Cultures & Festivals - BorneoTalk Official Website

ISSN 1823-9625 | PPK380/10/2008(010667)
VOL.8 APR-JUN 2008
Cultures & Festivals
World Harvest Festival 2008
Endorsed by
Ministry Of Urban Development &
Tourism Sarawak
Sarawak Tourism Board
Also
Borneo Cultural Festival 2008 Rainforest World Music Festival 2008
Balleh-Kapit Raft Safari 2008 Miri May Fest 2008 Traditional Textiles

Yang Berhormat
Datuk Tiong Thai King
Chairman Sibu Municipal Council
Welcome to Sarawak!
For the thousands of visitors who have been here, thank you and welcome back! It is no secret that many of our visitors
are repeat guests, coming back to experience the warmth and hospitality that Sarawak is famous for.
Sarawak is a land of smiles as every visitor will testify whether in the cities and towns or in the countryside.
From April to December this year, a whole range of events and activities have been lined up in Sarawak and Malaysia
to celebrate the multi-ethnic, racial and religious occasions of the people here. In Sarawak, this has taken on a much
grander scale as 2008 marks the 45 th year of Sarawak’s independence within Malaysia and hence more activities have
been specially planned for the State.
Of note are the national level events, including the Gawai on June 1, Hari Raya and Christmas Open Houses, while the
National Day celebration on August 31 will be something for everyone to remember!
As Chairman of the Sibu Municipal Council, I extend a warm welcome to visitors to Sibu and I urge you all to make it a
point to join in the celebration of the Borneo Cultural Festival, held on June 27 – July 5 at the Sibu Town Square. A
unique event, it is an annual gathering of artistes and performers from the major ethnic groups in the state with daily
performances of dances and display as well as sale of a wide variety of food from different ethnic groups. We invite you
to join in the games and fun of the occasion. The theme for the festival ‘Beauty in Ethnic Diversity’ is a true reflection of
the cultural richness of the event which is in its seventh year running.
Also held in conjunction with the Borneo Cultural Festival is the Borneo Cultural Trade and Expo which showcases a
range of products and services available in the state. Indeed, it is an opportunity for you to get to know our products
and services better.
The Sibu Municipal Council is proud to be associated with the magazine which you are about to browse through as
it provides an informative and colourful insight into what we have to offer, places of attraction, our people and their
culture, our food and the up river eco-adventure.
Once again, welcome to Sibu and I hope you will have an enjoyable stay and will return home with fond memories of
Sibu.
Thank you.
Datuk Tiong Thai King
2 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

Contents
What’s in this issue . . .
w o r l d w i d e c o s m e t i c n e t w o r k i n g
Resident’s Office,
Kuching Division
World Harvest
Festival 2008
23 rd to 25 th May
Sarawak Cultural Village
PLAZA HOTEL • BINTULU
SARAWAK • MALAYSIA
Resident’s Office,
Kapit Division
Department Of
Culture & Arts,
Sarawak
Swegim Enterprise
Sdn. Bhd.
Camp
Pueh
SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED
To Advertise In This Publication
Call (6) 082 427423
Kuching Talk is published by Bumi Serasi. The
contents of the magazine may not be reprinted or
reproduced without prior written permission. The
publisher is not liable for statements made and
opinions expressed in the publication.
Write to us at Kuching Talk, 242E, Lorong 3, Jalan
Green, 93150 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6)
082 427423/238968, Fax: (6) 082 235152, email:
iconnec@pc.jaring.my Editor-In-Chief Ivy Pan Editor
Melvin Goh Public Relations Christina Mamora
Marketing Ivy Pan, Nancy Shukri Administration
Rebina Noh Contributors S I Ten, M Goh, Roger
Duyong, Clarence Ting, Favian Masing, Letitia Samuel,
Christina Mamora Design and Art Direction Steven
Yap Photography Derek Tee, Gustino Basuan,
Sarawak Information Department Front Cover Image
“Theme play of World Harvest Festival 2007” by
Sarawak Cultural Village Printer Teknik Print Sdn
Bhd, Malaysia. The next issue of Kuching Talk will
take on a new look and is out in July 2008.
FestivalTalk
4 World Harvest Festival 2008
Ethnic theme show extravaganza
5 The Grain Of Life
6 Borneo Cultural Festival 2008
8 Rainforest World Music
Festival 2008
The rainforest rhythm gets louder
9 Miri May Festival 2008
10 Citrarasa Malaysia
A taste of Malaysian cuisine
EventTalk
11 Sarawak International Triathlon
2008
12 Balleh-Kapit Raft Safari 2008
14 Sarawak Regatta 2008
. . . the race for peace
CultureTalk
16 Traditional Textiles With
Contemporary Touch
18 Celebration Of Sarawak’s
Artistic Cultures
KapitTalk
19 Kapit
The stronghold town of Sarawak’s largest
ethnic group
20 Attractions of Kapit
21 Sampling Of Local Food And
Fruits At Kapit
22 Places Of Worship
23 Public Library Network In Kapit
LocalityMap
24 Kuching Area
25 Miri Area
26 Sibu Area
SibuTalk
27 Sarawak Boleh Express Boat
28 Reaching Out Beyond Rural
Development
MiriTalk
29 Mega Hotel Miri
BintuluTalk
30 Dining Out At Regency Plaza
Hotel Bintulu
31 Bintulu Kite Flyers
Stunts with nature’s forces
LocalTalk
32 Youth Camp
Camp Pueh Sematan, Sarawak
34 Sarawak Museums
History rediscovered
36 In.a.DayTalk
DiningOutTalk
38 Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites
39 The Manhattan Fish Market
Seafood at its best!
40 Sushi King
A Japanese treat for everyone
ShoppingTalk
41 Axxezz
Access to accessories
BeautyTalk
42 Normah Body Contour Centre
43 Young Skin Program
Rediscover the new you!
PeopleTalk
44 Larry Sng
Taking on the challenge at young age
45 RMBTalk
46 AbsoluteEssentials
&What’sOn
www.kuchingtalk.com
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 3

FestivalTalk
Behold, the mighty warrior comes and brought peace
to the land! Prosperity and goodwill once again prevail
with man and nature working in harmony, producing
bountiful harvest in the vast land. This is one of the
many themes of local folklores which have been adapted
into stage plays during the World Harvest Festival at the
internationally acclaimed Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV)
for the last four years and 2008 promises yet another
spectacular show. “Panglima Kulow” or Kulow the
Warrior, tells the story of a Bidayuh warrior which will be
staged with full colour and lively movements on 24 May
2008, using the SCV as its background and set.
Interest for the World Harvest Festival (WHF) show has
grown tremendously over the past years, both locally and
overseas as the unique setting and stories have impressed
them, apart from the magnitude of the shows that make
use of the whole SCV! Specially composed songs and
other audio extras add to the pleasure of watching the
live show where the various ethnic groups are dressed in
their finest ethnic colours. Naturally, the annual show is
a tourism draw and provides insights into the history and
cultures of the ethnic groups of Sarawak as each year a
different ethnic group is featured. WHF is organised with
the Ministry of Urban Development and Tourism to be
one of the highlights of the Gawai Dayak celebration.
World Harvest
Festival 2008
Ethnic theme show extravaganza
23 rd - 25 th May
To add flair and international flavour to the festival, two
troupes, one each from Senegal and China, will also be
performing in the show. Locals and foreigners alike will
have the opportunity to join in the workshop hosted by
these troupes together with local counterparts to share
and learn about each community’s traditions, foods and
handicrafts. These events and shows truly make WHF
a unique celebration and certainly something to be
experienced by everyone. Tickets will be on sale at
Sarawak Cultural Village and Sarawak Tourism Board
Visitor’s Information Center.
For more information, please contact Sarawak Cultural
Village at (6) 082 846411
4 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

FestivalTalk
Bario Rice or Adan Rice as it is sometimes known
is grown in the cool climate of Kelabit Highlands
at 1,200 meters above sea level.
Bario Rice is a traditional tall rice variety planted
once a year. Bario Rice has long been regarded
as the best local rice and the most sought after in
Sarawak. The reason for this is simple - fresh and
cool mountain streams water the Bario paddy
fields, rich soil in the valley and the cool climate
contribute to the unique taste of Bario Rice.
It is further nurtured, harvested and selected by
the caring hands of the Kelabits before sun drying
the paddy naturally. As every Bario Rice aficionados
would profess, it is an eating experience you’ll never
forget.
At the international level, Bario Rice was awarded
the Slow Food Presidia based in Florence, Italy.
Packed and distributed for Bernas by:
Liansin Trading Sdn Bhd
Lot 2041, Section 66, Jalan Kisar, Bintawa Industrial Estate, 93450 Kuching,
Sarawak, Malaysia. No. tel: (6) 082 333555 No. fax: (6) 082 335599
Ikhlas Nang Biris is the brand for Biris Rice, a local variety
of fragrant rice planted in Simunjan and along Batang
Sadong. When cooked, Biris Rice is soft and has a slight
fragrance especially for the newly harvested crop. It is
suitable for all kinds of cooking. Grown and harvested
traditionally by hand and sun dried to meet the health
conscious consumers’ needs.
Jungle Rimba is the brand line for Sarawak coloured
rice, which are of traditional varieties. These paddy
are grown by the various ethnic groups of Sarawak
and have hundreds of varieties to suit every discerning
taste. This practice promotes the biodiversity of paddy
in Sarawak, which enable us to enjoy the heritage of
the hundreds of traditional rice varieties to this day.
JUNGLE RIMBA consists of two coloured rice namely
Red Rice and Deep Purple Rice (locally known as Black
Rice) which has a unique taste and natural texture. Its
high nutrition content and wholesomeness makes it
good for the whole family and the health conscious
consumer.
Packed and distributed for Bernas by:
Fieldmart Sdn. Bhd.
Lot 775, Block No. 8 MTLD, Demak Laut Industrial Park, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak,
Malaysia. No. tel: (6) 082 432252 No. fax: (6) 082 433352
The grain of LIFE
Savour the variety of the grain of life at the World Harvest Festival 2008
at Sarawak Cultural Village from 23 rd - 25 th May
BERAS CORPORATION SDN BHD (480493-H) No. 96-M, Lot 2654-2656, Block 195, KNLD, Jalan Green, 93150 Kuching,
Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 243002 / 245002 / 248002 Fax: (6) 082 234000 Website: www.bernas.com.my
[ A member of BERNAS Group of Companies ]
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 5

FestivalTalk
27 June - 5 July 2008
Sibu Town Square
Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
6 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

FestivalTalk
Just how good and wonderful is the Borneo Cultural
Festival, the annual event held in Sibu? For starters, this is
the seventh year running that the festival is being held at
the strategic and central Sibu Town Square and each year
has seen it grown bigger and crowd larger, clearly an
event to see some of the best ethnic dancers performing
in their traditional costumes. To be held on the 17 th June
to 5 th July this year, this is one place where multi-ethnic
groups will be performing everyday on the stage made
especially for the event.
beauty in ethnic diversity
The celebration theme is ‘Beauty in Ethnic Diversity’,
which clearly reflects the varieties of performers who will
be displaying specific dances and songs unique to each
group. The main groups who will be stationed at each of
the three corners of the Square are the Dayaks, Melanau/
Malay and Chinese while other ethnic groups will also be
featured during the course of the week. These performers
will take to the stage on particular evenings of the week
and all will come together on the last three evenings for the
finale which is always spectacular. All the shows are based
on traditional dances, including songs which accompanied
the routines and spectators are treated to these unique
combinations in the middle of the town. To see these
performers separately would not only be time consuming
but also expensive so the Borneo Cultural Festival is the
place to catch them in one single location.
For further information, please contact:
Borneo Cultural Festival 2008
Sibu Municipal Council
Level 19-24, Wisma Sanyan No. 1, Jalan Sanyan,
96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 084 333411 Fax: (6) 084 349411
Email: smc@smc.gov.my
Website: www.sibu.gov.my
Sarawak Tourism Board
Tel: (6) 082 423600 Fax: (6) 082 416700
Visitors’ Information Centre Sibu
Tel: (6) 084 340980 Fax: (6) 084 341280
Another unique feature of the festival is that there will
be stalls in the Square displaying the various ethnic foods
and crafts associated to the groups. This is one place
where an assortment of local favourite dishes are found
as well as the traditional cuisines of the natives. The food
side of the celebration is usually one of the busiest during
the week. Many locals flock to the stalls to look for their
favourite choices of these ethnic food prepared in the
traditional way while visitors are tempted to sample the
rich varieties on display. A word of advice – some of the
items on display may make you squeamish when viewed
but are actually tasty when tried. So, be brave and try
to sample as many different types as possible as it is not
everyday that you will get to sample these food in the
town.
Sibu is the main gateway to the heart of Sarawak and its
interior where most of the Dayaks and other groups are
found. Hence the performances in this riverine town is
certainly appropriate and highly regarded by the locals as
well as visitors who come for the event. Organised by the
Sibu Municipal Council it is supported by the Ministry of
Urban Development and Tourism and also the Sarawak
Tourism Board.
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 7

