Sama Jaya Forest Park is the option I would choose when I want trees and a short walk without turning the day into a national-park expedition. It is an urban forest, not a substitute for Bako or Kubah. [image: 1784772395876-samajaya_01_trail_sfc.jpg] Source: Sarawak Forestry Corporation The park protects a patch of kerangas forest within Kuching and provides simple walking and jogging loops, a fitness trail, an ethnobotanical area and the Hiroshima–Sarawak Friendship Garden. The short loops make it flexible: one round for a quick reset, or several for exercise. [image: 1784772395958-samajaya_02_garden_sfc.jpg] Source: Sarawak Forestry Corporation What the experience is really like I would come for shade, birds, plants and a calmer hour. Do not expect dramatic viewpoints, waterfalls or a guided wildlife encounter. Long-tailed macaques and other animals may appear, but sightings are never guaranteed and feeding them creates problems. [image: 1784772396020-samajaya_03_walking_sfc.jpg] Source: Sarawak Forestry Corporation The forest also means mosquitoes, humidity, fallen leaves and slippery patches after rain. That is normal, not poor staging. Closed shoes, water and repellent make the visit much more comfortable. [image: 1784772396081-samajaya_04_baruk_sfc.jpg] Source: Sarawak Forestry Corporation My practical plan Go early morning or late afternoon; avoid the hottest part of the day Allow 45–90 minutes unless you are training seriously Stay on marked paths and carry out all rubbish Keep food packed away and never feed monkeys After heavy rain, slow down on roots, leaves and smooth surfaces Check Sarawak Forestry or the entrance notice for current opening hours and temporary closures Parking is available near the entrance, but conditions can change during busy periods. The park is best reached by car or e-hailing rather than added to a Waterfront walking day. My verdict: excellent for locals, joggers and travellers needing an easy first taste of Kuching greenery. If you want a full rainforest day with trails and wildlife, save your energy for a protected area outside the city.

AirBorneo has started its Kuching-Singapore service, with Jakarta expected to follow within two months. [image: 1784768721478-airborneo-singapore.jpg] Source: DayakDaily / Sarawak Information Department (Japen) AirBorneo is now flying the Kuching-Singapore route, marking another step in Sarawak's push to build its own regional air network. Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the Singapore service started on Sarawak Day, just two days after AirBorneo began commercial jet operations between Kuching and Kuala Lumpur on July 20. Why it matters The State is positioning AirBorneo as part of a wider transport plan, alongside roads, airports and the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system. Abang Johari also said Jakarta is expected to be AirBorneo's next international destination within two months. Better links could mean easier travel, stronger tourism and more business movement for Sarawak. Location: Kuching / Singapore Details: Kuching-KL flights started July 20; Kuching-Singapore service launched on Sarawak Day; Jakarta targeted next. Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Police seized 25kg of suspected methamphetamine in MJC Batu Kawah, with a 63-year-old man arrested. [image: 1784693120117-mjc-batu-kawah-drugs.jpg] Kuching police made the arrest at a carpark in MJC Batu Kawah New Township during a raid on July 15. Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Zainal Abdullah said the suspect was inside an SUV when police found the drugs, believed to be methamphetamine. What police said Police believe the man was acting as a runner for a drug trafficking syndicate. He tested negative for drugs, but police said he had previous records under the Entertainment Ordinance and the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953. The suspect has been remanded until Thursday. The case is being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Location: MJC Batu Kawah New Township, Kuching Details: 25kg suspected methamphetamine seized; 63-year-old man arrested Source: Original report Image source: The Borneo Post / Malay Mail What do you think?

[image: 1784685709656-auntea-jenny-kuching.jpg] A quick Kuching deal for bubble tea fans. Shop: Auntea Jenny Malaysia Deal: Buy 2 Free 2 opening promotion Valid: 22-24 July 2026 Location: Auntea Jenny Malaysia, The Spring Kuching Time: During outlet operating hours Good for sharing if you are already around The Spring. Expect opening-period crowd, so go earlier if you do not want to queue. Terms and availability may depend on outlet conditions. Source: https://www.everydayonsales.com/927616/22-24-july-2026-auntea-jenny-malaysia-opening-promotion-at-the-spring-kuching-buy-2-free-2-bubble-tea-celebration-event-in-east-malaysia/ Image source: EverydayOnSales / Auntea Jenny Malaysia

