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You know a bridge is special when locals don't just cross it — they hang out on it. Darul Hana Bridge (also called the Golden Bridge or Harmony Bridge) is THE spot in Kuching right now. This S-shaped pedestrian bridge curves across the Sarawak River, connecting the Waterfront to the north bank near the Astana. And trust me — it hits different at sunset. [image: 1782266871363-dh1-resized.jpg] Darul Hana Bridge at golden hour, with the DUN building in the background The Design Story This isn't just any bridge. It's designed like a giant "S" — inspired by the Yin Yang concept, symbolising harmony between the north and south banks of Kuching. Two masts lean in opposite directions, held by steel cables. At 337 metres long, it's one of the most striking modern structures in town. The bridge opened in late 2017 and was designed by German engineers sbp together with Perth-based FOZDAR architects. It took about a year to build, with the last steel section lifted into place in June 2017. [image: 1782266871711-dh2.jpg] The bridge's distinctive S-curve from above ️ What People Are Saying: Google Maps reviewers give it 4.5 . Here's what actual visitors say: "This bridge is stunning at night when the LED lights change colours. One of the best places in Kuching for evening walks and photos." — Sarah C., TripAdvisor "The sunset view from here is unreal. You see the river, the old Astana, the DUN building with its umbrella roof, and the mosque in the distance. Perfect photo spot." — Kieran M., travel blogger "Finally a pedestrian-friendly bridge! You can walk from Waterfront to the Astana side without running across roads. Bike lane too. This is how cities should be built." — Dr. Ahmad, Kuching local "Pro tip: come at 6pm. Catch the sunset, then wait 15 minutes for the bridge lights to come on. You get two completely different views in one visit." — Aminah R., FB review [image: 1782266871796-dh3.jpg] Night view — the bridge's LED lighting is a whole vibe [image: 1782266871941-dh4-resized.jpg] Walking across — spacious and pedestrian-friendly Practical Info: Location: Across Sarawak River, connecting Kuching Waterfront (south) to Darul Hana/Astana area (north) Open: 24 hours — free to walk anytime Cost: FREE (no charge) Best time: 5:30-7:00 PM for sunset + lights Bicycle friendly: Yes, dedicated lane Parking: Available on both sides (Waterfront carpark or Astana side) More Pro Tips: Go at sunset. The golden light on the Golden Bridge is no joke. Stay until 7pm when the LED lights automatically turn on From the middle of the bridge, you get a perfect view of Kuching City Mosque (pink!) on one side and the DUN building on the other Continue your walk to Darul Hana complex for food or cross back via the old pedestrian bridge for a loop For photographers: bring a tripod for night shots — the reflections on the river are Have you walked the Golden Bridge yet? Best time you've been?

Viral photos of worn-out mattresses and dilapidated hostel rooms at Politeknik Kuching have sparked outrage online — and caught the attention of the state's deputy minister. [image: 1782263902144-polytechnic-hostel.jpg] Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, rushed to the polytechnic on June 22 after social media posts exposed the poor living conditions in the student hostels. What happened: A Facebook group 'Sarawak Awareness Group (No Ads)' posted photos of torn, stained mattresses and run-down beds Kuching Polytechnic admitted 1,600 students this year — up from just 1,200 previously More than 40 hostel rooms are unusable due to safety concerns and inadequate facilities The surge in UPU (Central University Unit) admissions reportedly caught the polytechnic unprepared The response: Dr Annuar said there's no point blaming anyone. "What is important is that all parties take responsibility to ensure what happened at the polytechnic will not happen again, either there or anywhere else in Sarawak." The polytechnic submitted an official request to the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) on June 23 to expedite upgrades. Source: DayakDaily Students deserve better. What do you think?

