JPN has asked families to hold off on some MyKad applications until Sept 7 while the new-generation card is introduced. The National Registration Department said printing services are temporarily disrupted during the transition. People who do not urgently need to replace or renew their MyKad should postpone those transactions. Parents or guardians of children turning 12 are also advised to wait before making a first-MyKad application, so the child can receive the new version when it becomes available. For Kuching residents, a routine trip to an NRD counter during this window may not produce a card immediately. Urgent cases are not covered by the advice to postpone, so applicants should check with JPN before travelling and follow its official updates for the next issuance arrangements.

Ten Sarawak monitoring stations were still in the hazardous band at 2pm on Tuesday, even after Kuching eased from 407 in the morning to 374. NREB's 2pm table recorded Lubok Antu at 390, IPD Serian at 389, Kuching at 374, Kanowit at 364, Tebedu at 353 and Lundu at 351. Sarikei was at 349, Samarahan at 339, Sibu at 331 and Sri Aman at 327. All ten readings were above the hazardous threshold of 300. No station was above 400 in the 2pm update, but that was not a clear-air signal: Kuching had reached 407 earlier, while Serian was also above 400. API is a 24-hour running average, so residents should check the latest reading before outdoor activity and cut strenuous exercise while conditions remain hazardous.

Sarawak’s proposed state constituency maps will go on public display from Sept 1, opening a one-month window for representations on the Election Commission’s redelineation plan. The proposal covers 17 additional seats and several renamed constituencies; if eventually approved, the State Legislative Assembly would grow from 82 to 99 seats. Notices are to appear in The Borneo Post and Utusan Borneo, while exhibition boards, draft reports and maps are planned at selected city halls, municipal councils and district offices across the state’s 31 parliamentary constituencies. The EC’s proposed venues include Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and Padawan Municipal Council—three separate local authorities, not one generic ‘Kuching council’. The display is not the final boundary map and does not by itself mean the next state election will use 99 seats. The proposal still needs approval by Parliament and gazettement before it can take effect. Representations may be made within one month after the notice is published, but the eligible groups are specific: the state government, an affected local authority, or a body of at least 100 people whose names appear on the current electoral rolls of the constituencies concerned. Kuching and Samarahan voters should check the displayed documents for the exact map, venue and submission procedure rather than rely on earlier leaked versions.

Serian’s API reading reached the hazardous level at 357 by 7am on Sunday, while Kuching, Samarahan and Sri Aman were already in the very unhealthy band. The morning reading reported from the Department of Environment’s Air Pollutant Index Management System put Samarahan at 293, Kuching at 284 and Sri Aman at 215. Serian was the only Sarawak station above 300, the threshold for hazardous air quality. Most of the other monitored areas were in the unhealthy range, including Sarikei at 195, Sibu at 187, Bintulu at 177, Samalaju and Mukah at 170, Kapit at 159, Miri at 154 and ILP Miri at 144. Limbang was the exception at 86, in the moderate range. The figures are a time-stamped snapshot, so they can shift as wind, rain and smoke movement change. Kuching residents planning outdoor exercise or travel should check the latest APIMS reading first; people who must go out should keep exposure short and pay attention to breathing symptoms.