Sarawak commercial crime cases went up sharply in the first half of this year, with losses now at RM90.4 million. [image: 1784606637184-sarawak-commercial-crime-resized.jpg] Sarawak Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP Saifullizan Ishak said police recorded 2,530 commercial crime cases from Jan 1 to June 30, 2026. That is a 36.31% increase from 1,856 cases in the same period last year. What police are seeing The spike is mainly linked to cybercrime and scams, including: e-commerce scams fake investment schemes non-existent loan offers job scams phone scams Losses also rose to RM90.4 million, up 35.38% from RM66.7 million last year. Police also said an online scam syndicate was recently taken down, with two suspects arrested in Miri for allegedly withdrawing scam money through ATMs. Location: Sarawak Contingent Police Headquarters, Kuching Details: 2,530 cases, RM90.4 million losses, Jan 1-June 30 period Source: https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/07/21/sarawak-commercial-crimes-jump-36-pct-losses-reach-rm90-4-mln/ What do you think?

This is one of those Kuching spots you can pass many times, then one day you walk up the hill and realise, eh, this place has a very different kind of quiet. [image: 1784599602429-st_thomas_01-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Medelam (CC BY-SA 4.0) [image: 1784599602839-st_thomas_02.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Medelam (CC BY-SA 4.0) [image: 1784599603081-st_thomas_03-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Medelam (CC BY-SA 4.0) [image: 1784599603731-st_thomas_04-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Medelam (CC BY-SA 4.0) St Thomas Cathedral sits on Jalan McDougall, just behind Padang Merdeka and near Plaza Merdeka. It is not the flashy type of landmark. The outside is clean and restrained, but once you step inside, the high ceiling, red interior lines and calm compound make it feel like a proper pause from the city. I like that this place works as a short stop. You do not need to plan half a day. If you are already around Waterfront, Carpenter Street, Padang Merdeka or the museums, just detour up for 20 to 40 minutes. Take a few photos, walk slowly, then head back for coffee. What people say: Wanderlog pulls together Google reviews with a strong 4.8 rating from 500+ reviews. Visitors keep mentioning the peaceful feel, spacious hall, clean facilities and that it is welcoming even if you are just visiting quietly. Tripadvisor only has a small review count, but one visitor called it a stylish cathedral on the hill and noted the Sunday crowd, so timing matters if you are coming mainly for photos. KuchingBorneo points out the useful bits: entry is free, dress modestly, and it is only about 5 to 10 minutes on foot from Kuching Waterfront or Carpenter Street. Patrick Comerford's 2024 write-up gives the nice heritage angle: the cathedral faces Padang Merdeka, and the compound links to old Kuching's Anglican story through Bishop McDougall. My honest take: do not come expecting a museum-style attraction with ticket counter, exhibits and a fixed tour route. Come for architecture, old Kuching atmosphere and a quiet city-centre stop. If there is a service, wedding or funeral event happening, keep your camera low-key and give people space. Useful info: Address: Jln McDougall, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak Entry: Free, donation boxes available Best time: weekday daytime, or outside service/event hours Nearby: Padang Merdeka, Plaza Merdeka, Carpenter Street, Kuching Waterfront Dress code: modest clothing; avoid sleeveless tops, short shorts or anything too beach-style Photo tip: exterior from the compound first, then interior only if it is quiet and respectful Have you ever actually gone inside St Thomas, or only passed by from Padang Merdeka side?

[image: 1784512993587-baskin-robbins-31-buffet-2026.jpg] Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors Buffet For Kuching folks looking for a quick dessert deal this week: Shop: Baskin-Robbins Deal: RM31 all-you-can-eat Fun Scoop ice cream buffet Date: 21-24 July 2026 Time: 6:00 PM-9:00 PM Place: Baskin-Robbins, Level 1 Centre, Vivacity Megamall Kuching Notes before going: the promo is for dine-in buffet only, one scoop at a time, no sharing or takeaway. Children below 5 can join free with a paying adult/guardian. Flavours are subject to outlet availability. Source: SAYS / Baskin-Robbins Malaysia / Vivacity Megamall https://says.com/my/Lifestyle/baskin-robbins-is-hosting-an-all-you-can-eat-ice-cream-buffet-for-rm31-this-july

