Opening Hours
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Opened everyday, including Public Holiday.
Telephone No.
- (6082) 846 108
- (6082) 846 078
Parking Tips
- Free parking. Ample parking space available.
Location
- Sarawak Cultural Village Sdn. Bhd. 201801047041 (1309073-M) Pantai Damai, Santubong, P.O.Box 2632, 93752 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
About Sarawak Cultural Village
- Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Sarawak Cultural Village or Kampung Budaya Sarawak presents itself as an unparalleled ‘living museum’, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Santubong and spread across 17 lush acres. Celebrated as a multiple-time winner of tourism awards, this village serves as a vibrant gateway to the diverse cultures, historical depth, architectural marvels, and lifestyle of Sarawak. It’s a melting pot where education meets entertainment, offering visitors a unique cultural journey.
- For those who dream of exploring every corner of Sarawak but find themselves limited by time or resources, this village acts as the ultimate destination in Malaysia, encapsulating the region’s rich cultural tapestry. Within its confines lie meticulously crafted replicas of traditional homes from 7 of Sarawak’s major ethnic communities. Each home is adorned with authentic decorations and manned by local individuals, clad in traditional garb, who bring the culture and customs of their communities to life through engaging storytelling.
12 Best Reviews of Sarawak Cultural Village
Read our 12 best reviews of Sarawak Cultural Village, one of the best things to do in Sarawak that might help to guide your next café exploration adventure.
Exploring the Bidayuh Longhouse
Step into the heart of Sarawak’s rich cultural tapestry at the Bidayuh Longhouse, where the air vibrates with the sounds of clanging gongs and war drums, creating an immersive welcome.
- This architectural marvel, constructed entirely from bamboo, showcases the ingenuity of the Bidayuh people, featuring everything from intricately carved decor to functional bamboo-made plumbing, musical instruments, bridges, flooring walls and even a bamboo rice cooker.
- The centerpiece, known as the Barok, is a rounded head-house adorned with bamboo carvings, serving as a communal gathering spot for the Bidayuh warriors. It’s a treasure trove of cultural artifacts, including gongs, war drums, traditional weapons, and wooden masks.
- Here, visitors are invited to dive into the rhythm of rural Bidayuh life by engaging in activities such as sugar cane crushing, paddy pounding, and rice winnowing, or simply observing a master bamboo craftsman at work.
The Bidayuh Longhouse, home to the diverse Bidayuh clans like Jagoi, Biatah, Bukar-Sadong, Selakau, and Lara, offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant daily life and rich heritage of one of Sarawak’s major ethnic groups.
Discovering the Iban Longhouse
Iban Longhouse is an architectural gem crafted from axe-hewn timber, bound with creeper fibre, and topped with a leaf-thatch roof.
- Here, visitors can have the experience of ascending a notched log staircase to enter the open verandah of the Iban Longhouse and be enveloped in the lively essence of the Iban community, where the air resonates with the sounds of drums and gongs.
- Visitors will next discover a space adorned with Pua weaving, Kuih Jala, Kuih Chap, and historically significant hanging skulls that whisper tales from the past.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to taste tuak, the cherished local rice wine, offering a sip of Iban tradition.
- Within these walls, visitors also can immerse themselves in the cultural depth of the Iban ethnic as they witness a warrior’s war dance, observe the meticulous art of Pua Kumbu weaving by the women, and possibly even enjoy a moment of conversation seated on a mat beside the longhouse elder.
The Iban Longhouse in Sarawak Cultural Village is not just a visit but an entry into the heart of Iban culture, traditions, and a bygone era kept alive through stories, dance, and craftsmanship.
Venturing into the Penan Hut
Nestled within the Sarawak Cultural Village, the Penan Hut serves as a portal to the world of Sarawak’s last nomadic hunter-gatherers.
- Here, visitors gain rare insight into the Penans’ profound bond with the forest, reflected in their exceptional skill in crafting blowpipes and designing ingenious animal traps.
- The exhibits that demonstrate the meticulous process of creating these traditional weapons and traps, emphasizes the Penans’ deep-rooted knowledge and respect for their natural environment.
- Visitors can get a hands-on experience in blowpipe shooting. Under the guidance of Penan warriors, who share their wisdom—”Do not blow from your mouth. Blow from your chest and your stomach.”—visitors experience the essence of Penan hunting techniques.
- The Penan Hut experience is further enriched by watching the women weave elaborate mats and baskets, each piece a testament to the intricate craftsmanship passed through generations.
