AUGUST 2022

With a name that sounds similar to the Malay word for cat – hence its nickname, “Cat City” – Kuching is known for its amazing wildlife, cultural relics, heritage food and friendly, laidback atmosphere. And, at only about an hour by plane, it’s a comfortable distance for a weekend away or a short holiday escape. What to See Kuching is home to one of Borneo’s endangered species: the orangutan. Semenggoh Nature Reserve is on most travellers’ itineraries, and it’s not difficult to see why. Take a half-day trip here and you’ll witness semi-wild orangutans at feeding time, including, if you’re lucky, every member of the family, from the domineering adult male to the mother with baby clinging to her body, and the old yet alert grandmother. Did you know that orangutans build a nest on top of a tree, like birds do? Or that when they rest and stretch their Tourists arebeginning to return to the region’s hotspots. Keen for something quieter? As YIMINHUANGdiscovers, Kuching in Sarawak is an enticing alternative.

legs, they can look uncannily human? These are some things you’ll discover in this rare glimpse into their day-to-day life. For more views of animals in their natural habitat, try a wildlife cruise in the Kuching Wetlands National Park. The Mangrove & Irrawaddy Dolphin Watching cruise follows the renowned Santubong River, providing close-up views of the mangrove swamp that’s home to crocodiles, otters, mudskippers, mangrove crabs and more. Keep your eyes peeled for Irrawaddy dolphins, too – the endangered species tends to frolic around fishing boats; they’re tough to spot and even more difficult to capture on camera! For an overview of the city, sign up for the Sarawak River Cruise at sunset. Departing at 5.30pm daily, this boat travels at a much slower pace to give you time to enjoy the golden hour, with a 360-degree panoramic view of the Kuching skyline as it’s bathed in changing colours. You’ll also catch sight of historical landmarks that dot the riverbank, such as the Victorian-era Astana, the State Parliament, stilt homes and house boats.

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AUGUST2022