Sarawak is one of two Malaysian states on the island of Borneo. It is the largest state in Malaysia with a population of only 2.5 million people and the size that of England. The administrative capital is Kuching, which has a population of 579,900 and Sibu (pop. 254,000)where my wife was born.

Japan invaded Sarawak and occupied the island of Borneo in 1941, occupying Miri on December 16 and Kuching on December 24, holding both territories for the duration of World War II until the area was secured by Australian forces in 1945. Sarawak was officially granted independence on July 22, 1963, and joined with Malaya, Sabah, and Singapore, in the federation of Malaysia,formed on September 16, 1963, despite the initial opposition from parts of the population

Sarawak has more than 40 sub-ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language, culture and lifestyle. Cities and larger towns are populated predominantly by Malays, Melanaus, Chinese, and a smaller percentage of Ibans and Bidayuhs who have migrated from their home-villages for employment reasons.

The Rajang River, main source of natural produce that feed much of the state's population is located in northwest of Borneo and it originates in the Iran Mountains. The river flows approximately 563 km to the South China Sea, making it the longest river in Malaysia.

My wife and I visited Sibu and Kuching for three days in April 2011 and here is a selection of pictures I took during this trip. If you like nature, hiking, fishing or even adventure, this may be the place for you. I however didn't do any of that as I was visiting relatives from my wife's side. I'll save the adventure for another day!