Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia, located on the northwestern coast of the island of Borneo. Covering an area of about 124,450 km², it is slightly larger than the entire peninsula of Malaysia. Known as the “Land of the Hornbills” due to the prominence of hornbills in its culture and natural environment, Sarawak is celebrated for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, rich cultural heritage, and harmonious blend of traditions and modern development.
Sarawak has a unique and colorful history. Originally inhabited by various indigenous groups such as the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Melanau, the region came under the control of the Bruneian Sultanate in the 15th century.
In 1841, James Brooke, an English adventurer, was granted the title of Rajah of Sarawak, beginning the era of the White Rajahs (the Brooke Dynasty), which lasted for about a century.
After World War II, Sarawak became a British Crown Colony in 1946, and in 1963, it joined the Federation of Malaysia alongside Sabah, Singapore (which later left), and the Federation of Malaya.
Sarawak is known for its stunning landscapes that range from dense rainforests and limestone caves to mighty rivers and coastal mangroves. The state is home to the Rajang River, Malaysia’s longest river, and Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its vast cave systems, including the world’s largest cave chamber (Sarawak Chamber). Its tropical climate supports an abundance of biodiversity, including rare species like orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills.
Sarawak is a vibrant tapestry of ethnic groups, with over 40 sub-ethnic communities. The major groups include the Iban, Malay, Chinese, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Melanau.
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