A glass bridge and 3km scenic riverside walkway are coming to Batu Kawa, connecting Kampung Rantau Panjang to Batu Kawa Riverbank Park. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian announced the plan after visiting the site on June 22 with the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Sarawak team. The proposed walkway will link the predominantly Malay riverside villages with the historic Batu Kawa Chinese old town, creating a continuous promenade along the river. Riverbank Protection The project includes Phase 2 riverbank protection works covering 500 metres (split into 350m and 150m sections). DID will first carry out a temporary RM200,000 solution while designs for the permanent structure are completed. Open tender is expected by end of this year. Cost & History The first phase (450 metres) was initially awarded in 2019 for RM8.7 million but became a sick project during Covid when material costs surged. It was retendered in 2022 at RM11.6 million and completed in late 2023. Dr Sim said the Premier has allocated a RM31 million ceiling for the remaining 500 metres of riverbank works scheduled for 2026. [image: 1782194603298-batu-kawa-glass-bridge-1.jpg] Dr Sim (in yellow shirt) reviewing the riverbank protection plan with DID Sarawak team during a site visit on June 22, 2026. [image: 1782194603385-batu-kawa-glass-bridge-2.jpg] The proposed second phase of riverbank protection works at Kampung Rantau Panjang in Batu Kawa. Rising Construction Costs Dr Sim noted the entire 950-metre project would have cost RM18.6 million if done as a single project in 2019. The remaining 500 metres alone is now projected at RM31 million — a reflection of escalating material prices and global uncertainties. Location: Kampung Rantau Panjang, Batu Kawa, Kuching Details: 3km scenic walkway + glass bridge connecting Malay villages to Batu Kawa town Source: DayakDaily What do you think of this development?

23 men were charged in a Kuching court yesterday over their alleged involvement in an organised criminal syndicate called 'Geng 24 Hung-Hung'. All 23 are accused of taking part in organised criminal activities between December 2021 and April 2026 at an oil palm plantation in Kampung Temaga Cina-Dayak, Sematan. They were charged under Section 130V(1) of the Penal Code — which carries a prison sentence of between 5 and 20 years upon conviction. The case is being prosecuted by the Attorney General's Chambers. Counsel representing the accused include Dato Shankar Ram, Ranbir Singh, Ralph Lee, Patrick Voon, Daniel Ling, and Tiong Ing Neng. [image: 1782176582672-geng24-hunghung.jpg] No bail was offered since the charges fall under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA). All 23 have been ordered to remain in remand pending the next mention date on July 23, 2026. According to the prosecution, the arrests were made during police's Ops Pusak Merah conducted between April 19 and 23. Location: Sematan, Kuching Details: 23 charged under SOSMA, organised crime (Geng 24 Hung-Hung), mention set for July 23 Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

The first time someone offers to take you up Mount Santubong, listen carefully to how they describe it. If they say it was "tough but worth it" they made the summit. If they smile a rueful smile and change the subject, they probably didn't get past checkpoint F7. At 810 metres, Santubong is Kuching's highest peak and the dark green silhouette visible from almost the entire coastline. The trailhead sits at the Santubong National Park office on the Damai Peninsula, about 35 minutes by car from central Kuching. The park opens at 7 am and enforces a noon cut-off — you need to be past checkpoint F7 by noon or they will turn you back. The climbing window is real. [image: 1782094249824-1_santubong_bridge-resized.jpg] Mt. Santubong seen from Santubong Bridge The summit trail runs roughly 4 km one way and takes an average fit person 3.5 to 4 hours up and 2.5 to 3 hours down. That sounds manageable until you reach the section between checkpoint F7 and the summit (F15) — 1.3 km of near-vertical terrain where you haul yourself up aluminium ladders, grip knotted ropes and use tree roots as footholds. There are 21 ladders total. Most hikers say that final kilometre is where the mountain earns its reputation. A lower loop trail of 2.5 km offers an alternative for anyone who wants the rainforest atmosphere without the lung-busting ascent. It's flat, shaded and takes about an hour at a relaxed pace. Good for families or first-time visitors who just want to say they stood at the foot of Santubong. [image: 1782094250331-2_summit_view-resized.jpg] View from the summit — South China Sea and the Kuching coastline The rock itself is part of a sandstone and shale formation that rises directly from the coast. Geologists describe Santubong as part of the same Cretaceous-to-Eocene sedimentary sequence that underlies much of western Sarawak. But locals have a better explanation. The legend goes that two princesses — Puteri Santubong and Puteri Sejinjang — were sent from heaven to help the villagers. Santubong was a master weaver, Sejinjang a rice-pounding expert. They lived peacefully until a quarrel ended with Sejinjang hurling a rice pestle at her sister. Santubong was struck and turned to stone, becoming the mountain. The broken notch on one side is where the pestle hit. Her head split apart and the fragments became the islands that fringe the coast. [image: 1782094250973-5_ropes_ladders-resized.jpg] Ropes and ladders on the final push The practical side matters a lot here. Bring at least 1.5 litres of water per person and proper hiking shoes with aggressive grip — the trail gets slippery in minutes after a rain, and afternoon downpours are common. Most rescues happen on the descent when tired legs meet steep mud. Do not hike alone; a partner makes the dangerous sections safer and the summit photo better. A small park entry fee applies (bring cash) and there is a registration desk at the trailhead. Who should go: anyone with reasonable fitness who wants a genuine rainforest summit experience within easy reach of Kuching. Who should reconsider: anyone with weak knees, fear of heights on ladders, or less than four hours of daylight ahead. The summit opens onto the South China Sea and the entire Kuching coastline — that view is the reward, and it doesn't disappoint. [image: 1782094252040-3_wetlands-resized.jpg] Wetlands and coastline visible from the summit You do not need to be a mountaineer. You do need to respect the mountain's timeline, bring the right shoes and start early. Plenty of people turn back at F7 and still count it as a good morning. That is the honest measure of Santubong — it gives you a clear choice, and both options are valid.