FestivalTalk
www.rainforestmusic-borneo.com
The 2008 Rainforest World Music
Festival in Sarawak (11 th – 13 th
July) is one event that needs no
introduction, especially to music
enthusiasts as it has a cult-like
following of its own! Into its
eleventh straight year running
now, this musical event in the
rainforest in Borneo is uniquely
special to its international band
of followers who make the annual
pilgrimage to Kuching just for
it. In the event you have not
heard of it, the Rainforest World
Music Festival brings together an
international cast of ethnic music
players and dancers from different
corners of the globe displaying
their talents with unique varieties
of instruments.
2008
The rainforest rhythm gets louder
11 th – 13 th July
Since its first debut, the event
has continuously attract top
groups with a long list of others
waiting to show off their skills.
Each year the performers are
from different continents, countries
and groups; the rhythm, beat and
show unpredictable but always
entertaining. Even the local
groups from Sarawak performing
are changed annually to give
variety and excitement to those
who come to the show. Over the
years, there have been rock and
roll groups to jazz, soul to opera
and nose flutes to tin drums
performers, each special and
unique to watch and listen to.
Another special characteristic of the Rainforest World Music Festival is its
interactive workshops by the performers. Here, any music lover can get
close up and personal to the performers as they conduct the workshops
at the Sarawak Cultural Village, or the Living Museum as it is fondly
known, the venue for the event. Ever popular, these workshops are
well known for their lively exchanges between the performers and
members of the audience during the afternoon sessions. It is special in
that anyone can listen in, try out the musical pieces and pick up a tip or
two on performing on the world stage.
To add excitement to the festival, the organiser is also organising
the Global Heritage Village, Rainforest World Craft Bazaar and Folk Art
Forum. These events will be held from 9 th - 15 th July.
Security and cleanliness are aspects that are always taken seriously
during the event. So even with the huge number of people turning
up at the venue daily coupled with the food stores inside, the place
remains spot clean, a testimony of the efforts of the organisers to
maintain a level of discipline that is admired by all.
For more information on the Rainforest World Music Festival 2008, those interested can call the Sarawak Tourism Board at (6) 082 423600,
fax at (6) 082 416700, e-mail at stb@sarawaktourism.com or check out its website www.rainforestmusic-borneo.com
8 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

FestivalTalk
For the month of May 2008, think only Miri, the Resort City
in the northern part of Sarawak! The whole month is packed
with activities and events as part of the Miri May Fest 2008,
a celebration that will entertain and provide insights into the
rich cultural heritage found here. Organised by the Miri City
Council, the Miri City Day Celebration Nite will be on 17 th and 20 th May at
the Miri Indoor Stadium where a host of interesting and exciting programmes
have been lined up for
Miri
everyone’s enjoyment.
Foremost for Jazz lovers, the annual
Miri International Jazz Festival is going
to bring some of the most exciting and
versatile performers from around the
world to Miri on 9 th - 10 th May at the
Pavillion, ParkCity Everly Hotel, Miri. As
in previous years, the crowd is going to
be huge and swaying to the beat! A
musical treat for all ages, the jazz fest
regularly draws a cosmopolitan crowd,
appreciative of the performing bands
with their snazzy sound. In addition to
the jazz fest, there will be cultural
shows and performances by the
various ethnic groups in their colourful
costumes dancing to the routines with
grace and style, which always bring
broad smiles from the audience.
Outdoor activities will also feature
prominently in the month of May,
with the HHH City Run to attract those
with a passion for wild chase around
the city and its surrounding vicinity.
Alternatively, the golf tournament
to be held here too may be more
to your taste. It will also bring in an
international cast of players and
everyone will be teeing off and
putting for the first prize! The less
competitive group can take part in
other recreational activities like fishing,
diving or climbing events that will
also be featured during the Miri May
Fest.
For ladies, the various shopping malls
and arcades will be having their
shopping carnival at the same time
so you will have plenty to do while
the guys are busy with their sporting
events. Discounts and promotional
extravaganzas will be vying for your
attention in the city so make sure
you divide your time well to take
advantage of these special offers.
There is surely something for you
during the Miri May Fest 2008 and
as always, the varieties of sumptuous
cuisines will amaze you while visiting
the city. Don’t miss these attractions
in Miri in May – it’s simply irresistible!
For further information, please contact:
Miri City Council
Jalan Raja, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 085 433501 / 424111 Fax: (6) 085 415486
Sarawak Tourism Board
Visitor’s Information Centre Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 085 434181 Fax: (6) 085 434179
Email: vic-miri@sarawaktourism.com
Website: www.sarawaktourism.com
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 9

FestivalTalk
Ministry of Tourism Malaysia
Citrarasa Malaysia
20 th - 22 nd June
A Taste of
Malaysian
Cuisine
Where can you sample the different food varieties of Malaysia
in one single location? The answer is Miri! Yes, come 20 th -22 nd
June 2008, the Malaysian Food Trail (Citra Rasa Malaysia)
will be in this northern seaside Resort City of Sarawak at the
Boulevard Commercial Centre where over 150 food stalls
will be displaying traditional to modern fusion food and
local fruits. Organsied by Ministry of Tourism Malaysia
and coordinated by MTPN Sarawak (Majlis Tindakan
Pelancongan Negeri), this national event is a must visit for
locals and visitors alike as the uniqueness and choices of
food is just astounding.
This will be the second year that the event is being held
and as expected the various states from Malaysia will be
participating together with the hotels, associations, agencies
and ethnic groups from Sarawak and Sabah. Apart from the
objective of displaying the varieties of Malaysian food to
attract local and foreign visitors, the event will also increase
the interactions of the people and encourage them to
venture out to sample different types of food. In fact, visitors
from neighbouring Brunei too were among the conspicuous
visitors to last year’s event in addition to those who came
from overseas and from peninsular Malaysia.
If you have never sampled pansuh chicken or chicken cooked
in bamboo stems, this is just the place to try it out. Expect
also Sarawak laksa, the hot, spicy combination of rice
vermicelli, coconut milk, prawns, chicken and eggs with a
garnish topping to be on the menu at the event while
exquisite and tempting dishes from the hotel chefs will also
be vying for your attention! This unique combination of
hawker style food to signature dishes make the event special
to food lovers and the exotic seasonal local fruits add to the
flavour of the occasion.
An added bonus is that the event is also spruced up by
the appearances of popular artistes from Malaysia while
cultural shows by the ethnic groups will also capture your
imagination. Dressed in their finest traditional costumes
and accessories, these dancers display the grace and beauty
of their cultural heritage in their dances accompanied by
traditional music. Keep 20 th -22 nd June free to visit Miri and
be awed by the food choices as well as the traditional
friendliness that Sarawak is fondly remembered for.
Calling all food connoisseurs!
For further information, please contact:
Sarawak Tourism Action Council (Ministry of Tourism Malaysia) • 5 th Floor, Bangunan Yayasan Sarawak, Jalan Masjid, 93400 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 082 429618 / 255619 Fax: (6) 082 411045
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Ministry of Tourism Malaysia) • 297-2-1, Level 2 Riverbank Suites, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93752 Kuching, Sarawak,
Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 246575 / 246775 Fax: (6) 082 246442 Website: www.tourismmalaysia.gov.my
10 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

EventTalk
Sarawak International Triathlon 2008
21 st - 22 nd June
Foremost, this is strictly a race meant
for those who have been training for
it and amateurs who are not prepared
are not encouraged! For this 10 th
Sarawak International Triathlon 2008
organised by the Sarawak Triathlon
Association and supported by the
Ministry of Social Development and
Urbanisation, Sarawak, the venue
will be at Brighton Beach, Miri in
northern Sarawak. To be held on 21 st
– 22 nd June, the race will be divided
into several categories, namely Men
and Women Olympic distances, Men
and Mixed relays, Men and Women
Sprint Triathlon and Men and
Women Sarawak Close where cash
prize totalled up to RM65,000 await
the various categories winners.
A test of speed and endurance
At 7:45am on 22 nd June, the main
event starts at the same venue at
Brighton Beach and competitors
need to complete 1.5km swimming
(open sea), 40km cycling and 10km
run to grab the cash prizes ranging
from RM2000 for first, RM1500 for
second placing while third placing gets
RM1000 with consolation prizes of
RM500 to RM100 for all those who
come in from fourth to tenth placings.
The Men’s race will be divided into
four categories, namely those 16-29
years old, 30-39 years old, 40-49
years old and those 50 years and
above. For the Women’s, there will
only be two categories, the 16-34
years old and 35 years and above
category.
The Sarawak Sprint Half-Triathlon
will kick off the event at 3pm on 21 st
June at Marina Park Canal, Miri and
competitors will contest in the 750m
swimming (open sea), 20km cycling
and 5km run. Three categories have
been slated for the Sprint Triathlon,
namely Junior Boys and Girls (20
years and under), Men and Ladies 21
– 39 years old and Men and Ladies
40 years and above. Winners of each
category stand to win RM500 for first
placing, RM300 for second placing
and RM200 for third with RM100
for forth to tenth placings in all three
categories. All participants in these
categories are charged RM40 per
entry and entrance fees are inclusive
of cash prizes, medals, certificates,
T-shirts as well as Prize – Presentation
lunch and free transfer from airport/
hotel/airport for outstation and
overseas participants.
Under the Men and Mixed relay
team events, only three winners
will get the prizes of RM2000,
RM1500 and RM1000 respectively.
Meanwhile the Men/Women overall
top three winners get RM1000,
RM700 and RM500 respectively. A
special category for local participants
under Sarawak Close, the top three
winners get RM400, RM300 and
RM200 respectively. The Sarawak Close
will also be divided into Men’s (4 agegroups)
and Women’s (2 age-groups)
as like the main event. Participants
for the individual events will have to
pay RM70 while each relay team will
have to pay RM100 to participate.
Closing date for participants to sign
up is 9 th June 2008.
The official hotel for the event
is Park City Everly Hotel, Miri.
Brighton Beach faces the South
China Sea and is just to the south
of Miri Resort City, a five-minutes
drive away.
So, if triathlon is your game, this is the
event to participate in.
For enquiries and other details, you
may contact Ministry of Social
Development & Urbanisation,
Secretariat office at: (6) 082 444926/
440441, fax: (6) 082 446360 or e-mail
to sukhamis@sarawaknet.gov.my or
hashim@sarawaknet.gov.my
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 11

EventTalk
Balleh-Kapit Raft S fari 2008
Traditional raft race comes alive!
19 th – 20 th April
2008 will be the 13 th straight year the Balleh-Kapit Raft
Safari event is held in the heart of Borneo on the 19 th
- 20 th April and promises to be even on a grander scale
as it is also the state’s 45 th anniversary in the federation
of Malaysia. This eco-tourism related event sponsored by
the Ministry of Urban Development and Tourism Sarawak
and Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation
Sarawak, Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, Sarawak Tourism
Board and Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board Sarawak is
like no other in the country as it combines the warm
hospitality of the native Iban people in their longhouses
and water rafting in traditional bamboo rafts down
cascading waters in one of the oldest rainforests in the
world!
For those new to the sport, the rafts constructed
from bamboo poles of between 6 to 20 feet, are tied
together and can be fashioned and decorated with any
design and sponsorship signs. You’ll likely see beautifully
assembled rafts painstakingly painted and crafted
to denote animal designs or other fashionable items
while the serious racing teams will be ‘fitting’ their
rafts with specially designed riggers to give stability
during their furious paddling down the
river. There is no restriction on what your
raft may be as long as it fits into the simple
rules for each category and this makes the
race even more fun and attractive each year
with refreshing and idealistic crafts emerging
annually. Whatever their aims, there is one
unmistakable element in the race; special
bonding of the members of the team and
spirit of competition among all the teams for
the coveted trophies in the various categories
available each year. The assembling of all
participants on the day prior to the flag off is
probably one of the most anticipated one as
it brings together everyone in one big social
evening of fun and merrymaking for the
two-day event. Old rivalries meet and conjure
up new strategies to outwit their opponents
in the race while the newly initiated are
simply overwhelmed by the rituals of the
event in the longhouse.
12 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

EventTalk
the most economical
and fun way to really
experience water rafting in
Sarawak.
Unlike other competitions, the Balleh-Kapit Raft Safari
starts from a different longhouse and river tributary
each year and the night stopover is also in another
longhouse along the route. In addition to the main
race, there are also many side events like handicrafts
exhibitions, local food bazaar and friendly tele-matches
for participants and hosts during the course of the
event. Participants and supporters alike will get the
chance to experience the thrill of river rafting, once
the only way to reach towns from the interior areas
of the state, a journey that can take days! Today,
to undertake this adventure on your own would be
exorbitant in terms of cost and logistics as well as the
time required and so for all purposes, the Balleh-Kapit
Raft Safari is the most economical and fun way to really
experience water rafting in Sarawak.
Remember, this water adventure is both for fun and
pleasure despite the seriousness of the race itself; so
make sure that your reservation and participation in
the race is secured while you make the preparations
to venture into Kapit and cruise up river to the starting
point. That journey will also be an adventure and there
is always the bonus of travelling ahead of time to
familiarise yourself with the surroundings and
humidity while sampling traditional cultures in their
original forms. See you in Kapit!
For further information, please contact:
Resident’s Office, Kapit Division
96800 Kapit, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 084 796963 / 796425 Fax: (6) 084 796932
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 13

EventTalk
Sarawak Regata
2008
For further information, please contact:
Organised by:
RESIDENT’S OFFICE
KUCHING DIVISION
Jalan Barrack, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 082 422263 Fax: (6) 082 244435
Website: www.sarawakregatta.com
Supported by:
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB)
Tel: (6) 082 423600 Fax: (6) 082 416700
Website: www.sarawaktourism.com
www.sarawakregatta.com
14 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

