X-FAB Sarawak Sdn. Bhd.

HANDBOOK

Expat Handbook
Working & Living in Cat City

Contents

The

Expat Handbook

Living in Kuching

Automobile & Healthcare

Expat Information

6
8

17 Automobile
20 Healthcare

30 Malaysia My Second Home

33 Travel Agency
34 Expat Directory

Property
Education

Financial
14 Taxable income
15 Personal Relief and Separate
16 Employee Provident Fund

Food & Places of Interest

21 Food
24 Places of interest in Kuching

You may visit http://www.expatgomalaysia.com/ or call 03-2094 9664

to get your FREE copy of Expat Magazine delivered to you every month
X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 2

Introduction
Welcome to X-FAB Sarawak! We are happy to have you as part of our X-FAB family.

As you start your career journey with us, we would like to introduce our Expatriate Handbook,
which sets out the general information on living in Kuching, Sarawak and working in X-FAB
Sarawak. We believe proper onboarding program and guiding policies form a crucial component
to overall employees satisfaction and motivation. As such, this handbook brings together
information about expatriates benefits and practices. There will be constant reviews to ensure that
the information in this handbook is up to date and meeting the needs of our employees.
This handbook is intended to provide relevant information in clear and understandable language.
However, in the event of any conflict between the information in this handbook and our official
documents i.e. policies, program, documents or contracts; the official documents shall govern.
While going through this handbook, if you have any queries/concerns with regards to the
contents, please see and discuss with the Human Resource representative at any time.

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 3

As the worlds leading foundry group for analog/mixed-signal semiconductor

application,
X-FAB creates a clear alternative to typical foundry services by combining solid, specialized
expertise in advanced analog and mixed-signal process technologies with excellent service, a high
level of responsiveness and first-class technical support. X-FAB manufactures wafers for
automotive, industrial, consumer, medical, and other applications on modular CMOS and BiCMOS
processes in geometries ranging from 1.0 to 0.18 m, and special BCD, SOI and MEMS longlifetime processes.
With its five manufacturing sites in Germany, Malaysia and the USA, X-FAB has a combined capacity
of ~72,000 eight inch equivalent wafer starts per month and employs 2,500 employees worldwide.
X-FAB MEMS Foundry Wins MEMS Foundry of the Year Award at MEMS Executive Congress.
Honored for Best in MEMS and Sensors Innovation; Named Runner-Up for MEMS Supplier of the
Year Award. X-FAB Sarawak Sdn. Bhd has won 2 National Awards in 2015 National Labour Day
Celebration. Both awards were presented by Malaysia Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in
st
Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on May 1 , 2015:
The Prime Ministers Award for Excellence in Human Resources
The 1Malaysia Employer Award (Big Companies)

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 4

Living in Kuching
Welcome to the land of hornbill

Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state situated on the island of Borneo. A
modern metropolitan city cloaked with romantic colonial charm, Kuching extends its warm
hospitality and captivates guests to enjoy a relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Blessed with abundant
natural resources, Sarawak is fortunate to have clean air.
Sarawak is also famous for its national parks, traditions, crafts, wild life parks and most of all,
friendly faces! The rich cultural diversities of more than 20 different indigenous ethnic groups as
well as the extensive Malay and Chinese traditions paint a colorful portrait of Sarawak's ethnic and
cultural communities. Also known as the Cat City, Kuching also offers an array of tasty local
delicacies, fine dining as well as fusion of international cuisines.
X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 5

Property
Housing costs vary depending on the location. Whether you are buying or renting a house, here
are some things to consider:
Budget
Size
Facilities
Amenities
Below is a list of the average asking prices by location for Kuching properties:

Apartment / Condominium
Apartment / Condo

Location

De Summit Condominium
Green Height Condominium
Village Grove Condominium
Desa Pine Apartment
Park Avenue
Tribeca Condominium
Eden Height Condominium
D Infinia Residence Condominium
The Ryegates
Floridale Apartment
Saville Suites Apartment
Stack 128 Apartment
Riverbank Suites
Bampfylde Residence
Riverine Condominium
Kasuma Resort
Sky Villa Condominium
Courtyard Sanctuary Condominium
DJewel Condominium
The Tropics Condominium

BDC
BDC
BDC
Tabuan
Tabuan
Tabuan
Airport
Airport
Airport
Wan Alwi
3rd Mile
3rd Mile
Town
Town
Petanak
Petra Jaya
MJC
MJC
Hui Sing
Jalan Song

