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7 Sarawak firsts in transportation history

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‘Sarawak First’ may have become the main theme for newly registered Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), but when it comes to other firsts in Sarawak, here are some notable milestones in the region’s transportation history:

1.The first aeroplane to have landed in Sarawak

The first aeroplane which landed in the Land of the Hornbills was a sea plane. It landed on Oct 16, 1924 along the stretch of Sarawak river in front of Main Bazaar, Kuching.

1024px First aeroplane landed in Sarawak in 16 October 1924
The first aeroplane landed in Sarawak. Credits: Ho Ah Chon [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Sarawak tried to launch its own government air service in 1929. They had two planes, namely the Royalist and Venus. Nonetheless, the venture did not last long.

The first land plane to touch down in Kuching on Sep 26, 1938. It landed on the then newly-built Kuching Landing Ground.

2.When Sarawak’s streets were first lit

Sarawak installed its first street lamps in 1906 in Kuching. However, there were no records of which specific areas where the street lamps were installed.

3.The first bullock carts

After the Brooke government imported Indian cattle, the number of bullock carts used to carry heavy loads started to increase in the 1870s.

4.The first form of vehicles for hire before taxis

The first few rickshaws were brought in 1895 from Singapore. Eventually the number of rickshaws began to increase, which prodded the government to introduce rickshaw stands just like taxi stands today.

They also imposed standard rates such as one mile costs 12 cents and 10 miles-journey costs a dollar.

Some of these stands were located at India Street, Gambier Road as well as at the end of Main Bazaar.

Ho Ah Chon wrote in Kuching in Pictures 1841-1991 that some of the wealthier people who lived in town kept private rickshaws for their own convenience.

He stated, “Those, with a tendency towards overweight often employed two pullers, because, at the best of times, going up or down a steep hill in a rickshaw could be dangerous, many people were decanted onto the road, sometimes with quite serious results, at the hill to Padungan, and on the bend of Reservoir Road.

5.The first car, bicycles, motorcycle in Sarawak

The manager of Borneo Company Limited J.M. Bryan brought in the first car to Kuching in 1917 (although some records stated 1907). It was a 10-12 HP Conventry Humber.

Meanwhile the third Rajah, Vyner Brooke brought the first motorcycle into the country. Another popular means of transportation was the bicycle which was first introduced in the 1900s.

6.The first railway service

The only type of transportation service that is not available now in Sarawak is train. But Sarawak once had a small railway line in Kuching.

It was about 10 miles long spanning from Kuching town to the 10th Mile. It provided both cargo and passenger service. The journey took about 15 minutes.

There were three engines in those days called Bulan (moon), Bintang (star) and Jean. Due to financial losses, the service was shut down in 1931.

During World War II, the Japanese took over the railway service. By 1947, the line was officially closed while the tracks were sold for scrap in 1959.

7.The first lorry in Sarawak

An unnamed local trader brought in a lorry back in 1912. Then, he made use of the 2-tonne lorry to give Sarawak’s first public bus service in the same year.

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10 unexploded bombs found in Sabah and Sarawak over the past 10 years

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What would you do if you stumbled upon unexploded bomb in your backyard? Well, the best and only thing to do is to call the police.

Here in East Malaysia, discoveries of unexploded bombs have been reported from time to time. In most cases, these unexploded bombs were discovered by construction workers.

Additionally, a number of them were from the World War II (WWII) era. Beyond this, there are little details on whose bombs they were. Did most of them belong to Japanese or Allied forces?

Nonetheless, here 10 reports of unexploded bombs found in Sabah and Sarawak over the past 10 years:

1.Sandakan (Mar 31, 2010)

A WWII bomb was found in the compound of a driving school in Sandakan, Sabah. An excavator operator found it accidentally when digging a drain.

The authority immediately cordoned off and a bomb disposal unit from Kota Kinabalu flew in to defuse it.

2.Kuching (Apr 26, 2018)

We bet that when this grass cutter showed up for work on the morning of Apr 26 this year, the last thing he thought he would find was an unexploded bomb.

He found it in a drain near Kampung Sungai Bedil Besar, Kuching. After examination, the bomb was reported to be an unexploded ordnance (UXO) which is used for training.

3.Lahad Datu (Aug 20, 2018)

Unlike most unexploded bombs on this list, this one was launched quite recently. It was used during Ops Daulat when the 2013 Lahad Datu military standoff occurred.

