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The grandeur of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

Published on May 22, 2018

Travel

The grandeur of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque — Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque is located at Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

When travelling to Brunei, it is hard not to miss the magnificent architectural sight of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque.

Located in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque serves as a symbol of Islamic faith in Brunei.

Considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the Asia Pacific, here are some fun facts about the majestic building.

Who is Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin?

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque was named after the 28^th Sultan of Brunei. Known as The Architect of Modern Brunei, he was the one who initiated the construction of the mosque.

Sultan Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien III ruled from June 4^th, 1950 until his voluntary abdication from the throne on October 5^th, 1967. He was replaced by his eldest son, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah.

When was it built?

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque was built between 1954 and 1958. It was designed by A.O Coltman of Booty and Edwards Chartered Architects of UK, based in Malaysia at the time.

The mosque, a blend of Western and oriental architecture is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, making it the best spot for selfies and sketching activities.

While you cannot take pictures inside the mosque, its interior is equally dazzling. The floor and walls are made from marble columns with stained glass windows and beautiful carvings. The granite is said to be from Shanghai, the chandeliers from England, and the carpets from Saudi Arabia and Belgium. The doors of the mosque were made from timber imported from the Philippines.

It is said that the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque can accommodate up to 3,000 people at a time.

Is that a gold dome?

Yes it is!

Made of pure gold, the gold domes are one of the most prominent features of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque.

The domes contain 3.3 million fragments of Venetian mosaic, over a surface of 520m².

Apart from the gold dome, another exquisite feature of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque is the main minaret. It reaches a height of 52 metres, offering a great view of the city.

Why is there a boat in the middle of the lake?

In the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque courtyard, you can see a ceremonial barge or mahligai.

The ceremonial barge is placed in the middle of an artificial lagoon on the banks of the Brunei River at Kampong Ayer.

It is a replica of a 16^th century royal barge of Sultan Bolkiah, who was the 5^th ruler of Brunei.

The royal barge was used by the then Sultan in his maritime exploits in the old days.

Completed in 1967, the barge was built to commemorate the 1, 400^th anniversary of Nuzul Al-Quran (also known as Quran Revelation Day). It was also once used for Quran reading competitions.

Can a non-muslim visit the mosque?

Of course!

Visitors are allowed to visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque during non-praying time. The mosque is open from Saturday to Wednesday from 8.30 am to noon, 1.30 to 3 pm and 4.30 to 5.30 pm and closed on Thursday and Friday.

So, if you plan on visiting the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, remember to remove your footwear and dress appropriately!

Muara Tebas temple, where the Chinese pray in a Malay village

Published on May 16, 2018

Travel

A couple years ago, a clip of a group of Malay boys performing the lion dance went viral on social media.

They used a cardboard box as the lion’s costume and wooden sticks as well as empty cans for their instruments.

The boys credited their interest in this particular Chinese culture after watching lion dance performances at Ching San Yan temple.

This Buddhist place of worship is also widely known as Muara Tebas temple and has a history spanning over 200 years.

It is oddly located in Kampung Muara Tebas which is a Malay village.

Muara Tebas temple, where the Chinese pray in a Malay village — The staircase leading to Ching San Yan which means Green Hill Temple.

The history of Muara Tebas temple

According to legend, seafarers built the temple there after safely arriving in Kuching after crossing the South China Sea from China.

Here, devotees pray and extend their thanksgiving to Buddha Shakyamuni and Chinese sea goddess Mazu.

She is believed to roam the seas protecting her believers from harm.

The temple underwent renovation back in 1903. Since then, it was given a major facelift from 1994 to 2000.

Now, the Muara Tebas temple has exquisite wall paintings and elaborate sculptures, complete with a landscape garden.

It has a typical Chinese Buddhist architecture and layout. The grand mountain gate (front gate) is the entrance to welcome the visitors.

Two Imperial Guardian Lion statues stand at the entrance, ready to protect the temple.

Since it is built on a hill 120 feet above sea level, the temple offers a picturesque view over Sarawak river.

The colourful pavilion also offers a good place to enjoy the view.