X-FAB

No. of
Bedroom
3
3-4
2-5
2-3
2-3
3
3
3
2
3
3
2-3
2-3
2 -3
3
3
3
2-3
3
3

Expatriate

Rental/Month
(RM)
1,500 3,000
2,500 4,000
1,650 2,500
1,200 2,000
2,500 3,000
2,500 3,000
1,500 2,000
2,300 3,000
2,500 3,000
1,600 2,000
2,000 3,100
1,500 1,800
2,200 3,000
3,500 5,000
2,000 3,200
1,600 4,000
1,200 2,000
1,000 1,500
2,800 3,500
2,300 3,000

Handbook

Page 6

Houses
Location
BDC
Tabuan area
Jalan Song
Stutong
Stampin
Kota
Samarahan
Batu Kawa
3rd Mile
MJC
Riveria

Type of Houses

Not Furnished
(RM)

Double Storey Semi-D

Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace
Double Storey Semi-D
Double Storey Terrace

1,000 1,400
1,000 1,300
1,500 1,600
1,500 1,700
1,200 1,400
1,000 1,200
1,200 1,400
1,000 - 1,100
1,500 1,800
1,000 - 1,100
1,100 1,200
1,000 - 1,100
1,100 1,200
900 1,000
1,000 1,100
1,000 1,100

Partial
Furnished
(RM)
1,500 2,500
1,400 1,500
1,700 1,800
1,800 2,200
1,500 1,700
1,300 1,800
1,500 1,800
1,200 1,300
2,000 2,200
1,200 1,300
1,300 1,500
1,200 1,300
1,300 1,500
1,100 1,200
1,200 1,400
1,200 1,300

Fully
Furnished
(RM)
2,600 3,600
1,600 2,000
1,900 2,500
2,300 2,500
1,800 2,300
1,900 2,200
1,900 2,600
1,400 1,800
2,300 3,000
1,400 1,800
1,600 2,000
1,400 1,800
1,600 2,000
1,300 1,500
1,500 1,800
1,400 1,500

You may also refer to the website listed below to help you in your house hunting:
www.wfwy.com
www.propertyguru.com.m

www.mudah.com.my
www.kencoproperty.com

Good Luck in your house hunting!

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 7

Education
Our comprehensive list of International Schools and education system in Kuching and procedure to
register can be found below:

Lodge International School

Lodge International School caters for students in the British National Curriculum from Year 2 (age
7) through the Cambridge International Advanced Level (age 16 and above). All course textbooks
are sourced from the UK.
At the Lower and Middle School levels, from Year 2 to Year 9, the subjects offered are English,
Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Design and Technology, Information Technology, Art
and Design, Music and Physical Education. In addition to Malay Language, students have the
option of studying Korean or Mandarin Chinese. All Malaysian students are to take Moral and Local
studies in Year 5 and Year 6 and in Year 7 to Year 9, they are also required to study Malaysian
History. Islamic Studies are to be taken by all Muslim students.
Students are prepared for the University of Cambridge IGCSE and IGCE A level examinations in the
Senior School.
A wide range of extra-curricular activities, which include sports, societies and intellectual pursuits
take place after school. Students are expected to broaden their interests and skills by participating
in these activities. Mandarin is taught as extra-curricular activities on Tuesday, Thursday and
Saturday.

Fees
Registration Fee (Non-Refundable / Non Transferable Payable Only Once)
Kindergarten

RM 250.00 per admission

International

RM 500.00 per admission

The Registration Fee is only refundable when the School is unable to offer a place to a child on or
before 31 January of each year or a child is not admitted on account of him failing the assessment test.

Parents whose children are admitted to Lodge Group of Schools shall automatically become
members of the Lodge School Association and have to pay a membership fee (Refundable) as per
scheduled next page.

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 8

Lodge School Association Membership Fee (Refundable)

Kindergarten*

Primary

Secondary

First Child

RM 4,500.00

RM 6,500.00

RM 8,500.00

Second Child

RM 3,000.00

RM 3,000.00

RM 3,000.00

Third Child

RM 2,000.00

RM 2,000.00

RM 2,000.00

Nil

Nil

Nil

Fourth Child

Assessment Fee (Non-refundable)

A fee of RM100.00 to be paid by students who have to sit for written assessment
tests before admission into the school.

