Kapit Division, Sarawak

Riverfront Wilderness and Indigenous Heritage

Kapit Division, nestled deep in the heart of Sarawak’s interior, is a region of majestic rivers, dense jungles, and timeless traditions. Known for its longhouses, river travel, and rainforest biodiversity, Kapit represents Sarawak’s true upstream soul.

Formation & Historical Background

  • Officially formed in 1973, carved out from Sibu Division
  • Historically inhabited by Iban, Kayan, Kenyah, and Penan peoples
  • Once accessible only by boat via Rajang River, now connected by road
  • Plays a central role in preserving Orang Ulu and Dayak cultures

Basic Information

CategoryDetails
Division NameKapit Division
StateSarawak
Division CenterKapit Town
AreaApprox. 38,934 sq. km (largest division in Sarawak)
Population (2025 est.)Approx. 130,000+
Main Ethnic GroupsIban, Kayan, Kenyah, Penan, Malay

Districts in Kapit Division (3 total)

District NameAdministrative CenterKnown For
KapitKapit TownRiver transport, Iban longhouses, Fort Sylvia
SongSong TownTraditional longhouses, forest resources
BelagaBelaga TownBakun Dam, Orang Ulu tribes, remote upriver communities

Local Governance & Representation

Position / RoleName (2025 est.)Remarks
Resident (Commissioner)Encik Daniel anak TadauOversees rural planning and connectivity
District OfficersBased in Kapit, Song, and BelagaFocus on interior access, native land, heritage
MPs & ADUNsRepresent vast rural territoriesSupport development, indigenous rights, ecology

Key Features & Attractions

  • Rajang River – Main lifeline for transport, trade, and culture
  • Fort Sylvia (Kapit) – Historic Brooke-era fort turned museum
  • Bakun & Murum Dams – Major hydropower projects in Belaga
  • Iban Longhouses – Multi-family traditional homes along riverbanks
  • Penan Villages – Semi-nomadic rainforest communities
  • Jungle Trekking & River Safaris – Untouched nature experience

Economy & Livelihood

  • Logging & Timber (historically) – Now shifting to sustainable forest practices
  • Agriculture – Hill rice, pepper, fruits, rubber, subsistence farming
  • Fishing & Hunting – Traditional practices among riverine communities
  • Handicrafts – Beadwork, rattan products, sape musical instruments
  • Hydropower – Energy generation from Bakun & Murum supporting Sarawak grid

Transport & Connectivity

  • Traditionally accessible only via express boats from Sibu
  • Now partially accessible by Pan Borneo Highway extensions & rural roads
  • Express boats still operate to Song, Kapit, Belaga
  • Rural airstrips (Belaga) and ferry points used in certain areas

Education & Healthcare

  • Boarding schools for interior students
  • Rural schools and literacy programs in longhouse areas
  • Kapit Hospital, Belaga Hospital, clinics in Song and remote zones
  • Mobile clinics and riverboat healthcare outreach

Culture & Local Cuisine

  • Deeply rooted in Iban and Orang Ulu customs
  • Rituals: Ngajat dance, Hornbill Festival, Gawai Dayak
  • Foods:
    • Kasam ensabi, Manok pansoh, Pucuk ubi rebus, Wild boar curry
  • Musical heritage: Sape (traditional guitar), gong music

Summary

Kapit Division is Sarawak’s untamed heart—where rivers replace roads, and ancient ways of life still thrive. It is a land for adventurers, researchers, and those seeking authentic indigenous connections amidst lush rainforests and flowing waters.