The old building of the Sarawak Museum’s complex, housing the Ethnology Museum, will be temporarily closed for much needed renovation and refurbishment works. It was in urgent need of physical conservation, especially the roof which had multiple leaks, as well as upgrading of mechanical and electrical services.
Built in 1891 during the reign of the second ‘White Rajah’ Sir Charles Brooke, the old Sarawak Museum is one of the most renowned museums in Southeast Asia thanks to several famous naturalists, scientists and researchers who have contributed to the exhibitions and collections over the centuries.
The renovation and refurbishment works are scheduled to be completed by mid 2021.
In the meanwhile, the various other museums in Kuching under the Sarawak Museum’s Department, such as the Textile Museum, the Islamic Heritage Museum and the Chinese History Museum are well worth a visit. And not to forget the excellent galleries under the Brooke’s Trust, namely ‘Brooke Gallery’ and ‘Ranee: Margaret of Sarawak’, which tell the unique story of the Brooke family and the foundations of the kingdom of Sarawak!