Miscellaneous Fees (Non-refundable)

Per Term x 4

Per Year

Kindergarten

RM 170.00

RM 680.00

International School

RM 150.00

RM 600.00

School Fees (Non-refundable)

Per Term x 4

Per Year

Kindergarten
Kindy A - C

RM 750.00

RM 3,000.00

International School
Year 2 6

RM 1,210.00

RM 4,840.00

Year 7 8

RM 1,530.00

RM 6,120.00

Year 9

RM 1,850.00

RM 7,400.00

Year 10 11 (O Level)

RM 2,720.00

RM 10,880.00

Year 12 - 13 (A Level)

RM 3,000.00 (Per Term x 6)

RM 18,000.00 (whole course)

Lodge Group of Schools

Lorong Keranji 4E, Jalan Keranji 4, Tabuan Desa,
93350 Kuching Sarawak.
Tel: +6082 363 554 Fax: +6082 362 517
E-mail: http://lodgesch@gmail.com

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 9

Tunku Putra School

Tunku Putra School Kindergarten offers an exciting range of learning. At the center of our
curriculum framework is the child and the belief that children are observant, inquisitive and active
learners.
Based on this belief, our curriculum advocates the 4 principles which guide the teaching and
learning in the Kindergarten:
A learning environment that fosters an integrated and inclusive approach to learning
Children learn from actively investigating the world around them
Children learn from their peers, the school community and the wider community
Learning is a complex cognitive activity that cannot be rushed
In International Primary we recognize that your child has a unique set of attributes and abilities.
We provide a caring, supportive learning environment for students where together we strive for
excellence as the students prepare to become lifelong learners.
We aim in International Primary for each child to succeed to their potential and fulfil the schools
vision of creating a holistic approach to learning where the students are active, engaged,
challenged and their learning is meaningful.
International Primary will:
Create a safe, happy and healthy environment in which each student feels secure and
valued
Use a broad and balanced curriculum and employ a variety of teaching styles to help all
children develop their potential in all areas of school life
Celebrate the cultural diversity of the school population, drawing on it to enrich all pupils
development
Develop the social values and skills required for your childs future success
The aim of the International Secondary Programme is to build upon the solid foundations
established by the Primary Programme in order to give students the best possible opportunity to
succeed in their studies and in the world that lies beyond the school gates.

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 10

Fees
Clas
s

Annual
(RM)

Instalment 1
(RM)

Instalment 2
(RM)

Instalment 3
(RM)

(1 Jan 30 Apr)

(1 May 31 Aug)

(1 Sept 31 Dec)

Tuition
Fees

Consolidated
Charges

Total
Fees

Tuition
Fees

Consolidated
Charges

Total
Fees

Tuition
Fees

Consolidated
Charges

Total
Fees

Tuition
Fees

Consolidated
Charges

Total
Fees

K 1-3

6,500

500

7,000

2,200

500

2,700

2,200

2,200

2,100

2,100

IP 2-3

11,500

700

12,200

3,900

250

4,150

3,900

250

4,150

3,700

200

3,900

IP 4-6

12,500

900

13,400

4,200

300

4,500

4,200

300

4,500

4,100

300

4,400

IS711

17,500

500

18,000

5,900

500

6,400

5,900

5,900

5,700

5,700

Admission Fees (Non-Refundable)

1. Assessment Fee
2. Application Fee

RM 50.00
RM 1,500.00

Miscellaneous Fees
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Visa Application Fee (Non-Refundable)

Medical Fee (Non-Refundable)
Resource Fund (Annual - Non-Refundable)
Secondary Textbooks
Ednoland Computer Programme (Kindergarten only RM30.00 per month [Jan-Oct])
School Uniforms
School Children Accident Insurance (Annual)
School Children Accident Insurance (Optional for student visa purpose only)

RM 1,000.00
RM 200.00
RM 500.00
user pay
user pay
user pay
RM 20.00
RM 201.00

Discounts (Tuition Fees only)

st

1. Payment of a full years fees (By 31 January)

rd
2. 3 sibling attending the school at the same time
th
3. 4 & subsequent sibling/s attending the school at the same time

2%
5%
10%

(Children attending the school under basis (b-c) are not entitled to any further discounts.)
(Canteen meals must be arranged and paid for, with the school canteen operator.)

Tunku Putra School

Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya,
93050 Kuching, Sarawak
Tel: +6082-313900
Fax: +6082 313 970
E-mail: info@tps.edu.my
Website: www.tps.edu.my

X-FAB

Expatriate

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Page 11

Tadika Rhema

Start them young

INVEST in their formative years | CAPITALISE on their natural curiosity |
STIMULATE their thinking skills | EXPAND their world beyond the self |
DEVELOP an upright character | PREPARE them to be global citizens |
NURTURE a lifelong
Love for learning
Tadika Rhema covers the MOE NSPC (National Standard Preschool Curriculum) and more

Fees
Registration Fee (Non-Refundable / Non Transferable Payable Only Once)
RM 100.00 per admission

School Fees

Per Term x 4

Per Year

Junior 1

RM 900.00

RM 3,600.00

Junior 2 - 3

RM 900.00

RM 3,600.00

Afternoon Class (Chinese & Malay Language)

