Sarawak Forestry steps up patrols in fire-prone areas as haze and heat threaten wildlife Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has intensified monitoring in high-risk forest areas as the prolonged hot, dry and hazy weather increases the risk of forest fires and puts additional pressure on wildlife. SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said field patrols are being carried out particularly in peat forest areas and areas close to human activity, with hotspot detection technology used to identify early signs of fire. Totally Protected Areas (TPAs) that have previously been affected by fires are receiving extra attention. Among the sites being closely monitored are Bako National Park, Kuching Wetland National Park and Samunsam Wildlife Sanctuary in the Kuching region, as well as Sibuti Wildlife Sanctuary, Lambir National Park, Niah National Park and Mulu National Park in the Miri area. The corporation has also prepared emergency equipment and trained personnel, including veterinary officers, to respond to wildlife injuries or health problems caused by smoke exposure. SFC is coordinating with private veterinary centres and the Department of Veterinary Services. Location: Kuching, Miri

You do not come to Matang for a polished zoo day. You come because it feels raw: wet forest air, quiet paths, rescued animals, and that small reminder that wildlife trade is not some faraway story. [image: 1785031731277-matang_01_sign.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1785031731365-matang_02_porcupine.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1785031731436-matang_03_hornbill.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia [image: 1785031731514-matang_04_orangutan_area.jpg] Source: 360Tour.Asia What people usually like here is the setting. Sarawak Forestry describes Matang as 180 hectares of lowland forest on the western side of Kubah National Park, built for rehabilitation rather than entertainment. That matches the feeling on the ground: you walk between rainforest, enclosures and quiet corners, not neon signboards and souvenir noise. 360Tour.Asia notes the practical side clearly: around 34 km from Kuching, roughly 45 minutes by car, open daily 8.00am to 5.00pm, and the old listed Malaysian adult fee was RM10. Treat the fee as a guide only and check before going because park rates can change. A Couple Calling had a pretty honest take: Matang is meaningful, but not always cute. They liked that the centre focuses on rescued animals and conservation, while also saying some enclosures can feel upsetting because many animals came from illegal captivity and may never be fully released. I think that is the right expectation to set before you go. Tripadvisor-style reviews are mixed too. Some visitors enjoy the jungle trail and quiet, less-commercial vibe; others say Semenggoh is better if your only goal is a nicer orangutan viewing experience. So do not compare it like-for-like. Semenggoh is the easier crowd-pleaser; Matang is more of a rescue-centre reality check. Malaysian Wildlife / Orangutan Project also frames Matang as a rescue and sanctuary site for protected Sarawak wildlife, including orangutans, small primates, big cats and sun bears, many linked to illegal pet trade cases. That part makes the visit feel heavier, but also more worthwhile if you care about what happens after animals are confiscated. Useful notes: Location: Matang Wildlife Centre, Kampung Rayu / Kubah National Park side, about 40-45 minutes from Kuching Transport: drive, Grab, taxi or arranged tour; do not count on direct public bus service Time needed: 1.5 to 3 hours, longer if combining with Kubah trails Bring: water, mosquito repellent, proper shoes, rain cover Be respectful: keep noise down, do not tease animals, no flash, follow ranger signs Worth going? Yes, if you want a quieter Kuching nature stop with a conservation angle. If you only want guaranteed cute photos, maybe manage expectations first. Have you been to Matang recently? Share whether the place feels improved or still rough around the edges.

