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[image: 1780448535566-ruby-orangutan-baby.jpg] Heartwarming news from Kuching's Semenggoh Wildlife Centre — Ruby the orangutan has given birth to her first baby, and it's a historic milestone for Sarawak's conservation efforts. Rangers at the centre made the joyful discovery on May 19, spotting Ruby carrying her newborn around 5.50pm. The moment was confirmed via a social media post on May 31. What makes this birth special? The newborn is the first recorded fourth-generation orangutan birth at Semenggoh — meaning Ruby, her mother, grandmother, and now her baby all represent four generations of successful rehabilitation and conservation. The centre hailed the birth as a strong sign that Sarawak's ongoing efforts to protect and rehabilitate the Bornean Orangutan population are working. Ruby and her baby are said to be in good health, with staff continuing to monitor them closely. Location: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, Kuching Details: Ruby's first baby, 4th-gen birth, historic conservation milestone Source: https://dayakdaily.com/joy-at-semenggoh-wildlife-centre-as-ruby-the-orangutan-cradles-her-first-baby/ What do you think?

An 80-year-old Kuching man lost RM103,850 after falling for an online investment scam promising big profits. The victim was contacted on WhatsApp by a woman claiming to run a business in Pattaya, Thailand. She offered him a partnership in a "Wholesale International Business Online" scheme through a website she managed. From September 2025 to February 2026, the man made eight bank transfers totalling RM103,850 to six different accounts. He was promised that both capital and returns would be deposited back into his account. Reality hit when he could no longer reach the suspect to ask for his money back. "The victim was directed to carry out a series of payment transactions as part of an alleged investment scheme, with assurances that the capital and returns would be deposited into the victim's account," said Kuching district police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. [image: 80yo-scam-rm103850.jpg] Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: RM103,850 lost to online investment scam, 8 transactions to 6 bank accounts, victim aged 80 Source: DayakDaily Reminder: If an investment sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always verify before transferring money. What do you think?

[image: 1780102952038-nkia-airfares.jpg] Federal govt open to Sarawak taking bigger role in new Kuching airport — plus talks on cheaper domestic flights Sarawak's Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin met with his federal counterpart Anthony Loke in Putrajaya on May 26, and two big topics came up that affect every Sarawakian who travels. First, the proposed New Kuching International Airport (NKIA). The federal government is now open to exploring a decentralised development model, meaning Sarawak would have a bigger say in planning and building the airport. "Allowing the Sarawak government to play a greater role in the planning and implementation of the project while supporting Sarawak's long-term aviation and economic aspirations," Lee said in a statement. The meeting also covered the submission of the Aerodrome Development Request for NKIA. Domestic airfares — still a pain point for Sarawakians Lee proposed reviving three key routes under the Rural Air Services Public Service Obligation (PSO) framework: Kuching–Sibu Kuching–Bintulu Kuching–Miri This could make domestic flights more affordable for people travelling within Sarawak. Airfare caps were also discussed, with Loke suggesting AirBorneo could operate these routes commercially using its ATR72 aircraft. Also on the table: extra Miri–Bario flights for the upcoming Bario Food and Cultural Festival (Pesta Nukenen Bario) in July, and the long-term Bintulu–Samalaju rail link under the Trans-Borneo Railway initiative. Location: Putrajaya / Kuching Details: Courtesy call between Sarawak Ministry of Transport and federal Transport Minister, May 26 Source: DayakDaily Have you flown between Kuching and Sibu/Bintulu/Miri recently? How much did it cost?

A massive fire tore through a 21-door longhouse in Bekenu in the early hours of this morning, leaving 136 residents without a home. The Fire and Rescue Department received the distress call at 1:17am. Firefighters from Batu Niah and Miri Central stations rushed to Rumah Nelson Ningkan, Jalan Sungai Saeh, Kampung Labau Bekenu to battle the blaze. The longhouse — a non-permanent wooden structure with individual homes measuring 16×100 square feet — was completely destroyed. It took crews seven hours to contain the fire. Firefighters used four water streams to tackle flames from the front, back, and sides of the building. The operation wrapped up at 8:18am. No injuries or deaths were reported, but all 136 residents have been displaced. Location: Kampung Labau Bekenu, near Miri Details: Non-permanent 21-door longhouse razed; 7-hour firefighting operation; no casualties [image: download] Source: Bomba Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