If you like quiet little stops where you can slow down and actually look at details, the Textile Museum is one to keep on your old-town list. Quick heads-up first: as of 19 July 2026, the Sarawak Museum Department website says the museum is temporarily closed for maintenance, so treat this as a save-for-later spot until it reopens. [image: 1784427122557-education_department_-_sarawak_pavilion_01.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Yeojiuntzen [image: 1784427122699-education_department_-_sarawak_pavilion_02.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Yeojiuntzen [image: 1784427122771-wanderlog_textile_01.jpg] Source: Wanderlog [image: 1784427122848-wanderlog_textile_02.jpg] Source: Wanderlog What makes this place interesting is not that it is huge. It is more of a close-up look at Sarawak textiles, clothing and craft. The official museum page mentions Pua Kumbu from the Iban community, Kain Songket Melayu Sarawak, and displays that follow the process from yarn to finished cloth. If you usually only see the finished pieces around Main Bazaar, this museum helps the patterns and workmanship make more sense. My take: do not plan this as a half-day museum mission. It works better as a 45-minute to 1-hour stop on an old-town walk. Pair it with Padang Merdeka, the Old Courthouse area, Waterfront, or a coffee break around Carpenter Street and it feels just right. Useful info: Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg / 5, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak ️ Entry: older visitor sources list it as free; check again after reopening Status: official page shows temporary closure for maintenance as of 19 July 2026 Time needed: around 45 minutes to 1 hour once reopened Tip: the exterior is still worth a look if you are nearby, but check the official page or call first before planning an indoor visit Anyone here visited before the closure? I am especially curious about the Pua Kumbu section. Those patterns never feel like “just decoration” once you start looking properly.

India Street is not a grand attraction that needs half a day. I like it as a shaded old-town link: twenty to forty minutes of textiles, small shops and side lanes between Plaza Merdeka, Gambier Street and the Waterfront. [image: 1784340469928-india-street-1-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Fabio Achilli The pedestrian mall remains a working shopping street. Fabric, clothing, jewellery, household goods and small food businesses matter more here than staged photo spots. That everyday function is the reason I would keep it in an old-Kuching route. [image: 1784340470272-india-street-jalan.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Stefan Fussan Set the right expectation Visitor feedback is mixed in a useful way. Some people enjoy the shade, prices and older shopfronts; others find the street quieter than expected. Both can be true. Come for browsing and street texture, not a guaranteed festival atmosphere. [image: 1784340470331-india-street-waterfront.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Aron Paul Look beyond the main covered stretch. Gambier Street, the riverside, Masjid India area and nearby lanes make the walk more complete. Be respectful around places of worship and ask before photographing shopkeepers or customers at close range. [image: 1784340470920-masjid-india-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Zairon How I would plan it Start from Plaza Merdeka or the Old Court House side Browse India Street, then continue towards Gambier Street and the Waterfront Go in the morning or early afternoon when more independent shops are likely to be open Individual businesses keep their own hours; do not rely on one listing for the whole street Bring small cash if you plan to buy inexpensive items Allow 20–40 minutes for India Street itself, longer when combined with surrounding lanes Would I drive across Kuching for India Street alone? Probably not. Would I include it in a half-day old-town walk? Definitely. Its strength is how naturally it connects several parts of the city.