2008
1 st - 3 rd August 2008 . . . the race for peace
Whatever your age, interests or
preferences, the Sarawak Regatta
is one event that will surely bring a
smile to your face. More likely, it will
make you laugh and become a fan
of this fanatical annual race which
brings people of all races, cultures and
beliefs to the Kuching Waterfront .
This year’s event will be held on the 1 st
– 3 rd August 2008. The reason is simple
– the races are fast and furious, full of
grandeur and tradition as well as fun
for all, both participants and spectators.
Acknowledged as the oldest boat
race of its kind in Malaysia, the
Sarawak Regatta was recorded in the
annals as early as 1872 and held in
front of the Astana and witnessed by
the colonial administrators and other
officials. While the original races
were mainly for the purpose of social
integration and goodwill, they were
also important occasions for foreign
communities serving in Sarawak and
neighbouring countries to gather
together for comradeship and sharing
of common pursuits. In fact, the
journals then recorded that the
White Rajah, Charles Brooke even
sent his own ship to the outstations
of Sarawak to bring the residents to
watch the race.
The proud tradition of the race has
been retained as today’s events
have seen the influx of both rural
communities and urban ones, jostling
and mingling with the foreign visitors
for a better view of the race along
the Waterfront! Naturally too, the
races are now not just for winning
trophies and prizes but also to enjoy
the thrills of participation. The
entrance and participation of foreign
boats and crews have made the
regatta into an international event,
which has seen bigger crowds and
more boats competing.
In recent years, Sarawak Regatta has
gained tremendous popularity as
seen by the increasing number of
participation in the races. 2007 had
witnessed a total number of 6887
paddlers taking part in 15 races as
against 4660 paddlers in 2006 races.
For Sarawak Regatta 2008 the organisers
are now making thorough preparations
for an event bigger and colourful event.
Taking centre stage in these races are
the “Bidar Boats” which are among
the biggest boats in the Sarawak
Regatta. These boats carry as many
as 30 paddlers, carrying with it the
“Raja Sungei” titled race.
The fun and excitement of these
challenges continue to draw huge
crowd to cheer on their favourites
and shout themselves hoarse from
the thrill of watching! Over the years,
some of the participants in the boat
races have also shown up with
costumes that simply captivated people
and the envy of their competitors.
Then again, this is one race where
history and tradition exist side by side
with modern inputs and aspirations
for all who take part in it.
Treats For Regatta Enthusiasts
Over the last couple of years, the
Sarawak Regatta week has seen an
expansion of other interesting and
culturally significant events to treat
the large crowd every year.
Sarawak Regatta
Races 2008
1. BALOK BOAT
• 7 Paddlers (Men)
2. BIDAR BOAT (LONG BOAT)
• 10 Paddlers Ladies
• 15 Paddlers Mix ( 8 Men + 7 Ladies)
• 15 Paddlers Men
• 20 Paddlers Men
• 30 Paddlers Men
• 20 Paddlers Men (Inter Departmental)
• 20 Paddlers Men (Inter Divisions)
• 20 Paddlers (Hotel and Tour Agencies)
( 15 Men + 5 Ladies )
• 20 Paddlers Men (VIP)
• 20 Paddlers (International)
3. TRADITIONAL BOATS
(PERAHU TAMBANG)
• Boats (Engine)
• Boats (Paddle)
4. KAYAK
• Kayak Men Singles
• Kayak Ladies Singles
• Kayak Double (Men)
• Kayak Double (Ladies)
• Kayak Mix
EventTalk
5. JET SKI
• Open Class Below 800cc
• Open Class Unlimited
Watch out for more interesting
new race categories
Happening on one side of the river
you see exhibition booths displaying
products ranging from motor vehicles
to spas, saunas and slimming packages
to food and many others. On the other
side of the river, these include the
staging of traditional Malay wedding
and showcasing of home-stay in the
homes of the Malays. The intricate
ceremonies and costumes of the bride
and groom are impressive to say the
least and the ceremony itself is also
important for the newly wed couple
and their families.
Make the Sarawak Regatta 2008 an
event to remember in Kuching City
and savour its rich traditions.
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 15

CultureTalk
Traditional Textiles
with contemporary touch
Modern Pua For All Occasions
The once traditional cloth has seen a new make over
Unless you have been to the Malaysian Handicraft
Development Corporation (Sarawak Branch) in Kuching,
chances are that you have missed out on a number of new
creations in the textile department. These new contemporary
designs with their distinct styles and accessories are trend
setters for the emerging markets in clothings, interior
decorations, women accessories and many others.
“We have now moved into new fields in textiles offerings
by incorporating trendy and also colourful designs to
traditional pieces like the Pua and Songket and also
the Keringkam,” said Mohd Latif Dirun, Director of the
Corporation in Kuching. “This doesn’t mean that we have
done away with the traditional styles or designs; in fact,
we get our new ideas and designs from the inspirations of
the traditional pieces and we look for ways to add value to
these traditional treasures of our textile heritage. With new
emerging markets and trends, we have to make our products
in tune with the changes expected and give new fresh
look and designs to these types of textiles so making them
more popular and acceptable to a wider market. There will
always be a place for the traditional textile pieces among
those who want to keep antiques but we also need to
adapt to changes and trends as a development corporation
for handicrafts here,” added the Director who had been in
the industry for over twenty years.
16 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008
Among the interesting new styles emerging in the pua
are more pastel colours with batik designs, which have
transformed this traditional textile style into a trendy
material suitable for many types of uses. Instead of the
traditional tie and dye in the making of pua, the new
designs and patterns are directly applied to the individual
threads while the pua is being weaved. The new look
pua that emerges is both elegant and contemporary, with
traces of Sarawak motifs and designs with batik infusion
that makes it a distinct piece and definitely Sarawak origin!
All these changes give the pua a new trendy appeal and
with the batik infusion, makes it even more contemporary
to a wider market while also making it distinct from those
batik clothes made in peninsular Malaysia.

“While the designs and colours are
the main changes we have made to
enhance the pua, we have now also
added beads to the pua which further
incorporate ethnic origins into the
piece as beads are a big part of the
Orang Ulu tradition here. Essentially,
we are bringing in new styles that
are distinctly Sarawak in origin and
making these available to a wider
market,” he enthused. In addition to
the product, the Corporation has also
been researching into the pua making
tool and has designed a new loom
which takes the hard work out of the
weavers’ back as it allows the weaver
to now sit and comfortably carry
out the work like in most weaving
techniques. According to the Director,
these changes are to further spread
the appeal and ease of making pua
in today’s market driven economy as
it gets more difficult to recruit young
weavers to the industry with the
traditional loom which are slow and
tiring to the weaver.
The emerging pua textiles have been
well received and beginning to catch
on with the trend setters who are
always constantly searching for new
materials and designs to further reach
out to the market. These changes
augur well for the industry and at the
Handicraft Development Corporation,
the search for new ways to make
traditional weaving in tune with
modern demands continues.
Trendy Weave
New fashionable accessories
from Keringkam and Songket Sarawak
The first recordings of Keringkam
dated back to 1840 and this fine stitchweaving
technique has continued to be
in demand, especially among the elites
of society. Now, this particular art form
has emerged in a more elegant and
trendy style, making it a fashionable
element for modern clothing.
“We have been adding new designs
and styles to the traditional keringkam
patterns with our new breed of
designers and weavers here,” said
Mohd Latif, the Director of Malaysian
Handicraft Development Corporation
(Sarawak Branch) in Kuching. “It is
interesting to see the new products
from these young and emerging
artists, some of whom were from our
incubation program to unearth new
artists for this industry. So there are
now new uses for the keringkam and
this has resulted in greater demand as
an alternative source of new materials
for many design related industry,
including interior decorators. The
unique fact is that the trendy and
new look fits in with modern styles so
enhances the appearance of any art
pieces with these additions.”
Songket Sarawak is another age old
weaving tradition, which has been
given a bold new style with the
addition of motifs and designs from
other ethnic races in the state. In fact, a
whole set of clothing materials weaved
in the traditional songket style but with
modern Sarawak ‘touch’ was actually
presented to the former Agong!
CultureTalk
“That exercise was one of the most
demanding for us here and with the
combined effort of everyone, especially
the weavers, we actually produced a
unique piece that was both artistically
and spiritually esthetic,” he recalled the
event and proud accomplishment of
being commissioned to weave for the
Royalty. “The main difference that we
have made to the art is by actually
employing a special technique of
colouring the threads used using batik
style which gave that special effects on
the finished product. The other main
difference between Sarawak Songket
and others is that our product can
be used on both sides, signifying the
compactness of the weave and design
pattern”.
Like the other weaved products, the
songket has also been given a new
colouring scheme which appeal to a
wider market. The emergence of new
breed of weavers who are younger
and more fashionable, has also seen
an influx of more modern styles and
uses for the product. Now, you can
find calligraphy design on the songket
apart from the use of Sarawak ethnic
motifs, which leads to wider range of
products for the market. These point to
the adaptation of cultures in art forms
among the races in the state, which
shows the harmony and willingness to
merge different cultures in art.
On your next buying spree, take a short
trip to the Corporation’s home in Petra
Jaya and browse through the many
handicrafts on display there. Apart
from textiles, there are also ceramics,
woodcrafts, and beads products with
both the traditional and new styles.
Exhibition Room is open for public from 8.00am to 5.00pm on working days.
For further information, please contact:
Malaysian Handicraft Corporation (Sarawak Branch)
Lot 3057, Blok 18, Daerah Salak, Petra Jaya, Jalan Stadium,
93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: 6 082 444205, 441329, 442436 Fax: 6 082 440003
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 17

CultureTalk
Celebration of
Sarawak’s
Artistic Cultures
Arts Fest at Kuching City
North (Pusat Seni KU)
Discover Sarawak’s range of artistic
skills in the arts, dance and theater
as well as food when in Kuching as
these are held regularly in the city every
month. These events and displays
are organised and fully supported by
the Department of Culture and Arts
Sarawak, Kuching City North Council,
Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Ministry
of Social Development & Urbanisation,
Sarawak Education Department,
Waterfront Management and other
state government agencies. For each 1 st
and 3 rd Saturday of the month, there
will be a gathering of artists, dancers
and traditional food display at the
Waterfront, Kampung Gersik, from
3-10pm. Fondly known as the Kuching
City North Arts Fest, it is the opportune
time to meet those who are into
traditional dances, artists and
handicrafts experts, blind masseurs
providing soothing touches with their
sure hands and local delicacies to
savour after a tiring day.
A display of local
talents in
arts, dance and
theater
These gathering of artists on the two
Saturdays of the month provide locals
and visitors alike the avenue to get
close up with these talented people at
a convenient location and ideal place
to spend the whole afternoon and into
the early evening. If you have never
tried shooting with a blowpipe, this is
one place that you can learn to do it
and even get to know some of the
traditional games played by the locals.
The handicrafts are also for sale and
the evening events include cultural
dances, music and karaoke competition.
Theatre Fest
Each 2 nd Saturday of the month there
will be a theatre performance by
amateur groups at the Dewan Bahasa
dan Pustaka hall at Petra Jaya from
8:30pm - 10pm. These shows are
mainly to expose local talents in the
theatre genre and everyone is welcome
to come and watch the performances.
A total of 9 theatre shows are
scheduled for the year and these will
be in Bahasa Malaysia and English
from groups like Perkasa, Sifar, Kias
Kasturi, Sanggarr Creative Production,
Saramart, Kuching Buddhist Society,
Ngoncong, Sedar and Pekasa.
Dance and
Music Performance
Rounding up the 4 th Sunday of each
month, the dancer groups will be
strutting their stuff at the Godown
Amphitheater Kuching Waterfront
between 8:30pm - 9:30pm. The main
routines will be focused on ethnic and
traditional dances using their individual
costumes accompanied by music and
audience are encouraged to participate
by joining in the dance!
The busy weekly schedules to expose
the artistic talents of Sarawak are part
of the efforts to bring up a generation
of artists and enhance the appreciation
of local cultures and ethnic traditions.
These will lead to better understanding
of the arts and crafts, cultures of the
country locally and also among visitors,
especially the multi-ethnic diversity of
Sarawak.
Department Of Culture & Arts, Sarawak (Ministry Of Culture, Arts & Haritage Malaysia) • 5 th Floor, Bangunan Sultan Iskandar,
Jalan Simpang Tiga, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 082 422006 / 423106 D/L: (6) 082 245716 Fax: (6) 082 244394
18 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

KapitTalk
Of the numerous riverine towns in Sarawak, Kapit is
almost immediately synonymous with Iban cultures and
traditions, so much so that the town itself is often the
hub of such interests. This association is easy to explain
as the town is a stronghold of Sarawak’s largest ethnic
group, the Iban who makes up more than three-quarters
of the people in the town and even more in the surrounding
hinterland. The town is about 140 km upriver from Sibu
along the nation’s longest river and reachable by express
boats that ply the various destinations daily with different
departure times and stopovers. Of the interior towns
in the heart of Borneo, Kapit is the biggest and main
administrative centre and today, the river is the only way
to get there as air route to the town has been suspended.
Hence travelling to Kapit is always an adventure as the fast
express boats zip past numerous longhouses along the river
with the dense jungle on either side.
The stronghold town of
Sarawak’s largest ethnic group
Kapit
Originally Kapit was set up to bring peace to the troubled
region during the reign of Charles Brooke as the Iban
and other tribes were constantly fighting each other
there. It was a garrison town with a fort built for the
purpose of ensuring that the Ibans would not venture up
river to fight with the other tribes and it grew in strength
from that early period. Today, Kapit is a modern town
with almost all the amenities expected of an administrative
centre, including hospitality industry, business sector and
timber trade apart from its huge reserves of coal which
is now being slowly mined for industrial activities. The town
is itself a vibrant mix of old and new as local inhabitants
and people from surrounding areas often make Kapit
their main trading centre which explains the busy traffic
at the wharf area.
Kapit town is primarily
made up of the
stretch of shophouses
and other buildings
running parallel to the
Rejang Waterfront,
a new addition to boost the image of
the town. Government administrative
offices and private institutions like
banks and hotels, restaurants and
retail outlets make up the bulk
of the buildings here and most
are often within walking distances of one another. For
farther located buildings, local vans are available to
transport people there. Considering that the entire town
of two rows of shophouses were completely destroyed
by allied bombing during the second world war, the new
constructions and buildings speak volumes of the resilient
of the town and its people. For newcomers, the fastest and
easiest way around is just to ask any of the friendly locals
for directions and even for finding the best places for
food and entertainment.
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 19