If Kuching gives you one unhurried old-town walk, I would use it to compare three layers of public life: a civic landmark seen from the street, a small museum that tells the city through its communities, and a former shipyard turned into an industrial museum. They belong on one route, but they are not interchangeable. The Round Tower is a brief exterior stop; the Chinese History Museum rewards a slower look inside; Brooke Dockyard is the best finish if you want to see machinery and the riverfront’s working past. For a weekend morning, do not arrive at the Chinese History Museum expecting its weekday 9am opening: it starts at 10am, while Brooke Dockyard opens at 9:30am. I would use the Round Tower exterior for the earlier part of the walk, then leave enough time for both interiors. Both museums are free; transport and refreshments are separate. The next scheduled closure remaining in the 2026 calendar is Friday 25 December, when neither indoor stop is available. 1. The Round Tower — a ten-minute pause, not an indoor attraction [image: 1788155521098-round1.jpg] Yeo Jiun Tzen / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0 · resized, no crop Completed in 1886 after the great fire of 20 January 1884, the compact, fort-like building served as a Public Dispensary until 1947 and later housed other civic offices. It is now the Sarawak Craft Council headquarters, so plan to read the facade and its changing uses from the public street; do not expect a museum interior or a visitor tour. The Round Tower, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Kuching The Round Tower — Google Maps Allow about 10–20 minutes. This is the easiest stop to drop if you want a fully indoor visit, but it gives the walk a useful starting question: what did this small building do for the town after the 1884 fire? 2. Chinese History Museum — community stories in a compact room [image: 1783649189677-chinese-history-museum-angle.jpg] Yeo Jiun Tzen / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0 · resized, no crop [image: 1783649189998-chinese-history-museum-old01.jpg] Yeo Jiun Tzen / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0 · resized, no crop The waterfront building was built in 1912 and served as a court for the Chinese community until 1921. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce then took it over, before it became a museum in 1993. Its displays make more sense after a first walk through the old trading streets: dialects, community histories and everyday objects give names and context to the neighbourhood outside. Chinese History Museum, Kuching Waterfront Chinese History Museum — Google Maps Admission is free. Weekday hours are 9:00am–4:45pm; weekends and public holidays are 10:00am–4:00pm, except the listed closure dates, including 25 December 2026. Wear modest clothing for the visit. Budget 30–60 minutes, rather than treating it as a full-day museum. 3. Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum — finish with the working riverfront [image: 1787278434491-brooke-dockyard-01.jpg] 12alen / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0 · resized, no crop Built in 1908 and opened in 1912, the dockyard first served the Rajah’s vessels, then grew into a ship-repair and engineering site. Open to the public since 21 April 2026, the museum preserves industrial machinery and a life-size replica of HHY Zahora on the waterfront site where that work happened. Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum, Dock Lane, Kuching Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum — Google Maps Entry is free. The museum’s current hours are 9:00am–4:45pm Monday to Friday and 9:30am–4:30pm on weekends and public holidays, except the listed closure dates, including 25 December 2026. Modest clothing is encouraged here too. Allow 45–60 minutes. If you only choose one indoor stop, pick this for machinery and industrial history; choose the Chinese History Museum instead if community stories matter more to you. With only 90 minutes free, I would choose one museum and a brief look at the Round Tower, rather than rush through both interiors. Choose the Chinese History Museum for the people behind the trading streets; choose Brooke Dockyard for machinery and the working riverfront. Leave space for walking between stops instead of filling every minute with exhibits. The numbers here follow those three themes, not a claim that one is objectively better. With a full half-day, there is room to compare civic service, community memory and industrial work. It suits a half-day at an easy pace, with walking or a short e-hailing hop between Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg and the waterfront. Parking is limited and event traffic controls can change city-centre approaches, so follow current road signs rather than assuming a drop-off is available at each door. Updated 23 October 2026. Which layer of old Kuching would you spend the longest exploring? Keep the Round Tower exterior guide, Chinese History Museum guide and Brooke Dockyard guide handy if you want to spend longer at one stop.