You know that feeling when you drive into Padungan and the big white cat just quietly waves at you? That is the whole charm of this spot. It is not a place you plan half a day for. It is more like: park nearby, snap a few photos, then walk off for kopi, kolo mee, or a slow Padungan stroll. [image: 1784254027459-padungan-cat-01-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Wee Hong, CC BY-SA 4.0 [image: 1784254028185-padungan-cat-02.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Stefan Krasowski, CC BY 2.0 [image: 1784254028448-padungan-cat-03-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Marufish, CC BY-SA 2.0 [image: 1784254028985-padungan-cat-04-resized.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Marufish, CC BY-SA 2.0 [image: 1784254029301-padungan-cat-05.jpg] Source: Wikimedia Commons / Anatroppolo, CC BY-SA 3.0 Why people still stop here: Sarawak Tourism calls the Padungan big white cat the most popular of Kuching's cat statues, partly because it keeps changing outfits for festivals and even wore themed masks during the pandemic. That is exactly why locals keep noticing it again and again. Same cat, different mood. Tripadvisor reviews are pretty honest too: people treat it as an original iconic Kuching photo stop, worth a quick stop or drive-by, especially if you are already around Chinatown / Padungan. Nobody is pretending this is a massive attraction. The fun is in the photo, the location, and the small city joke that Kuching really committed to the cat theme. Wanderlog visitors say the outfit changes depend on celebrations, and that there is a small info plate below the statue. Trip.com lists the spot around 82, Jalan Padungan, so it is easy to pair with nearby cafes, hotels, shops, or the old street walk. MBKS also had the Padungan cat lit up for Gawai in May 2026, so this little landmark is still being cared for and dressed up by the city. My take: go in the morning if you want cleaner photos and less harsh road glare. Night is nice when lights are up, but phone photos can get messy unless you steady your hand. If there is a festival outfit on, then yes, it is worth the extra five minutes. Useful details: Location: Padungan roundabout / Chinatown gateway area, around 82 Jalan Padungan Time needed: 10 to 15 minutes Fee: Free Best paired with: Padungan food, coffee, old shophouse walk, nearby waterfront area Small warning: it sits by a busy road, so please do not stand in traffic just for the angle If you have an old photo of this cat wearing a festival outfit, drop it in the comments. Those versions are always the fun ones.

Quick deal notes for Kuching shoppers this week. [image: 1784253735121-everrise-members-weekend.jpg] 1. Everrise Kuching - Members' Weekend Deal: Members' Weekend grocery promo with selected member-price items, including fresh produce, household items, drinks and pantry goods. Valid: 17-19 July 2026. Extra Time promo is listed for 19-20 July 2026 at BDC, 4th Mile and Metrocity. Where: Everrise Kuching outlets: Padungan, BDC, 4th Mile, Plaza Merdeka, Vivacity, CityONE, Green Heights Mall, Metrocity, Stutong, Pending, Samarahan, Matang Jaya, Batu Kawah and Tabuan Jaya. Note: Prices are member prices and subject to stock availability. Source: https://everrise.com.my/promotion/members-weekend-17-19-july-2026-everrise-kuching/ [image: 1784253735295-takiong-weekly-good-deal.jpg] 2. TA Kiong Kuching - Weekly Good Deal Deal: Weekly Good Deal / Best Deal items, including imported selections, drinks, snacks and grocery items. Valid: 17-23 July 2026. Where: TA Kiong, The Spring Shopping Centre, Jalan Simpang Tiga, Kuching. Note: Prices in the poster are quoted in Ringgit Malaysia and may be subject to member/non-member pricing. Source: https://takiong.com.my/weekly-good-deal-17-23-jul-2026-ta-kiong-kuching/ Images/source: Official Everrise and TA Kiong promotion pages.

AirBorneo passengers, check your schedule if you are flying between July and October. AirBorneo says about 4,000 passengers may be affected by temporary flight frequency changes on selected routes from July 6 to Oct 24. The airline said the move is linked to maintenance issues involving several ATR72 and DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, plus delays in getting critical parts and spares. [image: 1784250399755-airborneo-plane.jpg] Source: DayakDaily [image: 1784250399820-airborneo-reschedule.jpg] Source: DayakDaily / AirBorneo What passengers should know Around 594 flights will have frequency changes, while another estimated 1,337 flights will be retimed. Affected passengers will be moved to the next available flight, either on the same day or the next day. AirBorneo also said the temporary changes will not increase fares on affected routes. The airline said all destinations in its network will continue to be served, with no route suspended or discontinued. Location: AirBorneo network across Sarawak and the region Details: Selected routes affected from July 6 to Oct 24; rebooking and refund options apply under MACPC. Source: DayakDaily Anyone here got their AirBorneo timing changed already?