A kopitiam that has survived nearly six decades — and still serves its char siew, steamed chicken and Hainanese coffee the old-school way. Just five days before Christmas in 1968, Ann Loke Hui Cafe was officially registered on Jalan Sekama. Almost 60 years later, it is still going strong under the Hua family. [image: 1780016782710-ann-loke-hui-01.jpg] John Hua (right) and his 83-year-old mother Chai Lan Jin at their coffee station. Today, 56-year-old John Hua runs the business, taking over from his father Hua Kia Jin in 2001. His father ran the cafe for 33 years before passing away at 64. His mother, now 83, still helps in the kitchen. What makes this place special? The cafe was at its busiest during the Lido Theatre era — cinema-goers would flood in before and after shows. Many regulars still come in today, reminiscing about those days. Signature dishes: steamed chicken, char siew, three-layer pork with savoury rice, meat curry rice, kueh teow in tomato sauce, and traditional Hainan coffee served in vintage kopitiam cups. [image: 1780016787269-ann-loke-hui-02.jpg] Meat curry rice and pork with savoury rice — Hainanese staples. Old habits die hard here. They still use old newspapers as takeaway wrappers — a tradition dating back decades. [image: 1780016787451-ann-loke-hui-03.jpg] Coffee served in vintage cups and newspaper wrappers — unchanged through the years. "It would otherwise go to waste," John explains about the newspaper practice. The Hua family hopes to pass the cafe to the next generation. John's children already help out, and the memorabilia on the walls tells the story of a kitchen that hasn't changed its ways for six decades. Location: Jalan Sekama, Kuching Hours: 10.30am - 2pm daily, closed Sundays Contact: 019-889 6101 Source: DayakDaily Ever been to Ann Loke Hui? What old-school kopitiam in Kuching do you still visit?

Sarawak GOF seizes RM17.5 million in assets, busts massive diesel smuggling ring KUCHING (May 28) — The Sarawak Brigade of the General Operations Force (GOF) has cracked down on a large-scale diesel smuggling syndicate, seizing over 342,000 litres of subsidised diesel worth approximately RM1.8 million. [image: gof-diesel-bust.jpg] GOF commander SAC Lim Bak Phai The operation, code-named Op Tiris, ran from March 16 to Tuesday across 11 districts including Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sibu, Kapit, Bintulu, Miri, Lawas, Bau, Serian and Lundu. Sarawak GOF Brigade commander SAC Lim Bak Phai said 820 inspections were conducted, resulting in 58 cases and 69 arrests. Breakdown of seizures: 342,000 litres of subsidised diesel — worth ~RM1.8 million Tanker lorries, heavy machinery and skid tanks valued at nearly RM17.5 million Over 5 tonnes of subsidised cooking oil (~RM40,000) More than 7 tonnes of coarse sugar (~RM31,000) One major find: a tugboat in Bintulu used to illegally store 20,000 litres of diesel without a valid permit. All cases have been handed over to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak under the Control of Supplies Act 1961. Location: Multiple districts across Sarawak Details: 820 inspections, 69 arrests, RM20.3M total seizures Source: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/05/28/sarawak-gof-busts-diesel-ring-seizes-rm17-5-mln-in-assets-342000-litres-of-fuel/ What do you think?

Miri's iconic crocodile farm at Kuala Baram is getting a fresh identity — and a bigger family-friendly focus. Starting June 1, the Miri Crocodile Farm Wildlife Park cum Mini Zoo will officially be renamed Miri Animal Wonderland, with new interactive experiences and educational features. [image: download] The 22-acre park, located about 30 minutes from Miri city centre along the coastal highway, houses over 1,000 crocodiles including Saltwater Crocodiles and the rare Malayan Gharial. It's the first and largest crocodile farm in northern Sarawak. Beyond the crocs, the mini zoo features sun bears, southern cassowaries, Javan deer, reticulated pythons, pig-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, owls, eagles, civets, and binturong. Visitors can feed selected animals (goats, snakes, even crocodiles), enjoy pony rides, and watch daily crocodile and snake feeding sessions at 11am, 11.30am, 3pm and 3.30pm. Prices: RM30 Malaysian adults, RM15 children (under 11) | Foreign: RM45 adults, RM25 children Hours: 9am–5pm daily (ticket sales close 4pm) Guided info is available in English, BM, and Mandarin. Location: Kuala Baram, Miri (30-min drive from city) Source: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/05/28/miri-animal-wonderland-promises-close-encounters-with-exotic-wildlife/ What do you think — would you take the family for a visit?

