The location and history of Sarawak have resulted in a broad diversity of ethnicity, culture and languages. Sarawak has many museums and art galleries exhibiting its diverse culture and religion. A visit to these museums entails a wonderful journey of discovery into its culture, heritage and history.
Sarawak Museum
Sarawak Museum is located on both sides of Tun Abang Haji Open Road in Kuching. It is the oldest museum in Borneo. The museum has one of the best collections in Southeast Asia. The exhibits range from ethnographic collection to the oil industry in Sarawak. The oldest wing opened in 1891 proudly shows Normandy townhouse style and architecture, while the new wing 'Dewan Tun Abdul Razak' across the footbridge is used for events and exhibitions. It holds several rotating exhibitions.
Address: Jalan Tun Haji Openg, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Police Museum at Fort Margherita
Fort Margherita, an old British colonial fortress, was built in 1879. The Brooke dynasty used it to guard the Sarawak River and Kuching town from any external attacks. The fortress was named after Brooke's beloved wife, Margaret Alice Lili de Windt. Now converted into the Police Museum, The museum displays remains of the original buildings of the fortress, watchtowers, old cannons, cannonballs, swords, guns, pistols, and other relics of its artillery. The armoury and the condemned prisoner's cell still exist and depict the scenes of hanging and other punishments inflicted upon criminals.
Address: Kampung Boyan Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
The Islamic Museum
The Islamic Museum is located on Jalan P.Ramlee in the beautifully restored Maderasah Melayu Building. The museum displays Sarawak's rich historical heritage, specialities of Sarawak's Muslim community, the beauty of Islamic civilisation and architecture in the region. The museum consists of 7 galleries set around a central courtyard garden, each with a different theme.
Address: Jalan P. Ramlee, Sarawak, Malaysia
The Chinese History Museum
The building itself is historic and was built in 1912. The museum elaborates the history of the Chinese community in Sarawak. It showcases the struggles and values encountered and instilled by the early pioneers.
Address: Crowne Plaza Riverside Kuching, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93756 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
Cat Museum
The World's first Cat Museum, devoted to all things feline. Cat lovers will find a range of exhibits, photos, feline art and cat souvenirs; over 4,000 of them. The museum is housed on the ground on the City Hall building, spread over four galleries covering a total area of 1,035 sq.m.
Address: Lobby Floor of Kuching North City Hall Headquarters, Jalan Semariang, Petra Jaya, Kuching.
ARTrageously Ramsay Ong
This private gallery aims to promote local artists by featuring their contemporary paintings and selling them. It provides an excellent platform for the local artists to gain exposure to their work.
Address: 94, Main Bazaar, Sarawak, Malaysia