KapitTalk
Attractions of
Kapit,
the riverine town
Fort Sylvia
Fort Sylvia
Fort Sylvia stands out immediately for visitors to the
riverine town of Kapit, especially when disembarking
from the express boats. The once mighty fort was built
by Charles Brooke, the Second White Rajah of Sarawak
in 1880 to check the warring Ibans from going up river
to fight with the other ethnic tribes. Like most forts of
the era, the fort was built at a strategic point along the
rivers and these forts were meant to house the Rajah’s
troops and prevent warring tribes from engaging one
another as their movements along the river could be
clearly seen by the forts’ lookouts. Originally it was
named Fort Kapit but changed to Fort Sylvia in 1925,
after Charles Vyner’s wife Renee Sylvia.
Memorable events of the fort include the hosting of
peace keeping ceremony between the warring tribes in
1924 and later converted to accommodate the District
Office in the early 60s as well as the District Court House
later. In 1973, it was turned into the Residents’ Office
when Kapit Division was formed. Today, the building has
been declared a historical monument and has reverted
into a museum operated by the Tun Jugah Foundation
with numerous artifacts like photographs, documents,
heirloom jars, cannons and others from the by-gone eras.
Teresang Market
Teresang Market
One of the interesting places to visit when in Kapit is this
market where fresh jungle produce are often available.
Located in the centre of the town, the market serves as a
focal point for many up river travellers to sell their goods
or buy produce home. Here, many different mix of people
of different origins can be seen, just like the numerous
vegetables of the local varieties and fruits. First time visitors
should make it a point to drop in here as during fruiting
times, many local fruits not seen in the major towns can
be found here. Locals frequent the market for its good
choices of pastries and other home made goodies.
Kapit Museum
Kapit Museum
Easily the most accessible place in Kapit, the museum
is housed in the town’s Civic Centre building. Here, the
main exhibits are collections of the history of the people
of Kapit, including the various ethnic groups who form
the main groups of the living population of the town. It
also gives a brief history of the early settlers in Kapit,
including the Chinese immigrants who came as labourers
and farmers before turning to other business ventures.
20 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

KapitTalk
Empurau fish
buah ma dunggul manok
For seafood connoisseurs, a must try is the local fish,
Empurau. It is the most expensive fish on the menu in
restaurants here and only served for special occasions! The
flesh is smooth and light and the taste is great whether it is
steamed, fried or cooked with other ingredients. For some,
the fish’s fried skin is the highlight of the meal as it is
considered heavenly.
The wild boar is another local favourite among the residents
as the meat is considered superior to the domestic
variety. Hunted around the orchards and farms where it
can be quite destructive, the wild boar is usually sold to
locals of the town and also quickly snapped up. First time
encounter can be quite shocking as the carcass is cut up
and sold together with the skin, hair and everything else!
Fried with ginger, the meat taste good and some even
prefer to go for barbeque.
black olives
buah asam embang
Sampling of
local food and fruits at
Kapit
Teresang Market
Next local food is a dish consisting of frog legs! The reptile’s
hind legs are considered a delicacy and usually much
sought after by those who love the fine, tender flesh and
this is certainly only for those who wish to sample food on
the ‘fear factor’ side. Look around and see if any customers
are having any where you have dinner and if you are up
to it, then you can certainly order some to try.
When wandering around the market in Kapit, you might just
spot black olives (buah dabai), the freshly plucked local fruit
that is a favourite of many. About a few centimeters long,
the oval-shaped fruit with firm skin has a single seed inside.
Usually steamed or briskly cooked, the olive’s natural taste is
maintained and its richness is unmatched by any others.
Another local fruit much sought after is the green longan.
Sweet and delicious, the light fleshy part of the fruit
is covered by a thin, rough skin with a big seed in the
centre. Unlike the imported variety, this longan is smaller
in size but it makes up for that with a much superior taste.
Locals seem unable to have enough of it as when new
shipments of the fruits arrive, they disappear in a short time.
Moving on to wild fruit, one of Kapit’s specialty is the
hairless rambutan, a species that is found in the forest.
Known locally as buah ma dunggul manok, it has a soft
skin much like the cultivated species but the taste is a
little less sweet. The fruit is also seasonal so if you happen to
spot any on sale at the market, try some!
durian
frog
For further information on Kapit, please contact:
Resident’s Office, Kapit Division
96800 Kapit, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 084 796963 / 796425 Fax: (6) 084 796932
Sarawak Tourism Board
Tel: (6) 082 423600 Fax: (6) 082 416700
Visitors’ Information Centre Sibu
Tel: (6) 084 340980 Fax: (6) 084 341280
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 21

KapitTalk
Places of worship
St. Mary Immaculate
Conception Church
This church that sits on top of a hill overlooking Kapit
town, is one of the most beautiful and uniquely designed
Roman Catholic Churches in the division. Built adjacent
to the old church, it was completed in 2002 and can easily
accommodate 1500 faithfuls at any one time.
The roof has three distinct layers; the lowest set of roof is
designed in the shape of a native shield, the highest roof is
in the shape of the Bishop’s Mitre representing the church’s
authority while the middle set of roof joins the other two
roofs together showing inter cultural binding. The whole
building is supported by twelve pillars, signifying the twelve
apostles of Christ with the main entrance facing east,
traditionally symbolising the resurrection of Jesus while the
other four wooden gates represent the four corners of the
world, namely, North, South, East and West. On the top
part of each of these wooden doors is a native weaved cloth
called ‘pua’ with the middle part showing a cross while its
lower part consists of a mat.
Most of the decorations inside the church are unique
wooden carvings, with one showing ‘The Last Supper’ that
was imported from the Philippines. The wooden benches
inside the church are arranged in semi-column facing the
altar located at the middle of the building. These wooden
benches are sponsored and therefore named after the
catholic communities from the respective areas or longhouses
sponsoring them. Naturally, the church is the centre of
activity during Sunday mass and ideal time to visit for those
from outside the town.
‘Tua Pek Kong’
Hock Leong Tieng Temple
Hock Leong Tieng Temple is the only Chinese temple in
this town and locally known as ‘Tua Pek Kong’ in Kapit.
Located at the centre of the town overlooking the mighty
Rejang River, it is unmistakable to any visitor. Behind it is the
sole Chinese primary school in Kapit district and next to the
temple towards the upper side of the Rejang River is Kapit
District Council’s market, Market Teresang while next to it at
the lower section of the river is Kapit New Bazaar.
Based on the history of the temple, it dates back to the year
1898 when it was built by the early Chinese settlers in Kapit,
marking its 110 years of existence this year and hence, one
of the oldest heritage buildings in the division. To the Chinese
community, wherever they settled down the construction of
a Tua Pek Kong is a must to serve as their guardian and a
most important place of worship.
When fire broke out in Kapit way back in 1940s, the temple
was spared from the fire and miraculously the temple was
also left untouched by the Japanese and Royal British Army
bombings during the second world war.
The building materials used for the construction of the
temple were shipped all the way from mainland China,
a journey that took months in the early days. In fact, it
was said that the construction of the temple was carried
out by expert workers from China too! The pictures and
photographs found inside the temple were donated
by the local Chinese community while some were also
purchased from mainland China as well.
Upon entering the temple there is an offering altar while
the main altar is located towards the inner part of the
temple facing the guardian of the temple, the Tua Pek
Kong itself.
The pillars of the temple are beautifully painted depicting
dragons with their tails at the bottom and the heads at
the top of the pillars while the walls are painted with
pictures of the guardian of the temple including the 12
animals under the Chinese Zodiac signs.
Due to its strategic position, the well-maintained temple
has become a centre for attraction for tourists in Kapit.
The management of the temple committee is headed by
one of Kapit’s Chinese community leader, Kapitan Yong
Thu Fook.
Month (Kuching) Temperature Rainfall
April 2008 20.4˚C - 35.5˚C much
May 2008 20.6˚C - 36.0˚C moderate
June 2008 20.2˚C - 35.7˚C much
22 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008
Weather Forecast (April-June 2008) For Kuching, Miri & Sibu
Month (Miri) Temperature Rainfall
April 2008 20.9˚C - 35.5˚C moderate
May 2008 21.0˚C - 35.8˚C moderate
June 2008 21.1˚C - 34.5˚C much
Weather forecast provided by courtesy of Meteorological Services Department of Malaysia.
Month (Sibu) Temperature Rainfall
April 2008 19.2˚C - 35.8˚C much
May 2008 20.3˚C - 36.6˚C much
June 2008 18.0˚C - 36.4˚C moderate

KapitTalk
Public Library
Network in Kapit
Taman Ixora Indah and Skim Tunoh Village Libraries
The library’s network in Sarawak has further
expanded with the addition of two more libraries
in the Kapit division, namely the Taman Ixora Indah
Village Library and Skim Tunoh Village Library. The
libraries were officiated by YB Datuk David Teng
Lung Chi in January 2008, giving locals and visitors
alike additional opportunities to enjoy their reading
even in the heart of the state. The National Library
of Malaysia funded the setting up of these libraries
while the Housing Development Commission,
Sarawak, provided the site at Taman Ixora Indah
and a community hall was renovated to house
the Skim Tunoh Village Library. These libraries will
further promote the vision of a developed nation
status for Malaysia by 2020 through providing the
rural populations the access to world of books and
other reading materials as well as share knowledge
between people of all ages, races and religion.
Unless you are travelling into the more interior of
Kapit, the Skim Tunoh Village Library is a little out
of reach to most town people. Located approximately
some three hours boat ride from Kapit, you will
still need a four-wheel vehicle to reach the place,
going along logging road. It is certainly off the
main road and not an easy place for most to get
to but its aims and functions are similar – to bridge
the knowledge gap between the have and havenot
and further promote reading habit among
the children folks as well as adults. It is hoped that
this library, albeit in the interior, is meant to give
a head start to those who live in the interior areas
equal access to the world of books and to spend
their time wisely.
The Taman Ixora Indah Village library in the town of
Kapit has most of the facilities of most other libraries
in the state. The collection of books, magazines and
newspapers are for patrons of the library while a host
of programs are lined up for the course of the year
to inculcate the reading habit among the people,
especially among children. The library is also linked
to the Internet through the efforts of the Malaysian
Communication and Multimedia Commission, which
will enable the patrons and users of the library access
to the worldwide web and for gathering information.
For visitors to Kapit, the Taman Ixora Indah Village
library is easily accessible from the town and it is
open daily.
For more information, please contact Pustaka Negeri Sarawak at (6) 082 442000, fax at (6) 082 449944 or check out our website at
www.pustaka-sarawak.com
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 23

W
E
JALAN
I
H
T
A
J
V
R
S E
M
I
S a R a W a K
R I V
E R
Kampung Boyan
Khatuistiwa
Kampung Gersik Kampung Surabaya Kampung Panglima
Seman Lama
Wet Market &
Hawker Centre
JUBILEE
RECREaTION
GROUND
Taxi Station
Kampung Semarang
Bank / Money Changer
JALAN
ABELL
JALAN
PADUNGAN
JALAN PETANAK
H E N G H O
J A L A N A N G C
JALAN DATUK ABANG ABDUL RAHIM
JALAN PADUNGAN
JALAN
PENDING
JALAN ELLIS
J A L A N D A T U K
J A L A N F O O C H O W
W I
N
T A
L L
A
J A L A N L U M B A K U D A
JALAN SEKAMA
JALAN
JALAN CENTRAL TIMUR
Riverbank Suite
RAHMAN
Wisma
Ting Pek
King
Top Spot
Food Court
CAT
Statue
CAT
Statue
Chung Hua
No. 3 School
CHEOK
JALAN SONG THIAN
H
H
H
H
BAN HOCK
JALAN
H
JALAN DESHON
JALAN SIMPANG TIGA
J A L A N P A D U N G A N
JALAN TAN SRI ONG KEE HUI
ABDUL
(JALAN CENTRAL BARAT)
F R O N T
H
Crowne
Plaza
Riverside
Kuching
H
4
Sri Shan
H
CAT
Statue
Sarawak
Plaza
Malaysia
Airlines
H
Centrepoint
Shopping Centre
Tun Jugah
Great Wall
Cozzi
Crossway
Hindu Temple
Thiam Ming
Secret Recipe
Choon Hui
Cafe
Tom’s
H
Kua Ning
Temple
Sarakraf Pavilion
Carus Wood
at&a Home
Ideas Sdn. Bhd.
Police
Station
Buan Kua Hng
Sara Fruits
Sdn. Bhd.
St. Peter’s Church
Spring Organic
Spring Florist &
Gifts
Fire
Station
itFusion
AbSolutely
Sayang
Mian Ann
Hock Lee Centre
Dewan
Masyarakat MBKS
Swimming Pool
Crown Square
DBKU 082-446688
Kuching South City
Council (MBKS)
Police
Station
H Hotel / Motel Shop House / Office
Sarawak Transport
Food Outlet / Restaurant
Co. Station
/ Entertainment Outlet
Kuching Matang
Transport
Chin Lian Long
Petra Jaya Transport
Shopping Complex
LEGENDS
Tourism Malaysia-Sarawak 082-246575 / 246775
Infoline 1300-88-5050
Sarawak Tourism Board 082-423600
MAS Office 082-244144 / 246622
Air Asia 082-283222
KCH International Airport 082-454255 / 454242
Immigration Department 082-245661 / 230280
Custom 082-333133
24-hour Public Service Line 082-555999
Taxi Service 082-480000 / 341818
Police Station 082-245522 / 999 /
H
Traffic Police 241222
082-241133
JPJ H
082-258811 / 628700
MBKS 082-238080 / 242311
Hockey Stadium
Telekom 082-429191 / 255994
Post Office 082-244141 / 339937
Normah Medical Centre 082-440055
General Hospital 082-230689 / 257855
Padawan Council 082-615566
SESCO 082-333111
Kuching Water Board 082-240371
BOMBA (Fire Brigade) 082-241033 / 994 /
417712
Rescue 991 082-256685
JKR 082-203100
Sarawak Tourism Board
Visitors’ Information
Centre
Sarawak Tourism
Federation
Tourism Malaysia Office
Sarawak Craft Council
OTHER ENQUIRIES (KUCHING)
B
C
S
E
LocalityMap
Astana
R
E
R I V
S
Wet Market
K
a R
Fort Margherita
Square Tower
a
JALAN GAMBIER
a
a
24 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008
India Mosque
INDIA STREET
PEDESTRIAN MALL
Police
Tourist Booth
3
K U
R
C H I N G
T
W a
JALAN MAIN BAZAAR
Sarawak
Tourism
Complex
JALAN BARRACK
Open Air
Market
Little Lebanon
Electra
House
MARKET
Souvenirs Shops
Siang Ti
Temple
JALAN KHOO
HUN YEANG
L E B U H
CARPENTER STREET
Chinese Museum
CHINA STREET ULU CHINA STREET
2
Divisional Mosque
Police
Station
General Post
Office
JALAN
Residen Office
Yayasan Sarawak
D
JALAN
W AWASAN 2020
J A L A N TUN
LEBUH WAYANG
OPENG
PaDaNG
MERDEKa
1
JALAN MOSQUE
H
DATUK
AJIBAH ABOL
L EBUH TEMPLE
H
Medan
Pelita
Hong San Si
Temple
Tua Pek
Kong Temple
St. Thomas Church
Sikh Temple
Poliklinik
BARRACK
H H
JALAN McDOUGALL
Kuching
Plaza
ABANG HAJI
TAHA
St. Mary’s
School
H
H
Merdeka Palace
Hotel & Suites
Dewan Tun Abdul
Razak Muzeum
HAJI
M
A L A N
H
St. Thomas’s
School
Sarawak Museum
State & DBKU
Library
Red Crescent
Building
I R
O
R E
JALAN TUN
Islamic Museum
J A L A N R A M L E E
JALAN
H
Aquarium
Chung Hua
School
Kuching High’s
School
N
J A L A
Radio
Television
Malaysia
Hopoh
Shopping
Centre
JALAN KULAS
Aroma
Café
Heroes’
Monument
Islamic
Garden
Syariah
Court
Bank
Negara
Wisma Satok
JALAN SATOK
JALAN SATOK
RESERVOIR
PaRK
JA L A N TABUAN
SUNDaY
MaRKET Mirama
Chung Hua
No. 1 School
Telekom
Malaysia
H
Pasar Tamu
JALAN TAMAN
St. Theresa’s
School
St. Joseph’s
School
JALAN RUBBER
St. Joseph Church
JALAN PARK
BUDAYA
Amphitheatre
JALAN NANAS
Sarawak Club
JALAN
JALAN BADRUDDIN
BUDAYA
Planetarium
CROOKSHANK
JALAN BAMPFYLDE
JALAN PALM
JALAN
JALAN TUN ABANG HAJI OPENG
Police
Contingent HQ
H
to Magenta
SRB Chung
Hua No. 4
Land & Survey
Divisional Office Intan
Civic Centre
JALAN PISANG
Kuching Area
H
oad

