Malaysia is a melting pot of culture and home to many indigenous tribes, especially in Sabah and Sarawak. The Borneo Cultures Museum is the perfect place to learn more about the rich culture and heritage of the people of Borneo and Sarawak. The next time you’re in Kuching, be sure to visit the newly-opened museum! The museum, which is the largest in Malaysia and the second largest in Southeast Asia is home to over 1,000 artefacts where 30% of the museum will be interactive in nature. How fun! We’ve rounded up a guide on what you can expect during your visit to the Borneo Cultures Museum down below.
How many floors are there?
The stunning new museum in Kuching, Sarawak boasts five floors. Each floor is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of Borneo. The first level houses an ephemeral exhibition gallery, while the second has a children’s gallery, a Love our Rivers and Arts & Crafts sections. Levels 3, 4, and 5 cover the permanent thematic galleries In Harmony with Nature (which exhibits sights from the coasts, rainforests, and highlands of Borneo), Time Changes (which showcases cave discoveries and the making of Sarawak), and Objects of Desire (which houses relics on trade and craftsmanship, along with spiritual designs of the cultures).
What inspired the architecture of the building?
The development of the museum was led by Dato’ Seri John Lau Kan Sieng, Sarawak’s very own renowned architect who has undertaken many major projects across the globe. At a cost of RM308 million, the museum was four years in the making. Now, the golden structure aims to welcome a global audience as well as to become a cultural hub.
The building itself takes inspiration from the diverse culture in Borneo. The golden arched roof reflects the architecture of Sarawak’s State Legislative Assembly (or DUN) which sits across the Sarawak River. Silhouetted panels laid atop of one another are a nod to the state’s traditional motif of woven rattan mats and songket.
The state’s pride and joy were built with conscious efforts in order to maintain the surrounding greenery. Only materials such as wood products that are PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) certified are used for the interior panels and flooring — to cut down on the construction’s carbon footprint produced, especially after the abolishment of the Dewan Tun Abdul Razak building which was once stood in BCM’s place.
How much is the admission fees?
Starting from 1st August 2022, the Borneo Cultures Museum will be charging an admission fee to all visitors. At the present moment, you can only purchase tickets at the counter, so plan ahead to avoid any inconvenience.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is! For the disabled, the museum has taken your needs into consideration as well! Ramps and tactile maps are there to ease your mobility, making it a practical tour destination for everyone.
You don’t have to be an avid historian to enjoy the Borneo Cultures Museum as it’s designed to appeal to everyone of all ages. So, step in and be mesmerised and inspired by the heritage and history of the region.
Address: Lorong P. Ramlee 2 93400 Kuching, Sarawak
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 9AM-4.45PM | Sat & Sun 9.30AM-4.30PM
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