Still deciding what to do this weekend? Here are four things happening around Kuching from Friday to Sunday — one for rock fans, two for registered young participants, and one big Merdeka-eve concert just outside the city. Rock In The City 2026 Saturday, 29 August, 8:15pm–12:00am Wisma Melayu, Jalan Diplomatik, Kuching A proper late-night rock session is coming to town, with live performances and a regional Malaysia–Brunei–Indonesia rock spirit. If your ideal Saturday is loud guitars, lights and a crowd that sings along, this is the one to circle. [image: 1787875733175-event1-rock.jpg] Source: Rock In The City event poster FUN乐营 3.0 children’s holiday camp Saturday–Sunday, 29–30 August, 8:00am–4:00pm; continues Monday, 31 August, 8:00am–12:00pm Samarahan Grace Methodist Church, Taman Uni Central This one is for children aged 5–12, with camp activities, meals, snacks, camp clothing and plenty of group fun. It is a registration-based programme, so it is most suitable for families whose children are already signed up or who can still confirm a place with the organiser. [image: 1787875733264-event2-fun.jpg] Source: FUN乐营 3.0 event poster SOAR3.0「我受够鸟」youth camp Friday, 28 August, 6:00pm to Monday, 31 August, noon Sungai Maong Methodist Church, Lorong Stapok Utara, Kuching A four-day, three-night Chinese youth camp for ages 13–18, built around fellowship, activities and a full camp experience. This is another registration-based event, but it is worth knowing about if your teenager has already registered and is heading in this weekend. [image: 1787875733323-event3-soar.jpg] Source: SOAR3.0 event poster Konsert Di Ambang Merdeka “Dekat Di Hati” Sunday, 30 August, 8:00pm–11:00pm Kompleks Sukan Asajaya Up for a short drive out of Kuching? The Asajaya Merdeka-eve concert brings together Bella Astillah, Bob Yusuf, Hairee Francis and other featured artistes with the Simfoni Orkestra Negeri Sarawak. Expect a big community-night atmosphere, music and fireworks-style celebration energy. [image: 1787875733397-event4-asajaya.jpg] Source: Pesta Asajaya 2026 event poster If I were planning the weekend, I would do Rock In The City on Saturday night and keep Sunday for the Asajaya concert. For the outdoor programmes, check the organiser’s latest update before leaving — haze and weather have already affected some Sarawak events this month.

Looking for a Sunday treat or a Kuching stay with an extra perk? Pullman Kuching's official offers page currently lists these two deals: 1️⃣ Culina Market High Tea [image: 1787710143809-pullman-culina-high-tea.jpg] Source: Pullman Kuching – Culina Market High Tea Valid: Every Sunday, from 5 April to 30 August 2026 Time: 12.00pm–3.00pm Price: RM98+ per adult; RM49+ per child What is included: A Pan-Asian high-tea spread at Culina Restaurant Reservation: WhatsApp 016-8796105 or use the booking link on the official offer page 2️⃣ Mastercard Breakfast on Us [image: 1787710143892-pullman-mastercard-breakfast.jpg] Source: Pullman Kuching – Mastercard Breakfast on Us Booking and payment window: 4 August 2026–3 February 2027 Benefit: Complimentary breakfast at participating Accor hotels across Asia, when the booking is made and paid with Mastercard Extra condition: Sign in to an ALL Accor account and check the participating-hotel terms before paying For Kuching: Check availability for Pullman Kuching during the booking process Location Both offers are listed by Pullman Kuching. Address: Interhill Place, No. 1A, Jalan Mathies, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak. [image: 1787710144004-pullman-culina-restaurant.jpg] Source: Pullman Kuching – Culina [image: 1787710144251-pullman-kuching-exterior.png] Source: Pullman Kuching – official location The High Tea has a fixed end date of 30 August. For the Mastercard offer, the booking/payment deadline is 3 February 2027; taxes, availability and full terms should be checked on the official page before making a reservation. References Culina Market High Tea Mastercard Breakfast on Us Pullman Kuching location

Heavy rain brought Kuching’s API down to 156 by 5pm, but five Sarawak areas were still in the unhealthy range. The latest APIMS readings reported on Tuesday put Serian at 182, followed by Sri Aman at 172, Samarahan at 155, Kuching at 156 and Sarikei at 154. The 10am update had placed Serian at 194 and Kuching at 176, so the afternoon rain helped in parts of the state without ending the haze situation. An API reading from 101 to 200 is classified as unhealthy. That means a lower Kuching number after rain should not be read as a return to normal air: conditions can differ sharply between monitoring stations and can change again when wind or rain patterns shift. For residents planning outdoor work, exercise or travel across Sarawak, check the latest station reading on APIMS before heading out instead of relying on how the sky looks in one neighbourhood. People who are more sensitive to haze should reduce strenuous outdoor time while the readings remain above 100. The same update also placed Marudi under MetMalaysia’s Level 1 hot-weather alert, which covers maximum temperatures of 35–37°C for at least three consecutive days. The next useful checkpoint is whether the five unhealthy stations fall below 101 after further rain, or climb again if dry weather returns.

