KUCHING: The new Borneo Cultures Museum will open its doors to the public in early March, showcasing Sarawak's culture and history in over 1,000 artefacts.

       The much-anticipated official opening by Sarawak Governor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud will take place on March 4, after which the museum will be open to the public on March 9.

       "After many years since construction started in 2014, finally we have reached the time when this building will be open," state Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah told a press conference at the new museum's lobby here on Tuesday (Feb 22).

       The museum was originally scheduled to be opened in 2020 but this was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

       Karim indicated that it would be worth the wait as the Borneo Cultures Museum offers an immersive and interactive experience with over 6,000 square metres of exhibition space, complemented by audio-visual technology and augmented reality.

       He said the permanent exhibitions were displayed on three levels with different themes.

       "On Level 3, the theme 'In Harmony with Nature' explores the relationship between humans and nature, while 'Time Changes' on Level 4 tells the history of Sarawak and Borneo from prehistoric times to the 1970s.

       "For Level 5, the theme is 'Objects of Desire' which showcases the most cherished objects of Sarawak’s ethnic groups," he said.

       Karim also said a children's gallery on Level 2 is themed "Love Our Rivers" and added that it is designed to empower children's imagination, creativity and environmental stewardship.

       "As the years go by, we will add to the exhibitions. This is just the start of the museum.

       "I foresee this will be a main attraction in Kuching once it's open, " he added.

       He also said entry will be free for the first three months, after which the state Cabinet will decide an entry fee or whether to extend the free admission for another three months.

       Visitors are encouraged to book their visit as entry will be limited to 500 people at one time in compliance with Covid-19 protocols.

       Bookings can be made starting March 1, with the link to be announced on the museum's social media and Sarawak Museum website.

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