'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?

The Astana first appears as a white shape across the Sarawak River, so I would treat it as a view with a story—not promise a palace tour that does not exist. Start on the Kuching Waterfront near sunset, when the river separates the public promenade from the Governor’s residence and makes the old power geography easy to read. Charles Brooke built the house in 1870 as a wedding gift for Margaret Alice Lili de Windt. That private beginning matters: the building was not simply an administrative block, but a family home for the second White Rajah and his Ranee. Margaret later wrote My Life in Sarawak, giving the residence a personal voice that is easy to lose when it is reduced to a white colonial façade. [image: 1782007410756-1_astana_front-resized.jpg] View from the Waterfront — classic white colonial architecture Before bridges joined the riverbanks, the crossing was by small boat. The Astana’s position opposite the old town therefore tells two stories at once: it was an elite residence separated from the trading waterfront, yet it remained tied to the river traffic that made Kuching work. A short boat ride may be available for the gardens when the service is operating, but access, fare and landing arrangements can change; the main residence is not open for ordinary public visits. [image: 1782007427520-2_astana_wide.jpg] Front view with lush green lawn I would allow 20–40 minutes for the opposite-bank view, or pair it with Main Bazaar, Darul Hana Bridge and the Waterfront for a fuller heritage walk. The Astana suits travellers who enjoy architecture, river history and a strong exterior photograph. It will disappoint anyone expecting rooms, exhibitions or a guaranteed garden admission, so check the latest public notice or boat operator before planning a crossing and do not rely on an old RM1 reference. [image: 1782007428162-3_astana_panoramio-resized.jpg] The Astana sitting gracefully by the Sarawak River The best route is simple: walk the south-bank promenade in daylight, pause when the white building catches the evening light, then continue to the bridge or return through the old town for dinner. E-hailing is easier than searching for parking during events, and the riverfront is exposed to sudden rain. Night lighting can be attractive, but it is not a fixed promise—weather, civic events and maintenance can change what you see. [image: 1782007428710-4_astana_bangunan-resized.jpg] Close-up of the building details The Astana earns a place in a Kuching itinerary because its distance is part of the meaning: a palace seen across the same river that carried trade, people and political change. If you want an indoor attraction, choose a museum instead; if you like a quiet historical pause and understand the boundary between viewing and entering, this is a rewarding short stop.

古晋河滨公园对岸那栋白色建筑，最适合当成一段隔着河阅读的历史，而不是一场可以随时进去参观的皇宫之旅。傍晚从河滨步道出发，先看 Astana 如何和旧城隔水相望，再决定要不要把它排进更长的老城路线。 Astana 建于1870年，是第二代白拉者 Charles Brooke 送给妻子 Margaret Alice Lili de Windt 的结婚礼物。这个起点让它不只是白色殖民建筑：它曾经是白拉者和 Ranee 的家庭居所，而 Margaret 后来写下《My Life in Sarawak》，为这栋房子留下比较少见的私人视角。 [image: 1782007410756-1_astana_front-resized.jpg] 从河滨公园望向 Astana，经典的白色殖民建筑 在桥梁出现以前，两岸靠小船往来。Astana 的位置因此很有意思：它一方面代表与贸易河岸分开的权力空间，另一方面又离不开让古晋运作起来的河流交通。若渡船服务当日开放，游客可能可以短程过河看花园，但船班、收费和登陆安排都会变，官邸主楼则不对一般公众开放。出发前要看最新公共通知或直接问船家，别把旧资料里的 RM1 当成现况。 [image: 1782007427520-2_astana_wide.jpg] Astana 正面视角，绿草如茵 我会为对岸观景预留20至40分钟，再把 Main Bazaar、Darul Hana Bridge 和河滨公园接成一条文化路线。喜欢建筑、河流历史和安静拍照的人会觉得刚好；期待入内看房间、展览，或期待花园一定开放的人，可能会失望。Astana 的价值在于理解边界，而不是假装这里是普通博物馆。 [image: 1782007428162-3_astana_panoramio-resized.jpg] 从不同角度看 Astana，坐落在砂拉越河畔 最顺的走法是白天沿南岸慢走，等白色建筑接住傍晚光线，再继续过桥或回老城吃饭。活动时段叫车通常比找停车位轻松；河边无遮蔽，阵雨也来得快。夜间灯光有时很漂亮，但会受天气、公共活动和维修影响，不能当成固定节目。 [image: 1782007428710-4_astana_bangunan-resized.jpg] 建筑细节近距离拍摄 Astana 值得放进古晋路线，是因为它隔着同一条曾经运送货物、人和政治变化的河流，让历史保持一点距离。若你想进室内慢慢看，改排博物馆；若你喜欢在老城散步中停下来读一栋建筑，这里会是很好的短暂停顿。

