Sibu is an inland town at the central region of Sarawak and the capital of Sibu District in Sibu Division, Sarawak. Historically, it was settled by James Brooke in 1862 when he built a fort in the town to combat off attacks by indigenous Dayak people. Following this, a small group of Chinese Hokkien people settled around the fort to carry out business activities safely in the town. It is one of the three towns in Malaysia which consists of a predominantly Foochow-Chinese population. The town symbol is the Swan and has been coined the 'Wild West' of Malaysia. Sibu was called "Maling" which was named after a bend of the Rajang River called "Tanjung Maling" opposite the present day town of Sibu near the confluence of Igan and Rajang rivers.

How to Get There

By Plane

Sibu airport has a 2.75 kilometres runway and it serves Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and MASWings with direct flights to all major towns in Sarawak, such as Miri, Bintulu, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor Bahru The airport is also connected to all major destinations in Malaysian Borneo, including Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.From Kuala Lumpur, the flight takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes to Sibu Airport. After that, you can take a taxi or rent a car for 35 minutes to Sibu town via Sibu-Bintulu town.

Tourist Attractions

Sibu Heritage Centre

The Sibu Heritage Centre displays the rich cultural heritage of the various ethnic groups includes the early beginnings of Sibu, the coming of early Chinese migrants from the various dialect groups and also those of the earliest ethnic tribes. Besides that, there is also displays genuine skulls which were hung, reflecting the tribes’ warrior past to the seafaring Melanaus’ tools and early signs of the Malay culture as well as Ibans’ longhouses. Another feature in the museum is its eye catching collection of Chinese porcelain and clay vases. These vases show great sentimental value to the owners which portrays the Chinese have with Imperial China back then. As for the opening hours, the center opens everyday except Mondays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sibu Central Market

Located on Channel Road just opposite the Express Boat Passenger Terminal, this market composed of local and exotic delicacies and snacks can be found on the ground floor such as the famous Mulong or Sago worm, Finlaysonia obovata fruit, celorot and others. The most well- known Sarawak rice is the Bario rice, from red to black Bario rice to normal brown rice. The Bario rice is priced slightly higher as it is a very labour-intensive planting process, as fertilizer was not being used during this process, it is also considered organic rice. By combining the former wet market and the native Lembangan market in clean and hygienic new surroundings, the Sibu Municipal Council has created a visual feast for visitors.Besides that, there are also Iban ladies selling exotic fruits, jungle produce and handicrafts, and the Chinese poultry sellers who offer their live chickens and ducks neatly wrapped up in tubes from old newspapers.

Hotels

The Paramount Hotel

This hotel is located near Tua Pek Kong Temple, Sibu Heritage Centre and Sibu Night Market and offers impeccable service and all the essential amenities. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests to ensure our guests the greatest comfort. Guests can choose from 95 rooms fitted with a satellite TV, tea/coffee-making facilities and an iron as well as en suite bathrooms include a hairdryer. There are also fax and photocopying services and laundry and ironing services are also available.

Permai Hotel

A selection of top-class facilities are available here at Premier Hotel such as free Wi-Fi in all rooms, convenience store, gift/souvenir shop, taxi service and 24-hour front desk. The hotel features 189 beautifully appointed guest rooms, many of which include television LCD/plasma screen,wireless internet access, non- smoking rooms, air conditioning and desk. Situated nearby attractions and landmarks, this hotel also provides free parking for guests.

The Orchid Hotel

Just steps away from the city's numerous attractions such as Sibu Heritage Centre, Sibu Night Market, Sibu Central Market, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms, daily housekeeping, grocery deliveries, taxi service, 24-hour front desk and many more. Visitors also can experience high quality room facilities furnished with free internet access, non- smoking rooms, air conditioning, desk, and private bathroom with complimentary toiletries.