Kuching and Sarawak - A Sparkling History

Sarawak belongs to the island of Borneo and is one of two Malaysian states on the island. Also known as Bumi Kenyalang ("Land of the Hornbills"), Sarawak is situated on the north-west of Borneo. Sarawak is actually the largest state in Malaysia while the second largest is Sabah - the neighboring state.

The capital of Sarawak is Kuching which has a population of around 600,000 people - mostly Malays and Chinese. The name Kuching literally means 'cat' (kucing) in the Malay language, although there are two other lines of thought. Kuching comes from an Indian word which means port; or Kuching comes from Chinese Cantonese word for "old place".

Back in 1841 Borneo was ceded to the British by the then owner and ruler - the Sultanate of Brunei. The new ruler was named James Brooke, who was known as an adventurer of the time. I suspect thats a bit of an understatement. James Brooke helped the Sultanate to over-throw a rebellion, thus gained the lands for himself as a gift. The Brooke family ruled there for almost all of the forth coming 112 years.

Not long after Japan became involved in the Second World War however, they took possession of Borneo in 1941 and it remained under their control until September of 1945. The territory was officially handed back to the British by the Japanese on September 11th, with all papers being signed in Kuching.

The final British ruler of the territory was Sir Charles Vyner Brooke, who took over as Raja on his fathers death in 1917. He "escaped" to Sydney, Australia just before the Japanese invasion and remained there until 1945.

Sarawak became an independent state in 1963, and along with Sabah - its neighbor, and Singapore it joined to form Malaysia. Singapore was then expelled from the Malaysia and became its own Republic, which it still is now. The union between Singapore and the other Malaysian states was rocky from the beginning. Distrust and ideological differences between leaders of the State of Singapore and the federal government of Malaysia resulted in frequent disagreement in politics, economic, financial and social policies.

The conflict spread to the populace, resulting in major racial riots in 1964 in Singapore. In 1965, Malaysia Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman decided upon the secession of Singapore from the Federation, leading to the Independence of Singapore on 9 August 1965.

Highly successful with regards to financial control and extremely low crime rates, its hard to believe that before European rule which began back in the 1600's, Singapore was a simple Malay fishing village.

About the Author

Learn more about the south east island of Malasia and stay in one of the Kuching Hotels. Check out one of the very best hotels at Damai.

Discover a Malaysian Borneo Paradise

Located within the Malay archipelago, Borneo is made up of three different regions: Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. Perhaps the most frequently visited of these is Malaysia, dived into two distinct regions by the South China Sea.

Visitors to Malaysia commonly choose East Malaysia, the larger of the two land masses. The two states of Sabah and Sarawak offer a multitude of attractions to suit any holidaymaker, from diving and off-roading to golf and birdwatching.

Sarawak, the largest, is a nature-lover's heaven. Some of the most breathtaking and rare species in the world are indigenous to this region. Visit Bako National Park, Sarawak's oldest, and see bearded pigs, monitor lizards and over 150 species of birds, all used to people so they're less likely to be hiding from you! Sarawak is also home to several primates; perhaps the best known is the Orangutan, second in size only to the gorilla. At the Semenggok Wildlife Rehabilitation centre visitors can see Orangutans and Gibbons that were orphaned or kept as illegal pets and then abandoned, along with many other species that are victims of the same fate.

Perhaps one of the most unusual of Sarawak's indigenous species is the Proboscis monkey, threatened with extinction because of humans encroaching into the habitat. The monkey, named after its large red nose, can only survive on vegetation found in Borneo, and it is estimated that there may only be around 3000 left in the world. Because of the primate's unusual appearance they are much sought-after by zoos in other parts of the world, but due to their fragility and exclusive diet they cannot thrive outside their natural environment. A visit to Sarawak is the best way to see these highly intriguing creatures safe and happy in their ideal living conditions.

If looking at other species doesn't take your fancy, why not venture into the Mulu Caves; one of the longest cave networks in the world. To give a comparable size, the largest chamber within the underground network can accommodate 40 Boeing 747 aircrafts, while the biggest passage is big enough for five buildings the size of St Paul's Cathedral. Visitors brave enough to be inside the cave at dusk will be witness to millions of bats and swiftlets swarming out for their nightly hunt around the jungle outside the cave entrances.

To truly experience a taste of Malaysia, take a trip around the living museum of the Sarawak Cultural Village. This unique attraction is, as the name suggests, a fully functional village with a population of around 150 people from various ethnic groups prevalent in Malaysia. The residents demonstrate traditional activities and craftwork within their culture, all surrounded by the native structures and dwellings. From Iban longhouses to Chinese farmhouses, the village can give a glimpse into a way of life seldom experienced by anyone in the Western world.