RM 900.00

RM 3,600.00

X-FAB

Expatriate

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Page 12

Additional Fees
RM 200.00 per year
RM 200.00
RM 80.00 per year
RM 50.00 per year
RM 100.00 per year
RM 30.00
RM 180.00 per year
RM 30.00
RM 30.00
RM 100.00
RM 30.00 per year
RM 35.00 (Optional)
RM 170.00
RM 2.00 per year
RM 12.00

Miscellaneous fee
Commitment Deposit
Workbooks/ Books
Entrance Assessment
Project
Folder & Motor skill Workbook
Computer Fees
Class Party
2 School Outings
Book Retention Fee
AIA Insurance
Basket
Uniform & Socks
Car Stickers
School Calendar

Tadika Rhema
26-27 Lorong Keranji 4,
Tabuan Desa,
93350 Kuching, Sarawak.
Tel: +6082 367 888
Fax: +6082 360 600
E-mail: tadikarhema@gmail.com

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 13

Financial
Taxable / Employment Income
Employment income includes the following:
Any wages, salary, remuneration, leave pay, fees, commission, bonus, gratuities, perquisites
or allowance, payment of household expenses, club subscriptions, subsidized interest on
loan, school fees for children (whether in money or otherwise)
The value of the use of or enjoyment of any benefits or amenities (e.g. use of companys
motor vehicle, provision of food, clothing, household furniture, drivers services, club
membership)
The value of living accommodation provided by the employer
Payment of the employees personal expenses, e.g. utility bills, insurance premium
Provision of overseas leave passages exceeding RM 3,000.00 per annum
Relocation expenses

What you have to do

Submission of Income Tax Return
An expatriate employee is required to complete the Income Tax Return and submit it to the Inland
th
Revenue before 30 April of each year.
It is compulsary for expatriate to pay income tax in the following circumstances:
Resides in Malaysia for less than 60 days Income tax is waived
Resides in Malaysia for 60 days or more but less than 182 days Income tax rate at 26%
Resides in Malaysia for more than 182 days, continuously or in total Income tax rate will
be based on the Scheduler Tax Deduction (STD)
Salary Range (per annum)
2,501 5,000
5,001 20,000
20,001 35,000
35,001 50,000
50,001 70,000
70,001 100,000
100,001 250,000
>250,000

Tax Rate (%)

1
3
7
12
19
24
26
26
st

If you have not received an Income Tax Return by 31 March in each calendar year, you must
immediately write to the Inland Revenue (i.e. the branch which issued you with the last Income Tax
th
Return) for an Income Tax Return for the relevant year before 14 April.
For more information, you can visit www.hasil.gov.my

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Expatriate

Handbook

Page 14

Personal Reliefs and Separate Assessment

The following reliefs are available to a resident in Malaysia:
Personal Reliefs

RM

Taxpayer - Personal Relief

Wife - If she has no source of income or elects for combined assessment
Husband - If he has no source of income or elects for combined assessment
Children:
Below 18 years old
18 years and above
o Schooling
o Studying at Higher Education Institute
Disabled child (Unmarried)
Disabled child above 18 years old studying in Higher Education Institute
Life Insurance premiums / EPF
Insurance premiums on insurance for education or medical benefits:
Medical expenses for parents
Medical expenses for taxpayer, spouse and children on serious diseases
(Include RM 500.00 for medical examination expenses)
Disabled person:
Taxpayer
Spouse
Supporting equipment for disabled taxpayer, spouse, children or parent
(Maximum)
Education fees (Self)
Other than Masters or PhD (Law, Accounting, Islamic Finance, Technical,
Vocational, Industrial, Scientific or Technology)
Purchase of books, journals, magazines and other similar publication.
Purchase of personal computer for individual (Once in 3 years)
Purchase of sports equipment
Special relief
(Eligible if income less than RM96,000 per year and limited to taxable income)

9,000.00
3,000.00
3,000.00
1,000.00
1,000.00
6,000.00
5,000.00
11,000.00
6,000.00
3,000.00
5,000.00
5,000.00
6,000.00
3,500.00
5,000.00

5,000.00
1,000.00
3,000.00
300.00
2,000.00

Income Tax rebates:

Rebates given to taxpayer

Individual
Chargeable income not exceeding RM 35,000.00
Additional rebate for wife/ husband
If she does not elect for esparate assessment or has no income orelects for
combined assessment with husband

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

RM
400.00
400.00

Page 15

Income Tax deductions:

Rebates given to taxpayer

RM

Cash donation paid to approved institutions or organization

Gift of money or contribution in-kind to any sports activity or approved sports body
Cash donation to public libraries and libraries of school and institutions of higher
education

Not
exceeding
7% of
aggregate
income
20,000.00

Employee Provident Fund

The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) has been set up by the Malaysian Government to cater for
retirement. It is compulsory for each employee and employer to contribute to the fund. However,
it is an option for an expatriate to contribute. The current contribution rate is 11% for employee
and 12% for employer. The contribution rate may be amended from time to time by the Malaysian
Government. The money is refunded to the employee on cessation of employment and on leaving
the country.

