Sarawak Heritage Titbits are contributions by Sarawak Heritage Society members or friends in the form of illustrated, easy reading features on Sarawak heritage assets. This article is contributed by SHS Committee member Paulyn Yam.
There is a Mukah beyond what most visitors see.
Beyond the Kaul Festival lies a story of rivers that shaped communities, sago forests that sustained generations, fishermen whose lives follow the rhythm of the tides, and traditions quietly passed from grandparents to grandchildren.
Over the past four years, I have travelled throughout Mukah, documenting its history, food, culture, and the living heritage of the Melanau community through interviews, fieldwork, photography, and conversations with the people who call this place home.
This article is more than a journey through Mukah. It is about preserving memories before they fade, celebrating traditions that continue to thrive, and understanding why heritage matters—not only to the Melanau community, but to all of us.
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Mukah the cultural heartland of the Melanau people, or if you simply enjoy discovering the untold stories behind Sarawak’s heritage, I invite you to read this article.
Every river has a story. Every tradition has a meaning. And every community has a heritage worth preserving.
📖 Read the full article and discover the memories, people, and traditions that make Mukah truly unique (pdf, 44Mb)