Sibu is just RM3 million away from becoming Sarawak’s next city — its council reserves have more than doubled since 2019. Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting announced today that the town’s financial reserves have grown to RM47 million, up sharply from RM19 million when he took office in 2019. The threshold for city status is RM50 million. [image: 1779861795348-sibu-city-status.jpg] SMC chairman Clarence Ting speaking at a press conference after launching the WAK Sibu Festival 2026 calendar at Wisma Sanyan on May 26. The second requirement — a population of 300,000 — is also being gradually met as Sibu sees demographic shifts and steady growth. “When I became chairman in 2019, people often asked why Miri could be upgraded to a city but not Sibu. After reviewing the criteria, we were only short of two main requirements,” Ting said. Sibu, long seen as a predominantly Chinese-majority town, is now becoming increasingly diverse, with a growing Iban population and broader ethnic representation. Location: Sibu, Sarawak Reserves: RM47M (up from RM19M in 2019) Target: RM50M reserves + 300,000 population Source: DayakDaily What do you think — will Sibu finally get city status this year?

The White Cat statue in Padungan is now wearing a printed songket-inspired red and green vest — a vibrant symbol of Gawai Dayak and Sarawak's cultural harmony. [image: N7CZ25RmCjRDHts] The special attire was unveiled during a lighting ceremony at the iconic statue on May 26, officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. He said the annual lighting tradition reflects Sarawak's inclusive spirit and the harmony among its people. "I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone Selamat Hari Gawai, Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai," Dr Sim said. As people are travelling back for Gawai, Dr Sim reminded motorists to drive carefully. "Road conditions are improving, but please drive safely. If you drink, don't drive. If you drive, don't drink." Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng explained that a printed songket-inspired material was chosen instead of Pua Kumbu textile out of respect for Dayak cultural sensitivities. "When dressing the statue, it is important for us to consult and respect the cultures of others," he said. The mayor also drew a parallel between the open-door tradition of longhouse culture and Sarawak's unity: "If you have been to a longhouse, all the pintu are 'buka' (open). This openness is the heartbeat of our Sarawak unity." Location: Padungan, Kuching Details: White Cat statue in songket-inspired Gawai Dayak vest; lighting ceremony officiated by Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian and MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

"How can a ticket to go back to my hometown for Gawai cost up to RM1,000? Isn't Borneo also part of Malaysia?" Sarawakian singer and influencer Miss Alvy took to Threads today to call out what she describes as "unreasonable" flight prices ahead of the Gawai Dayak celebration. She highlighted that a return ticket from Peninsular Malaysia to Borneo can cost up to RM1,000 — enough, she said, to travel overseas. Many netizens from Sabah and Sarawak chimed in, sharing their own horror stories of festive season airfares, with some saying return tickets can hit RM1,900. According to Miss Alvy, many East Malaysians have been forced to delay returning home for years because of the high ticket prices. Some families can only reunite during major holidays, while others simply cannot afford it at all. The post has reignited the long-standing debate about the high cost of air connectivity between Borneo and Peninsular Malaysia, especially during festive seasons like Gawai and Hari Raya. Location: Kuching / Sarawak When: May 26, 2026 [image: 1779775360441-miss-alvy-airfare.jpg] Miss Alvy. Photo credit: Facebook / DayakDaily Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

13 people including two children and a local man have been detained at the Lubok Antu-Badau border area after police busted a migrant smuggling operation early Monday morning. [image: 1779757422939-lubok-antu-border.jpg] The General Operations Force (PGA) Battalion 10 Sibu Intelligence Unit conducted the raid around 3:30am along an ungazetted route in Ensawang, Lubok Antu. Among those held were 12 foreign nationals — including two children — and a 27-year-old local man believed to be acting as a 'land skipper' (tekong darat). Police tracked two vehicles used to transport the foreign nationals. The local man was driving a four-wheel-drive, while a second sedan was driven by a foreign national carrying others without valid travel documents. Authorities seized two vehicles, an outboard boat engine, and two mobile phones linked to the smuggling operation. The case is being investigated under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (ATIPSOM) 2007 and the Immigration Act 1959/63. This latest operation highlights ongoing issues along Sarawak's border routes, where smugglers continue to use ungazetted pathways to bypass checkpoints. Location: Lubok Antu-Badau border, Sarawak Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Kuching City FC may have fallen 2-0 to Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) in the Malaysia Cup final last Saturday night — but their run to Bukit Jalil is being celebrated as the club's greatest achievement to date. Under head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak, the Cats stunned Malaysian football by reaching the final for the first time ever. Their campaign was built on grit: Round of 16: Beat Penang FC 2-1 on aggregate after losing the first leg away Quarter-finals: Dominated DPMM FC 6-2 on aggregate Semi-finals: Edged Selangor FC 2-1, winning the home leg 1-0 They played 7 matches, won 4, drew 1, lost 2 — scoring 10 goals and conceding just 6. They won all three home matches at the State Stadium. Beyond the Malaysia Cup, their Super League performance also secured qualification for next season's AFC Champions League Two as Malaysia's No.2 — another historic first for the club. More than 50,000 supporters packed the National Stadium, including Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and several state and federal ministers. JDT's goals came from Marcos Guilherme (80') and Arif Aiman Hanapi (90'). Kuching City had a golden chance from the penalty spot in the 60th minute but couldn't convert.   " alt="" /> Location: Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Kuala Lumpur " alt="" /> Details: Kuching City FC first-ever Malaysia Cup final appearance + AFC Champions League Two qualification " alt="" /> Sources: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/05/25/cats-lose-final-but-celebrate-historic-season/" rel="nofollow ugc">https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/05/25/cats-lose-final-but-celebrate-historic-season/ https://dayakdaily.com/shoot-for-the-moon-land-among-stars-kuching-city-fc-fall-to-jdt-in-msia-cup-final-but-achieve-historic-milestones/" rel="nofollow ugc">https://dayakdaily.com/shoot-for-the-moon-land-among-stars-kuching-city-fc-fall-to-jdt-in-msia-cup-final-but-achieve-historic-milestones/ What do you think? Did Kuching City exceed expectations this season? " alt="" />