For more information, you can visit www.kwsp.gov.my

X-FAB

Expatriate

Handbook

Page 16

Automobile & Healthcare

Automobile
Locally made cars dominate on the roads as tax-breaks make them cheaper to buy, and they are
easier to get fixed if things go wrong. Perodua is currently the biggest selling local brand. It has a
very popular small SUV and modern small cars.
Youll see a lot of locally assembled models of Korean cars too; Hyundai (Inokom) and Kia (Naza)
both have regional partnerships. Over the past couple of years, the choice of new models on the
market has improved, while waiting times for new cars have reduced. There are also plenty of
imported brands on the streets, including Honda, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW and Volvo. For car
insurance, you may wish to ask your friends or HR Department which insurer they use and perhaps
that could also be an option to picking cheaper car insurance in the market.
Company

Address

Tel No.

Website

RG Car Hire
& Services

Main Office:
Lot 5306, 1st Floor, Jln Stutong Baru,
Stampin Resettlement Scheme, 93350
Kuching.

+6 082 578 875

+6 013 818 6679
+6 013 827 7718

http://www.rg
carhiretour.co
m.my

Car Rental
Kuching
Herts Car
Rental
& Car Sales
Green Matrix
Car Rental

Flexi Car
Rental

Airport Counter:
G19, Ground Floor, Arrival Hall Lobby, +6 082 570 075
Kuching International Airport, 93722 +6 019 818 3112
Kuching.
N/A
N/A
Airport Counter:
+6082450 740
GL20, Ground Floor, Terminal Building
Kuching International Airport, Kuching.
No. 15, Lrg Simpor 4, Taman Trinora, +6 019 866 4673
93050, Petra Jaya, Kuching.
+6 019 848 2380

Head Office:
nd
Lot 7050, 2 Floor, Jalan Sekama,
93300 Kuching.

+6 082 335 282

www.carrental
kuching.com
www.hertz.co
m
www.carrentalkuching.com

www.flexicarre
ntal.com

Airport Counter:
+6 082 452 200
GL18, Ground Floor, Terminal Building,
Kuching International Airport, 93722
Kuching.

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Page 17

Kuching Rent
A Car

Mayflower
Car Rental

Kuching Car
Rental

Main Office:
+6 082 422 955
Sarawak Tourism Complex, Block D1, Jln
Tun Abg Haji Openg, 93000, Kuching,
Sarawak.
Airport Counter:
+6 082 463 318
Kuching International Airport, Counter
No.6, International Arrival Hall Jln Lapangan
Terbang, 93277 Kuching
No. 254, 1st Floor, Jalan Padungan
+6 082 410 110
93100 Kuching.

N/A

+6 014 999 9688

www.kuchingr
entacar.com

www.mayflow
ercarrental.co
m.my

http://kuchingcarrental.blogs
pot.com/

Procedure for Conversion of Foreign Driving License to Malaysian Driving License

1. Automatic Conversion of Foreign Driving License to Malaysian
Application can be made at any Road Transport Department (RTD) state office. (For more
information, please log on to RTDs website at www.jpj.gov.my)
Complete JPJ L1 form (can be obtained at the RTD Office) attaching the following
documents:
Original and copy of valid driving license. (For expired driving license, the expiry date
should not exceed 3 years)
One colored photograph (25 mm x 32 mm)
English translation of the driving license by Embassy of the issuing country
Original and copy of the passport
Processing fee - RM 20.00
Categories of license which may apply for conversion:
Competence Driving License (CDL)
RM 30.00 (Car)
For 1 year
RM 20.00 (Motorcycle)
For 1 year
Probationary driving License (P)
RM 60.00 (Car)
For 2 years
RM 40.00 (Motorcycle)
For 2 years

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Expatriate

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Page 18

Terms and Conditions: Motorcycle licenses will be issued according to their classes
i.e. B1, B2 and B: (Please attach supporting documents confirming the motorcycles c.c.
together with the application)
Competence Driving License (CDL) will be issued to applicants who have possessed
that license for more than 2 years
Probationary Driving License (PDL) will be issued if the applicant does not comply with
CDL condition
2. Conversion of Singapore Driving License to Malaysian Driving License
Application can be done at RTD state office.
Complete JPJ 1 form and attach following documents:
Original Singapore competent driving license (CDL) or probationary driving license (P)
Original and photocopy of the driving license
Original and photocopy copy of the passport
One colored photograph (25 mm x 32mm)
Processing fee - RM 20.00
License fee:Competence Driving License (CDL)
RM 30.00 (Car)
For 1 year
RM 20.00 (Motorcycle)
For 1 year
Probationary driving License (P)
RM 60.00 (Car)
For 2 years
RM 40.00 (Motorcycle)
For 2 years

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Expatriate

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Page 19

Healthcare in Kuching

General contact
Phone: +6082 507 333 Fax: +6082 507 733
E-mail: admin@borneomedicalcentre.com
Address: Lot 10992, Sec 64, KTLD, Jalan Tun
Jugah, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak.