The bomb belonged to the Malaysian Armed Forces and was believed to have not exploded during the battle against the Royal Sulu Army.

A plantation worker found it in the early morn of Aug 20 at Ladang Sahabat 17 Plantation.

4. Tawau (June 23, 2014)

While carrying excavation work to build a specialist medical centre, a group of construction workers found a remnant of World War II at the site.

The police bomb unit then immediately detonated the bomb. Reportedly, it was the first time such unexploded bomb was found in Tawau. The authority believed there could still be many bombs that have yet to be found.

5.Sandakan (July 28, 2017)

Can you imagine stumbling upon a 250kg bomb in your daily work? That happened when a construction worker carrying out excavation work at the Road Transport Department building, Sandakan.

And the scariest part? The 130cm long bomb, a remnant from World War II, was still active.

Authorities believed that it was possible for bombs to be found in Sandakan as the area was attacked during WWII.

6.Sarikei (Apr 24, 2018)

There can be a lot of things you can find if you start to dig the earth for something. The most common thing you would find are earthworms.

Meanwhile in Sarikei a man dug up an exploded WWII bomb near Tanjung Manis Fisheries port when digging the ground for scrap metal.

7.Sibu (Dec 28, 2013)

How many bags of sand are used to detonate a bomb? In this case, it took 50 bags of sand piled over the bomb before it was detonated an hour later.

Oil palm plantation workers found the unexploded bomb in Sungai Assan on an afternoon while working at the site.

8.Miri (Dec 7, 2014)

Watch out when trying to dig a hole to plant something, you might find a bomb instead.

A man in Miri was digging a hole near his house to grow coconut trees. Instead, he found a 5kg bomb measuring 38cm long and 11cm in diameter from WWII.

9.Bau (Mar 9, 2013)

Here is a bomb used during the Indonesian-Malaysian Confrontation. A villager in Bau came across it near his farm.

According to authorities, the 65-mm gauge mortar remained active all this time.

And this was not the first time a bomb has been found in the district.

10.Sarikei (Dec 16, 2018)

This is the latest bomb finding incident in Sarawak. A WWII bomb which was still active was found in Ulu Kedup, Sarikei.

A man found it while cleaning up the river afterbridge repair work.

Do you have any old stories about finding relics from WWII? Let us know in the comment box. 

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Paul Carling on being a young fashion designer in Sarawak

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Paul Carling

Paul Carling Rahit, the brain behind the Paul Carling label is a young Kuching-based fashion designer.

He curated the national costume for Malaysian representative Debra Jeanne Poh for the 6th Miss Grand International Pageant in Myanmar last October.

Inspired by the Rhinoceros hornbill, Sarawak’s emblem and a powerful symbol for its headhunter warriors, the 28-year-old designer called it ‘Tebengang the Great’.

Traditional embroidery methods were used to create its patterns from cowries’ shells, along with traditional beadwork adorned with brass bells.

After the photo of ‘Tebengang the Great’ was released online, some Indonesian fans were quick to claim the design was from Indonesian Kalimantan.

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KajoMag sat with Paul Carling to know his thoughts on the issue and what it’s like being a young fashion designer in Sarawak.

KajoMag: Why did you choose fashion design as a career?

Paul Carling: I was an IT student before. After some time, I realised IT was not my thing anymore. I tried to change my major few times but couldn’t. Once I managed to change my course to Design Technology majoring in Fashion, I decided to do my best.

I like making clothes and I used to make dance costumes when I was still in Unimas (University Malaysia Sarawak). From there, slowly and finally it became something I was very passionate about.

KajoMag: What is your favourite part about being a fashion designer?

Paul Carling: When I see a client feeling satisfied with the dress that I made, that is my favourite part of my job. I see my design as an art and art is freeing. When I design, the idea comes spontaneously.

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KajoMag: What do you want women to feel when wearing your label?

Paul Carling: I want them to feel confident in them. Some of my clients come to me to customise their dresses because they could not find anything for them off-the-rack. For example, a full-figured lady usually finds it hard to look for a wedding dress in local bridal shops. Even if they could find one that fits them, it is usually an ugly-looking dress. So when they came in for a custom-made dress, it is a piece which is solely tailored for them. I love looking at their happy reactions when they wear these dresses.

