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MBKS warns Kuching Food Festival stall owners — no subletting, no reselling, or face blacklisting The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has issued a firm warning to all 2026 Kuching Food Festival stall holders after spotting a social media ad offering an already-allocated stall for sale. In a statement released today, MBKS said it’s aware of the ad and won’t tolerate any violation of the stall allocation rules. Strictly prohibited under any circumstances: Subletting, renting, or transferring stalls Selling or assigning stalls to third parties Sharing stalls with unauthorised operators Any successful applicant found guilty of these violations faces immediate revocation of their stall allocation, forfeiture of their deposit, and blacklisting from future Kuching Food Festival events. [image: 1781658353862-kuching-food-festival.jpg] The council also reminded operators that they’re required to operate every night throughout the festival period. Failure to operate for a cumulative three nights may result in enforcement action, including deposit forfeiture. MBKS urged the public not to engage in any unauthorised purchase or negotiation of allocated stalls, adding that such transactions “are unauthorised, invalid, and will not be recognised by MBKS under any circumstances.” The Kuching Food Festival 2026 is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors — one of the most anticipated events on the Kuching calendar. Location: Kuching South City (MBKS) Details: Stall resale discovered on social media; MBKS warns of revocation, deposit forfeiture, and blacklisting Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

If there's one place my Kuching friends keep telling visitors to go, it's Siniawan Night Market. And honestly? Now I get why. This old town comes alive every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. The whole street is lined with traditional wooden shophouses and red Chinese lanterns — giving it this incredible rustic, old-west vibe. That's why locals call it Kuching's very own "Cowboy Town." [image: 1781575523887-1-tripadvisor.jpg] Source: TripAdvisor The star of the show? Lemang Periuk Kera (Pitcher Plant Rice). This is THE signature dish of Siniawan — sticky rice cooked inside a pitcher plant. It has a subtle earthy fragrance and a texture you won't find anywhere else. Must try. Other recommended eats: Lui Teh (traditional Hakka tea rice) and Ngo Hiang (five-spice rolls) — both local favorites. [image: 1781575524135-2-amazingborneo-1.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo One Google reviewer said: "Worth the drive from Kuching every time. So much food to choose from and the atmosphere is unbeatable." Another wrote: "Best pitcher plant rice I've ever had. Period." TripAdvisor reviews rave about the atmosphere — "Feels like stepping back in time. The food variety is amazing and very affordable." I arrived while it was still daylight, and watching the lanterns slowly light up as dusk settled was honestly magical. People sitting on tiny stools along the street, eating, laughing, kids running around — it's that relaxed Sarawak vibe you can't get anywhere else. [image: 1781575524381-3-amazingborneo-2.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo [image: 1781575524587-4-borneotravel-1.jpg] Source: Borneo Travel Network Practical Info: Location: Old Siniawan Town, Kuching Hours: Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings (starts late afternoon until late night) Getting there: Grab is easiest (~RM30 from downtown Kuching) ️ Parking: Limited if driving — come early Budget: Most food RM5-15, very affordable [image: 1781575524779-5-borneotravel-2.jpg] Source: Borneo Travel Network If you haven't been to Siniawan Night Market, make it your next weekend plan. Great for groups, dates, or solo food adventures. Been here before? What's your go-to dish? Drop a comment below

If there's one place my Kuching friends keep telling visitors to go, it's Siniawan Night Market. And honestly? Now I get why. This old town comes alive every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. The whole street is lined with traditional wooden shophouses and red Chinese lanterns — giving it this incredible rustic, old-west vibe. That's why locals call it Kuching's very own "Cowboy Town." [image: 1781575523887-1-tripadvisor.jpg] Source: TripAdvisor The star of the show? Lemang Periuk Kera (Pitcher Plant Rice). This is THE signature dish of Siniawan — sticky rice cooked inside a pitcher plant. It has a subtle earthy fragrance and a texture you won't find anywhere else. Must try. Other recommended eats: Lui Teh (traditional Hakka tea rice) and Ngo Hiang (five-spice rolls) — both local favorites. [image: 1781575524135-2-amazingborneo-1.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo One Google reviewer said: "Worth the drive from Kuching every time. So much food to choose from and the atmosphere is unbeatable." Another wrote: "Best pitcher plant rice I've ever had. Period." TripAdvisor reviews rave about the atmosphere — "Feels like stepping back in time. The food variety is amazing and very affordable." I arrived while it was still daylight, and watching the lanterns slowly light up as dusk settled was honestly magical. People sitting on tiny stools along the street, eating, laughing, kids running around — it's that relaxed Sarawak vibe you can't get anywhere else. [image: 1781575524381-3-amazingborneo-2.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo [image: 1781575524587-4-borneotravel-1.jpg] Source: Borneo Travel Network Practical Info: Location: Old Siniawan Town, Kuching Hours: Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings (starts late afternoon until late night) Getting there: Grab is easiest (~RM30 from downtown Kuching) ️ Parking: Limited if driving — come early Budget: Most food RM5-15, very affordable [image: 1781575524779-5-borneotravel-2.jpg] Source: Borneo Travel Network If you haven't been to Siniawan Night Market, make it your next weekend plan. Great for groups, dates, or solo food adventures. Been here before? What's your go-to dish? Drop a comment below