Not to be outdone, the second largest state of Sabah has its own appealing attractions. The Borneo pygmy elephant, the smallest species of elephant, can be found roaming the largest river systems in Borneo. The Kinabatangan River lies in the shadow of the tallest mountain in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu (4101m), and holds dense concentrations of wildlife, crocodiles, otters, elephants, are but a few of the seemingly infinite list of animals that can be found here. If you are extra lucky you might even glimpse the Sumatran Rhinos, a species that until recently was considered extinct in Borneo.

The carnivorous Pitcher Plant is found in Sabah, named because of it's shape; resembling a giant pitcher filled with a sticky, poisonous substance which lures insects and small animals to a slow death. Equally spectacular is the Rafflesia arnoldii bloom - possibly the largest single flower in the world. The reddish-brown flower of this parasitic plant can grow to over 3ft in diameter. The Rafflesia Centre is a research facility dedicated to preserving and studying this unusual flora, which blooms just once a year for 5 days, before wilting and exuding a noxious stench not unlike rotting flesh.

Moving away from stinky plants, Sabah is also a great place if you have your sea-legs. The island of Lankayan is a virtually uninhabited paradise with lush green jungle and pure white sand - and one of the best diving resorts in this part of the world, with 40 different recommended dive sites. The gentle giant whale shark is indigenous to this area, and can usually be indicated by the seabirds lurking above the surface of the Sulu Sea. Fans of marine photography may be lucky enough to get close to this aquatic creature, but be quick pressing the shutter! The Lankayan Wreck is another great dive spot to visit, with a variety of unusual marine life such as the painted frogfish and marbled stingray. Lankayan island accommodation fits in beautifully with the surroundings; compact wooden bungalows which are perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway in a genuine paradise.

Of course, one of the best things about visiting a foreign country is the diversity of food available to sample, and Malaysian Borneo is no exception. It's an amalgam of several ethnicities; Chinese, Indian and of course the native Malays. This cultural melting pot lends itself to one of the world's most varied cuisines, and in addition there are many indigenous ethnic groups which each have their own diet and heritage; the once-fearsome headhunters the Ibans and Muruts, the nomadic sea-faring Bajau and the hospitable Biayuh. Each ethnic group has its own traditions and handicrafts and, as is evident at the Cultural village in Sarawak, are happy to display these to visitors.

If you choose Borneo for your holidays, you'll be plunged into a lush paradise with some of the most spectacular views and wildlife the world has to offer. Discover Borneo travel company offers a wide range of packages to suit every taste, be it diving, rafting or simply soaking up the sun.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jay_Tillotson

National Parks of Sarawak

NATIONAL PARKS OF SARAWAK


Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, is located in eastern part of Malaysia. It lies on the northwest coast of Borneo, which is itself the third largest island in the world. The state is the first choice of wildlife lovers in Malaysia. Forests are the most valuable asset of Sarawak which holds the national parks of the likes of Gunung Mulu, Niah, Bako, Talang Satang, Lambir Hills and Similajau.

Gunung Mulu National Park
Gunung Mulu National Park, the most famous of Sarawak parks, is visited for its clear forest streams, diversity of wildlife and rainforests. However, the topmost among the Gunung Mulu are its large limestone cave systems. The cave system is nothing less than a marvel. The park boasts of the cave systems like Sarawak Chamber, the world's largest natural chamber; Clearwater Cave, the longest cave in Southeast Asia; and Deer Cave, the world's largest cave passage.

Niah National Park
Archaeological assets make Niah National special. The huge cave sheltered humans some 30,000 to 40,000 years ago. The oldest human remains in Southeast Asia have been discovered in Niah National Park. The Painted Cave, bedecked by early humans, is another attraction of Niah Cave. Both the caves have been granted the status of National Historical Monuments by the Malaysian government.

Bako National Park
Bako is just 45 minutes from Kuching, the provincial capital, making it the most accessible among Sarawak parks. For seeing wildlife, it is the best among all parks in Sarawak. One gets plenty of chances to observe and photograph wildlife. For seeing the best of wildlife, you must visit the park at dawn or dusk. There are some very good trails for trekkers. An array of activities makes it among the most popular parks in Sarawak.

Talang Satang National Park
Talang Satang, developed with objective of marine turtle conservation, is the first national park in Sarawak having significant marine landscape. The park is comprised of the islands of Pulau Satang Besar, Pulau Satang Kecil, Pulau Talang-Talang Besar, and Pulau Talang-Talang Kecil. You could visit it some good marine beauty and creatures.

Lambir Hills National Park
Located 30km off Miri town, Lambir has good value for recreational and educational purposes. The park has several good waterfalls, a high tree tower and the trail systems consisting primary, secondary and tertiary trails.