KajoMag: Your national costume for Miss Grand Malaysia to the Miss Grand International pageant gathered a lot of backlash online from some Indonesian fans. What are your comments on that?

Paul Carling: As a fan of pageantry, this kind of issue is boring for me. It has been happening every year, maybe it’s a way for them to make themselves feel good or to highlight their own beauty queen. I noticed it is like some sort of trend to cyberbully other participants. As for their comments on the costume being from Dayak Kalimantan; we are from the same island and we do have the same culture. Those who said that are clearly not from Borneo. Nonetheless, the best part was that there were even commenters from Kalimantan defending the design.

KajoMag: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

Paul Carling: I hope I can finish paying off my debt (laughing). First of all I want to be free of my study loan. I don’t feel like I need fame. For me, I don’t think you can be happy if you are famous but without money. The same thing goes for artistes like singers; although they are famous but if they do not have gigs, they cannot put food on the table.

I think the same thing can be applied to us fashion designers. You need to know how to maintain your business and have a good relationship with your customers. Your returning customers are always the best because they will introduce you to other clients and come back for more orders.

KajoMag: From a young designer perspective who is based in Sarawak, what do you think the local industry needs right now?

Paul Carling: We should celebrate more of our young designers. We do have famous Sarawakian fashion designers but they will not be here forever. My fellow young designers would agree that we are lacking in ways to promote our collection and we are always being compared to the famous ones like Von Jolly Couture and Datuk Tom Abang Saufi. But they are already at the top of their games. For us, the young designers, we need support and more opportunities. It is not like we are asking for funds or money; just more platforms to showcase our designs.

For myself, I’m grateful that I made the smart move to get involved with pageantry. That was how I got my name out there. However, to make a name for myself in the fashion industry – no, I’m not there yet. Without platforms to showcase our designs, most young designers in Sarawak would end up staying in their workshops at home working as just a tailor.

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A model wearing Paul Carling design during Sarawak Fashion Awards 2017.

For more information on Paul Carling and his designs, check out his Facebook page here and Instagram. 

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A Sarawakian love story of a pirate and a slave

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Owen Rutter (1889-1944) was one of the most celebrated English travel writers in the early 20th century.

He was also an English historian and novelist who travelled through Borneo, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Canada and the United States.

During his journey, he collected stories and legends for his long list of books.

One of those interesting stories Rutter recorded was a love story of a pirate and a slave published in his 1930 book The Pirate Wind: Tales of the Sea-Robbers of Malaya.

Daud, the Malay pirate and his slave girl

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There was a pirate – whom Rutter called Daud – who fell in love with one of the slave girls living on the Sarawak river.

Daud was so in love with her that he offered to buy her from her master but he was denied. (Slave women were often highly prized by their masters and more sought after compared to slave men.)

Since Daud could not get his woman through legal means, he began an affair with her instead. When night time fell, the slave woman would sneak out to the jungle into Daud’s arms.

Shortly after the affair started, her master found out. So the master sent word to Daud telling him to present himself at the court.

Obviously very much in love, Daud agreed to appear in court in order to free his lover and be with her.

On that day, Daud came to the court with his brother. After much discussion, those present in the court agreed that if Daud could produce a brass cannon, the girl could belong to him.

Rutter wrote, “The amount was enormous, even for a wealthy young pirate, but Daud agreed to the terms and he and his brother were allowed to depart.”

When the day of payment arrived, Daud showed up at the court without his brother. Unfortunately, he did not manage to raise the full amount, so he asked for more time to collect the money.

Sarawakian love story of a pirate and a slave
Daud the pirate fell in love with a slave girl who lived on the Sarawak river.

The tragic end to a love story

The council then deliberated for a while. Finally, the court decided that Daud should leave his kris (a small Malay dagger) as a pledge.

Reluctantly, Daud agreed even though for him, his kris was his most precious belonging. But the thought of losing his woman was simply unbearable for Daud.

He then slowly unfastened the cord around his waist, bending down to lay his kris on the floor before the council.

It was the moment that the master waited for. Before Daud could even react, a group of men seized him from behind.

Then, one of the master’s men stabbed him with his own kris, as Rutter put it “into the hollow between Daud’s collar bone and neck – down to the heart that had beaten so wildly for the little slave girl.”

Unfortunately Rutter’s story ends there, and so we can only assume that the master went on his own merry way and that the slave girl mourned the loss of her lover and that of a happy ending.