S
J A L A N P E N I N S U L A
M I R I R I V E R
J A L A N P E R M A I S U R I
SRK Syed Othman
J A L A N M E R P A T I
Federal Complex
Immigration
Department
J A L A N N O R T H Y U S E N G
Customs
J A L A N P O S T
J A L A N P A R R Y
I P A
J A L A N K
Flower Garden
J A L A N S Y L V I A
J A L A N M E R D U
J A
J A L A N B I N T A N G
L A N
T
C H A Y
E O
J A L A N
E W
C H
S O N G
S I M
J A L A N M E R B A U
J A L A N B I N T A N G J A Y A
J A L A N M I R I P U J U T
J A L A N R I C E M I L L
J A L A N H A J I L A M P A M
J A L A N M E R B A U
B E N D A H A
J A L A N
J A L A N B R O O K E
J A L A N K W A N G T U N G
J A L A N C H I N A T Z
J A L A N H O K K I E N
JALAN KENARI
E C H I N
J A L A N J A L A N K I N G S W A Y
J A L A N A N G S A N A
J A L A N M I R I P U J U T
J A L A N B E N D A H A R A
J A L A N C I N A
J A L A N O L E A N D E R
Center Point
Commercial Centre
M E L A Y U
J A L A N P A D A N G
J A L A N P A D A N G
OTHER ENQUIRIES (MIRI)
P
P
P
P
Persiaran Kabor
Persiaran Kabor
J A L A N M I R I B I N T U L U
P
J A L A N K U B U
Miri Marriott Resort & Spa
To Pujut Lutong
LEGENDS
H Hotel
Bus Station
Taxi Station
Bank / Money
Changer
Visitors Information
Centre
National Park &
Wildlife Office
Church
Temple
Mosque
Shopping
Complex
P Petrol Station
Visitors’ Information 085-434180
Centre, Miri
Visitors’ Information 085-615181
Counter, Miri Airport
Airport Office 085-614144
P
Flight Information 085-615433
Air Asia 085-438022
085-429677
Hornbill Skyways 085-611066
Immigration Department 085-442112
Custom & Excise 085-433611
Department 085-433351
Police Headquarters 085-432533
085-433730
Miri Police Central 085-433222
Station 085-433677
Miri Post Office 085-433423
Telekom 085-424977
Taxi Station 085-432277
National Park & 085-436637
Wildlife Office
Visa & Entry Permit 085-442104
Section
Ambulance 085-420033
Fire & Rescue 994
Miri General Hospital 085-420033
Polyclinic 085-412322
Miri Area
H
H
To Airport
MARinA PARK
Tamu
Muhibbah
Tua Pek Kong Temple
Tamu
Khas
Miri
Park
1
Hawker
Stalls
H
Bus Station
Miri Municipal
Council Field
Fish Market
Wisma Pelita
Tunku
Taxi Station
H
2
Miri
Waterfront
Miri Waterfront
Commercial Centre
Multi-Storey
Car Park
Soon Hup
Shoping Complex
Sin Liang
Supermarket
Malaysia
Airlines
H
H
H
Mega Hotel
H H
Miri Central
Merket
H
Resident
& District
Office
Miri City
Council
Police
Station
Multi-Storey
Car Park
SRB
Chung Hua
SRB St. Joseph
Miri City
Medical Centre
Fire
Station
Miri Heritage
Centre
Polyclinic
SRK North
MiRi gOLF CLuB
Imperial Mall
Telekom
Miri High Court
Miri Post Office
AT-Taqwa Mosque
Dewan Suarah Miri
Islamic Garden
Pustaka Miri
Miri City Fan
Chinese Garden
Public
Swimming
Pool
Mini
Indoor
Stadium
Family
Planning
Fruit
Market
Bintang Plaza
Bintang Jaya
Commercial Centre
SRK Bintang
Police
Headquater
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
LocalityMap
H
H
H
H
To Grand Old Lady
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 25

B R O O K E D R I V E
J A L A N B U J A N G S U N T O N G
JALAN CAUSEWAY
JALAN MORSHIDI SIDEK
OTHER ENQUIRIES (SIBU)
J A L A N C H E N G A L
L O R O N G L A N A N G 1
J A L A N L A I C H E E
J A L A N H U A K I E W
J A L A N P E D A D A
J A L A N H O E P I N G
J A L A N H A R D I N W A L K
J A L A N F O O C H O W
J A L A N T I O N G H U A
J A L A N M U I H O N G
J A L A N E M P L A N
S I O N G
J A L A N T O N G S A N G
J A L A N W O N G N A I
L O R O N G M I S S I O N
J A L A N B U K I T A S S E K
J A L A N C E N T R A L
L O R O N G L A N A N G
J A L A N C H A N N E L
J A L A N C R O S S
J A L A N T A N S R I
L O R O N G L A N A N G 2
J A L A N K H O O P E N G L O O N G
JALAN LAMA
J A L A N M A J U
Rejang Esplanade &
Hii Association Playground
Rejang River
J A L A N K E R A N J I
J A L A N R A M I N
JALAN BANK
JALAN WHARF
J A L A N T E M P L E
P
Sibu Post Office
J A L A N B E N G K E L
JALAN SANYAN
J A L A N T U A N K U O S M A N
J A L A N K A M P U N G N Y A B O R
J A L A N P U L A U
J A L A N T U N A B A N G H J O P E N G
LocalityMap
Federal
Government Complex
State
Government
J A L A N A W A N G R A M L I A M I T
Land & Survey
Court
House
Methodist
Secondary School
Muslim
Cemetry
Sibu
Public
Library
J A L A N K A M P U N G D A T U
Lau King Howe
Memorial Museum
Sibu Area
Sibu town Square
Rejang Port Authority
H
H
RH Hotel
See Hua
Daily News
H
Wisma
Sanyan
H
Mist garden
H
Chung Hua
Primary School
Methodist
Primary School
Methodist
Church
H
Chinese
Opera Stage
1
H
Police
Station
SMC
Multi
Storey
Car Park
Old SMC
Building
Centre Point Inn
Night Bazaar
H
Sibu Central
Market
H
Premier
Hotel
H
H
Tanahmas
Hotel
H
H
Rimbungan
Hijau
Sibu
gateway
Catholic Church
St. Rita
H
Chinese
Pagoda
Speed Boat
Wharf
to Daro, Paradom,
Igan, Dalat
New River Express
Terminal
H
Rajang Medical
Centre
Catholic
High School
H
LEGENDS
H Hotel
Bus Station
Taxi Station
Bank / Money
Changer
Visitors Information
Centre
Church
Temple
Mosque
Shopping
Complex
P Petrol Station
Visitors’ Information 084-340980
Centre, Sibu
MAS Office, Sibu 084-326166
084-321055
Airport Office, Sibu 084-307799
084-307899
P
Air Asia 084-307808
Divisional Hotel 084-326972
Association 084-323222
Immigration Department 084-336991
Customs & Excise 084-333422
Department
District Office 084-330224
Police Department 084-322222
Hospital 084-343333
Marine Department 084-332757
Sibu Post Office 084-332312
Taxi Station 084-320773
Sarawak River Board 084-341936
Resident Office 084-321963
Sibu Municipal Council 084-333411
(SMC)
H
Sibu Rural District 084-336077
Council (SRDC)
Fire & Rescue 084-330343
994
Forestry Department 084-334577
Welfare Department 084-329434
26 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

SibuTalk
To get to Kapit in the heart of Borneo, you
can either go by charter helicopter or take
the fast and reliable express boats from Sibu.
Built in the shape of jet liners, these sleek and
powerful express boats are the jet liners on
water, skimming over the water’s surface while
passengers in the cabins enjoy the comforts
of a luxury ride. Each boat is distinctive in its
colours and slight variant in shape and all are
berthed at the busy Sibu Express Boat Terminal,
just minutes from the town’s centre.
The Sarawak Boleh 168 express boat plies the
Sibu – Kapit and return routes daily, comfortably
carrying 131 people each trip in its spacious
cabin. Fully air-conditioned, there are DVD
shows during the journey while you relaxed
snugly in your settee enjoying the shows. For
VIP and First class seat passengers, mineral
water is served along the journey, courtesy of
its in-house services. These seats too feature
more comfortable settees with ample leg room
for a more comfortable ride in a two-seat
configuration arrangement. The other types of
seats available in Sarawak Boleh 168 are the
Economy and Business classes, each with
comfortable seats in rows of four seats
onwards. Bags and other carry-ons can be
stored in the spaces provided near the
entrance of the vessel whose interior is
tastefully decorated and head room is
spacious for most people.
It takes approximately two and half hours to
reach Kapit from Sibu as the journey is made
going against the mighty Rejang River currents
but return trips are naturally faster. As for the
trip, the scenery is one of lush greenery of
the tropical rainforest as the Sarawak Boleh
168 meanders along the river and numerous
longhouses appear on either side of the upper
river banks throughout the journey.
Apart from the Sarawak Boleh 168, the
company also operates four other smaller
express boats, namely Sibu Boleh 168, Sibu
Boleh 268, Kapit Boleh 168 and Kapit Boleh
268, all plying the same routes as Sarawak
Boleh 168.
SARAWAK
BOLEH
EXPRESS BOAT
Fast comfortable rides
The schedule of departures and fares are as
follows:
A. FARES
1. Economy Class - RM20/ticket.
2. Business Class - RM25/ticket.
3. First Class - RM30/ticket.
4. VIP Class - RM40/ticket.
Smaller Express Boats in the group do not
have VIP Class but the rates remain the
same for the corresponding class.
B. SCHEDULE
• 07.30am (SIBU – KAPIT)
• 09.30am (SIBU – SONG – KAPIT)
• 10.45am (SIBU – SONG – KAPIT)
• 12.30pm (SIBU – KAPIT)
• 07.30am (KAPIT – SIBU)
• 12.30pm (KAPIT – SIBU)
• 02.15pm (KAPIT – SIBU)
• 03.15pm (KAPIT – SONG – SIBU)
Tickets are sold at the Sibu Express Boat
Terminal, the relevant boat in Kapit and at
Petronas Petrol Stations in Kapit (TBS).
For further information, please contact Swegim Enterprise Sdn. Bhd.
12 Jalan Kampung Nyabor, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak. Tel: (6) 084 334433 / 366777 Fax: (6) 084 316026
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 27

SibuTalk
Sibu Rural District Council
Reaching Out
Beyond Rural Development
In Sarawak, district councils play a
vital role in the administration of
their various areas, providing basic
amenities and services that will lead
to improving the lifestyle of the
people and generating more job
opportunities for the population. The
Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC) has
the enviable task of managing two
districts, namely Sibu and Selangau,
with an area of about 6,000 sq
km. for the last six decades which
has seen tremendous changes and
improvements. The success achieved
has given rise to yet another target
for SRDC, that is, to provide an efficient
and effective local authority services to
rate payers within their jurisdiction by
year 2015.
A large portion of the council’s area
are in rural settings which require
extensive amounts of funds to develop
while the more urban areas are
limited and hence revenue collected
is small too. However, SRDC with
staff strength of 76 personnel are
committed to serve the people and
has various programmes to bring
benefit to the residents. One of
these is to improve rural hygiene
and cleanliness which will further
improve the quality of the life of the
people in the affected areas and it
has undertaken beautification and
cleanliness campaigns since 1993 for
residential compounds and longhouse
since 1996. At the same time, SRDC
will further expand its libraries
programme to bring down illiteracy
while encouraging the reading habit
among the young. Naturally, these
are long term programmes which will
bring about economic growth and
social integration as well as improving
the livelihood of the people.
Apart from these main functions,
SRDC is a vital organisation to
investors who wish to set up business
ventures in the district as they can
provide guidelines and advice on the
relevant by-laws and other matters.
Travellers too often find the district
council a useful place to gather
information and seek advice on
furthering their journeys into the rural
parts of the state. In fact, SRDC has
organised the Gawai Open House to
welcome visitors to sample the traditions
and celebrations associated with the
Dayak Harvest festival, an annual
event to give thanks to the spirits for a
bountiful harvest. The event is marked
by the display of traditional dances and
songs, cultural performances and a
sample of local delicacies associated
with the celebration. The Gawai
celebration and holiday in Sarawak is
celebrated on 1 st and 2 nd June of each
year which is accompanied by having
an Open House where everyone is
welcomed to join in the merrymaking
and getting to meet new friends and
acquaintances.
Sibu Rural District Council
Level 17 & 18, Wisma Sanyan, No.1 Jalan Sanyan, 96008 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 084 336077 Fax: (6) 084 324694 Email: mdlbs@sarawaknet.gov.my
28 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

