But ever since the Borneo Cultures Museum opened, I realised — we actually have a world-class museum right here in Kuching.

RM323 million building, largest museum in Malaysia, second largest in Southeast Asia — this is no joke.

Let's get straight to it

Source: Wikimedia Commons

First Impression: Massive

My friend stood at the entrance and literally froze: "Wait, the WHOLE building is the museum?" — Yes. Yes it is.

The architecture draws inspiration from Sarawak's traditional craft motifs, perfectly complementing the nearby new DUN building.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

What's Inside?

5 floors, 4 themed exhibition zones:

Love Our Rivers — Sarawak's river ecosystems
In Harmony with Nature — Stories of coastal, rainforest & highland communities
Time Changes — Human settlement from Palaeolithic to present
Objects of Desire — Curated artifacts from Sarawak Museum's collection

Plus a dedicated Kids Gallery — perfect for families.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Google Rating 4.7

Checked Google Maps reviews — real people, real opinions:

"Absolutely must visit! I spent 3 hours inside and still wanted more." — Sarah L.

"Even my 7-year-old found it fun. The interactive exhibits are really well done." — Ahmad R.

"Entry is only RM10, the AC is great, and you can spend the whole day here. Best weekend spot." — Mei F.

By April 2024, the museum had already crossed 1 million visitors. There's a reason for that.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Practical Info ️

Address: Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93400 Kuching
Hours: 9:00AM - 4:45PM (Mon-Fri) / 9:00AM - 4:45PM (Weekends & Public Holidays)
Tickets: Adult RM10 | Student RM5 | Kids under 12 FREE
Website: museum.sarawak.gov.my

Source: Wikimedia Commons — View from Tugu Pahlawan

Verdict?

One word — worth it. RM10 for a full day of AC-cooled cultural exploration? There aren't many places in Kuching that offer this value.

I also caught a live Ngajat dance performance on a weekend — hits different when you see it in person vs watching on YouTube.

Have you been yet? Drop your experience in the comments