General Contact
Lot 5164-5165, Block 16 KCLD, 2 1/2
Mile, Rock Road, Taman Timberland,
93250 Kuching, Sarawak.
Tel: +6082 234 466
Fax: +6082 232 259
Email:
marketing@timberlandmedical.com

Normah Medical Specialist Centre

General contact
Toll free line: 1-300-88-4677
General telephone line: +60 82 440 055
General fax line: +60 82 442 600
Email : inquiry@normah.com
Address:
Normah Medical Specialist Centre
Lot 937, Section 30 KTLD
Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman ,
Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
Emergency contact
Emergency call No: +60 82 311 999 (phone)
Emergency fax no: +60 82 312291 (fax)

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Food around Kuching

Kuching is the usual entry point for travelers wanting to explore the Malaysian state of Sarawak in
Borneo. Boasted as one of the cleanest cities in Asia, Kuching has just the right amount of tourism.
The food in Kuching is excellent, while prices are yet to be inflated by the tourist masses.
Borneo's isolation and unique tribal history have produced many delicious foods that are difficult
to find elsewhere. Clean waterways, rain forests full of life, and an average of 247 rainy days a year
mean that fresh, healthy food is always on hand!

Food in Kuching Not to be Missed

Sarawak Laksa: The local Sarawak laksa is a creamy, spicy, local variation of Malaysia's
ubiquitous soup-noodle bowl. Jumbo prawns, fresh lime, and coriander lend a unique flavor to the
broth which is thicker than that found in most noodle bowls - heavy but delicious. The noodles are
usually made from thin vermicelli.
Midin: If you try only one unique, local food in Kuching, make it midin. Pronounced "mee deen",
midin is a green jungle fern that grows in Sarawak. Unlike other greens that get soft when cooked,
midin remains crunchy giving it an enjoyable texture. The thin, curly shoots are a delicious and
healthy alternative to noodles and rice. Midin is often stir-fried with garlic, ginger, or optionally
shrimp paste and chili.
Kolo Mee: Consisting of boiled egg noodles, kolo mee is the favorite noodle dish of many locals.
The broth is usually made of vinegar, pork or peanut oil, and is flavored with garlic or shallots.
Minced pork or beef is often added, although you can request the dish without it. Char siew is
thinly-sliced BBQ pork added in strips on top of the noodles.

Coffee and Tea in Kuching

Locally known as kopi and teh, people in Sarawak love their coffee and tea. A slightly-confusing
system of getting what you want in cafes has developed. If you do not specify how you take your
coffee or tea, the default is to load the drink with milk and sugar!
Kopi: If you just ask for coffee, expect sugar and sweet, condensed milk
Kopi-C: Pronounced "see", this coffee comes with unsweetened, evaporated milk
Kopi-O: Pronounced "oh", this removes the milk from the coffee but possibly not the sugar
Kopi-O Kosong: Simply black coffee, served hot and strong
The Malay word for sugar is "gula"; the word for milk is "susu".

Kuching Restaurants
Kuching is filled with interesting places to eat that fit all budgets. From luxurious, open-air bistros
on the waterfront to steamy food courts serving delicious cheap noodles, you will want to try them
all.

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You can always refer to the latest/updated food directories in Kuching at:
Kuching Food Critics (http://www.kuchingfoodcritics.com/p/food-directory.html)
Tripadvisor (http://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Restaurants-g298309-Kuching_Sarawak.html)

Places of Interest in Kuching

Visitors to Kuching will find there's not enough time to fit in all there is to see and do on a day out
or multi-day excursion. Kuching is a wonderful place to base yourself, being so close to a huge list
of attractions, national parks and jungle trails. Options encompass just about every interest and
pastime, from nature-watching and exploring, to experiencing traditional lifestyles through lazy
days on the beach, or challenging adventure attractions.