MiriTalk
Incredible weekend
packages
Mega Hotel Miri
Mega Hotel Miri has done it again – coming
up with incredible offers for families to stay
and enjoy the facilities available right in the
heart of the Resort City! Now, weekends need
not be boring days at home watching the TV
as these special packages give everyone the
opportunity to sample the best the hotel has
to offer. Priced at RM288 per room for the
Family Gateway and RM161 per room for
the Weekend Splash, there is no better time
than now to make your bookings at Mega
Hotel Miri.
Family Gateway Package
When you register for the Family Gateway,
the package includes RM40 worth of meal
voucher plus the use of the swimming pool
and gym facilities as well as welcome drinks.
This is as good as any opportunity to work out
some of the excess weight for parents while
the children are busy at the swimming pool.
The package is for three days, two nights stay
(Friday/Saturday/Sunday) in Superior rooms
where two bottles of drinking water, coffee
and tea making facilities, daily newspaper and
unlimited free wireless Internet access are all
part of this incredible offer. Applicable to only
Malaysian and Brunei residents, the package
allows extended check out until 4pm and there
are ample parking spaces for vehicles.
Weekend Splash Package
Alternatively, if you just want to spend two days and one night, then
the Weekend Splash package is just the one. Inclusive in this offer is an
international buffet breakfast for two persons while two child under
twelve years old eat for free when accompanied by parents. Each of the
Superior room comes with welcome drinks, two bottles of drinking water,
coffee and tea making facilities, use of gym facilities and swimming
pool, complimentary daily newspaper and unlimited free wireless Internet
access. In addition the late check out at 4pm is also applicable, subject to
availability of room and bookings can be for Friday, Saturday or Sunday.
In term of convenience, Mega Hotel Miri is close by to almost any
place within the city and offers superior quality services. Highly
favoured as the venue for meetings and seminars in this Resort City,
Mega Hotel has the facilities and expertise to cater to these high
expectations. There are numerous restaurants and cafes scattered
around the vicinity of the hotel for those who want to sample local
cuisines while shopping is just as convenient as all around the hotel
are shops and specialty shops dealing in all types of businesses.
Lot 907, Jalan Merbau, 98000 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: (6) 085 432432 Fax: (6) 085 433433
Email: reservation@megahotel.com.my Website: www.megahotel.com.my
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 29

BintuluTalk
Lemon Smoothie
Local flavour.. Nasi Goreng Bagus
Mixed Grill Special
Orange Smoothie
Cooling and Refreshing. Kemena ABC Special
Ever Popular..Ah Peng’s chicken Chop Special
Dining Out at
Regency Plaza Hotel Bintulu
In Bintulu there is a trusted name when it comes to
dining and great tasting food – the Kemena Coffee
House at Regency Plaza Hotel! Kemena Coffee
House has all the superlatives when it comes to
beautiful interior décor, having been only recently
refurnished and best of all, the venue is right in the
heart of this bustling industrial town. The menu
constantly features new innovative dishes that are
pleasing to the eyes and taste buds, reasonably
priced plus excellent services, all to please its
discerning guests and repeat customers.
For starters, try the Nasi Goreng Bagus, one of
the hot items here. The fragrant fried rice comes
with pan-fried chicken and prawn, a generous
serving of sambal ikan bilis, freshly sliced cucumber,
Indian vegetarian crackers topped with fried
sunny-side-up egg, all beautifully arranged on
a large plate and ever so tempting! Another
favourite is the Ah Peng’s Chicken Chop Special.
It is crispy fried chicken topped with flavoured
oriental sauce that tickles the nostrils when
served to you. This dish has been on the menu
for decades since the hotel was established!
The Sizzling Mixed Grill served on hot plate
always catches other diners’ attention when
brought to the table. Tender lamb chop, fillet of
beef and chicken, sausage, choice of mushroom
with fresh vegetable of the day and potatoes
in either garlic or Sarawak Black Pepper sauce
are all superbly cooked to the right degree. The
proof as they say is in the taste, and this is one
dish that surpasses the gourmets’ expectations.
Every special meal needs to be complemented by
equally interesting dessert. This is where the
Kemena ABC Special comes in. Shaves of ice
covered by gula Melaka syrup, creamy sweet corn,
assorted jelly, red bean, cincau and ice cream
topping are what makes this the favourite of many
guests here. To opt for a lighter dessert, why not
try the specially concocted fresh fruit juice of lemon
smoothie and orange smoothie drinks.
Public functions like seminars and theme events held
at Regency Plaza Hotel are served by the Food and
Beverage Department under the helm of Executive
Chef Amiluddin Mansur, who has over two decades
of culinary experience. The hotel also caters for
trendy Chinese and Malay wedding receptions with
set dinners or buffet style parties.
For information and reservation, contact the hotel at:
PLAZA HOTEL • BINTULU
SARAWAK • MALAYSIA
116, Taman Sri Dagang, Jalan Abang Galau, 97000 Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 086 335111 Fax: (6) 086 332742 Email: rihbtu@tm.net.my
30 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

BintuluTalk
Bintulu Kite Flyers
Stunts with nature’s forces
Kite flying appears simple enough to
most people and it really is but not if
you are into stunt kite flying. These
special kites are not just the simple
pieces of bamboo or plastic frames
with paper or plastic sheets that are
usually seen. The stunt kites have
multiple shapes and some use two
sets of strings to control them but their
flights and stunts are meant to thrill.
Of course, the pleasure is not just
watching the stunts; rather it is in the
control of these flying wonders that
gives the ultimate thrills.
One accomplished group of stunt kite
flyers are the Bintulu Kite Flyers
who can be seen on weekends at
the old airport in Bintulu, Sarawak’s
Gas Town. The dedicated multi-racial
group, comprising individuals
of different ethnic and cultural
backgrounds come from all over the
state like Kuching, Sibu, Limbang and
Bintulu, not only displays their skills
with the colourful and stunning kites
but also welcomes just about anyone
to join in the fun activity. It is easy to
join in the fun as all you need is the
willingness to learn and over time, get
your own kite and fly it with the group.
Furthermore, the group will teach for
free all those who are interested in the
art of kite flying so there is no worry
of not having anyone to teach you.
Just drop by the old airport at Bintulu
and you will immediately be able to try
out these kites and learn from these
enthusiasts.
The stunt kites can perform cascading
and half-axle moves apart from
many other exciting moves and with
their beautiful and catchy colours,
are a sight to behold when flying
through the sky. The group will also
be performing at the upcoming
Mukah Kaul Festival and the
demonstration is also to promote
the sport to a wider audience. So
if you can’t catch them at Bintulu,
come to Mukah and you will also
be able to see them and learn a few
tricks while at it.
Anytime you drop by in Bintulu, make
sure that you visit the old airport to
catch a glimpse of these impressive
kites and the stunts they can do under
skillful hands. The spectacle will surely
make you an avid kite flyer and
follower as the activity is fun, practically
cost nothing and everyone in the family
can take part in! An important date
to watch out where other professional
kite flyers from other countries will be
participating is during the Borneo
International Kite Festival 2008
happening in August 18-24.
For further informatio, please contact Bintulu Development Authority at (6) 086 334680 / 332277 or fax to (6) 086 330099
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 31

LocalTalk
Youth Camp
Camp Pueh Sematan, Sarawak
The place to discover yourself
In almost all organisations the key word most emphasised
on is ‘Teamwork’. It is the single most important factor
for the success of the organisation, be they business
corporations, sports bodies or associations and other
private groups that interact with the society or other
similar interest groups, locally or even overseas. The
cohesiveness of any organisation is key to its success or
failure and the underlying factor is definitely teamwork.
The Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation
Sarawak clearly knows the importance of this and has
even set up a camp for the purpose at Sematan, the
coastal town on the most northern fringe of the state.
About two hours drive from Kuching City, the camp is
exactly what you would expect for such a facility – away
from the hustle and bustle of the city, wide spaces for
different kinds of activities and amenities to provide living
comfort to those who make use of these facilities.
Camp Pueh has been in operation since 1991 and it is to
assist in bringing up a new generation of youths capable
of facing the challenges of life by forging close comradeship
between the people of various races, culture and religion.
Through the training provided the participants would
also be strong in defending the nation’s interest and instill
characters with high degree of religious spirit in their
lives. Since its inception, numerous groups of youths,
staff of various government organisations and others
have passed through this camp and realised their true
potential and also the spirit of working together for the
good of the organisation, state and nation.
three-day course is ideal for executives who have little time
to spare and is meant to build understanding, cohesiveness
as well as physical and mental strength. Another intensive
course is the five-day teambuilding especially for students
as it requires a number of hard physical trials and living in
tents while undergoing the training.
One of the most challenging courses is the eight-day
course which really tests the mental and physical strength
of the individual. It involves living alone in the jungle
and fending for oneself while undertaking tasks during
the process. In comparison, the fourteen-day course is
much more challenging to those who participate in it.
Ideal for team-building, the course really tests participants
physical and mental strengths as well as skills in handling
a number of tests like jungle trekking and camping alone.
All these trainings are carried out under the watchful
eyes of the camp’s trainers who ensure that the objectives of
the training sought are understood and instilled into the
participants. It is no wonder that after the training, many
of the participants would express their heartfelt thanks
to these trainers for the trials and challengers and in the
process discover their true potential and capabilities.
Lest anyone think that the camp is meant only for youths
and government agencies, it is actually open to the
public and private organisations too. The camp caters
to different needs of any organisation by having various
types of course to suit these needs and expectations. the
32 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

LocalTalk
Types Of Facilities Available
At Camp Pueh
Living quarters
Rest house – These are individual units of two storey
buildings and has various amenities for more comfortable
living conditions. The top floor has a single room with
air-conditioning while the other three rooms here are
equipped with just fans. The single room is priced at
RM40 per night while the other three rooms are priced at
RM20 per night and suitable for two persons per room.
On the ground floor, there are another four rooms, each
equipped with fans and can comfortably accommodate
three persons to a room, priced at RM20 per night.
Boarding house – There are six such facilities at the
camp, each capable of accommodating thirty persons at
any one time. The sleeping arrangements comprise deck
beds and each comes with mattress, pillow, bedsheet
and blanket. The charges are based on the categories of
the users; students pay RM1 each per night while youths
association members pay RM2 per night and government
agencies pay RM5 each per night.
Indoor facilities
Multi-purpose hall – Ideal for many types of activities
including dining hall, receptions, lecture/seminar and
badminton. This can be the main hall for group activities
when the weather does not permit outdoor activities and
is charged at RM150 per day.
Lecture Hall – It can easily sit a hundred people at any
one sitting and has air-conditioning facilities too. It is the
ideal place for lectures and other indoor tasks. Events
involving students as well as youths associations are
charged RM50 per day when using the hall while other
government agencies are charged at RM150 per day.
Apart from these facilities, there is also a surau for
prayers which can accommodate 80 people, a sepak
takraw and basketball court, a volleyball court and a field
that can be used for seven-aside football. On the physical
activities side, these include obstacle course, zip tower,
low rope course, high rope course, wall and beam, spider
web, pole and tyre, jungle trekking, solo camping, kayaking,
mass camping, abseiling, 30km expedition, mountaineering,
rafting, butterfly crossing, silent arrangement, electric
fence and blasting the bomb. A fee is charged for each
activity involving the personnel of the camp.
from
Lundu
22km from Lundu
(9.8km Youth Camp Pueh)
Jalan Kampung Pueh
Kampung Sebat
Baru
S.R.K. Sebat
Kampung Sebat
Melayu
Tengkerek River
Merah River
Kampung
Siru
Youth Camp
Pueh
Sematan
Kampung
Pueh
To Youth
Camp Pueh
(1km)
Those interested can get more information from The Principal, Camp Pueh Tel: (6) 082 712245 / 712040 or Fax: (6) 082 712069
or Youth Section, Ministry of Social Development and Urbanisation at Tel: (6) 082 440441.
to
Sematan
Watch out for upcoming issues for features on: Kemuyang Youth Camp, Sibu and Mukah Youth Camp, Mukah
S.R.K. Pueh
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 33

LocalTalk
Sarawak Museums
History rediscovered
As one of the oldest museums in South East Asia,
the Sarawak Museum houses some of the most
precious relics from past civilisations which were
found from excavations sites in various parts
of Sarawak. The remains of Niah Man (recently
reclassified as woman) found at the Niah Caves and
on display here, is obviously an attraction for its
significance in the annals of human history. There are
of course numerous other things that attract people
to the museum, including its impressive animals and
insects collections. In fact, there are eight museums
in the state, namely Islamic Museum, Chinese
Museum, Niah Archeological Museum, Limbang
Regional Museum, Baram Regional Museum, Textile
Museum and the Petroleum Museum. To visit each
of these will certainly take some time!
Currently at the Dewan Tun Abdul Razak in Kuching,
a gallery of the Sarawak Museum just across the
road from the main building, is a display of ceramic
relics excavated from various sites at the Sarawak
river delta. Undoubtedly, the delta area of Sarawak
was a primary trading centre during the early
period of the state’s history as evidenced from
these discoveries. Initially, traders from other parts
of Asia were interested in the spice trade, birds’
nests, beeswax, hornbill ivory and other exotic
products found aplenty in Sarawak and in return,
the natives here received textiles, beads, ceramic
and brass wares.
34 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