Four students from St Joseph’s International School (SJIS) in Kuching have earned Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards — including three “Top in the World” titles — in the November 2025 examination series. This is reportedly the first time SJIS has achieved three worldwide top honours in a single exam sitting. The winners Eunice Ooi Jia Yi — Top in the World, Business Studies (A-Level) Carmen Lee Zi Shuen — Top in the World, English as a Second Language (IGCSE) Giselle Chen Yan Xin — Top in the World, English as a Second Language (IGCSE) Jameela Khayrin Mohamad Bolhair — Top in Malaysia, Business Studies (AS-Level) “This is truly exceptional for the school to achieve three ‘Top in the World’ awards in a single examination series,” said SJIS Principal Brother Robert Teoh. St Joseph’s Private Schools CEO Christopher Chua added that being recognised at the international level places these students among the very best globally. [image: 1779691939811-nc_kcfc-final-1.jpg] Location: St Joseph’s International School, Kuching Details: 3 x Top in the World + 1 x Top in Malaysia (November 2025 Cambridge exams) Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi is calling for the revival of weekly farmers markets in Kuching to give residents better access to fresh, affordable produce. The Pantai Damai assemblyman made the proposal at the Jualan Agro Sarawakku Sayang (JASS) programme held at Esplanade Gersik on Sunday (May 24). According to him, Esplanade Gersik was once home to a weekly farmers market organised by the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) around seven to eight years ago. He hopes FAMA, together with the Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, along with DBKU (Kuching North City Commission), can bring it back. "Reviving such programmes would help residents obtain fresh food products at reasonable prices," he said. Details: Discussions will be held with FAMA to explore regular monthly or quarterly programmes Also proposing the JASS programme be reintroduced on a regular basis in Kuching Dr Abdul Rahman urged residents to take up urban farming initiatives organised by DBKU to reduce household food expenses Growing vegetables at home can promote self-sufficiency and contribute to food security Location: Esplanade Gersik, Kuching Source: https://dayakdaily.com/pantai-damai-rep-pushes-revival-of-weekly-farmers-market-in-kuching-for-affordable-fresh-food/ What do you think — would you visit a weekly farmers market in Kuching?

Bau Gawai Parade nearly triples in size — 2,000 participants, 91 contingents march through town in vibrant cultural showcase The biennial Bau Gawai Parade drew close to 2,000 participants from 91 contingents on May 23, nearly three times its 2024 turnout of 800. Chinese and Malay groups marched alongside the Bidayuh community along a 2.8km route under sunny weather. Location: Bau, Kuching Division, Sarawak Key highlights: 2,000 participants — up from 800 in 2024 91 contingents including Chinese, Malay & Bidayuh groups 2.8km procession from Bidayuh Cultural Centre completed in under 2 hours New RM9 million Bidayuh Cultural Centre now completed — official opening June 22 by Sarawak Premier Centre features 1,000-capacity hall, galleries, meeting rooms, and traditional Baruk Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) and Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the parade marked the completion of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre, which he described as a "living space for cultural activities." The Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) has expressed satisfaction with the centre's quality. Source: https://dayakdaily.com/bau-gawai-parade-nearly-triples-in-size-2000-participants-91-contingents-march-2-8km-under-sunny-weather-in-traditional-attire/ Are you heading to Bau for Gawai celebrations this year? Share your plans below!

