Deep in the heart of the state, Sibu is a bustling garden city that serves as the gateway to the mighty Rajang River. Founded by Foochow settlers from China’s Fujian Province, the town is a vibrant tapestry of faith and trade. At the Tua Pek Kong Temple, a seven-storey pagoda dating back to the 1870s watches over the river, while the Yu Long Shang Tian En Shi temple stands as a rare monument to three faiths, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism—housed under one magnificent roof.

For a true taste of the local pulse, one must visit the Lembangan Market. With over 700 stalls lining the riverbank, it is one of the most exotic markets in Borneo. Here, the intrepid foodie can find everything from edible jungle ferns and sago worms to wild honey and seasonal fruits. It is a place where the diverse cultures of Sarawak meet to trade, talk, and eat, offering a raw and authentic window into the island’s everyday life.