Similajau National Park
Scenic coastal region is what makes Similajau distinct. Located just 30km off Bintulu town, it has several places of tourist interest including Batu Mandi, Selunsur Rapid, Turtle Beach, View Point, Batu Anchau, Golden Beach, Sebubong Pool and the trails.

Dinesh Patairya has been writing on Malaysia Vacations for several online and offline publications for several years. This article is part of his assignment with YourAsianVacations.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dinesh_Patairya

Exploring Borneo Tropical Rainforest

The Tropical Rainforest is earth's most complex biome in terms of both structure and species diversity. It occurs under optimal growing conditions: abundant precipitation and year round warmth. There is no annual rhythm to the forest; rather each species has evolved its own flowering and fruiting seasons. Sunlight is a major limiting factor. A variety of strategies have been successful in the struggle to reach light or to adapt to the low intensity of light beneath the canopy.

The Tropical Rainforest has always been one of the most mysterious and adventurous place to visit. Throughout the whole world, only a few tropical countries are lucky to have tropical rainforest with them, these are Amazon tropical rainforest, Cameroon, Congo, Nigeria, Indonesia and Malaysia.

When travelling in the tropical rainforest, it's adventurous and mysterious; we definitely want to think about our own safety. Amazon and Africa Tropical rainforest system are similar to the one in Malaysia and Indonesia, but for safety reasons, we always encourage visitors or tourists to visit the 3rd largest island in the world - Borneo.

What is in Borneo?
Sarawak in Borneo, the best place in the world for visitors or tourists to explore the wonderful Tropical Rainforest, you get to experience living inside the tropical rainforest, seeing Orang Utan, experience the local tribes and their local cultures and even to experience the tropical rainforest weather.

How to get to Sarawak, Borneo?
Sarawak is part of Malaysia. You can use any airlines to reach the 2nd largest airport in Asia - KLIA, and use either Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia to transit to Kuching, the capital of Sarawak.

How to get around Sarawak, Borneo?
One of the reasons to travel in Sarawak is because of their multi culture, majority of their populations speaks good English. They do have Taxi and public transport, or you can rent a car or even appoint Borneo Explorer Travel Agency to plan everything for you.

Is it safe?
Yes, Sarawak, Malaysia is safe enough for you and your loves one to travel. Remember to ask about the visas before entering the country, read more at the resource box below.

What is the exchange rate?
Currently the exchange rate is around USD 1 = RM 3.2. There are plenty of Banks and legal money changers around town.

How are the hotels and conditions?
Sarawak is one of the best developing states in Malaysia, they are the 2nd most tourists visited state as well. You get to see some big names like Hilton, Holiday Inn, Sheraton, Somerset Gateway etc, they are all rated at 4 stars and above. You also get to enjoy local resorts which is not too far from Kuching at very reasonable price.

What are the attractions in Sarawak, Borneo?
Borneo Sarawak tropical rainforest - The most complex tropical rainforest in the world, very safe for travelers.

Mulu & Niah Cave - One of the world's largest cave systems and one of the oldest known human burial sites in Southeast Asia.

Orangutan Sanctuarys - The orangutans are two species of great apes known for their intelligence, long arms and reddish-brown hair. They can only be found in Borneo Island and Semengok orangutan sanctuarys are the best place in Borneo to watch the semi-wild orangutans.

Bidayuh Longhouse tour - Take a visit to the local tribes, known as the Borneo head hunters, but they stop doing that decades ago, so don't worry about them. Learn their cultural and how they live in the tropical rainforest for centuries.

Satang & Talang Island - Other than the tropical rainforest, Kuching is famous for the beaches, stay in one of the best resorts in Sarawak for a few days before ending the trip in Sarawak. Go explore the turtle conservation and hatchery area, this is one of a few places in the world that allow tourists to visit.

Sea Kayaking, diving or snorkeling - While staying at the resort, always remember to go for sea kayaking or diving. Borneo has always been one of the best place to dive in the world, no shark, warm water, it's just perfect for a romantic, adventurous and mysterious trip.

Who's suitable and is it expensive?
The living standard in Sarawak, Borneo is cheap. You only pay USD0.50 to get a 325 ml of Diet Coke, that's how cheap it is. Anyone is suitable to explore the tropical rainforest in Sarawak. We use romantic, adventurous, mysterious, fun, relaxing to describe Sarawak, Borneo.

Always feel free to browse the link at resource box to see more photos of the tropical rainforest and Sarawak. Plan a trip there and experience the beautiful mysterious tropical rainforest.

Jayden has been living in Borneo for more than 25 years and he has always been sharing Borneo to everyone around the world.

Article by Jayden Yap