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari has broken his silence on the recent AirBorneo flight disruptions, calling them 'teething problems' during the transition from MASwings and assuring the public that solutions are on the way. Speaking at the launch of the SWG Green Industrial Complex and Decarbon Hub at Demak Laut Industrial Park today, the Premier acknowledged the challenges faced by the state-owned airline. 'We are still in the transition stage when we took over MASwings, and therefore, there are some minor problems along the way. But surely, it will be resolved. We will solve the problem for the future,' he said. [image: 1781571920953-airborneo-plane.jpg] Source: DayakDaily (file photo) What happened In recent weeks, AirBorneo-operated flights have faced a series of disruptions including delays and cancellations, drawing widespread complaints on social media. The issues emerged shortly after the Sarawak government completed its takeover of MASwings and rebranded it as AirBorneo. Abang Johari stressed that AirBorneo was created with a bigger vision — to strengthen Sarawak's position within the ASEAN economy and provide businesses with better access to regional markets. 'For us in this region, our market does not only rely on Sarawak's market. Neither should you rely on the Malaysian market. You must rely on the ASEAN market. We are in the middle of ASEAN,' he said. The bigger picture The Premier outlined that Sarawak is investing heavily in connectivity infrastructure — from undersea power cables to Singapore to enhanced transportation networks — and AirBorneo is a key piece of that puzzle. 'If you want to go to see your client in Jakarta, you need our own airline to go there. At the moment, we are building physical bridges, but because we are on an island, we also need bridges to our neighbours,' he explained. He added that the state government is developing its own operational model for the airline to ensure it can effectively support business and economic growth. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: AirBorneo flight disruptions addressed by Premier Abang Johari Source: https://dayakdaily.com/we-will-solve-the-problem-abang-johari-addresses-airborneo-controversy/ What do you think?

AirBorneo has been allocated airport slots for direct flights between Kuching and Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport — but the airline says it hasn't formally applied just yet. The slot allocation happened during the 158th IATA Slot Conference in Bangkok from June 9-11, where AirBorneo was listed alongside Riyadh Air, Virgin Atlantic, and SkyUp Nistru as new airlines receiving slots for Thailand services. According to Thailand's The Nation, AirBorneo was allocated 14 flights per week on the Kuching-Suvarnabhumi-Kuching route for the Winter 2026/2027 season (Oct 25, 2026 to March 27, 2027). [image: 1781503391488-airborneo-logo-resized.jpg] Source: Borneo Post However, AirBorneo has since clarified that no formal application has been submitted for the Bangkok route at this stage. "Destinations across the region are part of our longer-term route planning, but nothing has been formally confirmed," the airline said in a statement. AirBorneo stressed that its immediate priority is stabilising its current intra-Borneo operations following service disruptions earlier this month. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) identified Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samui, and U-Tapao as airports experiencing strong travel demand ahead of the high season. Tourism Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah had earlier said the airline could expand to regional destinations including Thailand from 2027, subject to operational readiness. Location: Kuching International Airport / Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok Details: 14 weekly flights allocated for Winter 2026/27, pending formal confirmation Source: Borneo Post - AirBorneo clears key hurdle | AirBorneo clarifies no submission yet What do you think? Would you fly Kuching-Bangkok direct?

Over 10,000 people turned up for MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 in Kuching, turning the venue into a sea of green. [image: 1781485658966-milo_crowd.jpg] The Sarawak stop of the nationwide event was held yesterday (June 14) and drew families, school groups and community members from all walks of life — from Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Orang Ulu, Malay and Chinese communities. Beyond the 3km fun run and activity booths, what stood out was how deeply MILO is woven into local family life. "We grew up with MILO, and now our kids are carrying on the tradition," said one participant. Sarawak South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the turnout reflected both cultural unity and shared lifestyle habits among Sarawak's diverse communities. [image: 1781485659071-milo_stage.jpg] The event also featured fitness challenges, interactive booths and educational activities under the Nestlé for Healthier Kids programme, promoting balanced nutrition through Malaysia's "Suku-Suku Separuh" concept. Following stops in Sabah and Terengganu, the MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 tour continues to Kuantan, Kelantan, before wrapping up in Putrajaya on July 12. Location: Kuching Details: MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 drew 10,000 participants from Sarawak's multi-ethnic communities for a day of fitness, family and breakfast traditions. Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

