BorneoTalk

22/11/2024

Pssst...did someone say Christmas 🎄is around the corner?!

The beautiful St. Peter’s Catholic Church by night 🌌🌜 is definitely giving the Christmas vibe.

This stunning Kuching church is almost complete, and with the lights turned on every night, you can now enjoy the beautiful splashes of colour from the stained glass windows from the outside!

Isn’t it just beautiful?! 😍⛪️

P.S stay tuned for a possible Christmas event happening this year 🎅😉

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo Visitors' Information Centre Sarawak

21/11/2024

[HALAL BEEF]
Taste the Excellence: Coorong Black Angus Beef Now in Sarawak! 🥩✨

A culinary revolution is here! The Midfield Group, a name synonymous with premium Australian beef, has joined forces with Supreme Consolidated Resources Berhad to introduce Coorong Black Angus Beef – a feast for the senses that takes beef to a whole new level.

To celebrate this monumental collaboration, a special tasting menu showcased the star cuts of Coorong Black, and oh, what a celebration of flavour it was!

🍴 The Tasting Experience:
From the moment the sizzle hit the grill, it was clear this wasn’t ordinary beef. Each cut offered a journey into the heart of Australian pastures and 100 days of expert grain feeding:
• Short Rib: Slow-cooked to perfection, each bite melted in the mouth with an explosion of rich, smoky flavours that spoke of comfort and tradition.
• Striploin: A tender cut with perfect marbling, seared to bring out its natural juices and a buttery finish that left everyone craving more.
• Ribeye: The crown jewel, with a luxurious balance of fat and meat, delivering a symphony of taste with every bite.

After the tasting menu, we applauded and recognised that Coorong Black offered us a taste of Australia’s finest beef, crafted with care and passion, as quoted by Dean McKenna, Midfield’s representative.

Justin Ho, General Manager of Supreme, expressed his pride: "This tasting marks the beginning of a journey to bring Coorong Black into the hands of chefs and consumers who demand only the best."

🌟 What Makes Coorong Black Special?
✅ 100% Australian Black Angus beef, expertly grain-fed for 100 days.
✅ Exceptional marbling, rich tenderness, and unrivaled flavour.
✅ A testament to sustainability and Australian agricultural heritage.

This collaboration combines Midfield’s expertise in premium beef production with Supreme’s extensive distribution network, and is timely with Christmas coming in just a few weeks, as this makes Coorong Black accessible to chefs, restaurants, and discerning consumers who demand only the best.

Ready to discover the taste of perfection? Let Coorong Black transform your dining experience.

👉 For inquiries and orders:
📧 [email protected]
📞 082-439511
🌐 www.supremegroup.my

21/11/2024

The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Miri City Council (MCC) recently formalised their collaboration for the adoption and maintenance of the Visitor Information Centre Miri Garden (VICM Garden) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership underscores a joint commitment to enhancing Miri's public green spaces and fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The signing ceremony at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Building in Kuching on November 18, 2024 was between Miri Mayor Adam Yii and CEO of STB, Sharzede Datu Hj Salleh Askor. Present to witness the ceremony were Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting, Chairman of STB, Dato Dennis Ngau, MCC Acting City Secretary, Abdul Rahman Taupek, and STB’s Director of Stakeholder Relations, Mary Wan Mering.

The VICM Garden Adoption Program aims to make the garden a community hub, encouraging residents to participate in events and sustainability efforts while bolstering Miri City's reputation as a tourist destination. This collaboration reflects the shared goal of creating more attractive and sustainable public spaces in Sarawak.

The partnership between STB and MCC is expected to bring meaningful benefits, such as increased community involvement in garden activities, a stronger focus on environmental awareness, and improved public amenities.

Miri Mayor Adam Yii stated, “The signing of this MOU between Miri City Council and the Sarawak Tourism Board marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to sustainable goals. This joint effort embodies our dedication to enhancing green spaces and promoting environmental responsibility. We aim to inspire pride within our community and pursue our vision of a Green, Smart, and The Most Liveable International Resort City.”

CEO of STB, Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor echoed this shared vision, saying, “Our collaboration with Miri City Council underscores our commitment to both sustainability and community engagement. By enhancing the VICM Garden as a purposeful asset for community development, we are supporting Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and look forward to its positive impact on both residents and visitors.”