Once inside, you’ll discover that the main building has a courtyard, a regular feature in most Chinese Buddhist temples.

And of course, there are plenty of statues of the Chinese Buddhist pantheon.

Kuching Hokkien Association has been responsible over the management of the temple since 1984.

Muara Tebas temple during Chinese New Year

The temple is usually flooded with devotees during Chinese New Year.

However, the busiest day of the year would be on the fourth day of the Lunar New Year as devotees believe their deities return to Earth from heaven.

They would pray to and welcome the gods who went to heaven on the 24th day of the twelfth month to report on human deeds.

After visiting Muara Tebas temple, some faithfuls rent a boat to visit nearby island Pulau Lakei to visit ‘batu singa’ (lion rock).

The island is located near the northern part of Bako National Park, another tourist hotspot in the Muara Tebas peninsula.

The peninsula is situated about 30km from Kuching town and is also famous for its seafood restaurants.

For those who are travelling by car to visit the temple or enjoy the seafood, there is a small parking fee charged by the villagers.

Check out these adult dance classes you can take in Kuching

Published on April 20, 2018

Lifestyle

Do you believe it is never too late to sign up for dance classes? Dance gets you to move your body, helps you release stress, improve your posture and you’ll have taken up a new skill!

If you are staying in Kuching, here are some of the dance classes you can take and which studios offer them:

1. Belly dancing

Belly dancing is considered a low impact form of exercise. Hence, it can be enjoyed by all regardless of age.

Although men doing belly dancing is almost unheard of, there are men who shimmy as good as women.

Belly dance movements such as hip drops and hip circles are known to relieve lower back pains.

In Kuching, La Danse Studio offers belly dancing classes for all age groups.

They also organise a biennial showcase featuring the dance instructors and students presenting mostly belly dance performances.

Other studios offering belly dancing class include Soul Dance Studio and Right Steps Dance Studio.

Check out these adult dance classes you can take in Kuching — Shimmy your hips in belly dancing.

2. Ballet

Tyng Dance Academy believes it is never too late to start ballet.

Whether you are an adult or a child, doing plies and spinning are not impossible.

One of the benefits of doing ballet is that it helps build muscle and agility.

On top of that, it also strengthens your core and lower body,

So what are you waiting for? Time to pick out your tutu!

3. Lyrical Jazz

If you like to express your emotion through music with lyrics, lyrical jazz is the dance for you.

The dance movement for lyrical jazz emphasises on the strong emotions of the song expressed in their choreography.

For those who want to give it a shot, check out La Danse Studio.

If you prefer jazz dance, head over to Tying Dance Academy.

4. Hip Hop/Urban/Popping/Street/Locking Dances

Do you know the difference between Hip Hop and Urban Dance?

How about popping and locking?

Is street dance nowadays considered a dance genre?

The best place to have these questions answered in Kuching is none other than Soul Dance Studio.

5. Tahiti dance

A Tahiti dancing is known for its rapid hip shaking movement.

You can look forward for a slimmer waist over time as this dance engages a lot of waistline muscles.

Check out the Tahiti dance class schedule at Right Steps Dance Studio.

6. Modern Ballroom Dance and Latin American Dance

Grab your partner and sign up for any types of ballroom dance or Latin American dance.

Interested students can enquire with Alexis Dance Sport Studio for their dance class schedule.

There, they cater to all levels of footwork, posture and gracefulness, so don’t be shy.

A Saturday morning at Bakun wharf cum trading post

Published on April 11, 2018

Travel

If you are one of those impulsive, adventurous travellers seeking for a new place for a random tour, here is a KajoMag-worthy suggestion.

Why not make a quick trip to Bakun wharf on a Saturday morning?

Bakun wharf is located at Bakun dam’s reservoir lake, about a three-and-a-half hour drive from Bintulu town.

It is actually not a public jetty but belongs to Sarawak Energy (SEB) which is within the security area of the power station.

A Saturday morning at Bakun wharf cum trading post — Bakun wharf turns into a trading post every Wednesday and Saturday morning.

Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, however, the wharf turns into a trading post attracting buyers from Bintulu, Sibu, Miri and even Kuching.