[image: 1781416938573-scam-alert.jpg] A 79-year-old man in Kuching lost over RM9 million after falling for a fake share investment and IPO scam — and only got RM1,000 back. The victim was approached by a suspect at Jalan Pending back in January 2026 and was offered a chance to invest in shares and IPOs through a platform called "TBGIA". Trusting the offer, he made 27 transfers into nine different bank accounts. The total amount? RM9,082,000. He only received RM1,000 in returns. Kuching District Police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the victim realised he had been scammed when he couldn't withdraw his "investment" or the profits shown in the TBGIA app. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code. Location: Jalan Pending, Kuching Details: 27 transactions, 9 bank accounts, RM9.08M lost Source: DayakDaily ️ Police advise the public to verify investment companies through Bank Negara Malaysia and Securities Commission Malaysia lists, and to use the Check Scammers CCID app or Semak Mule portal before making any transfers. What do you think?

I've been living in Kuching for a while now, and Annah Rais Longhouse was always one of those places I kept putting off. "Next time," I said. Well last weekend I finally drove the hour-plus past Batu Kitang and up into the hills — and man, I wish I'd done this sooner. This isn't one of those touristy "cultural village" set pieces. This is a real Bidayuh longhouse that's been standing for over 200 years. You walk in and the whole place smells like an old kampung house — creaky wooden floorboards, kids running along the corridors, grandmas sitting by their doors. [image: 1781402587113-annah_rais_01.jpg] Source: Annah Rais Longhouse exterior The highlight is the central gallery (they call it awah), a long open corridor that runs the entire length of the house. It's basically their living room, kitchen, playground, and social hub all in one. I was mid-way walking through when an uncle called me up, insisting his homemade tuak (rice wine) was the best in the whole village. Try saying no to that. [image: 1781402587354-annah_rais_02.jpg] Source: The central corridor (awah) If you want the full experience, they offer homestay packages. Found a review on Google Maps that said: "Staying overnight was an eye-opening experience. The family treated us like their own. Highly recommend the bamboo chicken dinner." — Bamboo chicken is exactly what it sounds like: chicken stuffed into bamboo tubes and roasted over fire. Sounds amazing. I didn't stay overnight this time, but next visit I'm booking it for sure. [image: 1781402587545-annah_rais_03.jpg] Source: Inside the longhouse Another traveler on TripAdvisor wrote: "It's not a tourist trap. It's a real community. The people are genuinely warm and welcoming. Just be respectful and you'll have a great time." Couldn't agree more. It's all about mindset — respect their culture, and they'll welcome you like family. Walking to the back of the longhouse, there's a small river where the kids swim. Some of the Bidayuh guides also offer jungle treks to nearby waterfalls. I even heard there's a natural hot spring in the area, but I didn't have time to check it out. [image: 1781402587755-annah_rais_04.jpg] Source: Scenery around the longhouse A quick word about the tuak. This isn't the sweetened, watered-down stuff you buy in shops. It's traditional Bidayuh-style — fermented rice with their own family recipe. Slightly sweet but packs a punch. My Sabahan friend had two glasses and his face went red. Said it was "legit strong" Practical Info: Location: ~1 - 1.5 hour drive from Kuching city. Waze "Annah Rais Longhouse" Best time: Morning before it gets hot Entry: around RM10 - RM20 (ask when you arrive) Homestay: roughly RM80 - RM150/night (includes dinner + breakfast) ️ Tips: Wear long pants, bring mosquito repellent, roads can be rough Always ask before taking photos — respect their customs [image: 1781402588210-annah_rais_05.jpg] Source: Bidayuh traditional crafts Bottom line: If you want an authentic Sarawak longhouse experience near Kuching, Annah Rais is the real deal. No over-commercialization, no hard selling. Just a real community living their daily lives. Take a drive up this weekend, it's worth it. Anyone here been to Annah Rais? Tried the bamboo chicken or the hot spring? Drop your experience below [image: 1781402588443-annah_rais_06.jpg] Source: Surrounding paddy fields and landscape