- Constructed adjacent to abundant wild sago palms—the staple food of the Penans— this temporary Penan shelters exemplify the tribe’s nomadic lifestyle, moving in harmony with the cycles of nature.
The Penan Hut at Sarawak Cultural Village invites guests to immerse themselves in the enduring legacy of the Penans, offering a deeply educational journey into the lives of Sarawak’s last forest nomads, through their artistry, survival skills, and harmonious living with the earth.
Orang Ulu Longhouse: A Symphony of Culture and Craftsmanship
Step into the world of the Orang Ulu—comprising the Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, and Lun Bawang—at their remarkable Longhouse, a sanctuary elevated above the ground, nestled within Sarawak Cultural Village’s verdant tropical embrace.
- Known for their refined and peaceful nature, the Orang Ulu community welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in their rich heritage of handicrafts, songs, music and dances.
- The Longhouse’s verandah, with its stunning wood carvings and vibrant ‘tree of life’ murals, offers a serene spot to revel in the delicate strains of the sape and Jatung Utang, traditional stringed musical instruments that echo the soul of their culture.
- Here, visitors may engaged in meaningful conversations with the Orang Ulu women, who, with nimble fingers, weave intricate beadwork patterns, a showcasing their exceptional artistic mastery.
- This immersive experience is complemented by an exploration of their unique cultural practices, including the art of body tattooing, the craftsmanship of the Parang Ilang (a traditional fighting sword), and the symbolism of the Kelireng (totem pole).
The Orang Ulu Longhouse is not just an architectural wonder but a living museum where the gentle, harmonious lifestyle of its people is palpable in every melody, craft, and story shared. It stands as a vivid, interactive canvas that captures the essence of the Orang Ulu’s gentle grace, making it an unmissable experience at the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Melanau Tall House: A Glimpse into Sky-High Living
Step into the world of the Melanau people at their breathtaking Tall House, soaring forty feet above ground to safeguard against historical pirate threats as they lived near the sea.
- Ascend the initial staircase to discover the first level, where Melanau daily tools and utensils are proudly displayed, offering insight into their daily lives.
- A second climb reveals bedroom models, providing a peek into private Melanau living spaces. Be captivated by enchanting stories of spirits and demons that echo through the tall structure, enriching your visit with folklore.
- Don’t miss the mesmerizing Belum carvings, crafted to protect against illness, adding a mystical aura to the surroundings. Experience the traditional process of making sago, from start to delicious finish, with an opportunity to sample sago pearls and biscuits.
- For an added thrill, try the Tibau, a towering swing integral to Melanau fertility rituals, offering a unique cultural experience.
The Melanau Tall House stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and inventive spirit of the Melanau people, making it a must-visit for those exploring Sarawak Cultural Village.
Malay House: A Glimpse into Graceful Living
Step into the serene world of the Malay House, a masterpiece of design harmoniously blending with the tropical climate.
- Elevated on stilts and accessible via a beautifully crafted staircase, this house welcomes visitors into its airy front room reserved for men, special occasions, and guest entertainment.
- Its smart architectural features, like floor-level windows, ensure a comfortable breeze circulates, enhancing the living space’s natural cooling.
- Adorned with meticulous artistry, the stair and window railings, fascia boards under the eaves, and ventilation grills showcase the rich cultural heritage embedded in every corner.
- Here, visitors are encouraged to partake in traditional Malay games such as Gasing (top spinning) and Congkak (a strategic board game), providing a fun-filled glimpse into age-old pastimes.
- Furthermore, visitors have the unique opportunity to delve into the customs surrounding a Malay wedding, observing the intricate preparations and traditional potions or medicines crafted by the house’s women.
The Malay House is not just a structure; it’s an experience, offering a peaceful retreat into the elegance and hospitality that define Malay culture, making it an essential visit within the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Chinese Farmhouse and Pavilion: A Glimpse into Traditional Chinese Life
The Chinese Farmhouse and Pavilion at Sarawak Cultural Village is distinctively built at ground level for a deeper connection with the earth. The doorway, adorned with strips of red paper bearing protective verses, welcomes visitors into a realm of traditional living. The farmhouse, characterized by trodden earth floors, whitewashed sawn timber walls, and a leaf-thatched attap roof, encapsulates the essence of rural Chinese architecture.
