Sarawak Regatta
by Janemei
I was here in Kuching when the Sarawak Regatta was held on the Sarawak River. They invited participants from oversea to compete here in Kuching. The invited competitors included an all female team from Dubai (where none of the paddlers are actually from Dubai but from UK, Australians etc). This group had competed against the male rowers and came third overall if I read correctly. The Kuching Waterfront was packed with people especially the finishing line. It's a sight in itself to watch all the villagers from the kampung across the river lining up outside their wooden houses. I also witnessed a sinking boat (pictured). Safe to say they didn't come near the finishing line on this boat.
Kuching City Fair
by Janemei
I was here when Kuching held their Kuching City Celebrations, Merdeka (National) Day as well as the Sarawak Regatta. The Kuching City Celebrations was a month long celebration that included a food fair (absolutely delicious where all the restaurants and part time chefs come out with their special dishes), an expo and performances. This is an annual event that occurs in August. The Food fair is held in Padungan.
Cat Statues in Cat City
by AlbuqRay
There are several cat statues in Kuching, the "Cat City." This is the one at the three-way intersection of Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Abell and Jalan Padungan. Note the American icon in the background. You just can't get away from McDondald's. At least my grandkids would be happy.
The origin of Kuching's name has never been clear. "Kucing" does translate into "cat" in Malay and "kuching" is the old Malay spelling. Another theory is that it may actually be a variation of the Indian name for "port," i.e., "cochin," since Kuching was first settled by Indian traders who set up base at Santubong. Artifacts of Hindu origin can today be seen at the Sarawak Museum.
Despite the theories, the city was named "Sarawak" under Rajah Sir James Brooke's rule. Under Rajah Charles Brooke's rule, the city was renamed "Sarawak Proper" in order to avoid confusion with the ever expanding Kingdom of Sarawak. Only in the latter part of his reign was Sarawak Proper renamed Kuching. The city has never been noted for having a significantly large population of cats. In fact, the many cat statues, the Kuching Cat Museum and other associations with cats have been largely a recent phenomenon, probably part of a modern effort to promote tourism.
ORANG ULU @ SARAWAK CULTURAL VILLAGE
by balhannah
The Orang Ulu live in a raised longhouse, with a big open verandah. It was on the open air verandah that we sat and enjoyed a musical performance and dance.
The unusual musical instrument they use, is called a Sape and a traditional wooden xylophone called Jatung Lutang. On entering inside, you will find quite a few of these on display, and they are made for sale as well.
Afterwards, the Orang Ulu young man, who spoke pretty good English, showed us through his home. He was only too happy to show and explain their customs to us and in return, he was interested in learning about Australia from us!
Their home was different, as they had bags and ornaments made out of beads or shells, and they used the wood shavings instead of wasting them. Gongs were also prominent once again.
Admission is included in the entry fee to the Sarawak cultural village.
Wet, humid and dark...
by MJL
Take with you a raincoat and an umbrella and remember that nothing get try during your visit. There is very hot and humid. If you will go to visit some local tribes, take a good flashlight with you.
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Plenty of cute cat statues
The beautiful River sarawak
An Orang Utan @ The Wildlife Centre
Orang Ulu crafts