I've been living in Kuching for a while now, and Annah Rais Longhouse was always one of those places I kept putting off. "Next time," I said. Well last weekend I finally drove the hour-plus past Batu Kitang and up into the hills — and man, I wish I'd done this sooner. This isn't one of those touristy "cultural village" set pieces. This is a real Bidayuh longhouse that's been standing for over 200 years. You walk in and the whole place smells like an old kampung house — creaky wooden floorboards, kids running along the corridors, grandmas sitting by their doors. [image: 1781402587113-annah_rais_01.jpg] Source: Annah Rais Longhouse exterior The highlight is the central gallery (they call it awah), a long open corridor that runs the entire length of the house. It's basically their living room, kitchen, playground, and social hub all in one. I was mid-way walking through when an uncle called me up, insisting his homemade tuak (rice wine) was the best in the whole village. Try saying no to that. [image: 1781402587354-annah_rais_02.jpg] Source: The central corridor (awah) If you want the full experience, they offer homestay packages. Found a review on Google Maps that said: "Staying overnight was an eye-opening experience. The family treated us like their own. Highly recommend the bamboo chicken dinner." — Bamboo chicken is exactly what it sounds like: chicken stuffed into bamboo tubes and roasted over fire. Sounds amazing. I didn't stay overnight this time, but next visit I'm booking it for sure. [image: 1781402587545-annah_rais_03.jpg] Source: Inside the longhouse Another traveler on TripAdvisor wrote: "It's not a tourist trap. It's a real community. The people are genuinely warm and welcoming. Just be respectful and you'll have a great time." Couldn't agree more. It's all about mindset — respect their culture, and they'll welcome you like family. Walking to the back of the longhouse, there's a small river where the kids swim. Some of the Bidayuh guides also offer jungle treks to nearby waterfalls. I even heard there's a natural hot spring in the area, but I didn't have time to check it out. [image: 1781402587755-annah_rais_04.jpg] Source: Scenery around the longhouse A quick word about the tuak. This isn't the sweetened, watered-down stuff you buy in shops. It's traditional Bidayuh-style — fermented rice with their own family recipe. Slightly sweet but packs a punch. My Sabahan friend had two glasses and his face went red. Said it was "legit strong" Practical Info: Location: ~1 - 1.5 hour drive from Kuching city. Waze "Annah Rais Longhouse" Best time: Morning before it gets hot Entry: around RM10 - RM20 (ask when you arrive) Homestay: roughly RM80 - RM150/night (includes dinner + breakfast) ️ Tips: Wear long pants, bring mosquito repellent, roads can be rough Always ask before taking photos — respect their customs [image: 1781402588210-annah_rais_05.jpg] Source: Bidayuh traditional crafts Bottom line: If you want an authentic Sarawak longhouse experience near Kuching, Annah Rais is the real deal. No over-commercialization, no hard selling. Just a real community living their daily lives. Take a drive up this weekend, it's worth it. Anyone here been to Annah Rais? Tried the bamboo chicken or the hot spring? Drop your experience below [image: 1781402588443-annah_rais_06.jpg] Source: Surrounding paddy fields and landscape

College students rescued a toddler found wandering alone along a dark roadside in Kota Samarahan at 2am on Saturday — now under police investigation. A three-year-old girl was discovered alone in the Taman Berlian commercial area early Saturday morning by several college students. The students, who were heading home on a motorcycle after eating at a nearby eatery, noticed the child waving for help and turned back to check on her. They found the toddler clutching a feeding bottle, a blue towel, and a small beaded basket, crying for her mother. Samarahan District Acting Police Chief DSP Barry William confirmed the case, stating that investigators have since located the child's family and are actively recording statements. "The investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the child being left unattended near a major roadway," he said. The toddler was initially taken to the Samarahan District Police Headquarters before being referred to Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) for assessment. Medical staff confirmed she remains under observation as a precaution. Welfare authorities have also been notified and are monitoring the case alongside police. Location: Taman Berlian, Kota Samarahan Details: 3yo child found alone at 2am; rescued by college students; police investigating Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak's internet coverage has jumped from 54.3% to 94.5% in just four years, driven by a RM2.3 billion state-led telecommunications infrastructure push under the Saluran initiative. Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi announced the milestone at the Sacofa Client Networking Hi-Tea 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, highlighting that the achievement reflects strong collaboration between government agencies, telcos and infrastructure partners. [image: 1781330767828-sarawak-internet.jpg] Key Numbers RM2.3 billion invested under Saluran initiative 94.5% internet coverage — up from 54.3% in 2022 618 telecom towers built under SMART Project (incl. 17 relay towers) 636 towers completed under federal JENDELA Phase 1 337 more sites identified for JENDELA Phase 2 (starting Q4 2026) ~50,000 households connected via MySRBN fixed wireless and fibre ~250 rural locations served by WiFi Saluran satellite internet 12,000km fibre optic infrastructure statewide 1,680 telecom towers managed by Sacofa The SMART Project is a key pillar of Saluran, targeting rural and remote areas that previously had little to no connectivity. Julaihi said Sarawak is also looking beyond telecoms — with plans to establish a state space agency and aerospace advisory council. Location: Sarawak (statewide) Details: Minister Julaihi Narawi at Sacofa event, KL Source: DayakDaily | Borneo Post Still waiting for fibre in your area? How's your connection?