Ten crocodile hook lines are now active along Batang Igan after safety checks by SFC. [image: 1784801116235-batang-igan-crocodile.jpg] Image source: DayakDaily / Vicky from Pixabay The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) Regional Office Sibu has deployed 10 hook line sets in Batang Igan as part of a crocodile population removal operation. The operation began on July 21 and is scheduled to continue until Aug 2. The hook lines were placed from the mouth of Sungai Lubuk Kabang to SK Sungai Pinang after field assessments. Why it matters SFC said the operation is meant to reduce human-crocodile conflict in high-risk areas and improve public safety for nearby communities. The active hook lines will be monitored throughout the operation. Location: Batang Igan, Sibu division Details: 10 hook lines, July 21 to Aug 2, SFC public safety operation Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Federal police dismantle an RM81.8 million bird's nest syndicate after 10 raids across Sarawak, with Kuching identified as a major hub for the illegal trade. Federal Department of Internal Security and Public Order (JKDNKA) director CP Dato Sri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said the raids under Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah (OBK) from June 1 to 16 led to the arrest of six suspects — both locals and foreign nationals. The syndicate was involved in the illegal collection, possession and trade of edible bird's nests without valid licences. Investigations revealed the nests were processed at commercial premises rather than harvested from natural sites like caves or forests, with products mainly intended for export. Suspects have been handed over to Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) for action under the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998. [image: 1783317790872-birdsnest1.jpg] [image: 1783317790955-birdsnest2.jpg] Nationwide, the OBK operation produced 70 investigation papers, 62 arrests, and seized RM98.4 million in wildlife and environmental crimes. Items seized included 16,367kg of edible bird's nests, 223 birds, 8 eagles, 2 pangolins, 790 turtle eggs, 4,238 turtles, 218 axolotls, 116 exotic fish, 959 fighting cocks and 1,673 logs. Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: RM81.8 million seizures, 6 arrested, 10 raids coordinated by JKDNKA under Operasi Bersepadu Khazanah Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak's deputy minister has confirmed plans for a 100-acre crocodile sanctuary at Kuching Wetlands — part of a broader strategy to manage growing human-crocodile conflicts across the state. Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the government has identified the site in the Kuching Wetland area, with fencing planned to keep relocated crocodiles contained within the sanctuary. Any crocodiles removed from residential areas will be sent there. The announcement follows a viral video showing a crocodile hunting pigeons at Kuching Waterfront last week, raising public alarm about the presence of large reptiles in popular areas. For central Sarawak, sanctuary sites include Pulau Seduku, Batang Lupar, and Rajang Mangrove National Park. In northern Sarawak, locations in Sibuti, Lawas and Limbang have been proposed. The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) is already carrying out relocation and removal operations targeting crocodiles identified as threats to villages and longhouse communities. Len Talif also reminded the public to stay vigilant, follow warning signs, and use the Sarawak Croc Watch app to report sightings. Location: Kuching Wetlands, Sarawak Details: 100-acre sanctuary, fencing, statewide relocation plan Source: DayakDaily [image: 1781935364844-croc-sanctuary.jpg] Source: Pixabay (illustration) What do you think — is this the right approach to manage croc populations?

A large crocodile was filmed hunting and devouring a pigeon at the Kuching Waterfront, prompting a Cabinet minister to call for immediate action. A viral video circulating on social media shows the reptile stalking and catching its prey near the popular tourist promenade, just metres from where families walk daily. Tourism Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the footage proves the crocodile is an active predator and not a passive bystander. "I've seen that video of the crocodile eating the pigeon. That means that crocodile is not a very tame one," he told reporters after an event at Pustaka Negeri Sarawak today (June 19). "If there are kids swimming in that river, they might end up being eaten by the crocodile," he warned. The minister has called on the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to take immediate action. SFC had previously conducted capture-and-relocate operations near the floating mosque along the Sarawak River, removing several crocodiles to a sanctuary in Matang. Abdul Karim believes this is likely a new crocodile that has moved into the area. Crocodile sightings along the Sarawak River are not new — the reptiles have long been known to gather beneath the floating mosque. But this latest incident, captured on video, has revived public concern over safety at one of Kuching's busiest tourist spots. [image: 1781849183862-crocodile.jpeg] Location: Kuching Waterfront / Masjid India (floating mosque) Details: Viral video shows crocodile hunting pigeon. Minister urges SFC to act. SFC had previously caught multiple crocs in same area. Source: DayakDaily / Borneo Post What do you think? Is the Kuching Waterfront safe?