LocalTalk
Situated on the 1 st floor of the gallery, the
display comprises mainly items discovered and
recovered since 1948. Based on the findings,
a number of these ceramic items and pieces
were from the 11 th to the 13 th Century A.D.
Majority of them originated from China with
some from Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and
Europe too. The items range from jars to
plates, small vases and teapots as well as
bowls and bottles. In order to group these
materials, nine classifications have been
made based on their glaze colour and clay
body or texture. These include White wares,
Yueh types, Celadons from the Sung Dynasty,
Temmoku from Fukien in China, Green glazed
wares, T’zu Chou wares, Coarse stonewares.
Siamese wares and Blue and White wares.
Some, like the Green glazed ones actually
owed their colour to the presence of lead in
the clay material used in the making.
Relics on display at the Sarawak Museum
Exposure to the ceramics products brought
by the foreign traders later led to the
development of ceramic products by the
natives here. Over time, it has brought
about the rise of the pottery industry in
Sarawak and more recently, the export of
ceramic products from here. Surprisingly,
the earliest indigenous ceramics were
found at the West Mouth site of the Niah
Cave which were actually plain, undecorated
large jars, urns and other special funerary
vessels which were linked to the burial
customs of the local people.
Museum souvenir shoppe
Over on the ground floor of the gallery is
the Museum Shoppe, a retail outlet that
sells souvenirs and other memorabilia. A
comfortable place to browse around after
going through the exhibitions, you can
buy things like T-shirts, books, miniature
art pieces and things to help you recall the
time spent in the museum. The gallery is
open everyday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
and admission is free!
Sarawak Museum Department • Tun Abang Haji Openg Road, 93566 Kuching, Sarawak, East Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 082 240298 Fax: (6) 082 246680 Website: www.museum.sarawak.gov.my Email: muhdzh@sarawaknet.gov.my
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 35

In.a.DayTalk
in a day
Among Kuching folks, there are a few places that each considers the best places for
particular meals like breakfast, lunch or dinner. Here, a corporate lady describes the places
that would be on her list if she were to recommend them to a visitor. Try out these places
and give us your feedback on her choices!
Thank you!
email: iconnec@pc.jaring.my
India Street
Pedestrian Mall
8.30 am
After breakfast, take a short stroll to India
Street Pedestrian Mall and get rid of some of
the extra calories put in from the early meal.
This used to be one of the busiest streets
of the old town and was the main place to
get clothes from around the world. Indian
merchants were dominant then. Today, the
pedestrian mall has transformed into a street
for fashionable clothes to funky wear and
food outlets to hardware shops. The assortment
of goods available is quite astonishing and
be sure to venture into the various alleys on
either side of the street to discover the hidden
treasures of India Street.
Seattle Coffee & Tea
Coffee lovers should not miss out on the great
taste of Seattle Coffee & Tea at Merdeka Palace
and Suites for their breakfast when in town.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the
morning is unmistakable here for all to savour
especially with the choices of sandwiches which
some say are among the best the town has to
offer! Albeit limited in space, the ambience of
the place makes up for the short-coming and
with air-conditioning, you can enjoy breakfast in
cool surroundings with friends and family. Open
daily: weekday 7.00am to 12.00 midnight,
weekend 7.00am to 1.00am.
Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg,
Kuching. Tel: (6) 082 258000
10.30 am
36 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

Little Lebanon is at one end of India street and
this is the ideal place to stop for lunch. Serving
mainly authentic Lebanese, Middle Eastern and local
favourites, the restaurant has a good choice to pick
from and suited for adults and children alike. You can
discover the taste of Lebanon through their offerings
of Shawarma, Kebabs, Arabic Sausages, Kiftah Halabi,
Hommus and a variety of Pita Bread specialities. The
interior is beautifully decorated with Middle Eastern
design setting and highly romantic for couples to spend
an evening together over a meal. Make sure though
that you sample the bread as it is made in-house and
the fresh oven baked smell is simply irresistible. Open
daily from 10.00am to 10.30pm.
In.a.DayTalk
12.30 pm 2.30 pm
7.00 pm Rock Road Seafood Restaurant
Ground Floor, Sarawak Tourism Complex, Jalan Barrack, Kuching.
Tel: (6) 082 233523 / 242523
Malaysian Handicraft
Development Corporation, Sarawak
Next, hop into a taxi and drop by the Malaysian Handicraft Corporation
(Sarawak Branch) at Petra Jaya. The centre trains youths in the various
traditional skills of weaving, batik painting, pottery and wood crafts making
and visitors can get a close up view of these craftsmen and women. The centre
has an exhibition room where the traditional and modern versions of ethnic
crafts are on display with relevant information on each. At the batik making
centre, guests at times are seen trying out applying the wax on the clothes
with guidance from the experts. It is a fun place for children as these various
handicrafts skills are interesting and fascinating to them.
Lot 3057, Block 18, Daerah Salak, Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, Kuching.
Tel: (6) 082 444205 Fax: (6) 082 440003
Dinner is served at the Rock Road Seafood Restaurant, just the place for
fresh, great tasting varieties of seafood. You can even pick out your choice
of fish, prawns, lobsters and others and the open kitchen gives you full view
of your dinner being prepared. Apart from the seafood, there are assortments
of vegetable and meat dishes to choose from too and beverages range from
soft drinks to wines and liquor. The restaurant also prides itself on serving
food cooked in their natural juices so you can be assured that the sweet taste
of your food comes directly from the fresh ingredients!
Lot 1229-1230, Rock View Estate, 2 1 /2 Mile Rock Road, Kuching.
Tel: (6) 082 241575 / 427331 Fax: (6) 082 255261
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 37

DiningOutTalk
Catch their
Victoria Arms New Resident Band
the bOOmers
from Indonesia
energetic
performance nightly
from 9.00 pm onwards
except Sunday
March - May
Mother’s Day
Sunday, 11 th May 2008
Aurora Court
INTERNATIONAL BUFFET BRUNCH
11.00 am to 3.00 pm
RM 45 ++ per adult
RM 18 ++ per child (5 – 12 years old)
&
Father’s Day
Sunday, 15 th June 2008
Ristorante Beccari
Italian BUFFET DINNER
6.30 pm to 10.00 pm
RM 69 ++ per adult
RM 25 ++ per child (5 – 12 years old)
INTERNATIONAL BUFFET DINNER
6.30 pm to 10.00 pm
RM 69 ++ per adult
RM 25 ++ per child (5 – 12 years old)
Weekend Buffet extravaganza
La Habana Cigar Divan
Lifestyle Evening
every Friday
7.00 pm to 10.00 pm
RM 88++ per person
Aurora Court
Fresh & Fabulous
every Friday & Saturday
6.30 pm to 10.00 pm
RM 59++ per adult
RM 25++ per child (5 – 12 years old)
Ristorante Beccari
La Casetta Etoile’ Buffet
every Sunday
6.30 pm to 10.00 pm
RM 59++ per adult
RM 25++ per child (5 – 12 years old)
. . . at Merdeka Palace Hotel & Suites
For further information or reservation, please contact:
Telephone: (6) 082 258000 • Aurora Court ext. 8061 • Ristorante Beccari ext. 8080
Victoria Arms ext. 8070 • La Habana Cigar Divan ext. 8098 • F&B Office ext. 8054
Facsimile: (6) 082 425400 • E-mail: info@merdekapalace.com • Website: www.merdekapalace.com
38 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

DiningOutTalk
The Manhattan Fish Market
Seafood at its best!
Dedicated to serving the best and
freshest seafood, The Manhattan
Fish Market outlets in Kuching
are the buzz of the city where seafood
is concerned. Located at the Spring
Shopping Mall and Boulevard Mall
respectively, these restaurants of the
famous American seafood restaurant,
are distinctive and exquisitely true to
their motto: ‘This is a whole world in
itself, its seafood at its finest’.
For further information, please contact:
The Manhattan FISH MARKET - The Spring
Lot G40A, The Spring Mall, Jalan Simpang Tiga,
Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: (6) 082 231 488
The Manhattan FISH MARKET - Boulevard
G-B-17 Ground Floor, Boulevard Shopping Mall
Lot 9143 Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching, Sarawak
Tel: (6) 082 462393
“We are passionate about what we do
which is to serve the best and freshest
seafood and our choices are imported
from Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia
while the salmon are specially flown
in from Norway with local varieties,”
points out Josephine Wong,
Assistant Marketing Manager for the
local outlets. “We offer very casual
dining experience with wide varieties
of seafood to choose from; there is
something for everyone, be it fish or
prawns, mussels like oysters and clams
with chips and our special garlic butter
rice. Of course, our signature steel
skillets that come with the food is
already a well-known aspect of
The Manhattan Fish Market
style and every time we flamed the
prawns in front of our customers, the
amazement and delight is immediately
seen from their faces!”
The Garlic Butter Mussels is one
dish that just has to be experienced
to savour the tasty mussels served
with warm baguette slices while the
Manhattan Seafood Platter for two
comes with generous portions of
dory fish fillet, calamari rings, oysters
and flaming prawns with chips and
garlic butter rice. Other interesting
and lavishing dishes available at The
Manhattan Fish Market are the Fish
& Chips, Red Hot Whole Fish, Giant
Flaming Lobster Platter and Crispy
Shrimps all served, either poached,
fried or baked to one’s choice.
Every Manhattan Fish Market
outlet is tastefully set up to provide
the soothing ambience of fine dining
and coupled with the service, each is
a special place in itself. At the Spring
Shopping Mall, the outlet has a floor
area of 2240 sq feet, capable of
accommodating 102 customers at
any one time while the Boulevard
Mall outlet with 1820 sq feet can
comfortably sit a smaller crowd. The
original Manhattan Fish Market
was first set up 108 years ago, under
the Brooklyn Bridge in Manhattan,
New York, USA and since then, the
restaurant has spread to all corners of
the world, with 21 outlets in Malaysia
alone apart from neighbouring
countries like Singapore and Thailand.
www.manhattanfishmarket.com
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 39

DiningOutTalk
Sushi King
A Japanese treat for
everyone
In Kuching City there are only a
few restaurants serving authentic
Japanese food, especially everyone’s
favorite, sushi dishes. Just recently,
two new Sushi King outlets have
started operating here at Boulevard
Shopping Complex and The Spring
Shopping Mall respectively. In Malaysia
46 similar outlets are currently
operating throughout the country
and are part of the largest Japanese
‘Kaiten’ restaurants in the country.
Kaiten Sushi or revolving sushi are
quick revolving sushi restaurants
where guests pick sushi at leisure
from a revolving conveyor belt.
Inclusive of the meals are green tea
served at no charge to customers
and quality service to compliment
your patronage at the restaurants.
dishes to all its valued customers
through service excellence in a safe
environment.
The ala carte menu consists of sushi,
Yakimono (grilled dishes), Agemono
(fried dishes), noodles, Donburi (rice
bowl dishes), Japanese curry dishes,
sashimi and specially imported
Japanese desserts and beverages.
Sushi King change its ala carte and
set meal menus twice every year,
continuously adding interesting new
dishes, specially created by their
Japanese chef.
With the aim of becoming the leading
Sushi and Japanese Eatery in the
region, these Sushi King restaurants
continually serve safe, high quality
and affordable Sushi and Japanese
Sushi KinG Sdn. Bhd.
The Spring Mall, Jalan Simpang Tiga, Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: (6) 082 245355
Boulevard Shopping Mall, Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: (6) 082 463182
Email: marketing@sushi-king.com Website: www.sushi-king.com
40 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

ShoppingTalk
Fashionable one-of-a-kind pieces
from the outlet here include a
variety of sparkly accents that
spice up bohemian fantasy pieces
to romantic rosettes in demure
classics. Mother of pearls sit
artfully clustered in brass settings,
while Swarovski crystals grace
slinky velvet chokers reminiscent
of bygone romance. And, as if
in choreographed mismatch,
chunky jewel-bright gemstones
on retro gold brooches present a
petal play amidst dyed beads that
trickle down fringed pieces in tribal
charm.
A potpourri of beautiful, intricate
accessories grace the colourful
interiors of Axxezz, the Malaysian
-grown brand known for its
contemporary jewellery collection
befitting for all occasions.
Located at the first floor of Kuching’s
latest shopping mall, tHe Spring,
this is the first outlet in Sarawak for
Axxezz (pronounced Ak-cess) having
established several other outlets in
countries such as UAE, Pakistan, the
Philippines and of course, Malaysia,
since 1998.
Born out of its creator, Gina
Frias-Himpe’s passion for fashion
jewelleries and inspired by her
travels to the east and west, its
designs go beyond seasonal trends
to please every personal style.
At Axxezz, one’s journey there is
like an everlasting fairytale where
each chapter happily ends with
the one’s finding of the perfect
accessories while the next chapter
begins with the anticipation of this
blossom’s new exciting collection.
The brand, which is denoted by
a single lime-green and turquoise
blossom, also presents the young
ones with the Axxezz Kidz Klek
Kleh Collection which was inspired
by little girls with hair scraped
back in braids and ponytails.
The collection is a charming and
colourful confection of adorable
fashion accessories comprising
sweet candy-pink party pouches
to tactile lace hair bands and
fun trinkets. Each pretty piece is
richly detailed with bright, playful
accents that celebrate the flower
fairy in children.
Apart from that, Axxezz has also
made a head start with hats that
feature all the brand’s signature
details. Beribboned, bowed or
beaded, the Axxezz hat is versatile
and adaptable whether it is to lend
volume and structure to the attire,
to mix and match an outfit, or to
accent an entire get-up.
Whatever is your personal style,
Axxezz’s collection of alwaysfashionable
pieces are guaranteed
to lend a definitive finishing touch
to today’s fashionistas.
Their colour-coordinated collection
each feature all-season pieces that
come in playful yet classy styles
ranging from chunky beaded chain
necklaces to feathery dangling
earrings, thus enabling customers
to shop for a particular jewellery
piece with ease.
Axxezz • Operating hours: 10am to 10pm daily (starting from April, the store will close at midnight on the first Saturday of every month)
117, 1 st Floor, The Spring Shopping Mall, Jalan Simpang Tiga, 93300 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: (6) 082 240784 Website: www.axxezz.com
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 41