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo Majlis Bandaraya Miri - Rasmi

20/11/2024

Sarawak extended a warm welcome to the inaugural arrival of Coral Geographer, operated by Coral Expeditions from Australia, yesterday on November 19, 2024. The cruise ship carrying 125 passengers, mainly Australians, along with two lecturers and seven expedition crew members, docked at Kuching's port to a vibrant cultural reception and garlanding ceremony.

Passengers embarked on exciting shore excursions designed to showcase Sarawak’s unique attractions. Highlights of the tours included a Kuching City Tour, with visits to the iconic Borneo Cultures Museum, and trips to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, where passengers observed orangutans in their natural habitat. Other activities included birding at Kubah National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity, and an immersive adventure at Bako National Park, famed for its scenic landscapes and wildlife.

Before arriving in Kuching, the Coral Geographer docked in Miri on Sunday, November 17, 2024. Passengers explored the Miri-Sibuti Reef National Park for diving activities and enjoyed visits to Lambir Hills National Park and Niah National Park, which was recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The arrival of the Coral Geographer was facilitated by GAC and Fortune Shipping, ensuring seamless coordination for the passengers’ visit to Sarawak and is scheduled to return to Kuching on December 26, 2024, for a second visit.

This recurring interest from cruise operators highlights the appeal of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and community-driven tourism initiatives. Visitors are treated to authentic experiences that celebrate Sarawak’s CANFF pillars—Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festivals—leaving lasting impressions of this unique destination.

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo

18/11/2024

In case you missed it 👀

The Music & Words 2024 concert saw amazing performances from the Philippine Madrigal Singers and Jehté Chamber Choir ! 🎶

2024 SADA Kenyalang: International Choral Festival / Symposium Kuching City First Choir Association

17/11/2024

The Music and Words 2024 concert returned for its third year yesterday on November 16, 2024 as part of the 2024 SADA Kenyalang: International Choral Festival / Symposium, which took place in Kuching from November 15 to 17, 2024.

Known for bringing global music to Kuching and spotlighting local and regional gems, this year’s M&W24 features internationally acclaimed Philippine Madrigal Singers, in addition to Jehté Chamber Choir , the heart and soul of the Kuching City First Choir Association , The Chung Hua Middle School No.1 Alumni Alumni Choir and Prodigy Music Centre.

The evening was attended by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and wife, Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini Abdul Jabbar, Deputy State Secretary, Datu Hii Chang Kee, Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, CEO of Majlis Seni Sarawak, Dayang Mariana Haji Abang Bolhassan as well as a thousand enthusiastic concertgoers, all gathered in Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

The two-hour concert saw historic performances from both the Jehté Chamber Choir as well as the Philippine Madrigal Singers, as they collaborated on several pieces, including the world premiere of “Pantun Berkasih Sayang”, a unique choral arrangement which preserves the essential elements of bermukun while introducing complex harmonies and interaction between the two choirs.

The 2024 Sada Kenyalang International Choral Festival and Symposium was organized by the Kuching City First Choir Association (KCFCA) along with CHMS1 Alumni Choir in collaboration with Prodigy Music Centre and Hua Xing Choir Society. It is also supported by MTCP and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) and endorsed by the Sarawak Tourism Board.

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo

16/11/2024

Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, Grab collaborates with Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) to donate 500 children’s books as part of the Malaysian region’s Outer Cities Offsite 2024 corporate incentive retreat by Grab Malaysia. This marks Grab Malaysia’s first time hosting a corporate incentive retreat in Sarawak.

The Outer Cities Offsite 2024 brings together 70 Grab employees from Malaysia to strengthen relationships and foster collaboration among team members — many of whom primarily interact virtually. The retreat includes team-building elements, a pickleball workshop, and a friendly match followed by the Kuching City Exploration which takes the team on an adventure through the city’s famed attractions and heritage trails.

In alignment with Grab Malaysia’s commitment to community empowerment, the superapp proudly champions Books Build Legacy, a corporate social responsibility programme by BESarawak. “Books Build Legacy has become a powerful partnership programme to bridge the gap between corporate organisations and the local community—especially marginalised communities,” said Amelia Roziman, CEO of BESarawak.