English Version — Crocodile Farm Honestly, when I first heard about a "crocodile farm" in Kuching, I thought it'd be just a small pond with a few crocs. Turns out I was dead wrong. Jong's Crocodile Farm & Recreation Park in Siburan (about 30-40 mins from Kuching city) is home to over a thousand crocodiles — from tiny babies to massive saltwater giants that'll make you rethink your life choices [image: 1781662025150-croc_1_pool.png] Source: Crocodile enclosure at Jong's Crocodile Farm The Feeding Show is the main event There's a scheduled feeding session where staff go in and feed the crocs. The moment they throw food in, these lazy-looking dinosaurs turn into lightning-fast predators. The contrast is insane. One Google Maps reviewer said: "First time seeing a croc feeding show this close. It's surprisingly thrilling! The staff also explains the behavior of each croc — very educational." Another visitor wrote: "My kids keep asking to go back. Way more fun than the regular zoo tbh." [image: 1781662025252-croc_2_feeding.jpg] Source: Feeding show in action More than just crocs Besides the main crocodile enclosures, there's a mini zoo section with monkeys, birds, snakes, monitor lizards, and other local wildlife. It's a compact but well-curated place — you can easily spend 1-2 hours exploring. From TripAdvisor: "Better than I expected. The whole place is well maintained, toilets are clean, and for RM20 entry fee it's honestly great value." [image: 1781662025354-croc_3_entrance.jpg] Source: Close-up of a massive saltwater crocodile What you need to know ️ Location: Jalan Puncak Borneo, Siburan (~30 mins drive from Kuching) Hours: Daily 9:00AM - 5:00PM Entry: Adults ~RM20-30, Kids ~RM10-15 Feeding show times: Check at the counter (usually morning & afternoon sessions) Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours [image: 1781662025455-croc_4_big.jpg] Source: Jong's Crocodile Farm entrance Bottom line: If you're visiting Kuching with family, or if you're just fascinated by these prehistoric creatures, this place is worth the drive. It's not a luxury attraction — it's raw, educational, and genuinely fun. There aren't many large-scale crocodile farms in Malaysia, and Jong's is easily one of the best-run ones Anyone else been here? Drop your experience below

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

Semenggoh works best when the day has one clear purpose: leave Kuching early, arrive before a feeding session, and allow the forest to decide how much of the story you get. It is a rehabilitation centre, not a zoo with animals waiting beside a glass panel. The orangutans may come close, stay in the trees or remain out of sight, and that uncertainty is part of why the visit matters. [image: 1779765072509-orangutan_at_semenggoh_nature_reserve-resized.jpg] 来源：KelvinToh / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 For a first Kuching wildlife outing, I would choose the morning session when possible and arrive with enough time for registration, the walk and ranger instructions. Commonly published feeding windows are around 9:00–10:00am and 3:00–4:00pm, but the timetable and viewing arrangements can change. Rain, natural food in the forest, animal welfare decisions and maintenance can all mean fewer sightings. Anyone who needs a guaranteed close-up, loud entertainment or a quick indoor attraction may leave disappointed; patient families, photographers and travellers who care about conservation are the better match. [image: 1779765065001-orangutan-semenggoh.jpg] 来源：DIONYSIUS IVANDER / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 The centre is on Jalan Puncak Borneo, roughly 30 minutes from central Kuching by car in normal traffic. Parking is the simple option; e-hailing is possible for the outbound ride, but I would not depend on finding a return car immediately in a forest setting. Give the visit about two to three hours, then pair it with a nearby lunch or a slow drive towards Padawan rather than trying to stack several distant attractions around a fixed feeding time. [image: 1779765138009-a_swinging_orangutan_-26039522614.jpg] 来源：Thomas Quine / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 Entry prices, visitor rules and session details are subject to the current Sarawak Forestry Corporation notice; older guides quote Malaysian adult/child tickets around RM10/RM5 and foreign adult/child tickets around RM20/RM10. Check the latest notice before setting out, and treat “open daily” listings as a starting point rather than proof that every viewing area or session is operating that day. Do not bring food to feed the animals, keep your distance, avoid flash, wear shoes with grip and bring mosquito repellent. If the centre posts a closure, repair or changed-session notice, let that update change the itinerary. [image: 1779765138298-orangutan_on_double_ropes_-26515290302.jpg] 来源：Thomas Quine / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0 I would choose Semenggoh over a rushed checklist when the goal is to understand why a semi-wild sanctuary feels different from a zoo. It is a strong half-day plan from Kuching, but not a promise of a perfect animal photograph. Arrive quietly, listen to the rangers, and leave the forest a little more important than the picture you hoped to take.