42 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

BeautyTalk
Young Skin Program
Rediscover the new you!
There is no secret that to look your best, you
need the best treatment for your skin as it shows
clearly to everyone how you feel and look, even
without any makeup on! This is the test of an
effective and well-maintained skin with all the
right combinations of caring, safe-guarding and
using the proper ingredients in facial creams and
other treatments. Packaged under its Young
Skin Program, Lady Jenn Face and Figure Centre
has the treatment for everyone to take control of
the signs of aging and keeping your skin looking
smooth, shiny and healthy.
All our skins will show signs of aging over time
and when overexposed to the elements as well
as natural imperfections common to everyone.
Dull looking skin or complexion, oily or dry skin,
pigmentations, age spots, dehydrations, wrinkles
and uneven skin tone are just some of the common
problems. Now, there are treatments that will
address these problems and more; in fact, the
proven methods using the latest skin diagnostic
tools and crème products will do just that and
more for your skin.
Worth RM138
There are just four easy steps under the Young
Skin Program to give your skin the bold new
look and in the treatment process, all ingredients
used are guaranteed safe while the Bio-technologies
process only uses ingredients of organic origins with
no chemical additive. For the Nano-technologies
process, small active components are delivered
into the skin directly, targeting specific areas
for effective treatments. What’s more, these
treatments can also be used in combination
with other treatments and even increase their
effectiveness.
Under step one of the Young Skin Program,
the rate of cell renewal is enhanced and regulated
while enzymatic regulation in step two regenerates
skin to reduce fine lines while firming and
tightening the skin. By step three, the skin tissue
will be stimulated using facial mask treatment
for hydrating and purifying serum to relax and
soothes the surface of the epidermis. Finally
under step four, the cells will be given treatment
to ensure that they will perform normally and
effectively and microdermabrasion and radio
frequency are among the other process in the
treatment.
Currently, the Lady Jenn Face and Figure Centre
has a special offer for the first 100 customers for
a first trial at only RM48 where as the original
price is RM160 in addition, those who sign up
for the Young Skin Program will also get a
RM300 rebate voucher too.
We will provide 500 sets of products for those who are interested in partnership. Please call (6) 012 2339032
w o r l d w i d e c o s m e t i c n e t w o r k i n g
For further information, please call
KUALA LUMPUR
Lady Jenn Bioscience (m) Sdn Bhd
C-0-7, Block C, Plaza Damas, No.60, Jalan Sri Hartamas
1, Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Tel: (603) 6203 9409 Fax: (603) 6203 5721
KUCHING
Lady Jenn Face & Figure Centre
No. 166, Jalan Chan Chin Ann, 93100 Kuching,
Sarawak, East Malaysia.
Tel: (6082) 410 723 Fax: (6082) 412 660
Email: enquiry@ladyjenn.com.my Website: www.ladyjenn.com.my
M A L AY S I A • I N D O N E S I A • T H A I L A N D • V I E T N A M • T A I W A N • C H I N A
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 43

PeopleTalk
Larry Sng
Taking On The Challenge At Young Age
“I think I understand politics better today,” says
Larry Sng Wei Shien in his typical courteous
demeanor. He is 29 years old and is an Assistant
Minister in the Ministry of Industrial Development
Sarawak. Young Larry was thrust into the
political arena when he was 21 years old. He
remembers how his politician father used to say,
“Ah, you’re going to be a politician,” when he
was into Buddhism and contemplating of going
into monkshood. One can imagine the dilemma
he was in; whether to choose the spiritual or
political path.
“I don’t think I really knew politics at that time.
Who really know politics until you join politics?
But if I had to choose to go into politics, I must
be willing to serve the people and make a
difference,” says Larry on his decision to accept
the call to stand for election
in 2001.
His first election is the
most memorable one, as
he says, “It’s always the
first experience that counts
the most.” He was then
22 years and 13 days old
when he was elected as
State Assemblyman. For
Larry, going into politics
was a well thought decision knowing the huge
responsibilities that came with it. Eight years later
today, still in his boyish looks, Larry shows no
sign of turning back. As he had promised himself
the day he decided to take up the challenge to
stand for election, he always makes it a point
to spend time with the people, and that was
among the first things he did when he came
back to his hometown Kapit after graduating.
He picked up the Iban language and soon found
himself enjoying singing Iban songs especially
with the people in his constituency.
Larry has his roots in Kapit. His great grandfather
was among the early Chinese who came to
Kapit for barter trading in the late 19 th century.
Making Kapit their home, they built the Hock
Leong Tieng temple, which is the only temple
in Kapit. The Hock Lam Chinese Primary School
started from the temple. Larry’s grandfather
who was born in Kapit was a Councilor at a
time when Sarawak had a 3-tier system of
government. As a politician Larry has to visit
Kapit regularly, and the opportunity allows
him to rediscover his family roots and enhance
filial ties.
“Politics is about life, not about work. It evolves
around you. Your privacy is an open book but
there is nothing to be scared of. Just lead a clean
life. I think I understand politics better now,”
says Larry philosophically.
It did not take long for Larry to discover that
politics is full of ups and downs but he has
learned much over the years to chart his course
and negotiate his way in Sarawak politics.
44 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

f i l m review
Tel: 6 082 234 077
Tuesday | Ladies Day, Ticket only RM6
(not applicable for male and public holiday)
RMBTalk
Wednesday | Movie Day, Ticket only RM5
(not applicable for movie marked (“) and public holiday)
*All booked tickets must be collected 45 min before show times.
Forbidden Kingdom
Genre: Action Rated: PG-13 On Cineplex: 17 th April 2008
Synopsis: An American teenager obsessed with martial arts makes an exciting discovery
in a pawnshop in Chinatown. It appears to be the legendary stick weapon of the Monkey
King, the infamous Chinese sage and warrior. He is transported back into time to Ancient
China where he meets a band of martial arts warriors and joins them on their journey to
save an imprisoned Monkey King (Jet Li)
Iron Man
Genre: Action/Adventure, Science Fiction/Fantasy and Adaptation Rated: PG-13
On Cineplex: 1 st May 2008
Synopsis: Tony Stark is a billionaire industrialist and genius inventor who is kidnapped
and forced to build a devastating weapon. Instead, using his intelligence and ingenuity,
Tony builds a high-tech suit of armor and escapes captivity. When he uncovers a nefarious
plot with global implications, he dons his powerful armor and vows to protect the world
as Iron Man.
Premier Charity Show • 2 nd May 2008 • 7.00pm • organised by Leo Interact; Lodge School
For further information, please call Syed Radhie at 016-8896175 / Noor Saara at 013-8047330
Kung Fu Panda
Genre: Animation Rated: PG On Cineplex: 5 th June 2008
Synopsis: Enthusiastic, big and a little clumsy, Po is the biggest fan of Kung Fu around.
This doesn’t exactly come in handy while working every day in his family’s noodle shop.
Unexpectedly chosen to fulfill an ancient prophecy, Po’s dreams become a reality when he joins
the world of Kung Fu and studies alongside his idols, the legendary Furious Five - Tigress, Crane,
Mantis, Viper and Monkey -- under the leadership of their guru, Master Shifu. But before they
know it, the Bvengeful O O and K s treacherous & C Dsnow Review leopard Tai Lung is headed their way, and it’s up
to Po to defend everyone from the oncoming threat. Can he turn his dreams of becoming a
Kung Fu master into reality? Po puts his heart - and his girth - into the task, and the unlikely
hero ultimately finds that his greatest weaknesses turn out to be his greatest strengths.
The Sarawakiana Series
Culture and Heritage, a collection which is dedicated to the understanding of traditional cultures of the ethnic
groups of Sarawak. Published by the Sarawak State Library, the collection also comes with CDs to give readers
and researchers better insights of these disappearing customs and traditions. For sale at RM60 each.
SARAWAK STATE LIBRARY
Jalan Pustaka, Off Jalan Stadium, 93050 Petra Jaya,
Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Tel: 6 082 442000
Fax: 6 082 449944 www.pustaka-sarawak.com
Contact person: Syeeida Ali Hussein | Email: syeeidah@sarawaknet.gov.my
Sarawak Malay Culture
Sarawak Traditional Malay Cuisines
This is not a cookbook on traditional Malay cuisines; it describes some of the traditional
food like Bubur Pedas, Tapai Nasi, Kuih Jala and Kuih Cincin, providing some
insights into their origins and ingredients used to make them. Used together with
the CD, the booklet is generally useful in the various folklores associated with these
traditional favourites. In addition, readers can refer to the glossary and scientific
names of the words used as an extensive list is provided.
Sarawak Melanau Culture
Betrothal And Marriage Customs Of Adat Bangsa 7 Pikol, Melanau Liko/Pagan, Mukah, Sarawak
Going through the numerous adats and customs of the Melanau marriage rituals certainly
make one wonder how people managed those feats in the past! A number of the features
mentioned have since been abandoned by modern couples during the wedding ceremony
but nevertheless, the booklet is useful in documenting the customs. It gives detailed
descriptions of requirements and expectations for marriage among the Melanaus, with
explanations and also translations for easy understanding. The research work carried out
involved numerous individuals who provided the information for the book materials and is
essentially for those who are interested in these customs and adats.
Apr-Jun2008KuchingTalk 45

Telekom Malaysia Berhad (128740-P)
AbsoluteEssentials&WhatOn
UNLIMITED Broadband &
NO Fixed Line Rental
Combo Package
Combo 1
384kbps @ RM60/month
Combo 2
512kbps @ RM90/month
Combo 3
1Mbps @ RM110/month
Combo 4
2Mbps @ RM140/month
Combo 5
4Mbps @ RM160/month
Festures
• With Modem • 1 E-mail • With Dynamic IP
Add On
Voise Plan
RM28/month
• UNLIMITED nationwide calls to any
TM Fixed Line numbers
• FLAT RATE 25sen/minute
calls to any mobile and other fixed line numbers
Value Added Services
RM3/month
RM8/month
Fun Package
RM12/month
• Britannica Encyclopedia Online
Internet Security - Basic
• Online Guard
• Virus Shield & Anti-Spamming
Internet Security - Premium
• Online Guard
• Virus Shield & Anti-Spamming
• Xfilter Escan
• e-learning Family Education Package
• Hypp. TV - Barclays Premier League Clips Package
- Ka-Pow! Contact Sports Video
• Games on Demand
• e-browse (The Star)
Optional - Just Add On RM28/month for Unlimited Fixed Line calls nationwide
Service is subject to availability. Speed is at best effort.
Visit www.streamyx.com.my for full listing of Terms & Conditions.
Call 100 | Click www.tm.com.my | Visit TMpoint
iPod touch
MacBook Air
iPod nano
Experience the new digital lifestyle
ITFUSION • A full range of Apple desktops, portables, software, accessories and services
L1-01, Lot 376, DUBS Commercial Centre, Section 54, Jalan Petanak, 93100 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Tel: (6) 082 427959 Email: info@itfusion.com.my Website: www.itfusion.com.my
5 th - 6 th APRIL
Borneo Jetski Challenge
Venue: Luak Bay Esplanade, Miri
19 th - 20 th APRIL
Balleh-Kapit Raft Safari
Venue: Balleh River, Kapit
22 nd APRIL
World Earth Day
Venue: Miri
25 th - 27 th April
Mukah Kaul Festival
Venue: Pantai Kuala Dana, Mukah
MAY (whole month)
Miri May Fest 2008
Venue: Miri
What’sOn April – June 2008
9 th - 10 th May
Miri Interntional Jazz Festival 2008
Venue: The Pavilion ParkCity Everly Hotel, Miri
17 th MAY
Bakam Challenge 2008: Return To The Origin
Venue: Kampung Bakam, Miri
20 th MAY
Miri city day celebration
Venue: Miri
23 rd - 25 th MAY
World Harvest Festival 2008
Venue: Sarawak Cultural Village, Santubong
24 th MAY
Miri international bakam biathlon challenge
Venue: Kampung Beraya, Miri
1 st JUNE
Gawai Dayak Festival
Venue: throughout Sarawak
2 nd - 6 th JUNE
19 th World Church music conference
Venue: Crown Plaza Riverside, Kuching
20 th - 22 nd JUNE
CITRARASA (Food Trail)
Venue: Boulevard Commercial Centre, Miri
28 th - 29 th JUNE
Sarawak International Triathlon
Venue: ParkCity Everly Hotel, Miri
27 th JUNE - 5 th July
BORneo Cultural festival 2008
Venue: Sibu Town Square, Sibu
(Note: Event dates are subject to change without prior notice) For further enquiries, please contact:
Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Tel: (6) 082 446688 • Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Tel: (6) 082 242311 • Padawan Municipal Council Tel: (6) 082 615566
Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) Tel: (6) 082 423600 • Miri City Council (Tel: (6) 085 424111) • Sibu Municipal Council (Tel: (6) 084 333411)
46 KuchingTalkApr-Jun2008

27 June - 5 July 2008
Sibu Town Square
Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia
Organised by
Supported by
Sibu Municipal Council Ministry of Urban Development & Tourism Sarawak Tourism Board
Sarawak Tourism Board
Tel: (6) 082 423600
Fax: (6) 082 416700
Email: stb@sarawaktourism.com
For more information, please contact:
Visitor’s Information Centre Sibu
Tel: (6) 084 340980
Fax: (6) 084 341280
Email: vic-sibu@sarawaktourism.com
Borneo Cultural Festival Secretariat
Sibu Municipal Council
Tel: (6) 084 333411
Fax: (6) 084 349411
Email: smc@smc.gov.my