Things To Do
in Sarikei
Sarikei is a town located in the Sarikei Division of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is known for its agricultural activities, particularly pineapple farming and processing. The town has a vibrant and bustling waterfront area where you can find local markets, shops, and restaurants.
Sarikei also has some historical landmarks, such as the Masjid Mosque and the Wisma Jubli Mutiara building.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a visit to the picturesque Sarikei Nature Park. Enjoy the serene environment and vibrant flora while breathing in the fresh air.
Head over to the local market to experience Sarikei's culture and to taste some delicious street food. Don't miss trying the famous Sarikei pineapple, known for its sweetness.
Relax at a local cafe and savor a cup of traditional Malaysian kopi. Enjoy the sunset while hanging out with friendly locals.
Kick off your morning with an adventure at Batu Kawa Nature Reserve. Engage in activities like bird watching or photography as you soak in the natural beauty.
Have lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling some unique Sarikei dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside, enjoying the views.
Visit the night market for a vibrant atmosphere filled with food stalls and local crafts. Treat yourself to some night snacks while mingling with the crowd.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic communities.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities such as hiking and river exploration.
- Low cost of living compared to major urban areas in Malaysia.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and tourism.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Fewer educational institutions and limited higher education options.
- Public transport options may be scarce, leading to reliance on personal vehicles.
- Job opportunities may be limited in specialized fields.
- Possible lack of entertainment and recreational facilities compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Sarikei
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a scenic river cruise along the Rajang River, the longest river in Malaysia, to enjoy the natural beauty and spot wildlife.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere, sample local fruits, and shop for handicrafts and traditional Sarawakian snacks.
Stroll along the waterfront promenade for beautiful views of the river, fishing boats, and sunset, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sarikei with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sarikei
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the Rajang River and the surrounding countryside, perfect for photography
Known for its beautiful sunset views and coastal scenery, ideal for capturing stunning photos
Food in Sarikei
Sarikei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Melanau dish made of raw fish mixed with lime juice, onions, and chili. Savor this unique delicacy at the Umai stall in Pasar Tamu Sarikei.
Must-Try!
A popular noodle dish derived from the Foochow culinary tradition, featuring springy noodles tossed in shallot oil and served with slices of char siu pork. Indulge in the authentic flavors at Nam Chun Cafe.
A spicy noodle soup that is a must-try in Sarawakian cuisine. Experience the best Sarawak Laksa at Li Hua Kopitiam.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sarikei better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling marketplace is a treasure trove of local street food, offering an array of flavors and aromas. Don't miss out on the opportunity to sample authentic Malay and Chinese street food dishes here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sarikei, it's customary to greet people with a smile and a slight bow. Handshakes are common, especially in more formal settings, but it's important to use your right hand as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Sarikei. It's important to use respectful language and gestures when interacting with older individuals, such as addressing them with their proper titles and avoiding direct eye contact, especially in traditional settings.
When dining with locals in Sarikei, it's polite to wait to be seated and to accept food or drink with your right hand. It's also customary to leave a little food on your plate to indicate that you have been served enough, as finishing everything may be interpreted as still being hungry or wanting more.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sarikei with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sarikei
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sarikei, Malaysia, tipping is not a common practice in most places, including restaurants, hotels, and taxis. However, in some high-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If exceptional service is provided, a small tip may be given, but it is not expected.
Payment in Sarikei, Malaysia is primarily done using the local currency, Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments and markets. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used in larger stores, hotels, and restaurants. It's always advisable to carry some cash for transactions in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sarikei.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sarikei is during the dry season, when you can enjoy warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. This is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
During the monsoon season, expect heavy rainfall and the possibility of flooding. Outdoor activities may be limited, but it's a good time to experience the lush greenery and witness the local agriculture.
This season sees transitional weather with occasional rain showers. It's a quieter time for tourists, but you can still explore the area and enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
Sarikei at Night
Hiking in Sarikei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot in Sarikei with a moderate trail leading to a scenic viewpoint.
Known for its unique rock formations and lush greenery, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
A national park featuring a variety of trails that showcase the rich biodiversity of the region.
A less-traveled pathway that offers a peaceful hiking experience through local flora and fauna.
This hiking trail takes you to the peak of Mount Seberang, providing stunning panoramic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sarikei through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sarikei by plane.
The main airport serving Kuching, the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia. It is the closest major international airport to Sarikei.
An airport serving the town of Sibu, Sarawak. It is the second nearest international airport to Sarikei.
A major airport serving Miri, Sarawak. It offers domestic and limited international flights and is located further away from Sarikei.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Iban people are the largest ethnic group in Sarikei, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
The Chinese community in Sarikei is significant, contributing to the local economy and cultural landscape.
The Malay population in Sarikei is part of the larger Bumiputera group, with a strong presence in local governance and culture.
The Bidayuh ethnic group has a smaller representation in Sarikei but maintains their unique traditions and customs.
Other indigenous groups include various smaller ethnic communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Sarikei.
The Soul of Sarikei
Discover the essence of Sarikei through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Sarikei, with many local teams and casual players participating in matches throughout the year.
Badminton is widely played in Sarikei, both recreationally and competitively, with various clubs and courts available for practice.
Basketball has a strong following in Sarikei, with community courts and local leagues promoting active participation among youth.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in Sarikei, showcasing local cultural heritage.
Cycling is a favored outdoor activity in Sarikei, with many enthusiasts enjoying trails and organizing cycling events in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarikei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes in Sarikei often contain meat or fish, many eateries are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Places like Rasa Sayang Restaurant and KopiC Cafe offer flavorful vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable dishes at local restaurants and cafes. Nam Chun Cafe, for instance, provides gluten-free versions of Kampua Mee, ensuring that everyone can relish this beloved dish.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sarikei with these cultural adventures.