Here you can find various types of freshwater fish including Mengalan, Semah, Tengadak, Baung, Labang and even the famous Empurau.

While most of the fish buyers are restaurant owners and middlemen, a number of visitors also buy these fish for personal consumption.

Prices usually range from RM15 onwards per kg.

According to some of the traders, the bigger the fish, the tastier its meat.

And if you were to pick a size, choose one which weighs at least 1kg.

There are also other traders selling their jungle produce such as paku (a type of local fern) and rebung (bamboo sprouts).

In the midst of hustle and bustle of the market, take in the beauty of Bakun lake. Do you know the man-made lake is about the same size as Singapore?

Where to go after Bakun wharf?

After a visit to the wharf, you can go to nearby Bakun restaurant about 10 minutes’ drive away and let the professionals do their magic on these fishes.

They can cook the fish according to your preference and usually charge the price by weight.

Since the fish are so fresh, the best way to enjoy them is to steam them. Then you can taste the tenderness of the meat minus the fishy smell.

There are other ways to cook them too such as asam pedas (Malay-style sour and spicy dish) or the Teochew style of steaming with Chinese salted vegetables.

Spending a morning on the wharf and having a scrumptious lunch at a restaurant later… isn’t this is one of most authentic ways to spend your Saturday in Sarawak?

Filipino fried pork leg of Hong Fu Seafood, a must try food in Sibu town

Published on March 26, 2018

Lifestyle

When it comes to food in Sibu, most people think of kampua, dian bian ngu or kompia.

While they’re usually on top of the must-try food list of this inland town of Sarawak, there is one dish in Sibu which may be the best of its kind in town.

Hong Fu Seafood’s signature dish

Located at Jalan Wong King Huo, Hong Fu Seafood is a famous place among patrons to have dinner with their families.

Their signature dish, the Filipino fried pork leg is famous among local food bloggers that you just have to Google ‘fried pork leg in Sibu’ and you will find a host of online reviews.

So what makes this Filipino fried pork leg so famous?

First of all, it is the holy grail for all hardcore carnivores out there; crispy on the outside, the moment you bite through the skin, you’ll find the meat soft and tender.

For some added flavour, you can dip your pork leg into their vinegar, lime and soy sauce mix.

One portion of Filipino fried pork leg served in Hong Fu Seafood restaurant is huge especially for two people. It can even be enjoyed by up to four or five people.

Have it with a glass of cold beer and it is a perfect way to wrap up a night out in Sibu town.

Filipinio Fried Pork Leg in Hong Fu Seafood (3) — Filipino fried pork leg in Hong Fu Seafood, Sibu.

About Filipino fried pork leg

Hong Fu Seafood may call the dish “Filipino fried pork leg” but in the Philippines, it is called Crispy Pata prepared and served in much the same way.

Crispy pata is also similar to Schwienshaxe in German cuisine.

For Schweinshaxe, it is a roasted ham hock which is the end of the pig’s leg, just above the ankle.

Read other food-related stories here.

Filipinio Fried Pork Leg in Hong Fu Seafood (2) — The skin is crispy and the moment you bite through it, you will find the meat inside is all soft and tender.

The perks of travelling to Krabi during low season

Published on March 23, 2018

Travel

The perks of travelling to Krabi during low season — Swimming in small area such as Piley Cove is much more comfortable during low season due to a lesser crowd.

While most vacationers would pick December till April to take a trip to Krabi in southern Thailand for the warm seawater and tanning, some visitors might prefer otherwise.

The low season in Krabi season is from May to October when the monsoon winds bring cooler temperature and more rains in the area.

You would be surprised how many visitors are still willing to flock to this tourist spot even during low season.

Here are some of the reasons why travelling to Krabi during low season is a good idea:

1. Escape the crowd

Practically, it is less crowded on the beaches and islands.

A tour operator told me that if it was during high season, the streets in Ao Nang would be crawling with tourists.

Additionally, you can hardly see any long stretches of sand on favourite tourist sites such as Maya Bay from ashore, only a sea of humans during high season.

