The Sarawak Regatta is almost here again, and trust us, this is one of the biggest events in Kuching.
If you’ve been planning a trip to Sarawak, this is the perfect time to go. The whole city comes alive with boat races, parades, food stalls, and music.
Everyone gathers by the Sarawak River to cheer for their favorite teams, and you can feel the energy from the moment you step in.
We went last year and loved every minute. We loved watching hundreds of sleek longboats cutting through the river, rowers paddling in perfect rhythm, the crowd cheering, and drums beating.
It’s thrilling, loud, and festive all at once. And beyond the racing, the Sarawak Regatta is also a celebration of Sarawak’s cultural identity and unity.
A Little About the History of Sarawak Regatta
The story of the Sarawak Regatta goes way back into Sarawak history. It started during the Brooke era in the 19th century.
Back then, local tribes used to fight each other along the rivers. To bring peace, the White Rajah, James Brooke, encouraged them to channel their rivalries into boat races instead of warfare.
And so the regatta was born.
The event quickly became more than just a sporting contest. It became a gathering of communities.
Each ethnic group would bring its best rowers to compete, dressed in traditional attire, and it was as much about showing pride as it was about winning.
That spirit is still alive today.
When you’re watching the races, it’s easy to feel the weight of tradition.
You see the different tribes represented, the chants, the rituals, before the start. It’s like a living piece of history unfolding right before your eyes.
What Happens at the Sarawak Regatta?
The highlight is, of course, the boat races. Longboats with up to 30 paddlers speed across the Sarawak River.
The rowers move like one body, and the competition is fierce. The most prestigious race crowns the winning team as Raja Sungai, or King of the River.
Along with the title, the team also takes home a trophy and cash prizes, but the respect and pride that comes with being Raja Sungai is the real reward.
You’ll see categories for men, women, government agencies, corporate teams, and even international participants.
The crowd goes wild for every heat, but the finals draw the loudest cheers.
But the Sarawak Regatta is not just about watching from the sidelines. The atmosphere is carnival-like.
There are cultural performances, traditional dances, parades, and concerts by the riverfront.
If you love food, this is heaven. The stalls are packed with local treats: laksa, satay, kolo mee, grilled seafood, and fresh sugarcane juice. It’s the kind of food festival you don’t want to miss.
Every year, there are also exhibitions showing off local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. We saw beadwork, rattan baskets, carved masks, and Bornean spices.
It’s a great place to pick up gifts and support local artisans.
And in 2025, expect even more: daily cultural shows, drumming competitions, an ethnic fashion showcase, and plenty of live concerts as part of the bigger Kuching Waterfront Festival.
It’s a happening time to be by the river in Kuching.
When will the Sarawak Regatta 2025 take place?
This year, the Sarawak Regatta 2025 will run from 24th October to 2nd November as part of the Kuching Waterfront Festival.
The main boat races are split across two weekends: 24th–26th October and 31st October–2nd November.
Even if you can’t catch the races on those days, there’s still plenty happening throughout the festival.
Every single day is packed with activities, from cultural performances and concerts to competitions and parades. The full programme hasn’t been officially released yet.
But you can check out the schedules for the opening and closing ceremonies on their official website.
If you’re planning your holiday in Sarawak, make sure you give yourself enough time to soak it all in.
Stay at least a week so you don’t miss both the regatta action and all the other exciting events happening along the Kuching Waterfront.
A Typical Day at the Regatta
Morning starts with the heats. You’ll hear the sound of drums and whistles as teams get ready.
The riverfront fills with families, photographers, and tourists. The energy is infectious.
By noon, the food stalls are buzzing. It’s the perfect time to grab lunch while you rest under the shade of the big trees along the promenade.
Afternoons bring more races, often with celebrity rowers or government officials joining for fun. The crowd gets louder as the finals approach.
Evenings are for cultural shows. One year, we saw traditional Bidayuh bamboo dances and Iban war dances.
There were also modern acts, live bands, and fireworks. If you like people-watching, this is the best time. Everyone dresses up and comes out.
Why the Sarawak Regatta is a Must-See Sarawak Tourist Attraction
Out of all the Sarawak tourist attractions, the regatta stands out because it combines sport, history, and culture in one event.
