The name Sarawak is closely connected with the island of Borneo – a name full of secrets and mysteries. Many generations of adventurers came to Borneo not only to discover its secrets and conduct research but also to conquer the land.

Sarawak is the largest of Malaysia’s state and three quarters is covered by rich green vegetation teeming with life. This enchanting state of Malaysia is endowed with the world’s richest and most diverse ecosystem. Sarawak’s ancient rainforest canopies houses the world’s largest flower – the Rafflesia, bizarre pitcher plants and countless species of flora and fauna.

Sarawak is a land of colourful cultures boasting 27 ethnic groups, 45 languages and dialects. About 30% of Sarawak’s population is Iban another 30% Chinese, 21% Malay and the remaining 20% is made up of various other tribal groups. These groups include the Bidayuh, Melanau, Kedayan, Murut, Bisayah, Berawan and the nomadic Penan. Besides these, there are also Kenyah, Kayan and Kelabit, collectively known as the Orang Ulu (“the Upriver People”).

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 travellers 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.

At present, ten national parks and two wildlife centres have been set aside to preserve examples of the variety of landscapes, forest types, plants and animals that make Sarawak unique.  The largest and the best known of these national parks is the Mulu Caves National park, which is the home of the spectacular Sarawak Chamber and Gunung Mulu Mountain soaring 2,375 meters up through the rainforest.

A maze of limestone caves houses the largest rock chamber on earth (Sarawak Chamber) and the longest cave system in Southeast Asia (Clearwater Cave). With only 30% of the caves being explored so far, Mulu National Park is still there to be discovered. Mulu National Park alone supports 1,500 species of flowering plants, species of mammals and 26662 types of birds and the list grows as new species are discovered every year. Other national parks located in Miri area are Niah Caves National Park – where the oldest modern human being civilization remains was discovered and the Lambir Water Fall National Park – a haven for nature lovers.

Time:  GMT + 8

Climate: Equatorial/Tropical, with average temperature of 32 degrees Centigrade at lowlands and on the highlands 21 degree Centigrade throughout the year.

Customs:  There is no duty-free allowance for visitors arriving from Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak or Singapore.  Weapons and walkie-talkies are prohibited, while possession of narcotics and other illegal drugs carries the death sentence.  Firearms are subject to licensing.

Visa:  Citizens from North Korea, Cuba, Vietnam and the People’s Republic of China are required to have a visa to visit Malaysia.  Nationals other than those stated are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month.  However, it is recommended that visa enquiries are made at the Malaysian embassy or Malaysian consulate closest t you, as regulations are subject to change. 

Currency: Malaysian currency is in Ringgit (RM) and sen.

A resident/non-resident is permitted to carry into and out of Malaysia, ringgit notes not exceeding RM1, 000.  A resident is permitted to carry out of Malaysia foreign currency incuding travellers’s cheques not exceeding RM10, 000.  A non-resident is permitted to carry out of Malaysia foreign currency including travellers’s cheques not exceeding the amount brought in.  Should you need to carry currency in excess of the permitted limits, prior written permission must be obtained from The Director, Exchange Control Department, Bank Negara Malaysia.

Credit Cards: Hotel, department stores and other major establishments generally accept major credit and charge cards – Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club.

Language: Bahasa Malaysia is the national language but English is widely used. Mandarin and a number of other local dialects are also spoken.

Clothing: Light clothing is advisable, as the climate is generally warm and humid.

Religion:  Islam is the official religion but there is a freedom of worship

Electricity:  Malaysian electricity voltage is on a 240 volt 50 cycle system.

Health:  Yellow fever is the only vaccination requirements to those from infected areas.  Cholera, smallpox and malaria have largely been eliminated.  Those who are visiting the remote villages are advised to take malaria prophylactics, prior to their visit to Malaysia.