'For the first time in my career, a state government handed me a cheque instead of asking for allocations.' Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim made this remark at the State-level Gawai Dayak 2026 Gala Dinner at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday night, after Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas presented him with a RM1.8 billion cheque from the Sarawak government. The cheque relates to the Bintulu Port regulatory handover — a major MA63 milestone that officially transferred control to Sarawak. Anwar said the gesture proves that when a state is managed well, with competent leadership and sound fiscal governance, it can deliver. He specifically saluted Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his team. He also addressed critics in Peninsular Malaysia who have opposed devolving strategic assets back to East Malaysia under MA63, arguing that Sarawak has developed the institutional maturity to manage major infrastructure on its own. 'Throughout my time leading the government, despite complex negotiations, there has never been a single threat or ultimatum from Sarawak. This is the true spirit of consensus, maturity, and understanding of the Federal Constitution,' he added. Anwar also touched on international diplomacy, revealing that Malaysia secured a 20-year energy supply guarantee from Russia, won the management of Gas Fields 9 and 10 in Turkmenistan through PETRONAS, and that Japan has requested similar long-term gas supply agreements. Location: BCCK, Kuching Details: RM1.8 billion cheque from Sarawak govt; Bintulu Port handover; MA63 progress; PM praises Sarawak leadership Source: DayakDaily What do you think about the progress of MA63 talks?

"Lodge formal complaints" — Mayor Wee Hong Seng says reporting directly to Sarawak Water helps ensure faster action on murky water and supply problems. KUCHING — Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng is urging residents to file formal complaints with Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd whenever they face water supply issues, including murky or yellow water. Speaking during his Facebook live session 'Shall WEE Talk' on Saturday, Wee revealed that Sarawak Water had received 270 complaints as of June 17. "Make a complaint via their website should you need flushing or face any water supply issues," he said. The mayor also noted that Sarawak Water will soon relocate its customer service counter to the Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) Kuching for better accessibility. [image: 1782021752749-murky-water.jpg] File photo: Kitchen sink tap discharging murky water (Borneo Post) Location: Kuching Details: Sarawak Water has received 270 water quality complaints. Public urged to report through proper channels at sarawakwater.com instead of venting on social media. Source: Borneo Post What do you think?