You don’t just watch boats racing. You experience the unity of a diverse state.
Sarawak is home to many ethnic groups, and you can see them represented proudly here. It’s also a perfect example of how tradition is kept alive through celebration.
For visitors, it’s one of the most authentic cultural events you can attend.
If you’re making a list of things to see, the Sarawak Regatta should be right at the top. It’s fun, family-friendly, and absolutely unforgettable.
Other Things to Do in Sarawak During Your Trip
Since you’re already planning a holiday in Sarawak, don’t stop at the regatta. The state is full of surprises.
- Bako National Park: Just a short boat ride from Kuching, this park gives you jungle trails, beaches, and the chance to see proboscis monkeys up close.
- Sarawak Cultural Village: This living museum near Santubong is a great way to learn about the state’s many ethnic groups. You get to walk into traditional houses and see performances.
- Semenggoh Wildlife Centre: Perfect if you want to see orangutans in their semi-wild habitat. Feeding sessions happen twice daily, and they often come swinging in.
- Kuching Waterfront: Even when the regatta isn’t happening, this spot is always buzzing. Cafés, street performers, and boat rides make it the perfect place to unwind.
- Fairy Caves and Wind Caves: A short drive away, these limestone caves are stunning and worth the hike.
These places are some of the best-known Sarawak tourist attractions, but there are many more hidden gems waiting if you have time.
Sarawak History and Heritage Beyond the Regatta
The regatta itself is rooted in Sarawak history, but there’s so much more to learn about this state.
The Brooke family left behind forts and palaces that you can still visit, like Fort Margherita and the Astana.
The Sarawak Museum, recently renovated, is one of the best in Southeast Asia and gives you a clear picture of the state’s past.
Walking through Kuching, you’ll also notice old Chinese shophouses, temples, and mosques that tell stories of migration and trade.
It’s a city where every corner has a piece of history waiting to be uncovered.
Final Thoughts on Sarawak Regatta
The Sarawak Regatta is fast, thrilling, and exciting. But it’s also about more than paddles hitting the water.
It’s about unity, identity, and pride. It’s about communities coming together, celebrating differences, and sharing a tradition that goes back centuries.
When you stand by the river and cheer along, you’re not just a spectator. You’re part of a story that belongs to Sarawak. And that’s what makes it so special.
If you’ve never been, make this the year.
Pack your bags, head to Kuching, and experience it for yourself. It’s one of those memories you’ll keep talking about long after you get home.
Here are some more helpful resources:
- 7 Amazing Beaches Near Kota Kinabalu You MUST VISIT! – SOCAR Blog
- 10 Best Places to Visit in Sabah in 2025 – SOCAR Blog
- Top 15 Kundasang Tourist Attractions In 2025 – SOCAR Blog
FAQs on Sarawak Regatta
What is in a regatta?
A regatta is a sporting event involving a series of races with sailboats, yachts, rowing boats, and, recently, speedboats. The sport is centuries old with a rich history and ancient traditions. The sailors compete against each other to win cups, medals, cash prizes, and, most importantly, bragging rights.
What is special about Sarawak?
Sarawak is a spectacular natural wonderland, 70% covered by rainforest, with towering peaks, a vast cave system, and an extraordinary level of biodiversity. Sarawak is home to 26 distinct ethnic groups, all with their own unique cultures, customs, traditions, and languages.
Can foreigners visit Sarawak?
Yes! Sarawak is generally very safe for travelers. As always, exercise normal precautions and respect local customs.
Ride with SOCAR to Make Your Regatta Trip Easy
If you’re heading to Kuching for the Sarawak Regatta, getting around the city is part of the adventure.
With SOCAR, you don’t need to worry about taxis or waiting for rides. Just book a car that suits your trip, pick it up, and you’re free to explore at your own pace.
It’s perfect if you want to move between the Kuching Waterfront, food spots, and other Sarawak tourist attractions beyond the city.
Plus, you can choose from a wide range of cars depending on your budget and group size. Think of it as your own wheels for the holiday: flexible, convenient, and stress-free.