This weekend in Kuching got a few nice options, from tuak, family-friendly STEM, morning workout to mall activities. Here are some easy picks if you are planning where to go. [image: 1784246669260-event-tuak-2026.jpg] 1. Borneo Tuak Festival 2026 Time: 17-19 July 2026, 11.00am-10.00pm Place: 11 Ridgeway, Jalan Ong Tiang Swee, Kuching A three-day celebration of Borneo tuak culture with 100+ tuak varieties, local food, artisan booths, cultural showcases, workshops and live performances. Good one if you want something lively and very Sarawak. [image: 1784246669357-event-robowalk-2026.jpeg] 2. Smart Kid, Smart City Challenge - RoboWalk 2026 Time: 18 July 2026, Saturday Place: MBKS Boulevard, Jalan Padungan A Kuching Festival prelude event where kids showcase robot-themed costumes, props and creative wearable designs. Nice for families, especially if your children like robots, STEM and creative parade-style activities. 3. TRAIN ME @ UNITY PARK Free Community Workout Time: 18 July 2026, 6.30am-8.30am Place: Reservoir Park, Kuching Free guided community workout for all levels. If you want to start Saturday early without spending money, this one is simple: show up, move, sweat a bit, then go breakfast. 4. Culture, Creativity & Community @ Vivacity Time: 18 July 2026, 10.00am-7.00pm Place: Ground Floor, East Atrium, Vivacity Megamall Kuching Free-entry mall event with a culture and creative theme. Easy weekend plan if you prefer somewhere indoor, family-friendly and convenient for makan or shopping after that. Quick note: event details can change last minute, so check the organiser page before heading out. Sources: STATOS, DayakDaily, Eventbrite, Vivacity Megamall updates.

Ever feel like Kuching suddenly changes mood once you leave the city lights? This mangrove cruise is exactly that kind of trip. Kuching Wetlands Mangrove Cruise takes you into the waterways around Kuching Wetlands National Park, about 15km from Kuching and close to the Damai side. It is not a theme park ride. It is more like sitting on a small boat, letting the river slow you down, then quietly scanning the trees for movement. [image: 1784081373851-kwetlands_01.jpg] Source: Trip.com traveller photo - Kuching Wetlands National Park riverside view What makes this one fun is the mix: mangrove tunnels, fishing village scenes, wide river views, and if luck is on your side, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, birds, fireflies, or even Irrawaddy dolphins near the estuary. [image: 1784081374077-kwetlands_03-resized.jpg] Source: Trip.com traveller photo - mangrove cruise boat scene Trip.com reviewers were pretty happy with the wildlife side. One visitor mentioned the view was beautiful, with plenty of animals, and they even managed to spot a crocodile. That sounds about right for this place: don't expect zoo-style guarantees, but when something appears from the mangrove edge, it feels properly exciting. [image: 1784081374650-kwetlands_04-resized.jpg] Source: Trip.com traveller photo - sunset over the wetland waters A travel blogger on GRRRLTRAVELER did a late-afternoon wetlands outing and described the more raw side: rubber boots, tall shrubs, mosquitoes, and a night river safari where they spotted things like a kingfisher, slow loris, crocodile and fireflies. So yes, this one is not only pretty photos. Wear long pants and bring repellent. The Wetland Wildlife Cruise reviews on Tripadvisor/Viator also lean the same way: people liked the boatman, the easy river pace, and the chance to see monkeys, crocodiles and fireflies. The important note is that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Go for the river atmosphere first, then treat every animal sighting as bonus. [image: 1784081374975-kwetlands_05-resized.jpg] Source: Trip.com traveller photo - visitors on the Kuching wetlands boat My honest take: this is best for people who enjoy slow nature trips. If you need constant action, maybe you will feel it is too quiet. But if you like sunset, river breeze, camera in hand, and that little suspense of "what is moving in the trees?", this cruise is a very Kuching kind of experience. {img4} Source: Trip.com traveller photo - river village and mangrove edge Quick notes before you go: Area: Kuching Wetlands / Santubong-Salak river area Best way: book a licensed local boat/tour operator Usual duration: half-day or sunset cruise, depending on route Bring: mosquito repellent, water, light rain jacket, long pants, camera/zoom lens Ask before booking: pickup point, life jackets, whether the route includes fireflies or dolphin search, and what happens if weather turns bad Would you rather do this at golden-hour sunset or go for the darker firefly/night-safari feel?