2. Cheap, cheap cheap

Unsurprisingly, food and accommodation are cheaper during low season compared to high season.

You could get up to 20% discounts off your bill dining at some of the restaurants in Ao Nang.

A bed at a hostel could go as low as 250 baht per night.

Some tour operators even offer half price discount for their travel packages.

The downside?

However, the biggest disadvantage of travelling during low season is you are the mercy of Mother Nature.

Pick a wrong day, and you could spend time in your hotel room doing nothing if it rains the whole day.

Nonetheless, if you enjoy drinking, might as well spend your time sipping on cocktails and local beers at the bar while watching the rain drop.

One cocktail could cost you 90 to 100 baht during low season – about half the price compared to high season.

There are several local coffee joints such as The Coffee Club in Ao Nang which offers a good caffeine fix on top of great ambiance for you to enjoy a moment alone with your book.

You could also spend your day at any of the spas for a massage or manicure.

All of these make vacationing in Krabi during low season a risk worth taking after all.

Read more:

How to travel ethically in Thailand

Top five things to buy at Krabi Weekend Night Market

Visiting Krabi’s Emerald Pool and Hotspring

Touring Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands

Iconic Landmarks in Pontianak That You Should Visit

Published on March 21, 2018

Travel

If you just happen to find yourself having to spend only a day in Pontianak, which of its iconic landmarks would you visit?

For those who might have a hard time deciding where to go, just follow this Kajo-worthy list on where to go in Pontianak so that you don’t miss out a lot on its history and culture.

Visit Rumah Radakng

Rumah Radakng is the largest replica house of the Dayak Kanayatn community in Kalimantan. (Photo credit www.flickr.com/baka_neko_baka)

Rumah Radakng is one of the top iconic landmarks in Pontianak. Constructed by the city government from ironwood, Rumah Radakng is a replica of the traditional house of the Kanayatn Dayak community in Kalimantan.

Standing at 7 meters in height, 8 meters in width and 138 meters long, Rumah Radakng is the biggest traditional house in Indonesia.

Try coffee at Warung Kopi Asiang

Iconic Landmarks in Pontianak That You Should Visit — Coffee lovers would appreciate this humble yet vibrant local cafe that serves good coffee (Picture source from Kompas.com)

This local cafe deserves a spot in this list of iconic landmarks to visit in Pontianak due to its humble yet vibrant atmosphere.

According to locals, Warung Kopi Asiang at Jalan Merapi is the best place to get your daily caffeine intake. Open since 1958, the cafe is a popular hangout spot especially during breakfast.

While there, you can order coffee with milk and sugar, or only with sugar or just plain black. Aside from that, you may also order food to go along with your coffee such as half boiled eggs or an assortment of buns and cakes.

Visit the Equator Monument

The Equator Monument in Pontianak built to mark the division between the North and South hemispheres. (Photo credit www.flickr.com/Stefan Krasowski.)

The Equator Monument is next on the list of iconic landmarks to visit in Pontianak because it is the only city that sits on the equator.

According to the Wonderful Indonesia website, the shadowless sunlight occurs here twice a year as the sun reaches its zenith on the Vernal Equinox (March 21st-23rd), and the Autumnal Equinox (September 21st-23rd).

Visit Singkawang

While Singkawang is not exactly a landmark in Pontianak, it would be a shame not to visit this unique town.

A peaceful town, another top thing to do while in Pontianak is to visit Singkawang. It is best visited during the Chap Gog Meh celebration.

Singkawang is located about 150 km from Pontianak and you may reach there in just under four hours by bus. When approaching the town, you will notice a lot of small temples along the road.

Typically, local Buddhist residents will pray at their respective temples before Chap Goh Meh.

On the day itself, a Tatung parade will take place.

St Joseph Cathedral

Currently the biggest Catholic cathedral in Pontianak, the beautiful interior of the cathedral is really a sight to see.

The original cathedral was said to be built in 1908 but was demolished in 2011 to build a bigger one to accommodate more people.

Mujahidin Grand Mosque

Built in 1974, this recently renovated mosque is the largest in West Kalimantan as it can hold up to 1,000 people.