Sarawak Cultural Village and Heritage Centre

Known as the 'Living Museum', the Cultural Village was set up to preserve and showcase Sarawak's
cultural heritage. Located at Pantai Damai, Santubong, just 32km from the state capital, Kuching, it
is the perfect place to get introduced to local culture and lifestyle.
Sprawled across 17 acres, there are about 150 people living in the village, demonstrating
traditional daily activities from Sarawak's diverse tribes like the processing of sago and the making
of handicrafts. They wear traditional costumes and also put on dances for visitors.
The village residents provide information on their various traditional cultures and lifestyles. You can
see replicas of buildings that represent every major ethnic group in Sarawak; longhouses of the
Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, a Melanau tall-house and a Chinese farm house among others.
Damai Beach Resort, 93762 Kuching
Tel: +6082 846 411
Website: http://www.scv.com.my/

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Permai Rainforest Resort

Permai Rainforest Resort is an eco-resort set in pristine Borneo rainforest located on the shores of
the South China Sea, and at the foot of mystical Mount Santubong. Carefully designed to minimize
impact on the natural environment, it offers a unique rainforest experience. The resort is only 25
km or 30 minutes drive north of Kuching, the capital of Sarawak.
Pantai Damai Santubong, Jalan Sultan Tengah 93050 Kuching
Tel: +6082 846 487 / +6082 846 490
Email: reserve@permairesort.com
Website: http://permairainforest.com/

Borneo Highland Resort

One of the most exciting and unique environmentally friendly resort, cocooned in a lush jungle
and snuggled within the hills 1000 meters above sea level, it is a retreat one of its kind, offering an
exclusive membership club and truly unique residential development by creating a wellness
sanctuary for you to retreat to in this region. Located amid untouched natural beauty of the lush
tropical rainforest, this little haven is the perfect getaway where one can escape from the hectic city
life.
Jalan Borneo Height, 94200 Padawan Kuching
Tel: +6019828 0790 / +6019 829 0790
Email: enquiry@borneohighlands.com.my
Website: http://www.borneohighlands.com.my/

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Museum
Sarawak Museum (Old Building)
Sarawak Museum (Dewan Tun Abdul Razak)
Islamic Heritage Museum
Textile Museum
Sarawak Women Museum
Natural History Museum
Chinese Museum
Cat Museum
Website: http://www.museum.sarawak.gov.my

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National Park
There is a nominal entry fee for all national parks in Sarawak. Check with the National Parks
Booking Office in Kuching for the latest fee structure. A permit is required for professional
photography or filming, which should be arranged in advance with the National Parks Booking
Office. Check with the National Parks Booking Office in Kuching or the Sarawak Forestry website
(www.sarawakforestry.com) for the latest fee structure.
National Parks Booking Office
Visitors Information Centre, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia
Tel: +6082 248 088 Fax: +6082 248 087

Below are just a few of national parks around Kuching. For more in depth information, go to the
Sarawak Forestry website stated above.
Kubah National Park
Bako National Park
Gunung Gading National Park
Matang Wildlife Centre
Semenggoh Wildlife
Santubong NationaL Park

Rehabilitation Centre
Talang-Satang National Park
Tanjung Datu National Park
Fairy Cave
Wind Cave

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Borneo Convention Centre Kuching

Meetings, conferences, events and exhibitions in all their forms are ultimately to serve only one
common function. To bring people together, encourage conversation and create connections.
Connections that will allow people to create ideas, share thoughts and collaborate. The centre is
equipped with the latest in communication technologies with wireless internet enveloping the
whole area, cutting ledge LAN infrastructure and the latest in Audio/Visual technology to ensure
any and all collaboration that happens inside, are widely visible outside.
Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, The Isthmus Sejingkat, 93050 Kuching Kuching
Tel: +6082 392 888
Website: http://www.bcck.com.my

Others:
Kuching Orchid Garden
Great Cat Statue
Sematan
Lundu
Disiniland

The Sunday Open Market

MJC Night Market
Old Court House
Kuching Waterfront / Esplanade

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Contact for more current and update events happening around Kuching city, you may refer to:

Sarawak Tourism Board

5th 7th Floor, Bangunan Wawasan Sarawak
Jalan Masjid, 93400 Kuching
Sarawak, Malaysia
Website: http://www.sarawaktourism.com/
Visitors Information Centre, Kuching
Sarawak Tourism Complex (Old Courthouse)
Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg
93000 Kuching, Sarawak
Tel: +6082 410 944
Fax: +6082 256 301
Email: vic-kuching@sarawaktourism
Opening Hours: Mon Fri, 8.00am 5.00pm
Close on Public Holidays and Weekends
Others Link:
Bombastic Borneo
http://bombasticborneo.com/current-events/sarawak-events-2015/

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Malaysia My Second Home Program

Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program is promoted by the Government of Malaysia to allow
foreigners who fulfill certain criteria, to stay in Malaysia for as long as possible on a multiple-entry
social visit pass.
The Social Visit Pass is initially for a period of ten (10) years, and is renewable.