But folk stories rarely have the happy ending so popularised by the Disney franchise. For more weird endings, check out these stories from Five interesting stories from Central Borneo.

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Tebedu’s KLB Garden makes the perfect visit for families and couples alike

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If you are running out of ideas on where to spend quality time with your families and partners, here is a KajoMag-approved suggestion: KLB Garden.

Located about one hour and thirty minutes from Kuching city in the sleepy town of Tebedu, the garden provides a variety of activities for you to spend with your loved ones.

This border town of Sarawak and Kalimantan is also a trading hub for both Malaysians and Indonesians.

KLB Garden 24
Beginning to look alot like Christmas in KLB Garden.

A huge garden for families with small children to explore

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Zodiac Kids Playground for children.

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A kiddy pool for the children to play in.

Overall, the garden prides itself on being able to house more than 100 different species of birds, fishes and animals such as deer, cows and goats.

They also have other animals such as peacocks, porcupines and rare fowls too.

Visitors can also see more than 20 different kinds of tropical fruits like rambutan, jackfruit, and dragon fruits.

Unfortunately, there were no signs to mark these trees. Thus, it was not entirely educational for those who were unfamiliar with these tropical species.

However, KLB Garden’s patrons can always keep a watchful eye on their surroundings. When you sit in one of its swings, for example, just look up and you will find a bunch of jackfruit hanging right above you.

KLB Garden 22
Swing underneath this jackfruit tree.

The wide variety of flora and fauna makes it an ideal place for young children to learn and explore their natural environment.

Plus, visitors are allowed to feed the cows, goats and rabbits. This gives young children first-hand experience with animals.

For those who are not thrilled with the idea of ‘caged animals’ or a zoo, KLB Garden might not be the place to visit.

Nonetheless, the animals all looked well taken care of and the cages were clean. Rest assured, all plants and animals were allowed in with permits from the Forest Department.

KLB Garden – a perfect place to go on a date

Additionally, the garden made a perfect date idea for couples looking for other options besides the usual movie and dinner dates.

There are 2-seater bicycles provided for rent, conveniently romantic for couples in love.

Take your sweet time to explore the area on your bicycle while enjoying your surroundings.

And if your partner is the Insta-boyfriend kind, there are a wide range of Insta-worthy spots inside the garden itself.

Social media enthusiasts can away pose to their hearts’ content on a covered walkaway with arches of greenery.

Then, there are two old buses refurbished into cute dining halls with colorful interiors.

If you have a keen eye, then you might notice the small details put into the garden.

For instance, there was a wishing well with statues of Snow White and Seven Dwarfs.

Disney fans would definitely be reminded of Snow White’s song ‘I’m Wishing’; the part when she is pulling a bucket of water out of the well and The Prince makes his sudden appearance.

Speaking of details, rubbish and recycle bins as well as washrooms were located almost at every corner. Hence, making it convenient for all visitors.

KLB Garden 13
Sing ‘I’m Wishing’ with Snow White at KLB Garden’s wishing well.

Giving visitors a reason to visit Tebedu

KLB Garden was named after Kueh Lau Boo, a prominent Tebedu businessman. During the war against the communists, Kueh’s family was one of the four selected businessmen allowed to continue to do business in the town.

The 13-acre garden is expected to be a main tourism attraction for Tebedu. For local Kuchingites, the garden makes another perfect excuse to escape the city.

Read about other day trips you can make while in Kuching:

What to do in Gunung Gading National Park, Lundu?

What to at Santubong, Sarawak?

Kuching-Serian Itinerary: What can you do in one day?

Ranchan Recreational Park, Serian’s Famous Picnic Spot

Soak your body in Panchor Hot Spring

3 Easy Trails in Bako National Park you must visit

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KajoPicks: The 6 best cafes with WiFi in Kuching

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We’re not anti-social; we’re just into connecting with each other digitally.

Over the last decade, nightclubs in Kuching have been losing out to the growing number of cafes and coffee bistros.

Kuchingites have come to enjoy cafes (almost as much as we love our coffeeshops), probably because of our overall laid-back lifestyle.

While we do our best chilling in cafes, they have also become the ideal place to work as they provide all the necessities we need; coffee, cakes, light food and WiFi connection.

Here are some KajoPicks of the most comfortable cafes in Kuching with WiFi.