Kuching (23rd) — A petrol bomb was thrown at a car in the early hours of today, but the homeowner managed to extinguish the fire before it caused major damage, with only 10% of the vehicle burned. The incident occurred around 5am at Lorong 7, Stapok Selatan. The Batu Lintang Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 4:58am and rushed to the scene. By the time they arrived, the homeowner had already brought the fire under control, and firefighters proceeded to fully extinguish the remaining flames. CCTV footage from the homeowner's residence captured a suspect throwing a petrol bomb from outside the house into the car porch, setting the rear of the vehicle ablaze. The case has been handed over to the police for investigation. [image: 1779691940607-nc_bomb-car-1.jpeg] [image: 1779691941093-nc_bomb-car-2.jpeg] [image: 1779691941648-nc_bomb-car-3.jpeg] Source: See Hua Daily News

The Kuching Waterfront came alive today as the thunder of motorcycle engines filled the air — 600 big bike riders from across Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia gathered for the Borneo Island International Big Bike Festival (BIBBF) 2026. The convoy, flagged off from Kuching Waterfront, made its way to Kampung Lot Bako for a community engagement programme. Organised by the Borneo Island Big Bikers (BIBB) Sarawak, the event is now in its 24th edition with 1,225 registered participants. Location: Kuching Waterfront → Kampung Bako, Sarawak Details: 600 big bikes in convoy Participants from Sarawak, Sabah, FT Labuan, Brunei and Indonesia Community activities: traditional sports, village lunch at Bako (fresh seafood!) Day 1 highlights: Battle of the Bands competition Gala dinner featuring local and Peninsular Malaysia singers Idol BIBBF singing talent event continues tomorrow BIBB Sarawak president Ramlee Tuah said participants were especially impressed with Sarawak's well-maintained roads, giving satisfaction to bikers from neighbouring countries. The festival rotates among 5 Borneo clubs: PEMODA (Brunei), BIBB (Sarawak), IMBI (Indonesia), SBBA (Sabah), and LA RIDERS (Labuan). Next year's edition will be hosted by LA Riders Labuan. Source: https://dayakdaily.com/600-riders-from-msia-brunei-indonesia-roar-through-kuching-for-borneo-island-intl-big-bike-festival/ Catch the convoy or the gala dinner? Drop by Kampung Bako and join the fun!

Young working adults in Sarawak are scaling back Gawai celebrations this year, choosing meaningful family time over lavish gatherings as living costs continue to rise. With Gawai Dayak just around the corner, many young Sarawakians are rethinking how they celebrate. Interviews with working adults in their 20s reveal a common theme — budgets are tighter, priorities have shifted, but the spirit of togetherness remains strong. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: Junior civil engineer Valentine Mapan Jalan, 25, said his family’s celebration will be quieter this year as they prioritise elderly relatives’ well-being. “We don’t need extravagance to show our hospitality,” he said. Executive Irvina Joan, 24, noted rising fuel and daily expenses have limited her travel plans to visit relatives in other areas. She credited government aid like STR, SARA, and SKAS for helping ease some financial pressure. Administrative assistant Lydia Hyginus, 25, said she cut her Gawai budget this year, skipping new family outfits. “Every moment during Gawai feels precious because it is one of the few times when my whole family can gather,” she said. Despite the tighter budgets, all three emphasised that the essence of Gawai — family reunions, shared meals, and cultural traditions — remains unchanged. Source: The Borneo Post Is your family planning a simpler Gawai this year? Share your thoughts below

Sarawak's longest river bridge is now open to the public! The Batang Lupar Bridge (Jambatan Batang Lupar) officially opened on 21 May 2026, replacing the long-serving ferry service connecting Sebuyau and Sri Aman across the Batang Lupar river. Location: Sebuyau, Sarawak (Kuching Division) Length: 4.8km — Sarawak's longest river crossing Travel time saved: Ferry took ~30 minutes, bridge takes just 5 minutes. This bridge is part of Sarawak's massive infrastructure transformation under the 12th Malaysia Plan. Out of 21 major bridges planned, 10 have already opened, with 8 more expected in the coming months. The opening comes just in time for Hari Raya Haji and Gawai Dayak festivities — making balik kampung much easier for thousands of Sarawakians. Sources: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/05/22/batang-lupar-bridge-officially-opens/ https://dayakdaily.com/batang-lupar-bridge-sarawak-longest-river-crossing/ What do you think — will this bridge boost economic activity in the area? Share your thoughts below!