Located at Jalan Ahmand Yani main road, the mosque is pretty accessible and easy to spot due to its grand architecture.

The mosque’s distinct features are its four minarets covered with gold on top, so it is easy to spot from the main road.

State Museum of Pontianak

This should be on the list of iconic landmark to visit in Pontianak because where else could you know everything about the city if not the museum?

Pusat Souvenir Pontianak

A visit to Pontianak would not be complete if you are to end your trip without making a stop at Jalan Pattimura.

As one of the list of iconic landmarks in Pontianak, the souvenir centre is a pit stop for those who want to buy gifts such as traditional costumes, snacks and even accessories.

3 easy trails in Bako National Park you must visit

Published on March 9, 2018

Travel

The oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park is a tourist favourite in the state.

Located about 30km north of Kuching city, the park was established back in 1957 before Sarawak became part of the Malaysian federation.

Bako National Park is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life especially if you are living in Kuching.

Unlike other national parks near Kuching such as Santubong National Park, Kubah National Park and Matang Wildlife Centre where you can still hear faint sounds of vehicles, you are completely immersed in the silence which nature offers at Bako National Park.

Most of the time, you can only hear the sound of the waves crashing, the trees rustling, and the pigs snorting.

And yes, it is pretty hard to ignore the park’s residents. Beside the bearded pigs, you will also get acquainted with other residents including silvered-leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques.

However, the star of Bako National Park is none other than the proboscis monkey.

Some say that the proboscis monkey is one of the most unusual animals in the world.

It has reddish-brown fur with greyish limbs and its long tail and lower back are white.

Adult males have a huge, distinguising red nose and a pot belly.

Although they can be easily spotted near the headquarters in the evening, when you explore the trails you might find more of them.

Bako National Park (2) — Bako National Park is one of the few rocky shores found in Sarawak.

With so many trails to choose from in Bako National Park and so little time, these are the three easy trails you can visit:

1.Teluk Paku

Bako National Park (4) — A view of secluded beach of Teluk Paku.

Proboscis monkey, check. Doable trail, check. Secluded beach, check.

It takes about one-hour to hike to this small secluded beach called Teluk Paku.

If you are taking the trail early or late in the day, you might spot a proboscis monkey at close range.

2. Lintang

Bako National Park (3) — A female proboscis monkey spotted at Bako National Park.

This is a good trail for botanists or plant lovers out there.

Lintang trail makes a great introduction to the plants of Sarawak with many trees labeled with their botanical names.

It is a loop trail which takes up to 4 hours to complete.

3.Teluk Pandan Kecil and Teluk Pandan Besar

Bako National Park — A view from the top of the cliff at the end of Teluk Pandan Kecil trail.

It takes one hour to Teluk Pandan Besar and other half an hour to Teluk Pandan Kecil.

Pitcher plants can be found along the sandy paths of this trail. The trail ends with a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the South China Sea. After which, you can descend to Telok Pandan Kecil beach to enjoy the seaside.

Always be aware of your surroundings, as there have been many reports of crocodile sightings in the area.

Read more:

What to do at Santubong, Sarawak?

5 Reasons to climb Mount Serapi at least once in your life

Top 8 Penan handwoven items that everyone should have

Top 8 Penan Handwoven Items That Everyone Should Have

Published on February 28, 2018

Lifestyle

In Sarawak, it is normal for one person to own at least one traditional item that is used as an everyday thing.

Whether it is a hand-woven mat or a basket, traditional items aren’t just decorative, they’re also practical.

For the love of traditional indigenous items, KajoMag has compiled top 8 traditional Penan handcrafted items discovered at the the 2017 edition of the Non Timber Forest Product (NTFP) festival which are still practical for modern day use.

1. Kitong

Purpose: The kitong is a rattan basket used traditionally by the Penans to store apu nangah (sago flour) or cooking utensils.

Alternative: While the kitong can still be used to store flour, rice and cooking utensils, it can also be used to store everyday items such as nail polish, canned food items or even as a key holder

2. Bukul

Purpose: A traditional Penan backpack made from rattan, it was commonly used to carry plants and herbs they gathered in the jungle . The betik, which is the motif on the rattan bag, depicts patterns inspired by the jungle such as plant vines and bird’s eyes.