Over 5,000 participants in 114 contingents took over Kuching streets yesterday for the Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak 'Niti Daun' 2026 procession — a spectacular showcase of Dayak culture, heritage, and unity. The 1.2-kilometre stretch from Tun Jugah Shopping Complex to the historic Square Tower came alive with feathers, silver ornaments, and beating gongs under the hot afternoon sun. Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officially flagged off the grand march at 2.45pm, joined by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and his wife Dato Doreen Mayang. https://kuchinghub.com/assets/uploads/files/1782004016898-nitidaun1-resized.jpeg Sarawak Premier Abang Johari leading the Niti Daun cultural march from Tun Jugah to Kuching Waterfront. Before the parade began, a sacred miring and Ngerandang ritual was performed — a Dayak tradition to spiritually cleanse the pathway and invoke blessings. The procession featured: 99 walking groups and 15 intricately decorated cultural floats Warriors from Kelab Gagung Sarawak leading the vanguard Maidens and elders in authentic Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu traditional attire Delegations from DCF, Tun Jugah Foundation, SDNU, DBNA, FORUM, and KDCA https://kuchinghub.com/assets/uploads/files/1782004017322-nitidaun2.jpeg Iban women in full traditional regalia during the Niti Daun parade. This year's theme, "Segulai Sejalai" (Together in Unity), reflected the spirit of togetherness as thousands of onlookers lined the streets, cheering and snapping photos. Float Competition Winners: Champion (RM10,000): Kumpulan Kebudayaan Kampung Gumbang Bau Runner-up (RM5,000): Semban Ring Lady contingent Third (RM3,000): Gabungan Orang Asal Samarahan (GOAS) Consolation (RM1,000 each): Bisaya Gong Orchestra Limbang & ASADIA HQ https://kuchinghub.com/assets/uploads/files/1782004017572-nitidaun3-resized.jpeg Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah presenting prizes to the float competition winners. Deputy Premier Uggah expressed amazement at the diversity on display, noting the emergence of rarely-seen ethnic groups such as the Remun and Tagal communities. "Niti Daun" was historically performed during major Gawai festivals in longhouses across Baleh, Kapit, Batang Ai, and Lubok Antu. Yesterday's parade brought this ancient tradition from the longhouse ruai onto the urban streets of Kuching — a powerful symbol of cultural preservation and evolution. Location: Kuching Waterfront — Tun Jugah to Square Tower Details: Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak Niti Daun 2026 | 114 contingents | 5,000 participants 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?

Kuching shoppers beware — online purchases from a local seller on social media have led to losses exceeding RM80,000, with at least 14 victims reporting they paid but never received their items. The Sarawak Consumers Association (PPS) said it received 14 consumer complaints and one pharmacy complaint as of June 17, linked to a local woman suspected of selling daily necessities — including infant formula, diapers, medicines, and household items — through social media platforms. PPS president Dr Wynson Ong said the total reported losses amounted to RM80,509.98, with more complaints still being verified. According to PPS, some buyers initially received their orders, which built trust and encouraged repeat purchases — especially since the seller offered promotional prices lower than market rates. "However, after several successful transactions, payments were made but the goods were no longer delivered," Ong said. In one case involving a pharmacy, the same individual was alleged to have made an invalid payment by submitting a receipt that didn't reflect the actual payment amount. Ong said the number of complaints shows the matter cannot be taken lightly. "When 14 consumers and a pharmacy are involved, with losses exceeding RM80,000 and potentially reaching hundreds of thousands, this matter cannot be taken lightly." PPS advised shoppers to: Avoid rushing into payments Do not transfer money to personal bank accounts without verifying seller legitimacy Check seller backgrounds Use traceable payment methods The Sarawak Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) is expected to investigate. Anyone with information can contact PPS at 017-7109299. Consumer awareness is the first line of defence against online scams. [image: 1781917505645-scam-warning.jpg] Location: Kuching, Sarawak Details: 14+ victims, RM80,509.98 lost to online shopping scam Source: Borneo Post What do you think? Have you or someone you know encountered this scam?

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?

This is a test.

Sarawak is building the first glass squash court in Borneo — an RM8 million international-standard facility in Kuching. [image: 1781831000916-squash1.jpg] The project was announced by Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu. He said the glass show court will seat around 800 spectators and come with specialist lighting and broadcast facilities. The court is part of Sarawak's preparations to host squash at the 2027 SEA Games. Glass courts have become the norm for international squash tournaments. They offer a better view for spectators and meet requirements for TV broadcasts. "Once this court is completed, it will open up opportunities for Sarawak to host more international-standard squash tournaments," Rentap said. Construction is expected to start after the ongoing Asian Doubles Squash Championship wraps up. The championship is currently being held in Kuching with around 70 players from nine countries. [image: 1781831001125-squash2.jpg] Location: Kuching, Sarawak Budget: RM8 million ️ Capacity: 800 spectators Rentap also highlighted the economic side — international teams coming here to train or compete will give a boost to hotels, food, and local services. Source: Utusan Borneo What do you think — excited for SEA Games 2027?