“It’s important to recognise that the smallest actions lead to larger outcomes. My team and I are very proud to support the Grab Malaysia Outer Cities Offsite 2024 and their mission of empowering people. We hope that more business event planners are inspired to be part of the change.”

Books Build Legacy represents the business events industry’s commitment to ensuring that corporate meetings and incentives, conventions and exhibitions contribute to positive social impact and community development, thus creating a legacy for future generations.

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak

15/11/2024

Hello Christmas! 🎄🎅🏻

Hemisphere Corporation’s range of hotels located in the Kuching city area officially kicks off the jolly season with Christmas tree lighting up ceremonies at the Riverside Majestic Hotel and Grand Margherita Hotel yesterday on November 15, 2024.

We also had the opportunity to preview the hotels’ Christmas Shopping List menu, which is a month-long pre-order menu that is sure to bring some holiday cheer to your dinners at home!

Available from December 1 to 31, 2024, Riverside Majestic Hotel, Riverside Astana and Grand Margherita Hotel will be offering a selection of mains, desserts and a Surprise Box Sandwich, specially prepared by the hotels’ experienced culinary team for the holiday season! All menus are for pre-order 2 days in advance and available for pickup between 11am to 5pm.

Pre-order your Christmas Shopping List today through the Insider’s Club app or contact the respective hotels to make your Christmas more memorable!

Hemisphere Hospitality Hemisphere Wellness Riverside Majestic Hotel Astana Wing Kuching SEDC Sarawak

15/11/2024

Voices in harmony, hearts in unison 🎶🎹

Music & Words 2024 concert is happening this weekend and will feature one of the most awarded choral groups in the world, The Philippine Madrigal Singers! 🤩🎤

📍 : Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK),
🕰️ : 7.30pm (doors open at 7.00pm)
🎫 : Contact +6016 2366788 (Linda Hon) for more details & bookings! Tickets available for walk-in too!

There are only a few tickets left so hurry! Get yours now and don’t miss out! 😱🎤

Who's ready to see The Philippine Madrigal Singers live in Kuching? 🙋🏻‍♀️

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Kuching City First Choir Association 古晋一中校友会 The Chung Hua Middle School No.1 Alumni Association, Kuching. BESarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo Borneo Cultures Museum Imperial Hotel Kuching The Spring

13/11/2024

The Para SUKMA XXI Appreciation Dinner was held yesterday on November 12, 2024 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), to show appreciation to all committees involved in the recently concluded Games, which was hosted by Sarawak in Kuching from September 22 to 28, 2024.

The event was attended by Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak and Minister-in-Charge of Para SUKMA XXI, Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Community Welfare and Para SUKMA XXI Chef-de-Mission, Datuk Mohd Razi Sitam and Deputy State Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of Para SUKMA XXI, Datu Hii Chang Kee and Para SUKMA XXI committee members, volunteers and members of the media.

“Tonight, we celebrate the success that was the 21st Para SUKMA, and the bonds that we have formed along the way. It gives me great joy to see how everyone worked together, not just the athletes, but also everyone behind-the-scenes, government officials, association members and members of the media, to ensure that everything ran smoothly,” said Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan in his speech.

“Our successful hosting of the 21st Para SUKMA make for a valuable experience for us all and gives us room to learn more about hosting large-scale sports events! It gives us an opportunity to learn from our mistakes, strategise better and improve ourselves. As we prepare for the 2026 Para SUKMA, I call for the formation of an OKU Sports Development Unit in my ministry, aggressive and collaborative Talent Identification and Development, Professional Development Courses in Sports Science for coaches and as well as the continuation of exposure programmes in the national and international level for both para-athletes and coaches,” added Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Sarawak, Dato Sri Hajah Fatimah Abdullah.

Besides showing appreciation for everyone involved in the Para Games, the dinner also saw the launching of ‘A Celebration of True Grit – Capturing a Journey of Emotions, Perseverance and Determination Towards Victory’, a coffee-table book which encapsulates Sarawak’s journey towards becoming champions of the 21st Para SUKMA for the 14th time. The evening also saw the prize-giving ceremony of the winners of the Para SUKMA XXI Sarawak 2024 Photography and Videography Contest.