SUPP has hit back at DAP’s call for more opposition seats in the next Sarawak state election, turning “check and balance” into the latest line of political contest. Separate statements reported in Kuching on Aug 24 came from SUPP Kuching Branch Youth and Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, who is also the party’s deputy treasurer. They argued that more DAP seats would not automatically mean better governance, and said scrutiny should be tied to policy debate and Sarawak’s interests under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). The branch also accused DAP of being selective when criticising Sarawak while being part of the federal government. That remains SUPP’s political claim, not an independently established finding. The immediate trigger was DAP Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen’s appeal for voters not to leave him and Violet Yong as the party’s only two representatives in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly, and to give DAP more room to provide checks and balance. For Kuching voters, this is a political position-taking exercise, not a government decision: the statements do not change the current assembly composition or announce an election timetable. As the debate develops, voters can compare each party’s concrete record and proposals on MA63, federal-state finances, natural resources, education and healthcare instead of treating slogans as policy. The next useful signals are a substantive DAP response and any formal election timetable issued by the Election Commission.

如果 Muara Tebas 的行程只是为了吃海鲜，我会把 Ching San Yen Temple 青山巖放在午餐前：先沿着坡道和阶梯上山，看完红墙、金色屋脊和河口方向的开阔感，再下山找吃的。它不是需要专程排一整天的大型景区，而是一段有宗教气氛、有地方记忆的半日路线。 [image: 1787451109536-ching_san_yen_1-resized.jpg] 来源：Wikimedia Commons / Esther Siaw，CC BY 4.0 这里仍是活跃的庙宇，不是布置好等游客拍照的展馆。上山的阶梯不算适合拖行李或行动不便者；我会穿防滑鞋、避开正午，并预留约 30–60 分钟，让参拜、看建筑和拍照各有空间。天气好的时候，Muara Tebas 一带的风景会让这段车程更有回报，但炎热或下雨时就不必硬撑。 [image: 1787451110161-ching_san_yen_2-resized.jpg] 来源：Wikimedia Commons / Esther Siaw，CC BY 4.0 从古晋市中心出发，最省事是自驾或叫车；回程叫车要预留时间，和司机先约好接送会更安心。庙前后适合和 Muara Tebas 海鲜村接在一起，不过停车、香火活动和人流在节庆时都会改变。一般不设统一门票的地方，也可能有停车或捐献安排，带些小额现金即可。 [image: 1787451110902-ching_san_yen_3-resized.jpg] 来源：Wikimedia Commons / Esther Siaw，CC BY 4.0 2026 年这里还有一个不能忽略的时间点：古晋福建公会在 5 月迎来来自中国湄洲祖庙的妈祖分灵像，并公布新妈祖庙预计在 10 月 18 日举行开幕仪式。对游客来说，这意味着近期可能有仪式、布置、部分区域调整或更拥挤的日子；不要把旧文章里的“随时都一样”当成保证。到访前看当天地图状态和庙方／活动公告，进香、拍照与动线以现场安排为准。 [image: 1787451111621-ching_san_yen_4-resized.jpg] 来源：Wikimedia Commons / Esther Siaw，CC BY 4.0 如果同行者喜欢传统建筑、信仰文化和短途小镇路线，这里值得排进 Muara Tebas；只想找冷气、平路和快速打卡的人，可能会觉得阶梯、曝晒和礼仪要求增加了负担。记得衣着端庄，避开挡住参拜者，室内拍摄先看现场允许与否。 [image: 1787451112373-ching_san_yen_5-resized.jpg] 来源：Wikimedia Commons / Esther Siaw，CC BY 4.0 我会把它当作“先上山，再下山吃海鲜”的 Muara Tebas 入口，而不是单独追着景点标签赶路。出发前先确认当天是否有仪式或临时限制，这样才不会错过庙宇真正安静的那一面。