  1. Coffee Obsession

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Coffee Obsession id located at Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce (Picture source: Coffee Obsession)

Located at Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce (formerly known as Jalan Keretapi), Coffee Obsession is one of the top KajoPick of cafes in Kuching with WiFi connection.

Apart from WiFi, Coffee Obsession has a great selection of light dishes for you to snack on while working on your laptop. Their interior is simple, yet cosy because of the pine wood tables and cushioned seats.

It is also a popular spot to host a small gathering and a hang out place to play games and read.

  1. Tease by Jase’s Tea Room, ICOM Square

Tease
Tease by Jase’s Tea Room is located at ICOM Square. Picture source: Tease by Jase’s Tea Room.

ICOM Square is basically a hub for innovation hubs.

So, it is no surprise that Tease is always swamped with digital nomads looking for a different environment to work.

Apart from the WiFi connection and soothing ambience, it also has a great selection of food.

Tease is closed every Tuesday.

  1. Earthlings Coffee Workshop, Jalan Wan Alwi

earthlings
Earthlings Coffee Workshop HQ is located at Jalan Wan Alwi. Picture source: Earthlings Coffee Workshop HQ

As the name might have suggested, Earthlings Coffee Workshop regularly hosts a coffee workshop.

As one of the top cafes in Kuching with WiFi connection, it also has great selection of cakes to go with your coffee.

Earthlings Coffee Workshop has another branch set up at CityONE Megamall, Kuching.

  1. bing! coffee

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bing! coffee has branches in Jalan Padungan, Green Heights and Premier 101. Picture source: bing! coffee

bing! coffee is no stranger to hipsters with laptops.

As of one of the first cafes of its kind to open in Kuching, bing! coffee also hosts live performances regularly.

Currently, there are three branches of bing! coffee in Kuching; Jalan Padungan, Green Heights and Premier 101.

  1. Kai Joo Café, Lorong Kai Joo

Kai Joo Cafe
Kai Joo Cafe is located at Lorong Kai Joo (Picture source: Kai Joo Cafe)

Tucked away in the corner of Lorong Kai Joo, it is easy to miss this café as it blends in nicely with the rustic tropical surrounding.

This open-air café is the place to go if you prefer to work surrounded by fresh air and old Kuching.

Kai Joo Café is closed every Tuesday.

  1. Starbucks

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Picture source: Pixabay

Starbucks is known globally for having all the necessities for people who work with laptops: coffee, cakes, light snacks and the all-important WiFi connection.

Among the places where you can find Starbucks in Kuching includes CityONE Megamall, the Spring Shopping Mall, Vivacity, Jalan Song and Plaza Merdeka.

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Places to go If You Are Looking for Indigenous Food In Kuching

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In case you are in the mood for something other than kolo mee and laksa….

Until 10 years ago, there were not a lot of places to go if you were looking for indigenous food in Kuching.

Fortunately, local food eateries have been sprouting like mushrooms.

For the love of food, KajoMag prepared a list of places for foodies to go if you are in the mood for indigenous food in Kuching.

  1. Lepau Restaurant at Persiaran Ban Hock

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Lepau restaurant is located at Jalan Ban Hock – Picture source: Lepau restaurant

The word ‘lepau’ means ‘home’ or ‘house’ in the Kayan language.

Located in the heart of Kuching city, it is one of the most popular places to go if you are craving for indigenous dishes.

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Picture source: Lepau Restaurant

With a wide range of Orang Ulu and Dayak dishes, Lepau often host small gatherings and parties.

 

  1. The Dyak at Panovel Commercial Complex, Jalan Simpang Tiga

the Dyak
The Dayk is located at Panovel Commercial Complex, Jalan Simpang Tiga (Picture source: the Dyak)

Tastefully decorated with Dayak motifs, The Dyak is the place to go if you are looking for fine dining.

Arguably one of the first few Dayak cuisine establishments in Kuching, The Dyak has a range of interesting Dayak dishes for you to sample.

 

  1. Mummy Patz at Rumah Asap Tabuan Dayak

mummy patz
Mummy Patz in located at Rumah Asap Tabuan Jaya – Picture source: Mummy Patz

Previously known as Patz Dayak Home Cook Special, this spot has been known to have delicious Dayak dishes among Kuchingnites for years.

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Picture source: Mummy Patz

Previously located at Tabuan Laru, the stall was always swamped with customers for lunch.