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?

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?

Jong’s Crocodile Farm & Recreation Park begins as a family day trip with a simple question: how close can you safely stand to an animal that looks still until feeding time? The answer is a Siburan drive, not a city-centre walk. [image: 1781662025150-croc_1_pool.png] Source: Crocodile enclosure at Jong's Crocodile Farm [image: 1781662025252-croc_2_feeding.jpg] Source: Feeding show in action [image: 1781662025354-croc_3_entrance.jpg] Source: Close-up of a massive saltwater crocodile [image: 1781662025455-croc_4_big.jpg] Source: Jong's Crocodile Farm entrance The place is distinctive because the crocodile collection is the main landscape, from young animals to large saltwater crocodiles, while the compact recreation park adds monkeys, birds, snakes and monitor lizards around it. Feeding turns the calm ponds into a lesson in speed and instinct; it is the moment that explains why this is more than a photo stop. The enclosure-and-show format also makes the attraction feel different from a general zoo, though visitors should follow barriers and staff directions closely. I would allow 1–2 hours and drive or arrange a return ride, leaving time for the Siburan traffic. Plan around the feeding session only after checking the day’s timetable at the counter—old listings and prices are not a promise. Wear comfortable shoes, keep children close, and do not treat the fences as a photo prop. Weather, maintenance and animal-care routines can change what is open. Families, first-time wildlife visitors and anyone curious about crocodile behaviour will get a clear reason to make the trip. People looking for a polished air-conditioned museum, a quiet animal sanctuary or a guaranteed show may be happier elsewhere. I would pair it with another Padawan-side stop only if the return drive remains comfortable; the farm works best when visitors give the animals attention, not when they rush through for one dramatic snap.

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?

Siniawan makes more sense when you arrive before dinner. In daylight the old timber shopfronts still read as a town street; after sunset, tables, smoke and red lanterns turn that same road into a weekend gathering. I would drive out from Kuching for that change of pace, not for a promise that one stall is always the best. [image: 1781575523887-1-tripadvisor.jpg] Source: Tripadvisor The place-specific story is the street itself. Siniawan's night market uses an existing old-town row as its room, so food stalls share the road with working shops, residents and the traces of a river-and-trading settlement. Dishes associated with the market—pitcher-plant rice, Hakka cooking, grilled food and snacks—make the evening feel local, but the setting matters as much as the plate. [image: 1781575524135-2-amazingborneo-1.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo My route would be simple: walk the street once, see which stalls are cooking that night, then share a few portions instead of committing to a single queue. Arrive in late afternoon for the wooden façades and stay as the lanterns come on. Ask before photographing stallholders or diners, and remember that a crowded road is still part of a community, not a private photo set. [image: 1781575524381-3-amazingborneo-2.jpg] Source: Amazing Borneo From Kuching, allow about 30–45 minutes by car depending on traffic, and plan the return before the last table is cleared. Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings are the usual market rhythm, but rain, local events, vendor schedules and road conditions can alter it. Bring cash, water and an umbrella; parking is easier before peak dinner time, and e-hailing availability may thin later at night. [image: 1781575524587-4-borneotravel-1.jpg] Source: Borneo Travel Network Food-curious visitors who enjoy atmosphere and a short regional drive will find the detour worthwhile. Anyone seeking air-conditioning, a quiet seated restaurant or a guaranteed dish may prefer to stay in the city. Siniawan earns its place by letting an old street change character in front of you—arrive early enough to notice both versions.

