Memorable Time Travel at Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak

A walk over the Kuching Waterfront was like taking a journey into time. The history and heritage of Kuching, Sarawak, were laid in full colour the whole 1 kilometre stretch. Also known as "The People Place", Kuching Waterfront was a kaleidoscope of days gone by, the present and the long run, with a harmonious mixture of the brand new and modern with the old and traditional. From being a small settlement and river port during the times of the English adventurer, James Brooke, in the 19th century, Kuching Waterfront had developed into a picturesque landscaped esplanade, and even powered with environmentally-friendly solar energy in the extension phase.

 

The Kuching Waterfront ran parallel to tutorial tambang Sarawak River, and was basically like a middle child sandwiched between the Sarawak River and Main Bazaar, a spot set with shops selling souvenirs, food, and arts and crafts. But unlike most middle child, Kuching Waterfront was saturated in charm and unique characteristics. Its wide and long walkway was tiled with eye-catching ethnic designs and motifs, ideal for abstract close-up shots of the contrasting swirls and whorls. Also spread along the pavement were numerous carts displaying local handicrafts and souvenir items and kiosks selling local food and beverages, just in case you got hungry or thirsty from walking.

 

My walk on Kuching Watefront began from the Kathulistiwa Café, which meant "equator", located opposite the Riverside Shopping Complex. Sauntering along, under the cooling shades supplied by the cluster of trees and shrubs and welcoming the light breeze of the afternoon, I was letting any tension or stress fall away from my shoulders. There were locals and visitors enjoying the Waterfront: some loitering about, some sitting on benches, chatting or simply people-watching. I could see more traders creating their carts or stalls, preparing their food and wares for the growing crowds in the evening. They were friendly, a couple of bestowing warm smiles and calling out greetings of "hello" or "good afternoon ".

 

There were a couple of gazebos built on the edge of the Kuching Waterfront and the Sarawak River, where you can sit and gaze upon the type of speed boats bobbing up and down, berthed across the Waterfront side. Or you could look further out to view with fascination the tambangs (small boats), gliding noiselessly because they ferry passengers throughout the river, for under RM1.00 per person one way. Boarding the tambang took some dexterity as a result of lightness of the small narrow boat, which would naturally sway and wobble based on the moving tides or waves. But being able to view the Sarawak River up close was worth the fleeting heart-thumping situation.