UNIT 8 : Cities Of The World

KUCHING, SARAWAK

Kuching is the capital of the East Malaysian state of Sarawak. Kuching is the most populous city in the state of Sarawak and the fourth largest city in Malaysia. Kuching was elevated to city status on 1 August 1988. Within the town, there are several museums such as the well-known Sarawak Museum, Chinese Museum, Cat Museum, and other which are definitely not to be missed when visiting Kuching. Interesting landmarks and sites are the Astana, Fort Margherita, Tua Pek Kong temple and Main Bazaar. The Kuching waterfront, which is really a riverside esplanade, is situated right next to the main hotels and commercial heartland of the city, and offers a pleasant walk in the evening. When you are tired of strolling, the old shops on the opposite side of the waterfront will gladly sell you all manner of' 'antiques' and tradecraft.

Some other interesting areas near the centre of town include Padungan Street, which is the main Chinatown area of the city. Shops here appear virtually unchanged from 20 years ago, and offer fascinating insights into life as it was then. Meanwhile, Carpenter Street and India Street still maintain their olde world charm, though the relentless process of globalisation is slowly encroaching. The old Courthouse building forms the link between Carpenter Street and India Street, and is well worth a quick stroll as you are live the faded colonial splendour. The many well-manicured parks dotted around the city are also great to visit.

Numerous natural attractions including National Parks (notably Bako and Kuching Wetlands National Park)and the Semenggoh Wildlife Center which places an orang utan orphanage and rehabilitation program are also popular attractions. Kuching is also noted for its intense and beautiful sunsets, often complimented by tourists as "one of the most beautiful in the world".

Kuching has a number of notable local dishes served at hawker stalls such as Kuching 'Kolo mee' or 'koh-loh mein', Sarawak Laksa, Tomato Sauce Mee or Tomato Sauce Kuay Teow, Bubor Cha-cha and other. Kuching has some very good local seafood restaurants, often run by the Chinese residents serving prime local shellfish. Prices are usually very reasonable. There are many such establishments in and around the city, most notably along the way to popular seaside resorts located on the island of Santubong.