Two drink promos around Kuching to note this week. Check the app/counter before ordering because outlet participation and stock may vary. [image: 1784081071052-hwc-buy2free1.jpg] 1. HWC Coffee - Buy 2 Free 1 via GrabFood Deal: Buy any 2 eligible handcrafted drinks and get 1 selected drink free. Eligible paid drinks: Specialty Coffee, Matcha Series and Chocolate Series. Free drink options listed: Berry Lemonade, Lychee Lemonade, Jasmine Tea, Jasmine Tea Latte, Da Hong Pao Tea and Da Hong Pao Tea Latte. Valid: 14-19 July 2026. Location: Participating HWC Coffee outlets via GrabFood. Kuching outlets include HWC Coffee at The Spring and Vivacity; availability depends on GrabFood listing. Photo/source: EverydayOnSales / HWC Coffee Malaysia https://www.everydayonsales.com/926676/14-19-july-2026-hwc-coffee-malaysia-buy-2-free-1-promotion-on-grabfood-enjoy-free-refreshing-drinks-with-every-two-beverage-purchase/ [image: 1784081071102-kfp-sarawak-day.jpg] 2. Kung Fu Panda Tea Sarawak - 50% off 2nd drink Deal: 50% off the second drink on all beverages. Valid: 11-26 July 2026. Location: Walk-in only. Kuching outlet: Kung Fu Panda Tea, Boulevard Shopping Mall Kuching, G-11. Photo/source: Kung Fu Panda Tea Sarawak https://www.instagram.com/p/Daou3mOjr4i/ Useful if you are already ordering for office, friends or family. Terms and conditions apply.

[image: 1783908138281-airborneo-kch-sin.jpg] Two practical deals to note this week: 1. AirBorneo Kuching to Singapore launch fare Merchant: AirBorneo Deal: Kuching (KCH) to Singapore (SIN) from RM399 one-way all-in for Economy Class. Business Class starts from RM871. Booking period: From 13 July 2026 Travel period: 22 July 2026 to 21 March 2027 Flight schedule: Daily flights. KCH to SIN departs 6:50pm and arrives 8:25pm. SIN to KCH departs 9:15pm and arrives 10:50pm. Location: Kuching International Airport / Singapore Changi Airport Source: https://www.everydayonsales.com/926285/13-july-2026-21-march-2027-airborneo-kuching-to-singapore-route-launch-promotion-daily-flights-with-one-way-fares-from-rm399/ [image: 1783908138355-kenangan-rm690.jpg] 2. Kenangan Coffee RM6.90 drinks Merchant: Kenangan Coffee Malaysia Deal: Selected regular-sized coffee drinks at RM6.90. Items listed include Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, D Spanish Latte, Creamy Latte, Hazelnut Latte, Caramel Latte and Vanilla Latte. Date: 14 July 2026 only Location: Participating Kenangan Coffee outlets in Malaysia, excluding KLIA2 and KKIA. Kuching outlets include Plaza Merdeka and Vivacity Megamall based on recent outlet announcements. Note: Valid for walk-in and Kenangan Coffee App orders; while stocks last. Source: https://www.everydayonsales.com/926013/14-july-2026-kenangan-coffee-malaysia-rm6-90-coffee-promotion-enjoy-selected-favourite-drinks-for-one-day-only/ Image source: EverydayOnSales / merchant promo images.

You know that one building across the Sarawak River that every Kuching visitor ends up photographing? Yep, the big umbrella-shaped one. The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building, or DUN Sarawak, is not really a "walk inside and explore every room" kind of attraction. It is more like Kuching's postcard background: best enjoyed from the Waterfront, Darul Hana Bridge, the river taxi, or the opposite bank when the light hits nicely. [image: 1783822106313-dun-kuching-sign.jpg] Source: Pixnio / Maysam Yabandeh [image: 1783822106443-dun-river-day.jpg] Source: Pixnio / Maysam Yabandeh [image: 1783822106561-dun-flag-river.jpg] Source: Pixnio / Maysam Yabandeh [image: 1783822106703-dun-bridge-night.jpg] Source: Pixnio / Maysam Yabandeh What I like about it is the timing game. Daytime gives you the full shape, the Sarawak flag, and the river view. Sunset is when the roof starts to look warmer. At night, with the lights and reflection, it suddenly feels like the whole riverfront changed mood. A few visitor notes line up with that. Trip.com reviewers rate it 4.9/5 from 15 reviews and one visitor said it is visible from much of the city centre, beautiful in both day and night, but not open for casual public entry. Wanderlog also lists it as a 4.7/5 Google-rated spot from 245 reviews, with people highlighting the riverside setting, sunset view, Darul Hana Bridge connection, and the fact that it is more for admiring and photographing than wandering inside. DBKU's own page confirms it sits in Petra Jaya between The Astana and Fort Margherita, opened on 27 July 2009, and that the umbrella-like roof is one of Sarawak's iconic monuments. Small reality check: do not come expecting a museum visit. This is an active government building. The better plan is simple: walk the Waterfront, cross Darul Hana Bridge if you want the closer angle, take photos, then continue to Fort Margherita or Kampung Boyan for food. Quick tips: Best time: late afternoon, sunset, or after dark Best view: Kuching Waterfront, Darul Hana Bridge, or river taxi Entry: the outside view is the main experience; do not assume casual indoor access Nearby: The Astana, Fort Margherita, Darul Hana Bridge, Kuching Waterfront Photo tip: include the river or the bridge, otherwise the building looks a bit too flat in photos Have you taken a better shot of DUN from the Waterfront, Darul Hana Bridge, or boat ride? Drop your angle. Kuching people always know the nicer photo spot.

