Welcome to Sarawak

Sarawak, known as the Land of Hornbills, is Malaysia’s largest state. Sarawak welcomes visitors with its lush green rainforests, meandering web of rivers, pepper and the diverse lifestyles of the natives. For a perfect introduction to Sarawak, begin with its capital Kuching. Do visit the Sarawak Tourist Association (STA) or the Visitors Information Centre (which also houses the National Park and Wildlife Booking Office) providing you with all the brochures and advice you need to plan your stay.

With its striking natural beauty, Sarawak will fascinate you with its exotic, rich and diverse species of plants and animals. From pristine underwater marine life and untouched coral reefs to rich heritage and from wilderness to modern city landscape, Sarawak is a potpourri of experiences appreciated by travelers from all over the world.

Head into Sarawak's interiors and your heartbeat will flutter at the fascinating and enchanting dances of the multi-ethnic tribes living harmoniously with each other. Sarawak is home to 28 ethnic groups; each with its own distinct language, culture and lifestyle.  The Ibans form the major ethnic group on this land with about 30.1 per cent of the total population for the year 2000 census. The Chinese who generally live in the cities are the second largest group at 26.7 per cent, followed by the Bidayuh, Melanau and other native tribes of Sarawak. The Malays also constitute a large portion (23 per cent) of the population as well, mainly concentrated along the coast.

Sarawakians practise a variety of religions, including Islam, Christianity, Chinese folk religion (a fusion of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and ancestor worship) and animism. Many converts to Christianity among the Dayak people also continue to practice traditional ceremonies, particularly with dual marriage rites and during the important harvest and ancestral festivals such as Gawai Dayak and Gawai Antu.