Geographic

Situated on the north-western coast of Borneo, the Land of Hornbills beckons the visitor with its rich rainforests, intricate rivers, pepper, and the diverse lifestyles of its indigenous people.

Sarawak shares its boundaries with Indonesia 's Kalimantan in the south and Brunei and Sabah in the north-east. Sarawak is Malaysia 's largest state, covering an area of 124,450sq.km. and is divided into nine Divisions with the city of Kuching as its capital.

Two-thirds of its land is under rainforests and its population of 1.7 million is made up of 23 ethnic groups. Sarawak is best known for its natural and cultural wonders.

Sarawak is truly a destination for those who love culture and nature, and who seek adventure. The state is recognised for its friendly and hospitable people, who live in harmony and unity while celebrating their diversity.

Population

Dayaks, who form more than 40% of the population, are made up mainly of the Ibans, Bidayuhs and Orang Ulu. The natives represent almost 30 ethnic sub-groups, each having its own colourful customs and culture.

Rich history

The state has a rich history and was under the rule of the White Rajahs for more than a century from the time James Brooke was appointed the first Rajah in 1841. When he died in 1868, his nephew Charles Brooke succeeded him.

Upon the death of Charles in 1917, his son Charles Vyner Brooke took over as Rajah. Vyner Brooke set up a state council in 1941 to oversee the passing of new laws and bring democracy to the state. However, the rule of the council was shortlived when the Japanese invaded it the same year.

After the Japanese surrendered in 1945, Sarawak came under Australian military administration. Vyner Brooke ceded it to Britain as a colony later, but this unpopular move resulted in the assassination of the Governor, Duncan Stewart, in 1949.

When order was restored, the colonial government prepared for Sarawak 's independence in 1963.