Entering a river-bound trip into the heart of Sarawak, you step into the Sibu Express Boat Terminal. Situated on the banks of the great Rajang River, this terminal is more than just a transit point, it's a lifeline linking Sibu to upriver communities, traditional longhouses and rich cultural legacy. Whether you are a resident commuting home or a visitor looking for genuine Borneo experiences, this is your entrance to discover the rhythms of life along Malaysia's longest river.
Sibu is a lively town on the river that has major impacts from Chinese Foochow, Melanau, Iban and Malay cultures. It is famous for its many cultures, lovely markets and old temples. Sibu is an underrated gem where old practices and new energy meet. It is often called the "Swan City".
From the vibrant Sibu Central Market to the mystical Tua Pek Kong Temple, this town provides a blend of river-based, cultural and gastronomic drawings that make it a must see for visitors to Sarawak.
The Sibu Express Boat Terminal is where most of the express boats that go upriver from Sibu meet with towns and villages in the interior along the Rajang and Baleh Rivers.
| Route | Notes |
|---|---|
| Sibu to Kapit | |
| Sibu to Song | |
| Sibu to Kanowit | |
| Sibu to Belaga (limited service depending on river conditions) | limited service depending on river conditions |
| Operator |
|---|
| Rejang Express |
| Suria Express |
| Borneo Express Boat Services |
Boats usually leave in the morning and there are several trips a day to Kapit and other places.
Begin your Sarawak river trip directly from the Sibu Express Boat Terminal.
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Kapit | A small town upriver that is ringed by thick jungle and is the way to get to Iban longhouses. |
| Song | Peaceful riverbanks and traditional Iban villages make it famous. |
| Kanowit | Ancient town with a lovely river and a lot of cultural interest. |
| Belaga | A remote place deep in the rainforest that adventure seekers often go to. |
Experience real native life in these places by going on forest treks and staying in longhouses.
Sibu has a lot of different tastes, especially those that come from Foochow Chinese food and Iban customs. Local foods you have to try:
At the Sibu Night Market you can try a range of street foods and locally made goods.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When is the best time to go to Sibu? | The best time is from March to October when it rains less and the river is smoother. |
| In what way do I get to the terminal? | The terminal is in downtown Sibu and hotels can easily get there on foot or by cab. |
| How long does it take to get to Kapit by boat? | About two and a half to three hours based on the speed of the river and the stops. |
| Are the boats secure? | Yes, approved operators do follow safety rules and make sure there are life jackets on board. |
| Can I bring loads of stuff or big bags? | Yes, but there may be extra fees for things that are too big or too bulky. |
The Sibu Express Boat Terminal is a one-of-a-kind way to see Sarawak's secret gems. This is the terminal where everything starts whether you're going to a longhouse stay, an adventure in the rainforest or a culture discovery. Get a feel for the river life in Borneo, try real Sarawakian food and see a side of Malaysia that is full of history and natural beauty. Prepared to go? Grab your boat tickets right now on Easybook.com to start your trip on the Rajang River right away!