- The house consists of two primary sections: the main room and the bedroom. A prominent feature of the main room is the family shrine, a central point of spiritual significance.
- Surrounding the dwelling, the pepper and vegetable gardens offer visitors hands-on experiences, such as observing a traditional hand-driven rice mill and understanding the intricate process of preparing birds’ nests.
- For a refreshing pause, taste the rejuvenating flavors of Chinese tea, celebrated for its health benefits. And don’t miss the opportunity to ascend to the Pavilion’s top floor, where panoramic views of the entire village await, providing a picturesque overview of this cultural gem.
The Chinese Farmhouse and Pavilion offer a unique window into the agricultural and domestic life of traditional Chinese communities, making it a must-visit spot for those eager to explore the rich tapestry of Sarawak’s cultural diversity.
Cultural Show Extravaganza
Step into the air-conditioned theatre at Sarawak Cultural Village and be captivated by the award-winning performances that bring the diverse cultures of Sarawak to life.
- Twice daily, at 11:30 am and again at 4:00 pm, visitors are treated to an array of multicultural showcases featuring the village’s talented dancers and musicians.
- Adorned in breathtaking costumes, they perform elegant dance routines that celebrate the rich tapestry of Sarawak’s ethnic groups, from the graceful Orang Ulu maidens mimicking hornbills to the Iban warriors’ vigorous ngajat dance, all set to the deep resonance of gongs and exotic rainforest instruments.
This cultural shows have earned international acclaim, thrilling audiences from Australia to the Americas with its vibrant presentation of Sarawak’s heritage. Hence, don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Sarawak’s cultural legacy.
Sculpture Park: A Bridge Between Ancient and Modern
If age-old stone legacies have Niah or Stonehenge, Sarawak Cultural Village boasts the first Batu Sarawak in its Sculpture Park, blending ancient heritage with modern artistry through contemporary stone sculptures.
In 2003, Sarawak Cultural Village hosted the International Stone Sculptors Camp. There, talented sculptors from around the world and locals revitalized Damai’s indigenous stones, turning them into stunning artworks. Every stone sculpture mirrors the artist’s personal interpretation and insights drawn from their experiences and environment
Rainforest Music House: A Symphony of Sarawakian Heritage
Rainforest Music House is home to an impressive collection of musical instruments from all over the world and is the base for the award-winning Tuku Kame musicians. Here, visitors can watch the short ‘live’ performance by the Tuku Kame band.
Tuku Kame, celebrated for blending traditional instruments of Borneo’s thirty ethnic groups with contemporary rhythms, has achieved global recognition, notably clinching four golds at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles. Their success has put Malaysia on the map in the world music scene.
After watching the show, visitors can purchase the Tuku Kame’s band merchandise, including VCDs like “TUKU KAME” and “GADONG,” which are available at the handicrafts shop. For visitors wanting a hands-on experience, the music house offers interactive workshops where guests can learn the music while being guided by the experts themselves.
Persada Ilmu: A Nexus of Artistic Exploration
Nestled within Sarawak Cultural Village, Persada Ilmu stands as an innovative hub for artistic learning and cultural immersion. This lively center for arts education, located within the famous Dewan Lagenda (Legend Hall), offers a welcoming space for those eager to immerse themselves in dance and music classes.
With facilities that include a Dance Studio, Library, Information Centre, Costume Gallery, Lecture Hall, and Creativity Room, Persada Ilmu offers a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for guests to partake in dance or music lessons that resonate with the rich heritage of this land.
Persada Alam: A Fusion of Nature and Culture
Nestled by the enchanting waterfall, Persada Alam offer visitors a unique blend of interactive experiences such as captivating fashion shows, soulful folk songs and lively jamming sessions which are performed by the artists of Sarawak Cultural Village.
Beyond entertainment, Persada Alam doubles as an innovative venue for outdoor business meetings, surrounded by the tranquility of nature’s greenery, thus providing a refreshing change from the conventional meeting room atmosphere. Besides that, guests can also enjoy their day with varieties of local tea on sale at the Tea Pavilion.
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In a Nutshell…
- Sarawak Cultural Village encapsulates the essence of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a vibrant exploration of its diverse traditions. From traditional longhouses to dynamic cultural shows, and interactive experiences like blowpipe shooting, every corner of the village tells a story of Sarawak’s ethnic diversity. The village is not just an attraction but a celebration of art, music, and craftsmanship, making it an indispensable visit for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the heart of Sarawak’s cultural legacy.