When I build a Kuching day around museums and the old town, I like leaving one stop that asks for quiet rather than entertainment. Kuching Heroes Cemetery, around the Jalan Budaya and Taman Budaya side of town, is that pause: come in daylight, read the names, and let the city’s memory sit alongside its food streets and river views. [image: 1787365634583-khc1-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Mx. Granger / CC0 It suits travellers interested in Sarawak history, military stories and memorial places. It will disappoint anyone looking for a café, interactive museum or a long list of photo angles, so I would not make it a destination on its own unless the subject genuinely interests you. Learning about Sarawakian heroes such as Kanang Anak Langkau before arriving gives the names more meaning than a quick photograph. [image: 1787365635323-khc2-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Mx. Granger / CC0 Use it as part of a Jalan Budaya loop: Reservoir Park or nearby museum areas first, this memorial for 15–30 minutes, then return towards the city for a meal. A car is simplest, though roadside space is limited; park without blocking homes, entrances or memorial activity. Ride-hailing should work for the outward trip, but arrange the return before relying on a quick pick-up from a quiet side street. [image: 1787365636139-khc3-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Mx. Granger / CC0 There is no normal tourist ticket counter, so treat it as a free public memorial space, while checking the entrance or current management notice for any ceremony, maintenance or temporary access change. Go in daylight, keep voices low, stay off graves and avoid photographing people who are paying respects. [image: 1787365637179-khc4-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Mx. Granger / CC0 This is not a thrilling attraction, and that is precisely the choice. Add it when you want a more thoughtful layer to a Kuching itinerary; skip it when the day is meant to be purely playful.

St Peter’s Church is Padungan’s new visual anchor: two white clock towers, a glass-filled interior and a useful stop when you are already exploring Kuching’s older streets. I would visit for the architecture and atmosphere, while remembering that this is an active church rather than a walk-in museum. [image: 1787364896684-stpeter-glass-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Nelynnnnn (CC BY 4.0) The church stands on Central Road East, close to Padungan’s cafés, food spots and older urban fabric. The building is recent, but its design uses pointed arches, strong vertical lines, flying-buttress details and an east-facing sanctuary. The stained glass is the detail I would make time for, especially panels combining European craft with Dayak-inspired motifs. [image: 1787364897425-stpeter-altar.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Jjurieee (CC BY-SA 4.0) [image: 1787616284784-stpeter04-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Gereja St. Peter Kuching 04 Who is it for? Architecture fans, photographers, people interested in Sarawak’s Catholic communities and visitors building a Padungan heritage-and-food walk will get the most from it. If you only want a landmark photo, the exterior is enough. If you want the interior, plan around church activity: Mass, prayer and private events can limit access. My preferred route is simple: arrive in daylight for the towers and façade, continue through Padungan for coffee or a meal, then connect towards Carpenter Street or the Waterfront. Walking or a short e-hailing trip is usually easier than making this a separate cross-city excursion. Parking nearby can be limited at busy times; do not block residents, shop entrances or church access. [image: 1787616284863-stpeter05-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Gereja St. Peter Kuching 05 Allow 30–60 minutes for the building and a respectful look inside when open. Dress modestly, keep voices low, do not photograph people who are praying, and never interrupt Mass. There is no honest reason to promise a fixed tourist opening schedule here. My verdict: worth adding to a Padungan walk, especially for the stained glass and unusual contemporary scale; not worth treating as a standalone all-day attraction. The exterior is easy to appreciate, while the interior is a privilege that depends on the church’s own schedule. Have you seen St Peter’s from the road, or managed to catch the interior open?

A slow old-town walk becomes more interesting when you leave the grand façades and look for the places that made Kuching work. Brooke Dockyard is one of those stops: a low, river-facing piece of industrial heritage where the roofline, old track and waterfront make the city’s trading past feel close rather than frozen in a textbook. [image: 1787278434491-brooke-dockyard-01.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / 12alen, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1787278434578-brooke-dockyard-02.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Marufish, CC BY 2.5 [image: 1787278434683-brooke-dockyard-03.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Yeo Jiun Tzen, CC BY-SA 4.0 I would place it after the Waterfront and before the Old Court House, when the walk has shifted from postcard views to the working history behind them. The Brooke Museums story is much larger than this one building, but that is why the dockyard works as a compact pause: it gives the riverfront a practical, mechanical side. If you like ships, old engineering, architecture or the less polished corners of heritage Kuching, give it 45–60 minutes. If you want interactive galleries and a full indoor museum afternoon, this alone may feel too small. [image: 1787278434767-brooke-dockyard-04.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / TrimmerinWiki, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1787278434849-brooke-dockyard-05.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Cerevisae, CC BY-SA 4.0 The dockyard sits in the old Dock Lane/riverfront area of central Kuching, so walking is sensible from the Waterfront, Main Bazaar, Square Tower or Old Court House. By car or e-hailing, use a city-centre drop-off and expect to walk the last stretch; parking and access can change during events. Older listings commonly quote weekday hours of 9.00am–4.45pm and weekend/public-holiday hours of 9.30am–4.30pm, with free entry reported, but tenant, event and maintenance arrangements can change. Come for the texture, the river edge and the story of work behind the old town. It is best as one thoughtful chapter in a heritage loop, not a destination that needs half a day on its own.