[image: 1781312721319-repair-scam.jpg] If a Facebook ad offers cheap home repairs with free inspection — think twice. Victims across Sarawak are losing thousands. The Sarawak Consumers Association (PPS) has sounded the alarm after receiving complaints from Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Bintulu about a suspected scam syndicate operating through Facebook ads. The modus operandi? Ads offering free inspection and home repairs. Workers show up, do substandard or irrelevant work, pressure victims into paying via personal bank accounts — then disappear. The original problem remains unfixed. Reported losses: Kuching: RM3,000 – RM4,200 Sibu: RM5,400 Miri: RM2,700 Bintulu: RM5,600 The workers are reportedly Chinese nationals. PPS has raised concerns over possible immigration law violations and public safety risks. "We are not talking about isolated incidents anymore. Victims from several divisions — even Peninsular Malaysia — have come forward with nearly identical stories," said PPS president Dr Wynson Ong. Some victims have filed police reports, but the cases were not classified as fraud since the workers physically showed up and did some work. Tips to stay safe: Verify the company's business address and license Never pay via personal bank accounts Get a written quote before any work starts If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is If you have been a victim, file a police report and contact PPS at 017-710 9299. Source: DayakDaily | Borneo Post Share this with your family and friends!

Sarawak is building its first-ever road tunnel — a 2.24km underground passage through Bukit Pagon in Lawas, cutting travel distance from 22.4km to just 7km. The tunnel is part of the Sarawak–Sabah Link Road (SSLR) Phase 2, a 335.54km road alignment connecting Sarawak and Sabah. As of June 11, Phase 2 has reached 11.39% physical progress, with full completion targeted for 2029. Location: Bukit Pagon, Bakun Range (Lawas–Limbang border) Details: 2.24km tunnel under Package 4 of SSLR Phase 2 Cuts travel distance from 22.4km to 7km — saving over 15km 2% longitudinal gradient, 321m max overburden depth Emergency widening sections every 500m for safety Expected to significantly improve connectivity between Sarawak and Sabah JKR Sarawak director Datu Dr Ir Cassidy Morris visited the tunnel site on June 11 to inspect progress. Meanwhile, SSLR Phase 1 has reached 71.16% completion and is on track for March 16, 2027. It features the MyArch Bridge, a modern arch bridge design that will serve as a landmark along the route. Phase 2 Package 3 (62.9km road built to JKR R3 standards) is also progressing at 16.25%, targeting completion by June 2029. [image: 1781244246800-tunnel-proposal-map.jpg] The proposed tunnel location at Bukit Pagon, Lawas [image: 1781244247304-myarch-bridge.jpg] MyArch Bridge — a landmark design feature of SSLR Phase 1 Source: DayakDaily What do you think of Sarawak's first tunnel?

The oldest temple in Kuching — and probably the toughest. Honestly, when you stand in front of Tua Pek Kong Temple, it's hard to believe what this building has been through. 1884 — The Great Fire of Kuching burned the whole street to ashes. The temple? Untouched. 1941 — Japanese Imperial Army bombs rained down on the city. Buildings around it were destroyed. The temple? Still standing. Nearly 250 years later, the incense is still burning. [image: 1781230879510-img1-resized.jpg] Credit: 愛子棋枰 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) Tua Pek Kong Temple (also called Siew San Teng Temple) is the oldest recorded Chinese temple in Kuching, believed to have existed before 1839. It started as a simple thatched hut, and through major renovations in 1856, 1863, and 1880, it evolved into the temple you see today. [image: 1781230880238-img2.jpg] Credit: Damian Pankowiec / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) The older generation in Kuching will tell you this temple has the best Feng Shui in town — backed by hills, facing the Sarawak River. In 1871, Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah, issued the first official land title for the temple. Royal endorsement, you could say. The main deity is Tua Pek Kong (God of Prosperity), and many local business owners come here to pray for good fortune. During the 1st and 15th of the lunar calendar, it gets so busy you can smell the incense from down the street. [image: 1781230880711-img3-resized.jpg] Credit: Boonjinchung / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) I checked Google Maps reviews — 4.4, and visitors consistently say the same thing: "Small but very atmospheric, the incense and red lanterns make it feel incredibly authentic" — Australian visitor "Right by the waterfront, 2 minute walk from the river. Free entry, surprisingly peaceful inside" — Singaporean visitor "Oldest temple in Kuching, a must-stop on the heritage trail" — UK visitor Over on TripAdvisor, the sentiment is similar. Many say it's not the biggest or grandest temple, but it feels more genuine than the large tourist-oriented attractions. What struck me is that locals don't really view this as a "tourist spot" — they're actually here to pray. Hang around for 10 minutes and you'll see elderly folks lighting incense, casting divination blocks, burning joss paper. It's everyday religious life, not a performance. [image: 1781230881352-img4-resized.jpg] Credit: Flickr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY) Visitor Info: Location: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman (opposite Kuching Waterfront, next to Chinese History Museum) Hours: Daily ~6am to 6pm (no strict enforcement) ️ Entry: Free Getting there: 2-min walk from Kuching Waterfront Dress code: Casual is fine, but it is a place of worship — keep it respectful Photos: Allowed, but be discreet when people are praying Xiao Wei's tips: Go around 5pm — the golden hour light hitting the temple interior is stunning for photos After visiting, cross the street to the Chinese History Museum (also free) Avoid the 1st and 15th of the lunar month if you prefer a quieter experience Have you been to this temple before? Or have you walked past it a hundred times without going in? Drop a comment Xiao Wei, your Kuching Places Hunter — see you next week!