Para SUKMA Sarawak 2024 Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak - MYSED Paralympic Council Malaysia Pusat Kecemerlangan Sukan Paralimpik, Majlis Sukan Negara

09/11/2024

The Sarawak Museum Department has expanded its collection of artifacts with a generous donation of 27 miniature cannons in a symbolic ceremony held at the Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam Hotel in the Netherlands.

The cannons were handed over to Nancy Jolhi, Director of the Sarawak Museum Department, in the presence of distinguished guests Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Deputy Minister for Tourism Sarawak, and Datu Sherrina Hussaini, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts.

The donor, Mr. Peter Hamer, was an engineer and collected these cannons during his time serving with Sarawak Shell Berhad in Miri from 1976 to 1984. Mr. Hamer expressed his desire to return these historical artefacts to Sarawak, where they hold great cultural significance and represent the rich heritage of the region. By donating the cannons to the Sarawak Museum, Mr. Hamer ensures that these valuable artefacts will be preserved and appreciated by future generations in their place of origin.

These miniature cannons, intricately crafted and symbolizing the artistic heritage of Borneo, will now become part of the Sarawak Museum’s esteemed collection, further enhancing its reputation as a global center for cultural and historical artefacts.

For more information, please like and follow the official Facebook: Jabatan Muzium Sarawak & Borneo Cultures Museum or check out the https://museum.sarawak.gov.my

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak

08/11/2024

Muslim-friendly food hunting in Kuching continues as we meet Ah Tan! 👋🏻 Time to fix your craving for Chinese-style Kolo Mee 🍜 and Durian Ais Kacang 🍧

📍Jubilee Ground Hawker Centre (Stall No.5)
🕥 9am - 5pm everyday (closed on Sundays)

Share with us your other favourite places! 🤩

07/11/2024

The Sarawak Museum Department has achieved another milestone in its journey towards becoming a globally recognized institution with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Strategic Partnership with the British Museum, which took place yesterday on November 6, 2024 at the British Museum in London.

This agreement, focused on the study of Borneo and Sarawak artefacts housed in museums across the UK and at the Sarawak Museum, paves the way for enhanced collaboration between the two esteemed institutions and underscores the Sarawak Museum Department’s commitment to building international partnerships that highlight the unique history and heritage of Sarawak.

Read more: https://www.borneotalk.com/post/sarawak-museum-signs-mou-with-british-museum

Jabatan Muzium Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak British Museum

The signing of the MoU with representatives from the Sarawak Museum and British Museum.The Sarawak Museum Department has achieved another milestone in its journey towards becoming a globally recognized institution with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Strategic Partnership with....

06/11/2024

The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) introduced its transformative “Gateway to Borneo” campaign yesterday at the esteemed World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024, which is currently being held at ExCeL London from November 5 to 7, 2024.

The campaign invites global travellers to explore Sarawak’s unique cultures, pristine landscapes and boundless adventures, and marks the state’s refreshed brand as a rising star in sustainable tourism and Gateway to Borneo’s natural wonders and diverse heritage.

STB’s presence at WTM London also underscores Sarawak’s commitment to showcasing its distinct offerings and building strategic partnerships. This year, STB also highlighted four innovative initiatives that capture Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable tourism and diverse travel experiences.

Read more: https://www.borneotalk.com/post/sarawak-launches-4-new-initiatives-at-wtm-london-2024

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo SmartLeisureTravels Sarawak Adventure Challenge World Travel Market - WTM London

Sarawak Tourism Board introduced “Gateway to Borneo” campaign on Nov 5 - 7 at the esteemed World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024.

05/11/2024

Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), in collaboration with Royal Brunei Taiwan recently took part in the Taipei International Travel Fair (ITF) 2024, which was held from November 1 to 4, 2024 at the Nangang Exhibition Center in Taiwan. Attended by over 350,000 people, the event highlighted Sarawak’s diverse tourism pillars, aligning with the Taiwanese preference for authentic cultural experiences and nature-focused holidays.

Sarawak’s distinct travel attractions, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage sites Mulu and Niah National Parks, alongside popular wildlife tours and cultural heritage sites like Sarawak Cultural Village and longhouse stays as well as culinary offerings like Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee.

