Things To Do
in Bintulu
Bintulu is a coastal town located in the state of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is known for being a major industrial hub in the region, particularly in the areas of oil and gas production. The town is also famous for its picturesque beaches and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Additionally, Bintulu is home to traditional indigenous cultures and offers a unique blend of modern development and rich cultural heritage.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Taman Tumbina, a beautiful botanical garden. Enjoy a leisurely walk and get acquainted with local flora.
Head to the Bintulu Waterfront for a relaxing stroll with views of the ocean. Grab lunch at one of the nearby seafood restaurants to taste local delicacies.
Wrap up your day with a visit to the night market. Explore various local food stalls and shop for unique souvenirs.
Visit the Assyakirin Commerce Square to appreciate Bintulu's modern architecture. Explore the nearby shops and cafes for a morning pick-me-up.
Take a cultural tour at the Bintulu Cultural Museum. Learn about the indigenous tribes and their rich heritage.
Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Sarawak dishes. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location for trade and logistics in East Malaysia.
- Rich natural resources, including oil and gas, which contribute to economic growth.
- Developing infrastructure and facilities, including a modern port and airport.
- Diverse cultural heritage and local cuisine, offering a unique experience.
- Growing industrial sector and investment opportunities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Potential environmental concerns related to industrial activities.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment compared to bigger urban centers.
- Employment opportunities may be concentrated in specific sectors.
- Climate-related challenges, including high humidity and periodic flooding.
Best Activities in Bintulu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful rainforest, wildlife, and sandy beaches at Similajau National Park. Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and camping in this natural paradise.
Visit the Kuala Baram Fishing Village to experience local culture and enjoy fishing, seafood dining, and boat tours of the surrounding mangroves.
Relax and unwind at Tanjung Batu Beach, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. Perfect for picnics, swimming, and beach activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bintulu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bintulu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the South China Sea and is an ideal spot for sunset photography.
Boasts stunning coastal and rainforest landscapes, providing abundant photo opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Showcases diverse flora and fauna, making it a great location for capturing unique wildlife and plant species.
Food in Bintulu
Bintulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Melanau dish of raw fish marinated in lime juice, onions, chilies, and ginger. The dish is bursting with zesty flavors and is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Best enjoyed at the local seafood restaurants along the Bintulu waterfront.
Must-Try!
Salted fish made from the prized terubok fish found in the waters of Sarawak. The fish is salted and sun-dried, resulting in a unique and savory flavor. Look for this delicacy at the Pasar Tamu Bintulu (Bintulu's Central Market) or at specialty food shops.
Rice vermicelli stir-fried with belacan (shrimp paste), chili, and a variety of fresh seafood or meat. This flavorful and aromatic dish can be found at local coffee shops and street food stalls across Bintulu.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bintulu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bintulu's Central Market offers a bustling atmosphere filled with stalls selling fresh produce, dried goods, and local delicacies like ikan terubok masin and various traditional snacks. Visitors can also savor an array of street food and hawker-style dishes here.
A vibrant night market offering an assortment of local street food, from grilled skewers and noodles to refreshing drinks. This is the place to experience Bintulu's lively food scene and mingle with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bintulu, it is important to show respect for elders through gestures such as addressing them with proper titles and bowing slightly as a sign of respect.
When visiting public places in Bintulu, it is respectful to dress modestly, particularly for women, by covering shoulders and knees to adhere to local cultural norms.
When greeting others in Bintulu, a slight bow with hands together in front of the body, known as the 'salam' gesture, is a polite and respectful way to acknowledge others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bintulu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bintulu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bintulu, Malaysia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a 10% service charge may be added to the bill, so tipping is not necessary in such cases.
Cash is widely used for smaller transactions in Bintulu, Malaysia. However, credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas. It is advisable to carry cash for transactions in more rural or remote areas. Online payment methods and digital wallets are also gaining popularity for certain transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bintulu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Bintulu, with lower humidity and clearer skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and potential disruptions to outdoor activities. It's a good time for experiencing local cultural events and festivals.
Bintulu at Night
Hiking in Bintulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to one of the largest cave systems in the world, Niah National Park offers hiking trails that lead through lush rainforest and to the impressive Niah Caves.
Featuring beautiful beaches and mangrove forests, Similajau National Park provides hiking opportunities along its trails, where you can enjoy diverse wildlife and stunning coastal views.
Located a bit further from Bintulu, this park is known for its rich biodiversity and challenging hiking trails that take you through its hilly terrain and past beautiful waterfalls.
Though it's a bit of a drive from Bintulu, Bako National Park is worth the visit for its diverse ecosystems and various walking trails that offer breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife.
A lesser-known hiking spot near Bintulu, Bukit Tiban provides a moderate hiking challenge with rewarding views at the summit, making it a great choice for local adventurers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bintulu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bintulu by plane.
The main airport serving Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, located approximately 300 km from Bintulu.
An international airport located in Miri, Sarawak, roughly 200 km from Bintulu.
The main airport of Brunei, located about 500 km from Bintulu, offering international flights.
The main airport in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, around 600 km away from Bintulu, serving as a gateway to East Malaysia.
An airport on Labuan Island, located approximately 500 km from Bintulu, catering to both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest indigenous group in Bintulu, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional longhouse living.
A significant ethnic group in Bintulu, primarily involved in business and trade.
A key ethnic group in Malaysia, the Malays in Bintulu are mostly involved in agriculture and government services.
An indigenous group that primarily resides in the rural areas, known for their agricultural practices.
Includes smaller ethnic communities such as Kenyah, Kayan, and Penan, each with unique traditions and languages.
The Soul of Bintulu
Discover the essence of Bintulu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Bintulu, with numerous local teams and community leagues.
Badminton is widely played in Bintulu, with many local clubs and tournaments held throughout the year.
Basketball has a strong following in Bintulu, with various courts available and local competitions taking place.
Rugby has been gaining popularity in Bintulu, fostering a growing community of players and supporters.
This traditional sport is appreciated in Bintulu, showcasing local talent in this unique form of foot volleyball.
Running events and athletics competitions are common in Bintulu, promoting fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bintulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bintulu might not have an abundance of dedicated vegetarian or vegan restaurants, most eateries offer vegetable-based dishes. Look for options like stir-fried vegetables, tofu-based dishes, and refreshing fruit juices.
When dining out, individuals requiring gluten-free options can opt for rice-based dishes such as nasi lemak, seafood, and grilled meats. Additionally, many restaurants are accommodating and willing to customize meals to cater to dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bintulu with these cultural adventures.