[image: 1783656318539-scsdu-award.jpg] Source: The Borneo Post Service Sarawak picked up a regional award in Singapore after serving more than 3.4 million customers. The Sarawak Civil Service Digitalisation Unit, under the Department of the Premier of Sarawak, won the Malaysia Social Equity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year - Community category at the GovMedia Conference & Awards 2026. Why it matters The winning initiative, Service Sarawak, puts multiple government services under one access point through counters, digital channels and mobile services. According to SCSDU, it has handled over 5.5 million transactions, served more than 3.4 million customers, and recorded RM6.1 billion in collections across its channels. The unit also said service delivery time has been cut by up to 75%, with customer satisfaction staying above 97% over the past three years. Location: Kuching / Sarawak Details: Award received in Singapore on July 9; report published July 10. Source: The Borneo Post For people who use government counters often, this one actually affects daily life. What do you think?

[image: 1783648902800-everrise-seafood.jpg] Everrise is running a short weekend seafood promotion in Kuching. Store: Everrise Deal: Premium Seafood Selection with members-only prices for fresh Bawal Emas and Ikan Sultan. Date: 10-12 July 2026 Location: Selected Everrise Kuching outlets: BDC, 4th Mile, Vivacity and Green Heights Mall. Good for anyone planning weekend home-cooked meals. Best to check early as fresh seafood promos are usually while stocks last. Source: https://www.everydayonsales.com/925670/10-12-july-2026-everrise-premium-seafood-selection-promotion-exclusive-members-prices-on-fresh-bawal-emas-and-ikan-sultan/ Photo source: EverydayOnSales / Everrise promo image

This weekend in Kuching is quite active, especially if you like runs, family outings, and kampung-style events. Here are a few picks for 10-12 July 2026: [image: 1783641784297-regatta-sejijak.jpg] Source: TVS / Regatta Sejijak 2026 Regatta Sejijak 2026 Time: 10-12 July 2026 Place: Kampung Sejijak, Kuching A nice one if you want something with local flavour. Expect river racing, kampung crowd, and that lively regatta atmosphere by the water. Good for photos and a casual jalan-jalan with family. [image: 1783641784361-kuching-dental-run.jpg] Source: TVS / Kuching Dental 3KM/5KM Fun Run 2026 Kuching Dental 3KM/5KM Fun Run 2026 Time: 11 July 2026, morning Place: MBKS Kuching For those who want to start Saturday with a bit of sweat, this one combines a 3KM/5KM run with health and dental awareness activities. Family-friendly, not too hardcore. [image: 1783641784421-miracle-mile.jpg] Source: Ticket2U / Miracle Mile 2026 Miracle Mile 2026 Time: 11 July 2026, 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM Place: LODGE National Secondary School, Tabuan Desa Another Saturday morning run, but with a more school-community feel. If you are around Tabuan side, this is a convenient one to join or support. TPH Open Day 2026 Time: 11 July 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Place: The NorthBank, Kuching-Samarahan Expressway, Tabuan Jaya For parents checking out school options, Tunku Putra-HELP School is having an open day. Good chance to walk around, ask questions, and see the campus setup without pressure. [image: 1783641784669-seal-run.jpg] Source: HeyJom / SEAL RUN Kuching Edition 2026 SEAL RUN 2026 - Kuching Edition Time: 12 July 2026, 6:30 AM onwards Place: Aeroville Mall Kuching Sunday morning plan sorted. There is a 3KM fun walk and 5KM fun run, so it works even if you just want a light activity before breakfast. Quick tip: double-check the organiser page before going, especially for registration, parking, and weather updates. Which one are you going this weekend?