Recently, Mummy Patz relocated to Rumah Asap at Tabuan Dayak.

 

  1. Rumah Asap at Tabuan Dayak, Batu Kawah, Kota Samarahan

Mummy Patz is not the only spot for traditional food in Kuching.

Recently, Rumah Asap is one of the most popular choice of places to go for traditional food in Kuching.

It is also definitely the place to go if you have a bunch of non-Sarawakian friends coming over to Kuching for the first time.

Unlike restaurants, Rumah Asap has a mash of various stalls selling traditional dishes where you and your friends can choose and share together.

  1. AwahCafe at Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) building

If you are looking for Bidayuh food, you might want to head on to AwahCafe.

You might notice that the menu is written in Bidayuh language with English translation.

  1. Tribal Stove at Jalan Borneo

tribal stove
Tribal Stove is located at Jalan Borneo – Picture source: Tribal Stove

Another place to hit if you are looking for traditional food in Kuching is the Tribal Stove.

Located at Jalan Borneo, Tribal Stove serves Kelabit dishes such as nubaq layaq (mashed red rice wrapped in Isip leaves), lamud busaq keluduh (ginger flower salad) and labo senutuq (shredded beef).

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Rising Sun over the Land of Hornbills: Sarawak during the Japanese Occupation

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After the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec 8, 1941, US and Britain immediately declared war on Japan.

The result? The Pacific War spread over around Southeast Asia including Sarawak.

By Dec 16 that year, the Japanese force secured Miri and by Christmas eve, they took over Kuching.

About less than a month later, the Japanese conquered the whole island of Borneo. And it was the first time in modern history that all of Borneo was under a single rule.

For the next three years and eight months, the Japanese occupation did little for Sarawak development. There was a lack of food supply and other basic necessities.

Even so, the Japanese did  – in their own way –  try to govern Sarawak.

Sarawak Constabulary under the Japanese occupation

Just like in most civil sectors, many Malay policemen kept their jobs in Sarawak Constabulary during the occupation.

Before the Japanese arrived, there were only a few Dayaks in the force. During the occupation, the Japanese intensively recruited the Dayaks as they found them to be hardworking, honest and loyal.

Besides the infamous kempeitai, the Japanese also set up a couple other law enforcement groups.

There was a vigilante system comprised of about 30 houses under a local man called jikeidan.

Apart from that, there was a militia called kyodohei consisting mainly of Ibans but with Malay senior officers.

Even with a day job, the constabulary personnel overall suffered from malnutrition due to lack of food supply.

Both jikeidan and kyodohei were not that successfully implemented due to strong resistance from the local people.

Japanese Building
Japanese building of Kuching.

Land policies under the Japanese occupation

According to Vernon L. Porritt in British Colonial Rule in Sarawak, the Land Department reopened its office only few weeks after the Japanese arrived.

But with reduced staff and of course a Japanese officer in charge of the department. Then in 1942, the Japanese demanded that all land titles be confirmed and ratified, charging $2 for the service.

They also imposed special tax on transfers of land valued at more than $1,000.

Generally, the local staff handled the departmental affairs according to Brooke legislation and procedures.

Women under Japanese occupation

Ooi Keat Gin wrote in Rising Sun over Borneo that there was only one single case of rape reported during the occupation. It involved a 14-year-old European girl.

Five Japanese soldiers sexually assaulted her when she and her family were arrested. After the incident, she was treated at the hospital. Apparently, one of the rapists was later imprisoned and badly beaten by the Japanese police.

While the rest of Southeast Asia as well as Taiwan and South Korea had appalling cases of women being coerced or abducted to serve as ‘comfort women’ (the numbers have been reported to be as high as 200,000 women), surprisingly there were no official reports of sexual assaults even at Batu Lintang Prisoners of War (POW) Camp.

Historians contributed it the strict discipline enforced by the camp commander Lieutenant-Colonel Tatsuji Suga.

It was believed that Suga had a ‘soft spot’ for women and children, even allowing children to ride his car within the camp compound.

Kinabalu Guerrillas 2
A kempeitai (Japanese police) would wear this headgear and leggings during the World War II.

Education under the Japanese occupation

Speaking of Suga and Batu Lintang Camp, the Lt Col reportedly allowed books brought into the camp for the prisoners to read.

They were even given university certificates after the prisoners mastered various languages.

