Introduction

Sarawak is home to more than 40 sub-ethnic groups, each with their own distinct language, culture and lifestyle. Besides the Malays and Chinese, you will also be able to find the Ibans, Bidayuhs, Melanaus and other native tribes of Sarawak. The locals practise a variety of religions, including Christianity, Islam, Chinese folk religion (a fusion of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and ancestor worship) and animism. Many converts to Christianity among the indigenous peoples continue to practise traditional celebrations. You can see why Gawai Dayak, the rice harvest festival celebrated by the Dayaks (Ibans and Bidayuhs), is as important an occasion as Hari Raya and Chinese New Year in this part of Malaysia.

The country relies heavily on tourism as a source of income, attracting scores of visitors from all parts of the world every year due to its unique sights and culture. Kuching is also host to the Rainforest Music Festival—an annual music festival that brings performers from all parts of the world to celebrate the diversity of "world music".

The state is also the natural habitat for the endangered Orang Utan. Other unique wildlife includes the proboscis monkey, hornbill, rhinoceros, clouded leopard and pygmy elephant. It is rich in biodiversity and center of evolution of many rare species of plants and animals.