Alternative: Imagine using this effortlessly stylish backpack for your books as you walk around campus.

3. Berat Sakin

Penan Item 3: Coaster — Penan Item 3: Berat Sakin

Purpose: Coaster. Surprised?

Alternative: Still relevant, looks chic and stylish in any setting.

4. Sekepit

Purpose: A small pouch used by the Penans to store small items like tobacco cigarettes when hunting in the forest

Alternative: A cool yet practical to carry your power bank and smart phone.

5. Mak

Purpose: Rattan mats

Alternative: A convenient size and practical to be used as a mat or a table runner. Place a piece of glass over it and you have an interesting focal piece.

6. Pihan

Purpose: A Penan’s rattan bag

Alternative: Consider swapping your H&M bag for this as your staple everyday handbag

7. Basah

Top 8 Penan Handwoven Items That Everyone Should Have — Penan Item 7: Basah

Purpose: A western Penan rattan bracelet. Most of the basah salak motifs are patterns inspired by snake skin. To give the rattan its shiny colour, natural dye is used.

Alternative: Great gifts if you have a lot of friends

8. Tabit

Purpose: The tabit is a Penan traditional garment made from rattan. It is worn around the waist over a loincloth to protect the wearer from sitting on thorns or other sharp objects when they sit on the forest floor.

Alternative: Frame it and put up as decoration. It’ll make an interesting conversation topic when people come to visit.

To know more about NTFP, click here to check out their website.

Kajo-worthy Festivals to look forward to in Sarawak

Published on February 19, 2018

Travel

Depending on which part of Sarawak you visit, no trip is complete without catching one or all of its many festivals that show what a truly diverse place the Land of the Hornbills is.

If you are planning a trip to any part of Sarawak, just follow this Kajo-worthy check list on upcoming festivals.

Kuching

One of the main highlight during the RWMF is the drum circle — RWMF is one of the most iconic festivals in Sarawak where the drum circle is among the event highlights.

As the capital city of Kuching, visitors can expect to see lots of festivals happening all year round there.

However, one of the most talked about festivals in Sarawak is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) taking place annually at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).

During the three-day festival, you will be surrounded by heaps of world music in the Borneo rain forest as you can attend music workshops during the day and the full on concert at night.

This year’s RWMF will take place from July 13^th to 15^th.

Other annual festivals in Sarawak happening in Kuching include the Sarawak Regatta, World Harvest Festival and the Blue Lake Festival in Bau.

Serian

When participating in the Padawan Raftt Safari, participants are required to build their own bamboo raft — Participants are required to build their own bamboo rafts in the Padawan Raft Safari.

If you love rafting, then the Padawan Raft Safari is perfect for you to show off your rowing (and building) skills.

Held in Padawan since 2004, the bamboo rafting competition typically takes about three-and-a-half hours to complete.

During the competition, competitors cruise down the river from Kampong Annah Rais, Kampong Temurang and Kampong Danu.

Expect to be mesmerized by the surrounding lush green scenery while rowing down the crystal clear river.

Sri Aman

Many would gather near the Lupar River to witness the occurrence of tidal waves during Benak Festival — Many would gather near the Lupar River to witness the occurrence of tidal waves during the Tidal Bore Festival.

Taking place at the Batang Lupar River, the Tidal Bore Festival or Pesta Benak is an annual event in Sri Aman.

It is a natural occurrence due to the shallow river bed causing water levels to form strong waves heading upstream during high tide.

Held since 2001, highlights during the three-day festival include longboat paddling competitions, tidal bore surfing and water sports.

Sarikei

It seems fitting that Sarikei would host an annual Pineapple Festival, considering it is the main supplier of pineapples in Sarawak.

Dubbed the ‘fruit basket’ for Sarawak’s central region, Sarikei town is renowned for its diverse agricultural products, especially its pineapple, which is why it was appointed the town’s fruit icon in 1998.