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?

Over 10,000 people turned up for MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 in Kuching, turning the venue into a sea of green. [image: 1781485658966-milo_crowd.jpg] The Sarawak stop of the nationwide event was held yesterday (June 14) and drew families, school groups and community members from all walks of life — from Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Orang Ulu, Malay and Chinese communities. Beyond the 3km fun run and activity booths, what stood out was how deeply MILO is woven into local family life. "We grew up with MILO, and now our kids are carrying on the tradition," said one participant. Sarawak South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the turnout reflected both cultural unity and shared lifestyle habits among Sarawak's diverse communities. [image: 1781485659071-milo_stage.jpg] The event also featured fitness challenges, interactive booths and educational activities under the Nestlé for Healthier Kids programme, promoting balanced nutrition through Malaysia's "Suku-Suku Separuh" concept. Following stops in Sabah and Terengganu, the MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 tour continues to Kuantan, Kelantan, before wrapping up in Putrajaya on July 12. Location: Kuching Details: MILO Malaysia Breakfast Day 2026 drew 10,000 participants from Sarawak's multi-ethnic communities for a day of fitness, family and breakfast traditions. Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

[image: 1781416938573-scam-alert.jpg] A 79-year-old man in Kuching lost over RM9 million after falling for a fake share investment and IPO scam — and only got RM1,000 back. The victim was approached by a suspect at Jalan Pending back in January 2026 and was offered a chance to invest in shares and IPOs through a platform called "TBGIA". Trusting the offer, he made 27 transfers into nine different bank accounts. The total amount? RM9,082,000. He only received RM1,000 in returns. Kuching District Police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the victim realised he had been scammed when he couldn't withdraw his "investment" or the profits shown in the TBGIA app. The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code. Location: Jalan Pending, Kuching Details: 27 transactions, 9 bank accounts, RM9.08M lost Source: DayakDaily ️ Police advise the public to verify investment companies through Bank Negara Malaysia and Securities Commission Malaysia lists, and to use the Check Scammers CCID app or Semak Mule portal before making any transfers. What do you think?

Annah Rais is the kind of place I would leave a whole morning for, not squeeze between two city cafés. The road from Kuching climbs past Batu Kitang into the hills, and the reason to keep going is not a staged “cultural village”: it is a living Bidayuh longhouse whose shared architecture still shapes how visitors move through the place. [image: 1781402587113-annah_rais_01.jpg] Source: Annah Rais Longhouse exterior The longhouse story is unusually easy to see. Annah Rais is described as more than two centuries old, while the awah—the long open corridor—works as the social spine between family rooms. That makes the building itself the exhibit: a raised timber community, not a row of separate museum rooms. The nearby river, forest and hill road explain why this is best treated as a settlement connected to its landscape. [image: 1781402587354-annah_rais_02.jpg] Source: The central corridor (awah) I would arrive in daylight, walk slowly, and ask before entering private areas or photographing residents. Day visits can be brief, but a homestay or arranged meal turns the route into a longer cultural exchange; tuak, bamboo-cooked food, craft demonstrations and short nature walks may depend on the host and the day. Nobody should arrive expecting a guaranteed performance or a theme-park timetable. [image: 1781402587545-annah_rais_03.jpg] Source: Inside the longhouse Allow roughly 1–1.5 hours from central Kuching by car, longer if rain slows the hill roads, and arrange the return journey before going. Fees, homestay packages, guides and which activities are available can change, so confirm with the community or current listing. Wear shoes for uneven ground, bring repellent and keep a little flexibility for weather. The road distance is the price of reaching a place where ordinary life is the point. [image: 1781402587755-annah_rais_04.jpg] Source: Scenery around the longhouse Travellers who want a respectful, community-based Bidayuh encounter will find more here than a quick photo stop. Those wanting a polished visitor centre, fixed show times or guaranteed food may be disappointed. I would come with time, quiet manners and no expectation that residents owe the camera a performance; that is what lets the longhouse remain a home rather than become another backdrop.