Discoloured tap water has been reported across several areas in Kuching, but Sarawak Water says the Batu Kitang treatment plant is running fine — the issue is caused by sediment disturbance in the distribution network. Since early June, residents in parts of Kuching Division have been complaining about murky and discoloured water coming from their taps. The issue escalated to the point where SUPP Public Complaints Bureau chairman Milton Foo said he received over 10 complaints in just 24 hours on June 12. [image: 1781762762899-water-tap.jpg] Sarawak Water issued a statement yesterday assuring the public that the Batu Kitang Water Treatment Plant continues to operate normally. The company attributed the discolouration to sediment disturbances within the distribution network, triggered by changes in water flow patterns and ongoing system stabilisation activities. Mitigation efforts have been ongoing since June 6, including intensified flushing operations and field monitoring. Sarawak Water reports that conditions are improving and complaint trends have declined compared to the previous week. The company apologised for the inconvenience and reaffirmed its commitment to restoring water quality to satisfactory levels. Milton Foo had previously called for water quality reports to be released and for clean water supplies to be deployed to affected areas. Borneo Post Location: Multiple areas across Kuching Division Details: Batu Kitang Water Treatment Plant remains operational; discolouration due to sediment disturbance in pipes; flushing operations ongoing Source: Borneo Post What do you think?

[image: 1781744678877-niti-daun-map.png] Heading to the city centre tomorrow or Saturday? Plan your route — 12 roads around Kuching Waterfront will be closed for the Sarawak-level Gawai celebration. The closures are for the 'Niti Daun' programme, part of the Sarawak Gawai 2026 celebration at Kuching Waterfront. Closure schedule: June 19 (Fri): 12pm – 6pm (rehearsal) June 20 (Sat): 10am – 6pm (main event) Affected roads: Lebuh Java, Market Road, Gambier Road, Old Court House Road, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Carpenter Street, Lebuh Wayang, Main Bazaar, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Chan Chin Ann, Jalan Abell, and slip roads near the White Cat statue & Sri Aman roundabout. Police also advise against roadside parking in the affected areas. Traffic Enquiries: Kuching Traffic Division at 082-259900 Source: DayakDaily Plan ahead and avoid the jam! What do you think?

UK Trade Envoy to ASEAN Naz Shah visited Kuching and toured the Borneo Cultures Museum, saying Sarawak has "significant potential" as an international cultural tourism destination. [image: 1781676282296-uk-envoy-kch-resized.jpg] During her visit on Tuesday, Shah was accompanied by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre CEO Prof Dr Patrick Then, and museum curator Yasmin Khalid Nicholls. UK reaffirms commitment to Sarawak Shah said the UK remains committed to strengthening strategic cooperation with Malaysia, particularly Sarawak, and countries across the ASEAN region in trade, investment and tourism. "This has been an incredibly meaningful experience, and I want to share it with people in the UK so that more people can learn about and appreciate what Sarawak has to offer," she said. World-class museum She described the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) as a "world-class institution" that successfully showcases the cultural richness of Sarawak and Borneo to both local and international audiences. "What is displayed here is remarkable and provides a deeper understanding of the people and heritage of Sarawak," she added. Location: Borneo Cultures Museum, Kuching Details: UK reaffirms commitment to deepening ties with Sarawak in trade, investment and tourism Source: Borneo Post Online What do you think of Sarawak's growing international profile?

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?

[image: 1781589903246-bbcon2026.jpg] BBCON 2026 is coming back to Kuching this November, with twice the size and a focus on real-world applications of AI, blockchain and digital tech. The Borneo Blockchain Conference 2026 (BBCON 2026) will take place on Nov 18-19 at voco Hotel Kuching, aiming to attract around 1,500 delegates — up from 600 in its debut last year. Organised by the Kuching Blockchain Technology Association (KBTA), this year’s conference shifts from conceptual discussions to practical implementation. KBTA president Gan Beng Yoke said blockchain is increasingly being recognised for improving transparency, security and trust across banking, healthcare, public services, supply chains and digital identity. Key highlights include keynote presentations, panel discussions, technical sharing sessions, networking opportunities, and startup-investor matching programmes. UiTM Sarawak rector Prof Dr Firdaus Abdullah said the university’s participation will add a strong academic component through research presentations and innovation showcases, aligning with Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030. Location: voco Hotel, Kuching Date: 18-19 November 2026 Details: Panel discussions, startup pitching, networking, research showcases Source: DayakDaily Interested in blockchain or AI? Drop your thoughts 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?