Meanwhile, the rest of education system in Sarawak suffered tremendously. The Japanese closed mission schools while allowing most government Malay schools to continue to function.

Only some Chinese schools were allowed to open. Regardless of these, attendance and enrolment decreased during the Japanese occupation.

In Kuching, St Thomas’ School was turned into a labour camp while the main building of St Mary’s School was used as an army mess and brothel.

Overall, 17 schools were completely destroyed and another 35 schools damaged.

After the Japanese occupation

On Sept 11, 1945, the Allied Force under Major General Wooten arrived in Kuching to receive the formal surrender of the Japanese Army.

After that, Australian Military Administration immediately took over Sarawak administration for about seven months until Apr 4, 1946.

Read more:

What you need to know about the Japanese Building of Kuching

Toshinari Maeda, the Japanese nobleman who died off the coast of Bintuly during WWII

Alber Kwok, the Kuchinite who led the Kinabalu Guerrillas during WWII

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5 things every Sarawakian should know about Circular No.9/1946

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When the third White Rajah of Sarawak Charles Vyner Brooke decided to cede the kingdom to Britain as a crown colony, many Sarawakians were unhappy.

This was because he previously stated he would grant the right self-rule to Sarawak according to the Nine Cardinal Principles of the rule of the English Rajah.

Despite the heavy resistance by the local people, the British declared Sarawak a crown colony on July 1, 1946 anyway.

Many of the local associations started an anti-cession movement around the country. Then the British government realised that civil servants made up most of the members of the anti-cession movement.

So the British fought back by issuing a warning in a secretariat circular. Here are 5 things you should know about the infamous anti-cession Circular No.9/1946:

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The current Sarawak Textile Museum. It used to house the Education Department of Sarawak State Museum.

1.Circular No.9/1946 came about due to a huge rally in Padang Merdeka

The members of anti-cession movement organised many rallies across the country. However, the biggest rally reportedly was held in Central Padang (now Padang Merdeka) where about 15,000 people attended.

2.It was issued to curb the anti-cession activity

Embarrassed by the fact it was attended mostly by civil servants, the Chief Secretary to the Government C.W. Dawson signed Circular No.9/1946 on Dec 31, 1946.

3.This was the exact words of the circular
‘In view of the political change in the Status of Sarawak by which on 1st July, 1946, it became a Crown Colony, His Excellency the Governor has directed that this circular should be sent to all Government officers on the establishment.

(a)Government experts and requires absolute loyalty from all servants.
(b)Since there is no question of any change in the present regime or any reversion to Brooke rule, Government will not permit or tolerate any association by its servants with any activities designed to keep alive the question of cession.
(c)There will be no victimisation for any speech or act of any Government servant in the past relating to the question of cession, but each Government servant must now make his mind weather he wishes to serve the present Government loyally and faithfully or not.
(d)If you do not feel that you wish to continue in the Government service under these conditions, you should inform your Resident, District Officer, or Head of Department, as the case may be, before 31st December, 1946, and he will advise you as to the course you should pursue.
(e)Any Government servant in future who associates himself with any activity designed to keep open the question of cession or commits any act of deliberate disloyalty Government will render himself liable to instant dismissal.’

4.How the circular backfired

If the British government were looking to scare the civil servants with Circular No.9/1946, the move backfired immediately.

The circular led to a mass resignation of at least 338 teachers and government servants on Apr 2, 1947. That number made up of 13% of the civil service.

The mass resignation forced the closure of more than 22 schools in Sarawak. Additionally, 56 university students quit their studies in protest.

A book containing all the signatures of civil servants who resigned is now on display at Urang Sarawak Exhibition at Sarawak Art Museum.

5.It led to the birth of Young Malay Association

Despite the mass resignation, the British were not going down without a fight. The then government allegedly used the racial card by disrupting the relationship between the Malays and the Dayaks.

They promoted the idea that Sarawak colonisation was to bring better life only to the Malays.

The British government reportedly encouraged the formation of Young Malay Association (YMA) which would only support Sarawak colonisation. The British recruited YMA members by threatening them or extorting them: If they refused to join, their children would be unable to attend school or join the civil service.

The climax of the anti-cession movement in Sarawak was the murder of the second Sarawak governor, Duncan Stewart.

Sarawak then continued remained as a colony until July 22, 1963 when the British granted it self-governance.

