum, St Thomas Cathedral, the Textile Museum, Sarawak Museum Department and the old Courthouse.

Even the building itself has a colonial style facade to match the heritage sites surrounding the area.

Seattle Coffee & Tea is located at the right corner inside the hotel and so you can get nice view overlooking the roundabout of Padang Merdeka and the old cathedral while enjoying a sip of hot coffee to go with your Panini, priced at RM14.

Check out their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/SeattleCoffeeAndTea/

If you have other suggestions on where to get Panini in town, just let us know at KajoMag!

PHOTOS: DBKU Orchid Park, a perfect place for plant lovers

Published on May 8, 2017

Travel

If you are a visiting botanist or horticulturalist to Kuching, the number one place you must visit is DBKU Orchid Park.

Constructed in November 2007, the park was finally opened to the public on May 5, 2009. The garden is made up of two areas – the nursery and the display area and houses a collection of more than 75,000 plants!

The entrance sign may say ‘Orchid Garden’ but it was upgraded to Orchid Park back in 2013.

If you are familiar with the names Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum Sanderianum), Coelogyne Pandurata, Bulbophyllum Beccarii and the Vandal Dearei, then you have to visit this garden.

But if you come with almost zero knowledge on orchids like yours truly, you might need to squeeze some effort to appreciate the place.

My biggest disappointment after visiting the garden was the lack of information and signage. While not all plants came with a sign, those that did only displayed the names of the plants without any extra information, leaving me with more questions than answers after my visit.

For instance, was this orchid endangered? Where could this particular orchid be found? Is this orchid endemic to Borneo?

These were just some of the questions that popped up in my mind while I was going around the garden.

Nonetheless, the park is strategically located within the vicinity of the Astana and Fort Margherita, making it a good place for a quick visit, especially for tourists.

Plus, admission is free and it is open to the public every day from 9.30am to 6pm, except on Mondays.

Don’t forget to bring an umbrella or a sunhat. If you have a DSLR camera, the garden is perfect for macro photography – I brought mine and I was happy how the photos turned out in the end.

But I need help to identify these beautiful orchids so drop some names in the comment box if you recognise some of these beauties!

PHOTOS: DBKU Orchid Park, a perfect place for plant lovers — Plant 1

Relish in authentic Korean food at The Kimbap, Kuching

Published on April 30, 2017

Culture

Kimbap is a famous Korean delicacy made from rice, various thinly sliced ingredients like fried egg, sausages, cucumber and carrot rolled up in a sheet of seaweed.

The word ‘kimbap’ literally means seaweed rice as ‘kim’ or ‘gim’ means seaweed while ‘bap’ cooked rice.

Here in Kuching, thousands of miles from where kimbap originated, is an eatery dedicated to this famous dish.

Located at Brighton Square along Jalan Song, The Kimbap prides itself as a pork-free Korean restaurant providing a variety of yummy Korean food at reasonable prices.

Diners can enjoy all kinds of kimbap like tuna mayo, spicy tuna, bulgogi ssam (marinated beef cabbage wraps), garden salad, chicken among eight others.

My personal picks are the beef, kimchi and cheesy kimbap; great for light lunch takeaways or for a simple outdoor picnic.

Beside these rolled rice delicacies, you can also fill up your tummy on other Korean delights.

For those who are big fans of the Korean ramyeon, you can also choose what to order with your noodles.

Ramyeon is similar to Japanese ramen as both are believed to share their roots from China’s lamian (hand-pulled noodles).

The Kimbap serves kimchi ramyeon, cheese ramyeon, dolsot ramyeon (dolsot means hot stone pot) and crispy chicken ramyeon.

If you prefer a noodle dish more native to Korea, order some japchae. It is a glass-like noodle made from sweet potato, stir-fried in sesame oil together with thinly sliced carrots, spinach and mushrooms.

The Kimbap also adds thinly cut beef to their japchae, making it almost a balanced meal instead of a side dish.

Besides this classic Korean noodle dish, they also serve rice dishes like bibimbap, omurice (rice omelette) and soup.

Some Korean food outlets in Kuching offer bibimbap served in plastic or ceramic bowls.

At The Kimbap, you can choose dolsot bibimbap where your bibimbap will be served up in a stone bowl to keep it sizzling hot. It is perfect for those who like their food warm.

Are you a big fan of fried chicken?

With a choice of Crispy Fried Chicken, Daebak Chicken (‘daebak’ is Korean slang for jackpot) and Spicy Chicken to choose from, foodies can skip KFC or Ayam Goreng McD.

Don’t forget to keep those tissues within arm’s reach – the Daebak Chicken and Spicy Chicken are covered in a sumptuous, flavourful sauce.

The Kimbap has a well-curated selection of Korean teas – brown rice green tea, buckwheat tea, Solomon’s seal tea, aloe vera tea, honey citron tea, honey jujube tea and ginseng tea.

Solomon’s seal tea, for example, is believed to be helpful in repairing sports injuries and other acute physical traumas.

I found their honey jujube tea a bit sweet, but it is supposed to be rich in antioxidants and able to help with constipation.

Their list was made complete with the honey citron tea, a traditional Korean drink dating back more than 100 years.

Honey citron tea is great for coughs, relieving sore throats and is an excellent source of vitamin C.

Whether you’re there for the kimbap or tea, The Kimbap is one of the few food outlets selling authentic Korean dishes in Kuching.

Check out their opening hours on their Facebook page: The Kimbap.

20170401_193332 — The Kimbap Daebak Chicken

20170401_192707

PHOTOS: Earth Hour 2017 Celebration at Fort Margherita

Published on April 7, 2017

News & Features

Last Mar 25, The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita joined the rest of the world to celebrate Earth Hour by inviting guests to experience the beauty of the fort in the evening.

*(From right) Brooke Gallery team members Adams Faizul, Liza Sideni and Barbara Hubong Andrew Hului*.

Earth Hour is a global movement in which millions of people, businesses and landmarks set aside an hour to host events switching off their lights.

The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita Earth Hour celebration started with a tour of the fort led by the gallery manager Liza Sideni.

After a session of learning on the rich history of Sarawak under its White Rajahs, the night continued with sharing sessions by local social entrepreneurs.

Under a candle-lit atmosphere, Wee Hung Yee from the WormingUp project shared his journey to tackle food waste problem in Kuching.

Using Pateeworms, maggots of one type of fly found in the jungle, Wee and his team are introducing a new method for food waste disposal instead of using land use.

At the same time, they are also working on raising awareness on high food waste in Kuching.

Heart Treasures’co-founder, Kiew Boon Siew talked about her journey working with autistic youths, those with developmental delay, cerebral palsy, deaf and speech-impaired, disabled, are orphans and/or single mothers.

It is their hope to turn them into artisans with the hope they will become independent one day.

They used recycled materials such as old magazines, card boxes to make handcrafted products such as notebooks and paper jewerly.

Meanwhile, Mohd Saifullah Haini or Seph, shared his experience on starting Spativate which is a social enterprise to activate vacant public spaces and properties in the city.

Their pilot project was held at Seph’s Kampong Muara Tebas by painting a mural at the wall of an abandoned shophouse which used to belong to his late grandfather.

Some 25 patrons attended the inaugural event.

For more information on The Brooke Gallery at Fort Margherita, visit http://www.brooketrust.org/.