College students rescued a toddler found wandering alone along a dark roadside in Kota Samarahan at 2am on Saturday — now under police investigation. A three-year-old girl was discovered alone in the Taman Berlian commercial area early Saturday morning by several college students. The students, who were heading home on a motorcycle after eating at a nearby eatery, noticed the child waving for help and turned back to check on her. They found the toddler clutching a feeding bottle, a blue towel, and a small beaded basket, crying for her mother. Samarahan District Acting Police Chief DSP Barry William confirmed the case, stating that investigators have since located the child's family and are actively recording statements. "The investigation is underway to determine the circumstances that led to the child being left unattended near a major roadway," he said. The toddler was initially taken to the Samarahan District Police Headquarters before being referred to Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) for assessment. Medical staff confirmed she remains under observation as a precaution. Welfare authorities have also been notified and are monitoring the case alongside police. Location: Taman Berlian, Kota Samarahan Details: 3yo child found alone at 2am; rescued by college students; police investigating Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Sarawak's internet coverage has jumped from 54.3% to 94.5% in just four years, driven by a RM2.3 billion state-led telecommunications infrastructure push under the Saluran initiative. Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi announced the milestone at the Sacofa Client Networking Hi-Tea 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, highlighting that the achievement reflects strong collaboration between government agencies, telcos and infrastructure partners. [image: 1781330767828-sarawak-internet.jpg] Key Numbers RM2.3 billion invested under Saluran initiative 94.5% internet coverage — up from 54.3% in 2022 618 telecom towers built under SMART Project (incl. 17 relay towers) 636 towers completed under federal JENDELA Phase 1 337 more sites identified for JENDELA Phase 2 (starting Q4 2026) ~50,000 households connected via MySRBN fixed wireless and fibre ~250 rural locations served by WiFi Saluran satellite internet 12,000km fibre optic infrastructure statewide 1,680 telecom towers managed by Sacofa The SMART Project is a key pillar of Saluran, targeting rural and remote areas that previously had little to no connectivity. Julaihi said Sarawak is also looking beyond telecoms — with plans to establish a state space agency and aerospace advisory council. Location: Sarawak (statewide) Details: Minister Julaihi Narawi at Sacofa event, KL Source: DayakDaily | Borneo Post Still waiting for fibre in your area? How's your connection?

[image: 1781312721319-repair-scam.jpg] If a Facebook ad offers cheap home repairs with free inspection — think twice. Victims across Sarawak are losing thousands. The Sarawak Consumers Association (PPS) has sounded the alarm after receiving complaints from Kuching, Sibu, Miri and Bintulu about a suspected scam syndicate operating through Facebook ads. The modus operandi? Ads offering free inspection and home repairs. Workers show up, do substandard or irrelevant work, pressure victims into paying via personal bank accounts — then disappear. The original problem remains unfixed. Reported losses: Kuching: RM3,000 – RM4,200 Sibu: RM5,400 Miri: RM2,700 Bintulu: RM5,600 The workers are reportedly Chinese nationals. PPS has raised concerns over possible immigration law violations and public safety risks. "We are not talking about isolated incidents anymore. Victims from several divisions — even Peninsular Malaysia — have come forward with nearly identical stories," said PPS president Dr Wynson Ong. Some victims have filed police reports, but the cases were not classified as fraud since the workers physically showed up and did some work. Tips to stay safe: Verify the company's business address and license Never pay via personal bank accounts Get a written quote before any work starts If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is If you have been a victim, file a police report and contact PPS at 017-710 9299. Source: DayakDaily | Borneo Post Share this with your family and friends!