STB’s booth emphasised all 5 pillars of tourism – Culture, Adventure, Nature, Festivals and Food, offering a well-rounded representation of Sarawak’s natural and cultural riches and drawing Taiwanese tourists looking for immersive travel options. Three Taiwanese travel companies were also at the booth to introduce exclusive travel packages to Sarawak, and Royal Brunei Taiwan further enhanced Sarawak’s appeal by promoting a dual-destination package, where Taiwanese tourists can explore both Kuching and Brunei!

"We are thrilled with the positive response from Taiwanese travellers at ITF 2024," remarked Dylan Redas Noel, STB's Director of Marketing for North Asia and New Markets. "Sarawak's offerings align seamlessly with Taiwan's market preferences, and we are confident that the enthusiasm generated will increase Taiwanese visitor arrivals."

Earlier in 2024, a successful B2B session in Taipei and Taichung increased Taiwanese visitor interest, positioning Taiwan as one of Sarawak's top 10 markets. With Taiwan's outbound travel rising, STB is committed to enhancing its regional presence and providing Taiwanese travellers unforgettable Sarawak experiences.

The Taipei International Travel Fair, showcasing 1,500 booths from 111 countries alongside prominent Taiwanese travel agencies, hotels, airlines, and attractions, remains a premier platform for global travel. STB's participation highlights its commitment to engaging this growing market and positioning Sarawak as a top holiday destination.

Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo Taiwan Tourism MY Tour Taiwan - Taiwan Tourism Administration Mulu World Heritage Area - National Park Niah National Park

05/11/2024

Another Sarawak artifact returns home 💗

Yesterday on November 4, 2024, the ceremony for the return of the Kenyah-Badeng sunhat was held at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford, England and represents the restoration of history, dignity and identity for the Kenyah-Badeng community in Belaga, Sarawak.

The sunhat, which was acquired in 1923 by the museum, is crafted from bamboo and adorned with intricate motifs that symbolizes nobility and protection from evil and was taken during a punitive war expedition led by Brooke in 1895 and 1896. The return of the sunhat signifies more than the restoration of a cultural object – it symbolises the evolving role of museums in the 21st century.

This is Sarawak’s second repatriation after the Niah bone fragments, which was returned to the Sarawak Museum on March 6, 2020. This is a major focus in the museum world, where museums will now be seen as active agents in healing historical wounds, fostering meaningful dialogue and amplifying the voices of communities whose stories were once marginalized.

The ceremony was witnessed by the Deputy Minister of Tourism Sarawak, Datuk Sebastian Ting, Head of Gardens, Libraries & Museums (GLAM), Richard Ovenden, Director of the Pitt Rivers Museum and Professor of Museum Studies, Ethics and Material Culture at the University of Oxford, Prof. Dr. Laura Van Broekhoven, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), Datu Sherrina Hussaini, Director of the Sarawak Museum Department, Nancy Jolhi, Associate Research Fellow at the Institute of Borneo Studies, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Datin Dr. Valerie Mashman, Special Administrative Officer to the Minister, Datu Rashidah Haji Bolhassan, President of Kenyah-Badeng Association (KEBANA), Hilary Samah Tet, MTCP Head of Tourism Section, Dr Suzie Lim Swee Yian and other officers from the Ministry and Museum Department.

Jabatan Muzium Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Borneo Cultures Museum

04/11/2024

POV : Spectators vs rowers 🛶🤩
Whose POV do you want to be on?

📸 Tt: amirulis, nazrulhamdan

04/11/2024

Puteri Dang Balai Yayasan Sarawak made waves at the Sarawak Regatta 2024, which concluded yesterday, when they clinched the coveted ‘Raja Sungai’ (King of the River) title for the third year running. Their boat crossed the finish line just a second ahead of Landas Azam Kasihnya Warisan 1, who had to settle for second place.

The regatta drew an enthusiastic crowd along the Kuching waterfront, undeterred by the rain earlier in the afternoon. Present to grace the event was royal guest, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, alongside His Excellency The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, and the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg.

Puteri Dang Balai, whose paddlers were mostly from Kampung Sungai Ladong and Kampung Tebelu, shone among 15 strong contenders in the 30-Paddler Men’s Bidar category to take home the RM30,000 prize and the prestigious TYT Cup, and of course the coveted title of Raja Sungai.

Different from the previous years, this time the Raja Sungai category was open exclusively to local participants.


Regatta Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Sarawak Travel, Malaysia, Borneo Kuching Waterfront Precinct