Eligibility
It is open to citizens of all countries recognized by Malaysia regardless of race, religion, gender or
age. Applicants are allowed to bring their spouses and unmarried children below the age of 21 as
dependents.
Incentives available in MM2H:
Special social visit for parents above 60 years old
Tax exemption for purchase or import of a car
Opportunity to purchase unlimited numbers of residential properties in Malaysia (above
RM1,000,000)
Investment in Malaysia
Student Pass for enrolment in private educational institutions
Tax exemption on pension remitted into Malaysia
Bringing in a domestic helper

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Financial Requirements Upon Application:

Requirements

Below 50 Years Old

50 Years Old and above

Minimum RM 500,000
and offshore income of
RM10,000 per month.

Options:
OR Current
Monthly
Offshore
Income*

Proof of liquid assets

Liquid assets

RM 350,000
RM 10,000
New applicants who have purchased properties worth at least RM1
million qualify to place a lower fixed deposit amount upon approval.

Requirements Upon Approval:

Requirements
Fixed Deposit Account

Below 50 Years Old

50 Years Old and above

RM 300,000
Fixed Deposit

Options:
OR

RM 150,000

Fixed Deposit Withdrawal

(After 1 year)

Current
Monthly
Offshore
Income*
RM 10,000

Show proof of government approved

pension funds of RM 10,000
Applicable only for approved expenses, such as house purchase,
education for children in Malaysia and medical purposes.
Withdrawal up to
Withdrawal up to RM 50,000
RM 150,000
RM 150,000
RM 100,000

Min Fixed Deposit Balance

(Throughout stay in
Malaysia)
Approved participants who have purchased and owned property which were bought at RM1 million
and above in Malaysia may comply with the basid fixed deposit requirement of RM100,000 on
condition that the property has been fully paid and ownership documents such as grant and land title
have alreay been issued. This amount may notbe withdrawn until the participant decides to terminates
his participation in MM2H programme.

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Programme Terms and Conditions

Medical Report
All applicants and their dependents are required to submit a medical report from any private
hospital or registered clinic in Malaysia.
Medical Insurance
Approved participants and their dependents must possess valid medical insurance coverage
that is applicable in Malaysia from any insurance company.
However, exemptions may be given for participants who face difficulty in obtaining a medical
insurance due to their age or medical condition.
Security Bond (Direct Application Only)
Applicants applying directly with MM2H Programme are required to fulfill the security bond
condition. Please refer to Personal Bond (You may find the form in the MM2H website) for rate
per person by nationality, ranging from RM200.00 to RM2,000.00
Personal Bond (Application Though Agent)
Licensed companies are required to provide the personal bond for their clients who have been
approved under the MM2H Program.
For more information on this programme, you may contact:
Malaysia My Second Home
Ministry of Tourism and Culture
Level 1, No.2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6,
Precinct 5, 62200 W.P. Putrajaya,
Malaysia
+603 8891 7424/27/34/39
+603 8891 7415
mm2h@motac.gov.my
www.mm2h.gov.my
Registered Agent:
Ambang Wawasan (MM2H) Sdn Bhd
P-11-1-1(B), Plot 11, Chonglin Park,
Jalan Tabuan,
93200 Kuching, Sarawak
Li Tze Min
+6082 422 550
+6082 422 559

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Travel Agency
Inter-Continental Travel Centre Sdn Bhd
Lot 572-573, Section 10, Jalan Nanas,
93400 Kuching, Sarawak.
Tel : +6082 256 155
Website : www.intercont.com.my

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Expat Directories
Emergency
Police
Ambulance
Civil Defense
Fire & Rescue
From Mobile Phone

Telecommunication
Directory Service
Maxis
Celcom
Digi
Telekom

Airport / Airlines
KLIA
KUCHING INT AIRPORT
MAS Call Centre
Airasia Call Centre

999
+6082 245 522
+6082 230689
991
994
112

103
+603 7492 2123
+603 3630 8888
1-800-68-8000
1050 / +6082
200 100

Healthcare / Hospital
Sarawak General Hospital

+6082 257 555

Normah Specialist Hospital

Timberland Medical Centre
Kuching Specialist Hospital
Borneo Medical Centre

+6082 440 055

+6082 234 466
+6082 365 777
+6082 507 333

0
Other Useful Number
Kuching Taxi

+6082 341 818

Custom Department

+6082 333 133

Trienekens (Rubbish Collection)

Sarawak Energy
Water Board
Post Office
Post Laju
Tourism Board

+6082 273 000

+6082 333 111
+6082 240 371
+6082 244 141
+6082 339 937
+6082 423 600

+603 8776 4383

+6082 454 242
1-300-88-3000
+6082 283 222

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