Sibu, Malaysia: A Treasure Trove Of First-Time Experiences In This Underrated City

From JB and Melaka to KL and Penang, we think we’ve seen much of Malaysia, but my trip to Sibu proved otherwise. Not to be confused with Cebu in the Philippines or Pulau Sibu in Johor, Sibu is part of Sarawak, East Malaysia and brings a smorgasbord of nature, culture, and culinary adventures, including a few treasured first-time experiences for me. Easily accessible via Scoot, Sibu is less than two hours away and is the perfect destination for a laid-back getaway. Scoot away for the weekend or steal some me-time to explore this lesser-known destination that won’t break the bank. 

Cruise Along the Longest River in Malaysia 

Yellow River in China, Mekong River in Cambodia, but the Rajang River in Malaysia? It’s a first for me. Rajang River is the longest river in Malaysia and Sibu, being at the confluence of both the Rajang and Igan Rivers is the best place to explore the riverine life. Like all great rivers of the world, the Rajang River is the lifeline of Sibu, being the biggest port in Sarawak and the main mode of transport into the villages up until two years ago. The once-bustling river now gleams with a serene charm, and meandering along on the Sibu River Cruise at sunset is a scenic and tranquil experience not to be missed. The balmy weather slid into the cool river breeze, as we glided into the golden dusk, waving at locals taking their evening stroll. 

The Most Expensive Catch of the Day

From street food to rare delicacies, Sibu Sibu has just about everything I love about food. Try local favourites like the Sibu Kampua Mee served with Bian Nyuk and the Bian Ding Hu, noodles made with freshly ground rice paste. Or eat like a god with Sarawak Laksa, dubbed the “breakfast of the gods” by the late Anthony Bourdain. But the catch of the day has to be the Empurau, also known as the 忘不了鱼 (unforgettable fish). Priced at a hefty RM600 per kg, the wild fish is prized for its rarity and sweetness- possibly coming from its diet of fruits. It does boast an ultra-tender and creamy texture, one that I have not tasted anywhere else. And there’s only one place to try it, order in advance.

Meet the True Blue Locals 

Despite being known as “Little Fuzhou”, Sibu’s indigenous Ibans and other locals have lived there long before the Fuzhou Chinese immigrants arrived in the 1900s. So, being able to step into one of their Longhouses and to dine with them, is an honour. The warm welcome started with a dance and a toast to good times, along with a short harvesting ritual which saw us hopping onto our feet, and moving along. Of course, we feasted on homecooked dishes, among which the chicken-cooked-in-bamboo dish and the paku midin were some of the highlights. But the most unforgettable one had to be the squirmy snack of worms which tasted like sweet coconut cream. Not having the guts nor the stomach for the live ones, I tried them fried, in dark soya sauce –  sweet and savoury, not bad for a worm!

Planning your trip to Sibu? Head over to City Nomads for my Guide to Sibu.