Kuching Division, Sarawak

Capital of Culture, Cats & Colonial Charm

Kuching Division is the most populous and developed division in Sarawak, and home to Kuching City, the state capital. With its blend of colonial architecture, riverfront promenades, indigenous heritage, and modern infrastructure, Kuching is often referred to as the “City of Unity” in Malaysia.

Formation & Historical Background

  • Formerly part of Rajah Brooke’s kingdom, Kuching was the capital of Sarawak since 1841
  • Site of early British colonial governance, trading port, and missionary activity
  • Kuching Division remains the political, cultural, and administrative hub of Sarawak

Basic Information

CategoryDetails
Division NameKuching Division
StateSarawak
Division CenterKuching City
AreaApprox. 4,500 sq. km
Population (2025 est.)Over 800,000
Main Ethnic GroupsMalay, Chinese, Bidayuh, Iban, Indian, Melanau

Districts in Kuching Division (3 total)

District NameAdministrative CenterKnown For
KuchingKuching CityCapital city, museums, old town, waterfront, festivals
BauBau TownLimestone caves, gold mining history, Bidayuh communities
LunduLundu TownBeaches, national parks, gateway to Tanjung Datu

Local Governance & Representation

Position / RoleName (2025 est.)Remarks
Resident (Commissioner)Encik Mohamad Khairul bin ZainiCoordinates divisional affairs
District OfficersVary per districtOversee land, development & local governance
City Mayor (DBKU/MBKS)Mayor for North & South KuchingAdministers urban city areas
MPs & ADUNsRepresent all 3 districtsFocus on infrastructure, culture, education

Key Features & Attractions

  • Kuching Waterfront – Promenade, Darul Hana Bridge, Astana Palace
  • Sarawak Museum Campus – New world-class museum complex
  • Bako National Park – Wildlife, jungle trekking, beach cliffs
  • Semenggoh Wildlife Centre – Semi-wild orangutan conservation
  • Fairy & Wind Caves (Bau) – Limestone formations and legends
  • Satok Market, India Street, Main Bazaar – Local shopping

Economy & Livelihood

  • Service Sector:
    • Government, retail, tourism, finance
  • Education & Research:
    • UNIMAS, Swinburne University, vocational colleges
  • Agriculture:
    • Pepper, fruits, aquaculture in Bau & Lundu
  • Tourism:
    • Cultural festivals, eco-parks, food tourism

Transport & Connectivity

  • Kuching International Airport (KIA) – Main air gateway to Sarawak
  • Public buses, e-hailing, and ride services widely available
  • Roads connect to Samarahan, Bau, Lundu, and Pan Borneo Highway
  • River transport and boat tours for tourism

Education & Healthcare

  • Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
  • Swinburne University of Technology (Australian campus)
  • International & public schools, colleges, MARA institutes
  • Hospitals: Sarawak General Hospital, private & specialist centers

Culture & Cuisine

  • Multicultural Harmony:
    • Malay, Chinese, Bidayuh, Indian, and other communities
  • Signature Foods:
    • Sarawak Laksa, Kolo Mee, Manok Pansoh, Midin, Kek Lapis
  • Cultural Highlights:
    • Rainforest World Music Festival, Gawai, Kuching Festival
    • Cat statues, Cat Museum – celebrating the city’s feline theme

Summary

Kuching Division is the beating heart of Sarawak—where history whispers through colonial walls, and modern culture dances on riverfront lights. Whether exploring national parks, indulging in world-class cuisine, or learning about tribal traditions, Kuching is truly a place where unity, nature, and heritage meet.