Book hunters, save these dates. Big Bad Wolf Books is returning to Kuching with a large English book sale. Big Bad Wolf Books Kuching Mega Book Sale What to look out for: Selected books from RM3 Discounts of up to 95% off Millions of English books Free admission A chance to win a 10g gold bar; check the organiser’s latest announcement for the entry mechanics and T&Cs [image: 1787277970768-bbw-official.jpg] Source: Big Bad Wolf Books official Facebook [image: 1787277970854-big-bad-wolf-books-book-sale-promotion-with-books-1.jpg] Source: EverydayOnSales [image: 1787277970918-big-bad-wolf-books-book-sale-promotion-with-books-2.jpg] Source: EverydayOnSales [image: 1787277970983-big-bad-wolf-books-book-sale-promotion-with-books-3.jpg] Source: EverydayOnSales Valid: 25 August–6 September 2026 Hours: 10am–10pm daily Location: Event Hall 3.1, Level 3, Mall 1, Boulevard Shopping Mall, Kuching ️ Admission: Free RM3 prices and the 95% discount apply to selected titles, so stock and pricing will vary. If you are looking for specific books, going earlier in the sale period may give you a better selection. Sources: Official announcement: https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooks/posts/kuching-were-coming-back-to-you-big-bad-wolf-is-making-its-return-with-millions-/1436133468561661/ Details: https://msiapromos.com/warehouse-sales/big-bad-wolf-books-kuching-mega-book-sale-from-25-aug-6-sep-2026-71504/ Additional details: https://www.everydayonsales.com/931462/25-august-6-september-2026-big-bad-wolf-books-book-sale-promotion-with-books-from-rm3-up-to-95-off-and-a-chance-to-win-10g-gold-bar-in-kuching/

Some Kuching outings do not need a full itinerary. Telaga Air Waterfront is that easy half-day drive where you go for river breeze, fishing boats, a short walk, maybe seafood after that, then balik before the day gets too heavy. [image: 1787270423443-telaga-air-1.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1787270423539-telaga-air-2.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1787270423625-telaga-air-3.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1787270423723-telaga-air-4.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1787270423810-telaga-air-5.jpg] Source: Malaysia Traveller I checked Google Maps, DayakDaily, 360Tour.Asia, and Malaysia Traveller before writing this. The feeling is quite consistent: people like Telaga Air because it is simple, local, breezy, and not trying too hard to be a big tourist attraction. Google Maps lists Telaga Air Waterfront at about 4.4 stars from 135 reviews, with the address at Jeti, Kampung Telaga Air. That matches the usual visitor mood: nice for a short stroll, calm river view, and usually not too busy outside peak weekend hours. DayakDaily described Telaga Air as an awesome place to hang out, about 30 minutes from Kuching, especially if you just want to get away for half a day. Their write-up also keeps coming back to the small things: friendly villagers, fresh seafood, local snacks, and the hawker centre opposite the waterfront. 360Tour.Asia calls it a peaceful waterfront beside Sungai Sibu, with fishing boats, sea breeze, a jetty, local food stalls, sunset photo angles, and boats returning with the catch. Malaysia Traveller is a bit more honest, which I like: apart from fishing, food, the small riverfront park, and boat trips, there is not a huge list of things to do. That is exactly the point. You come here to slow down, not to tick ten attractions in one afternoon. Useful info: Address: Jeti, Kampung Telaga Air, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Distance: Around 27-30 km from Kuching Waterfront, roughly 35-40 minutes by car depending on traffic ️ Entry: Free for the waterfront area Boat trips: Wildlife and mangrove-style boat trips may be arranged with local operators; Malaysia Traveller listed reference pricing from around RM320 per boat, but confirm current price before going ️ Food: Seafood stalls and casual makan spots nearby, usually better on weekends or later in the day ️ Notes: Do not swim in the river, check weather before boat trips, and bring sun protection if you go in the afternoon This one is not a wow-wow landmark, but it is a very Kuching kind of place. Have you been to Telaga Air just to walk around and makan?

