Sarawak has the largest amount of rainforest than any state in Malaysia. Enjoy a wide range of national parks as you embark on a journey to discover Borneo’s natural heritage. Lowland Borneo has a stable climate, with monthly rainfall exceeding 8 inches throughout the year and a temperature range of more than 18 °C. The lowlands of Borneo are home to the richest rainforest in the world. The climate provides an ideal growing environment for approximately 10,000 species of plant (more than in the whole continent of Africa). Among these are some 2,000 orchids and 3,000 trees, including 267 [Dipterocarpaceae] tropical rainforest trees, of which 155 are endemic to Borneo. This makes the island the center of the world’s diversity for dipterocarps.
The wildlife of this ecoregion consists of a large number of forest animals ranging from the world’s smallest squirrel, the least pygmy squirrel, to the largest land mammal in Asia, the Asian elephant. It includes the critically endangered Sumatran rhinoceros, the endangered and iconic Bornean orangutan, twelve other species of primate, Bornean bearded pigs and Bornean yellow muntjac deer.
Overview
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 Nestled on the banks of the Sarawak River, the capital, Kuching, retains the old-world charm of its romantic past. The river is the focal point of the town and features a graceful, European-style esplanade – The Kuching Waterfront – with views across to the Astana (The Palace) and Fort Margherita.
The narrow, bustling streets near the river are crammed with ornate temples, markets, historic buildings and traditional Chinese shop houses selling local handicrafts. Kuching also lays claim to nine museums, many within walking distance of each other. No other city in Malaysia displays its charm with such an easy grace as Kuching, the capital of Sarawak.
