Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are two of East Malaysia’s great cities – each has its own character and offers much for tourists
Malaysia is a land of many highlights and surprises. Not only does mainland Malaysia offer stunning sights, sounds and flavours but two glittering gems await you on the Malaysian part of Borneo Island – Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.
Tourists often find it difficult to choose which of the two in East Malaysia to visit. We give you some of the highlights to help you to decide.
Eastern Malaysian Paradise
The coastal city of Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of the state of Sabah in East Malaysia, is truly fascinating with its breathtaking natural beauty. It is hard for the visitor to tell that it once had a turbulent past, and was almost destroyed by war on more than one occasion.
Today, Kota Kinabalu is one of the fastest growing cities in Malaysia.
It speaks a modern language with buildings of futuristic design as well as luxury hotels and resorts that are among the best in the world.
Few people know that Kota Kinabalu offers as much for the wealthy perfectionist travelling the globe as for the tourist on a budget. The city is also a popular gateway to exploring the exciting state of Sabah and the island of Borneo.
Breathtaking Kinabalu
Just take a trip to one of the cultural villages just outside the city to catch a glimpse into the soul of Sabah. If you have children, do bring them to see this natural paradise. There is much to see, do and learn.
In Sabah, there are orang utan rehabilitation sanctuaries where you will have the opportunity to encounter these magnificent yet gentle folk of the forest, in their own wild habitat, without any separating bars or divides in between. Your children are sure to be enthralled and excited.
Don’t forget to visit the giant sentinel, Mount Kinabalu, who stands guard over the city and its surroundings.
At over 4,000m in height, this World Heritage wonder is an impressive sight.
Mount Kinabalu is popular with hikers and mountain climbers in the region, and with mystical views and abundant flora and fauna, it’s easy to see why.
Vibrant and Historic Kuching
Kuching, meaning “cat”, is the capital of the state of Sarawak in East Malaysia. It is a vibrant city with a unique character, and its architecture reflects a past that is eventful and fascinating.
The most colourful character in Kuching’s history was James Brook, a British adventurer who helped to suppress a revolt in the mid-19th Century. As his reward, he was made “Rajah” of Sarawak and he chose Kuching as the capital.
The Astana, a palace built by his successor, Charles Brooke, for his wife, is still one of the big tourist draws in the city. While the Astana is not always open to the public, its cultivated gardens are.
Kuching is not all about history though. It is a friendly melting pot of cultures where the visitor will find much to enjoy.
The Foodie Trail
In fact, Kuching is one of the most important food destinations in Malaysia. If you are a foodie, you have much to look forward to.
The traditional food of Sarawak, from various ethnic cultures, is legendary. The variety available is also highly-pleasing. Must-try dishes include Sarawak Kolo Mee and Kuching Laksa, among many others.
When you’re done stuffing yourself with yummy food, you can continue sightseeing.
With such a name, it is not surprising that the city has a very unusual Cat Museum. There are also many incarnations of
its namesake adorning the city.
If you’re the active type and hankering for adventure, you can always climb Mount Santubong. It is about 35km outside of Kuching, and it rises to about 810m. Beware, though, parts of the ascent can be arduous.
So, Kuching or Kota Kinabalu? Why not both?
Please call Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Secretariat at +600388917000 or log on to www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my for more information or enquiries.
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