A drive to Telaga Air makes sense when the plan is deliberately small: leave Kuching after breakfast, follow the road towards the coast, and arrive with enough time to watch the riverfront rather than chase a checklist. The jetty and village edge are the point here—fishing boats, open water, working homes and a breeze that changes the pace of the day. [image: 1787191611536-telaga-air-1.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia I would give the waterfront 45–60 minutes on foot, longer only if a local boat operator is running a trip. It suits travellers who like ordinary coastal life, photography and an unhurried seafood stop. Anyone expecting a big attraction, polished facilities or guaranteed wildlife sightings may feel the drive is too much for the payoff. [image: 1787191611627-telaga-air-2.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia From Kuching Waterfront, allow roughly 27–30 km and 35–50 minutes by car, depending on traffic and rain. Driving is the sensible option; parking around Jeti, Kampung Telaga Air, 93050 Kuching is informal, so do not block homes, boat access or narrow roadside spaces. E-hailing can get you there, but a return ride may be harder to secure. [image: 1787191611702-telaga-air-3.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia The public waterfront is a free village-side stop. Boat trips, if available, are arranged locally rather than run like a fixed attraction; any quoted boat budget is only a planning reference, so confirm operator, route, departure time and current price on the day. Food options can be limited and variable, so keep a late-afternoon seafood plan flexible. [image: 1787191611780-telaga-air-4.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1787191611855-telaga-air-5.jpg] Source: Malaysia Traveller Go in daylight with sun and rain protection, and let weather or tide change the plan. Do not swim in the river. Telaga Air is worth the detour when you want a quieter Kuching outing with a real working-waterfront feel; check what is open before making the food stop the reason for the drive.

When the city feels too busy, I like the idea of a park that asks for almost nothing: a short ride, a shaded walk, somewhere for children to burn off energy, then dinner in Padungan. MBKS Garden Park fits that everyday Kuching rhythm better than the word “attraction” suggests. [image: 1787105415154-img0.jpg] Source: Google Maps contributors / Kuching Park MBKS [image: 1787105415264-img1.jpg] Source: Google Maps contributors / Kuching Park MBKS [image: 1787105415401-img2.jpg] Source: Google Maps contributors / Kuching Park MBKS [image: 1787105415517-img3.jpg] Source: Google Maps contributors / Kuching Park MBKS The lake, paths, playground and open green space make it useful for a 30–60 minute reset. I would come before the heat builds or after 5pm, especially with older family members or young children. It is free and there is no ticket queue, but lighting, parking and individual activity areas can change with municipal arrangements. The MBKS site is the place to watch for council notices; the current place listing helps with location, but a quick check still makes sense before a special outing. This suits travellers staying around Padungan or the city centre who want a local pause between meals. It is not the choice for a dramatic viewpoint, curated botanical collection or full day of activities. Midday sun, mosquitoes or a busy festival period may also make it less relaxing, so water, repellent and flexible timing help. The park is around the Jalan Padungan/MBKS area, with public parking nearby but no guarantee of an easy space during events such as Kuching Festival. With e-hailing, drop at the MBKS/Kuching Park side and walk from there. Allow an hour, then continue to Padungan for food or return to the city centre. For a quiet morning loop, an evening jog or a family breather, it earns its place. For a once-only Kuching highlight, keep your expectations smaller and let it be the restful stop between bigger plans.