[image: 1781226902998-bintulu-customs.jpg] Customs officers in Bintulu have smashed a major smuggling syndicate, seizing contraband worth RM7.39 million — including over 4.3kg of suspected cannabis. The Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) Sarawak carried out a series of raids between April and May, uncovering: 7.2 million sticks of illicit cigarettes 8,100 litres of untaxed liquor 4.3kg of compressed cannabis 2 vehicles linked to the smuggling ring The biggest haul came on May 19 when officers raided an empty warehouse along Jalan Bintulu-Miri. Inside: 5.42 million cigarette sticks and 2,788 litres of liquor, worth RM5.44 million in total — including unpaid duties. Three other raids at abandoned houses in Taman Seaview and a vacant unit at Plaza Li Hua uncovered another 1.79 million cigarettes and 5,300 litres of liquor. Location: Bintulu, Sarawak Details: The syndicate used empty houses and warehouses as temporary storage before distributing to local markets. All four cases are being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 — offenders face fines of up to 20x the value of the goods or RM500,000, imprisonment of 6 months to 5 years, or both. On the drug front, Customs intercepted four cannabis trafficking attempts through courier parcels addressed to Bintulu. Two local men were arrested. The cannabis cases fall under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 — which carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. Sarawak Customs director Datuk Norizan Yahya urged the public to report smuggling via the toll-free hotline: 1-800-88-8855. Source: https://dayakdaily.com/customs-seizes-contraband-cigarettes-liquor-and-cannabis-worth-rm7-39-mln-in-bintulu/ What do you think about this bust?

A Korean Netflix star is coming to Kuching — and he's bringing a full film crew with him. Cha Ji-hyuk, the actor from Netflix's hit action series Bloodhounds 2, will star in a brand-new Korean-Malaysian romantic comedy called "Distinct: Becoming Sarawak" — and the entire film will be shot right here in Kuching and across Sarawak. Filming kicks off June 15. [image: 1781157840077-cha-ji-hyuk.jpeg] What's the movie about? It's a romance story built around the idea that differences can bring people together. The film explores love, healing and identity — set against Sarawak's city life, culture and landscapes. The message? Sarawak's multicultural society, where people of different backgrounds live side by side while keeping their own identity, is the perfect backdrop for this kind of story. Who's involved? Cha will star alongside Malaysian actresses Siti Nur Aishah Bee Md Nor and Shelyn Poh. The film is directed by Shin Ji-hwan, with costume design by Lee Chung Chung — the creative director of global fashion brand LIE, whose work has walked Seoul, New York, Paris and London fashion weeks. The Korean crew has already been in Kuching since June 1 for pre-production, and local casting sessions were held earlier this year to recruit Sarawakian talent. Why it matters This is more than just a movie. Producer Lee Sang Chan says the project is about building a bridge between Sarawak and international audiences — and his company plans to bring more Korean productions to Malaysia after this. For Kuching's creative scene, this means jobs, exposure and the chance to put local talent on a global stage. Location: Kuching & across Sarawak Filming starts: June 15, 2026 Source: https://dayakdaily.com/korean-actor-cha-ji-hyuk-to-spotlight-sarawak-in-new-international-feature-film/ Would you watch a K-drama filmed in Kuching?