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Top News in Sarawak in 2018

Published on

We scrolled back through this year’s news so that you don’t have to. 

There are only a few weeks left before this year is over and here are some of the top news in Sarawak in 2018.

  1. Larissa Ping Liew is Miss World Malaysia 2018

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Winner of Miss World Malaysia 2018, Larissa Ping Liew (Image source: Miss World – Malaysia)
At just 19 years old, Sarawakian Larissa Ping Liew was crowned Miss World Malaysia 2018.

Larissa beat 11 other contestants, also winnning Top Talent and Miss Photogenic award.

Born in Kuching, the Chinese-Kenyah lass will represent Malaysia at the 68th Miss World 2018 in Sanya, China on December 8th.

  1. Rabies

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Image source: Pexels

Another top news in Sarawak in 2018 that dominated headlines (unfortunately) is the rabies outbreak.

Since the first outbreak last year, 12 people have been reported dead and 110, 000 stray dogs have been removed by 26 local council as of November 14th.

In efforts to control the rabies outbreak, the Sarawak government has carried out mass anti-rabies vaccination drives. You can check the Sarawak Disaster Info site here for the next round or go to any Sarawak Veterinary Division office and get your dog vaccinated for RM25.

New dog licensing and control by-laws will also come into effect on Dec 1, so consult your respective city councils and get your dogs registered.

  1. Sarawak LRT news

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Image source: Pexels

Earlier this year, there was some buzz when it was announced that Sarawak could have its first LRT by 2024. The first LRT was to cover congested routes like Samarahan and downtown Kuching.

It was announced later, however, that the LRT project would be put on hold to focus on rural development.

  1. The 14th General Election (GE14)

News on GE14 made headlines not only in Sarawak but across the globe.

Sarawak was put under the spotlight during one of the most memorable moments during GE14 when political analyst Karim Raslan took a swipe at Election Commission chairman Tan Sri Mohd Hashim Abdullah on TV for the delay in delivering the polling results.

Karim was quoted saying:

“We’ve all been waiting for you to make these announcements and there are 47 seats to come. And what is going on in Sabah? We’ve been asking this. How is that Sarawak, this enormous state, the head of the SPR, could have sorted it all out?”

Dubbed the most historical Malaysia election, GE14 saw the end of the country ruling party’s administration after being in power for 60 years.

  1. The Sarawak Report Book

After the ban was lifted on whistleblower website Sarawak Report, its founder Claire Rewcastle Brown released her expose on 1MDB this year.

The 528-page The Sarawak Report: The Inside Story Of The 1MDB details evidence of money trails leading to the allegation that billions of dollars were stolen from 1MDB.

  1. Anthony Bourdain’s passing

Hearts were broken everywhere when traveller Anthony Bourdain passed away on June 8 from suicide.

As one of the most beloved TV personalities and celebrity chefs, Anthony has a special place in Sarawakians’ hearts.

His death became one of the top news in Sarawak in 2018 when people shared emotional tributes to him all around social media.

He not only put Sarawak on the CNN screen for the world to see, he joyfully embraced our local favorite dish, laksa, and the longhouse life as he celebrated Gawai with the people of Rh Entalau in Ulu Skrang.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2051259341784353&id=1467558563487770

  1. NatGeo picks Sarawak as one of 2018’s best summer destinations

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National Geographic picked Sarawak as one of the best summer destinations in 2018.

Click here to read the full description of Sarawak to know why it is one of the best summer destinations this year.

  1. Hiker found alive after going missing for six days

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For almost a week, Sarawakians followed the news of 22-year-old Stanley Kho who went missing when he went off on a hike at Mount Singai in Bau.

He was found alive but dehydrated six days later with a curious tale. It was reported that Stanley told his rescuers that he followed a “beautiful woman resembling a princess” who gave him flowers plucked from the forest until the night before they discovered him.

  1. Henry Golding from Crazy Rich Asians

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Travel host turn Hollywood actor, Henry Golding (Image source: Henry Golding)

Boy-next-door Henry Golding is basically Sarawak’s latest sweetheart.

The British-Iban actor became one of the top news in Sarawak this year when he was announced to star as one of the main leads in Crazy Rich Asians. 

He also landed a hot role in A Simple Favor (2018) alongside Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively which is currently in theatres.

But if you want to know more about his Sarawak roots, then check out his documentary called Surviving Borneo.

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