Here are two current Kuching deals worth noting this week. 1. Gigi Coffee Merdeka Deal — 31% off all drinks [image: 1787105273020-gigi-merdeka-31.jpg] Source: Gigi Coffee official Facebook Get 31% off all drinks from 15 August to 1 September 2026. The offer is available in-store and through the Gigi Coffee app, at participating outlets. Kuching: check participating outlets in the Gigi Coffee app; Plaza Merdeka Shopping Centre is one local Gigi Coffee location. Terms and participating outlets may apply, so check the app or outlet before ordering. 2. HOMElove Home Expo — up to 80% off [image: 1787105273345-homelove-bcck-4-resized.jpg] Source: HOMElove official promotion [image: 1787105273838-homelove-bcck-5-resized.jpg] Source: HOMElove official promotion [image: 1787105274370-homelove-bcck-6-resized.jpg] Source: HOMElove official promotion HOMElove Home Expo is happening from 28 to 31 August 2026, with home and living products, expo-only deals and discounts of up to 80% off. Location: Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) Time: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday to Monday ️ Admission: Free Useful links: Gigi Coffee official post · HOMElove official event page Deal details and terms can change, so confirm with the organiser or outlet before going.

Two useful Kuching updates for the coming weeks: BIG BAD WOLF BOOK SALE [image: 1786932426764-bbw-books.jpg] Source: The Star (photo from the Kuching media preview) The Big Bad Wolf book sale returns to Kuching from 25 August to 6 September 2026 at Boulevard Shopping Mall. Entry is free and the fair opens daily from 10am to 10pm. Offers to note: • Students and educators get 5% off when buying at least 3 books. • Schools, learning centres and libraries get 10% off bulk purchases of RM1,000–RM3,999, or 12.5% off purchases of RM4,000 and above. • Opening-day specials: 25 August. • Merdeka discount: 6.9% on 31 August. • Buy 6, get 1 free: 1–4 September. • Lucky draw prizes worth RM20,000 in total, including a 10g gold bar grand prize. [image: 1786932426820-bbw-display.jpg] Source: The Star (cropped book-display photo) Venue: Boulevard Shopping Mall, Kuching Valid: 25 August–6 September 2026 NEW KIA KUCHING HENG LIAN 3S CENTRE [image: 1786932426887-kia-1.jpg] Source: CarSifu Kia Kuching Heng Lian Enterprise Bhd’s new 3S centre is now open at Lot 106 and 107, Jalan Abell. The showroom provides complimentary Wi-Fi, drinks and light snacks for visitors. [image: 1786932426963-kia-2.jpg] Source: CarSifu Address: Lot 106 & 107, Jalan Abell, Kuching Showroom: 8:30am–5:30pm daily; 10am–3pm on public holidays Service: 8:30am–5:30pm weekdays and Saturdays (excluding public holidays) ️ Enquiries: 011-3652 8268 Source articles: The Star · CarSifu Check the organiser or outlet before heading over, as opening-day offers and stock may change.

On an old-town walk, I would use Kuching General Post Office as the moment to look up from the shopfronts. The building is still doing its ordinary job, which is exactly why it feels more convincing than a polished monument. [image: 1786846004049-post-office-01.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Yeo Jiun Tzen, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1786846004139-post-office-02.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Yeo Jiun Tzen, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1786846004333-post-office-03.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Cerevisae, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1786846004437-post-office-04.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Mattun0211, CC0 [image: 1786846004551-post-office-05.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Boonjinchung, CC BY-SA 4.0 Completed in 1931, its neo-classical front gathers semi-circular arches, Corinthian columns and a deep portico into a building Sarawak Tourism identifies as unusual in the state. The small surprise is that this was never converted into a museum: the same address has continued as a working General Post Office. The heritage survives through use, not a frozen display. For a first visit, I would walk here from India Street or the Old Court House, take in the column rhythm from across Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, then continue towards the Waterfront. The facade deserves 10–20 minutes; the interior is a functioning counter space, so anyone expecting galleries or a grand visitor route may feel short-changed. The best light is early or late, while postal business depends on the latest Pos Malaysia counter hours. From the outside there is no attraction ticket; parking and traffic are the real constraints in the old town. Check the branch status before making it the reason for a special drive, especially around public holidays or maintenance. I would recommend it to architecture-minded visitors and anyone who likes seeing a city’s history still earning its keep. It is a pause inside a longer heritage walk, not a half-day destination—and that modest scale is part of its charm.