Let me be real with you: most Kuching folks hear "Fairy Cave" and just go "oh yeah, went there ages ago..." And that's it. But if you actually give it a proper visit — pick the right time, take the right trails — this place hits way harder than you'd expect. Located in Bau, about 40-45 minutes from Kuching city. A four-storey green staircase takes you up to the cave entrance. The moment you step inside and see natural light flooding down from the massive opening above — your phone camera won't know what hit it. [image: 1781143757552-01.jpg] Source: Malaysia-Traveller [image: 1781143766889-02.jpg] Source: Malaysia-Traveller What people are saying: Here's the thing — Fairy Cave reviews are surprisingly stacked. Out of 2,423 ratings on Wanderlog, it averages 4.7/5. Not bad for a cave that costs RM1 for locals. One reviewer on Wanderlog put it perfectly: "The caves are truly breathtaking, with stunning formations, beautiful plants, and well-maintained paths. The staff were also friendly — it's easily one of the highlights of a trip to Kuching." Another traveler on Trip.com didn't hold back: "These caves are a class of their own. I have seen caves in Australia and these are beyond comparison." And this Trip.com review says it best: "By far this was my favourite thing to do in Sarawak, beats Bako park. I spent the majority of this on my own on the dark trail, just me and the drips, absolutely loved it." Cool local detail from Malaysia-Traveller: inside the cave there's a stalagmite that looks uncannily like Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy). Locals actually leave joss sticks there ️ [image: 1781143767356-03.jpg] Source: CPH Travel [image: 1781143767835-04-resized.jpg] Source: DayakDaily 🧗 Three trails, three levels: 1️⃣ Twilight Trail (main route) — Concrete paths & steel rails. Most people handle this fine. You'll see the cave transition from dark to sunlit 2️⃣ Dark Trail — Bring a torch. Bats, swiftlets, and at the deepest platform... reportedly the occasional viper 3️⃣ Gunung Kapor Summit Trail — 2-hour trek, needs a permit. Less trafficked but worth it if you're fit ️ Heads up: the entrance passage is narrow — claustrophobic folks, be warned. Some metal stair sections are seriously steep. [image: 1781143768473-05.jpg] Source: CPH Travel Quick Info: Malaysian adult: RM1 Foreign adult: RM5 Senior (60+): FREE Child (6-17): RM2 Under 6: FREE Hours: 8:30am — 4:30pm (Tue-Sun) Closed-toe shoes MANDATORY (rentals RM3) Torch rental: RM5 Getting there: Self-drive is easiest. Grab works too (~RM30-40 one way). Tour packages usually bundle Fairy + Wind Cave for RM200 half-day with lunch. Pro tips: • Go early morning — fewer people + best natural lighting for photos • Bring water & wear light sports attire. Humidity inside is real • Hit Wind Cave right after — it's literally 5 minutes away • Headlamp > handheld torch for the Dark Trail Been to Fairy Cave? Drop your best photo in the comments! Team Fairy Cave or Team Wind Cave? Let's hear it

