Kuching, Sarawak

  INTRODUCTION                                                   

Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state situated on the island of Borneo. Kuching  is one of the most interesting cities in Southeast Asia, and one  of the  most rewarding travel destinations in Malaysia. Its rich and varied architectural heritage mixes many styles and influences, whilst the relaxed hospitality of its charming citizens is an object lesson in multi-cultureless. It is also the perfect base for discovering Sarawak's interior.

Kuching's name is originated from many sources. In the Malay language, Kuching means cat. Some sources say that Kuching originated from the Chinese word "Gu Chin" which means harbour. Another source says that Kuching is named after a lychee like fruit called Mata Kuching (Cat's eye).

In the city, there is a river separating the north and the south called the "Sarawak River". Riding a sampan along the Sarawak River is an unforgettable experience. From the river, you can get a spectacular view of the Malay Kampungs (Villages) with a gorgeous mountainous background. You also get to see a far distant view of the 19th century Chinese shop houses, the Malay mosque, the square tower and the attractive Margherita Fort.

The narrow, bustling streets near the river are crammed with ornate temples, markets, historic buildings and traditional Chinese shop houses selling local handicrafts. Nearby is the Sarawak Museum with its beautiful gardens and the park built round the old town reservoir.

Kuching also lays claim to nine museums, many within walking distance of each other. Besides, there also got many temples. For example old Chinese temple. The temple was Brooke era buildings, with unique architecture, waterfront park, observation towers and museums.

     HISTORY                                                                                      

Kuching has a long history as a trading centre which, over the centuries has brought people from various countries to settle in the area. Malays, Chinese, Indians, Europeans and others have joined the many indigenous groups of the region to create a city which a rich and unique cultural heritage. Before the 19th century, Sarawak was a typical Malay principality under the control of the Sultan of Brunei. Sarawak was peaceful place. However, there were some tyrant officers (Sultan Representatives) from Brunei. Many Sarawakians were forced to pay high tax and local officers were sacked without any reason. These caused a large demonstration against the Brunei Empire. James Brooke, a rich English Adventurer was asked by the Sultan of Brunei to stop the demonstration in Sarawak. The demonstrators were no match to James Brooke's hatch, the Royalist. As a sign of appreciation, the Sultan of Brunei appointed James Brooke as Governor of Sarawak. James Brooke requested British Navy assistance to protect his position. He then chased out all Sultan Brunei's officers from Sarawak. With anger, the Sultan of Brunei tried to stop James Brooke but Brooke attacked the Sultan first. The Sultan was forced to sign an agreement and Sarawak was fully handed over to Brooke. From then onwards, James Brooke became the first English Rajah of Sarawak. The arrival of James Brooke, who become the first English Rajah of Sarawak, marked the beginning of Kuching as an important administrative centre and consolidated its role as a port. His successor, Charles Brooke, 1868-1917, was responsible for many of the historic buildings still associated with the waterfront. Since 1963 when Sarawak became part of the Federation of Malaysia, Kuching has changed and developed into a flourishing modern city.