Besides, the pineapple themed competitions and displays you’ll see at the festival, you can also top off your visit by taking a selfie by the huge pineapple statue standing at the waterfront.

First held in 2003, you can expect to see a variety of other local fruits on display such as durians, a local olive called dabai, bananas, pepper and even livestock.

Sibu

Largest mural in Sibu located at the LHDN building (Photo credit: Sibu Street Art facebook page) — The largest mural in Sibu is located at the LHDN building (Photo credit: Sibu Street Art facebook page)

The hometown of kampua and kompia does not disappoint when among the artwork featured along Sibu Town Square during the Sibu Street Art Festival are these iconic dishes.

The festival features murals and graffiti art depicting the typical livelihood of Sibu people.

This year, the festival will be held from May 5^th to 12^th

Other festivals worth mentioning in Sibu is the Borneo Cultural Festival.

Mukah

Kaul Festival is a traditional festival of the Melanau people

Kaul Festival is celebrated by the Melanau community in Mukah. It is a religious ceremony traditionally held to appease the gods of the sea, land and forest.

While the majority of modern day Melanaus are either Christians or Muslim, it is still celebrated as a social-cultural festival rather than a religious one.

Among the main highlights of the Kaul Festival is the Tibou ceremony, a 20-foot swing where young men wait on makeshift ladders to grab on to the swing and hold on for dear life as more and more people pile on.

Bintulu

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The windy nature of the seaside town of Bintulu provides the perfect venue to host the Borneo International Kite Festival.

Held the first time in 2005, the annual kite fest will be held from September 28 to October 2 this year.

Miri

Kelabit women donning traditional Kelabit costume and headgear — Kelabit women donning traditional Kelabit costumes and headgear.

For food lovers, Pesta Nukenen or the Bario Food Festival is one of the most anticipated festival in Sarawak.

Celebrated in the Bario Highlands, the three-day food festival showcases everything unique about the Kelabit people and their traditions.

Other festivals in Sarawak worth visiting in Miri include Borneo Jazz Festival, Miri Country Music Festival and Miri May Fest.

Limbang

Buffalo race (Photo credit: Joan Blandoi)

The buffalo race festival is an iconic festival in Limbang

Apart from ikan tahai, Limbang is also famous for its buffaloes.

The Pesta Babulang festival is held annually by the Bisaya community in Kampung Danu and Limbang.

Highlight of this festival includes the buffalo race between teams from Sarawak, Sabah and Brunei and its beauty pageant.

Other note-worthy festivals in Limbang include the Lun Bawang Festival or Irau Aco.

Suggestions

Things To Do - Page 6

Who is Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin?

When was it built?

Is that a gold dome?

Why is there a boat in the middle of the lake?

Can a non-muslim visit the mosque?

You might be interested in

The history of Muara Tebas temple

Muara Tebas temple during Chinese New Year

You might be interested in

If you are staying in Kuching, here are some of the dance classes you can take and which studios offer them:

1. Belly dancing

2. Ballet

3. Lyrical Jazz

4. Hip Hop/Urban/Popping/Street/Locking Dances

5. Tahiti dance

6. Modern Ballroom Dance and Latin American Dance

You might be interested in

Where to go after Bakun wharf?

You might be interested in

Hong Fu Seafood’s signature dish

About Filipino fried pork leg

You might be interested in

Here are some of the reasons why travelling to Krabi during low season is a good idea:

1. Escape the crowd

2. Cheap, cheap cheap

You might be interested in

Visit Rumah Radakng

Try coffee at Warung Kopi Asiang

Visit the Equator Monument

Visit Singkawang

St Joseph Cathedral

Mujahidin Grand Mosque

State Museum of Pontianak

Pusat Souvenir Pontianak

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With so many trails to choose from in Bako National Park and so little time, these are the three easy trails you can visit:

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1. Kitong

2. Bukul

3. Berat Sakin

4. Sekepit

5. Mak

6. Pihan

7. Basah

8. Tabit

To know more about NTFP, click here to check out their website.

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Kuching

Serian

Sri Aman

Sarikei

Sibu

Mukah

Bintulu

Miri

Limbang

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