老实说，古晋人提到 Fairy Cave 的反应通常是：「哦那个仙洞啊，很久以前去过一次……」 然后没了。 但你如果认真去一次 — 尤其是选对时间、走对路线 — 这个东西真的比你想象中震撼很多。 就在 Bau，离古晋市大概 40-45 分钟车程。有一段四层楼高的绿色楼梯带你进洞，走进去的瞬间，那个光从洞顶打下来的画面 — 讲真的，手机拍到没电那种。 [image: 1781143757552-01.jpg] 来源：Malaysia-Traveller [image: 1781143766889-02.jpg] 来源：Malaysia-Traveller 去过的人都怎么说？ 我在搜 review 的时候发现一个现象：Fairy Cave 的 review 意外地高，而且很多人说它是「Sarawak trip 最惊喜的一站」。 Wanderlog 上 2423 条评价，平均 4.7/5 — 有人留言说： 「The caves are truly breathtaking, with stunning formations, beautiful plants, and well-maintained paths. The staff were also friendly — it's easily one of the highlights of a trip to Kuching.」 Trip.com 上有位游客说得很夸张但我觉得不算过分： 「These caves are a class of their own. I have seen caves in Australia and these are beyond comparison.」 还有一个 Trip.com review 讲得太真实了： 「By far this was my favourite thing to do in Sarawak, beats Bako park. I spent the majority of this on my own on the dark trail, just me and the drips, absolutely loved it.」 Malaysia-Traveller 的博主 David 也提到一个细节：洞里有一个 stalagmite 长得很像观音菩萨，当地人真的会在前面插香 ️ [image: 1781143767356-03.jpg] 来源：CPH Travel [image: 1781143767835-04-resized.jpg] 来源：DayakDaily 🧗 三个 Trail，三个级别： 1️⃣ Twilight Trail（主路线） — 水泥阶梯 + 钢扶手，大部分人都能走。一路可以看到整个洞穴从暗到亮的过渡 2️⃣ Dark Trail（暗路） — 需要手电筒，里面有蝙蝠 + swiftlet，最深处的平台据说偶尔能看到蝮蛇 3️⃣ Gunung Kapor Summit Trail — 2 小时登山路线，需要拿 permit，比较少人走 ️ 注意：入口那段通道很窄，幽闭恐惧症的朋友可能要三思。金属楼梯有些地方很陡。 [image: 1781143768473-05.jpg] 来源：CPH Travel 实用资讯： 本地人：RM1 外国人：RM5 乐龄(60+)：免费 小孩(6-17)：RM2 6岁以下：免费 开放：8:30am — 4:30pm (Tue-Sun) 包鞋必须穿！（没穿可以租 RM3） 手电筒租 RM5 怎么去：自己开车最方便（Grab 也可以，单程大概 RM30-40），或者跟 tour 配套（一般 Fairy + Wind Cave 半天 RM200 左右包午餐） 小 tips： • 早上去！人少 + 光线正好拍 • 带水 + 穿轻便运动装，洞里湿度高 • 顺便去隔壁 Wind Cave，两个洞距离 5 分钟车程 • Dark Trail 一定要用手电筒/头灯 你去过 Fairy Cave 吗？分享一下你拍到最美的照片！ 还是你比较喜欢 Wind Cave？下面留言聊聊

[image: 1781140099831-airborneo.jpeg] AirBorneo CEO Megat Ardian has publicly apologised for the recent wave of flight delays and cancellations affecting passengers across Sarawak and Sabah, while announcing that new ATR 72-600 aircraft are on the way. In a statement, Megat Ardian said the disruptions were caused by several aircraft being unavailable at the same time due to maintenance requirements and technical rectification works. "I would like to sincerely apologise for the disruption, inconvenience and uncertainty this has caused," he said. What Happened Multiple AirBorneo flights were delayed or cancelled in recent days, leaving passengers stranded across Sarawak and Sabah. The airline confirmed the root cause was overlapping maintenance schedules that took more planes out of service than expected. What is Being Done AirBorneo teams are working around the clock to restore normal operations Additional resources have been mobilised to speed up repairs New ATR 72-600 aircraft will be progressively introduced as part of the fleet renewal programme Affected passengers are being offered rebooking, refunds, meals, and accommodation Contact for Affected Passengers Local: 1 300 22 1388 International: +60-8253 7555 Location: Kuching / Sarawak-wide Details: CEO Megat Ardian Wira Mohd Aminuddin apologises, promises fleet improvement with new ATR 72-600 series Source: https://dayakdaily.com/airborneo-ceo-apologises-for-flight-disruptions-says-new-atr-fleet-on-the-way/ Have you been affected by the recent AirBorneo delays?

[image: 1781071314796-cement-price.jpg] Miri and Kuching now lead the nation in cement price increases, with annual hikes of 7.5% and 7.4% respectively — the highest in Malaysia, according to the latest DOSM data. The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) released its Special Release for Building and Structural Works for May 2026, showing average cement prices across Malaysia rose from RM23.04 per 50kg bag in May 2024 to RM25.95 in May 2026. But Sarawaks two largest cities saw the biggest jumps. Miri recorded the highest year-on-year increase at 7.5%, with Kuching close behind at 7.4%. Nationwide, the year-on-year range was just 1.0% to 7.5%. Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin noted that cement prices also rose month-on-month across all regions, increasing between 0.2% and 2.1% in May alone. Other construction materials are not spared either: Steel prices rose 0.1% to 1.3% month-on-month nationwide, with Sibu and Miri among the higher increases Sand prices increased up to 9.7% in some areas, with Sibu recording a 3.7% jump Aggregate prices climbed 0.3% to 4.7% nationwide The Building Cost Index (BCI) confirmed the broader trend, with Sarawak recording month-on-month increases of 0.1% to 1.1% across all building categories. At the national level, Ordinary Portland cement now averages RM25.95 per 50kg bag, while steel bars sit at RM3,517.50 per metric tonne. For homeowners planning renovations and developers with ongoing projects, these numbers mean real cost pressure ahead. Location: Kuching & Miri, Sarawak Source: DayakDaily / DOSM - https://dayakdaily.com/construction-costs-rise-as-miri-kuching-record-nations-steepest-cement-price-hikes/ What do you think?