Hikers gathering at the base of a waterfall in Padawan.
SARAWAK is the land of waterfalls, thanks to its dense rainforests and mountainous landscape.
While there are numerous waterfalls in the state that are already popular tourist destinations, there are also hidden treasures deep in the jungle.
Among the well-known waterfalls are those in Kubah National Park, which features attractions like Rayu Waterfall.
Other notable sites include Lambir Hills National Park, known for its Latak Waterfall and smaller cascades, and Gunung Gading National Park, where waterfalls are a highlight near the viewing areas for the Rafflesia flower.
Bako National Park offers smaller waterfalls accessible via jungle trails, while Bengoh Dam is renowned for the Kipungit and Susung falls near the Bengoh Range.
The hidden gem – Sawang Waterfall in Serian – also attracts adventurous visitors.
One passionate Kuching-hailed hiker, Razie Amri, has been leading hikers to explore these natural wonders since 1997.
Hikers exploring Telanggak Garun Waterfall in Belaga.
For him, each waterfall offers a chance to reconnect with nature. The sights and sounds provide a soothing, therapeutic experience.
“The sparkling water cascading down, the way it reflects light and the cool, fresh air surrounding the falls – these create a picturesque view that captivates anyone,” Razie shared.
He recommended Susung Waterfall as a must-visit sight, describing it as “simply breathtaking, reminiscent of scenes from Jurassic Park”.
In areas such as Simunjan, Sri Aman and Lubok Antu, Razie noted that many waterfalls carry the Foochow surname Wong.
“In Simunjan, for example, there’s Wong Panco Waterfall. I was told the Chinese who worked in logging camps in these regions named most of the waterfalls,” he said.
Recalling a challenging trip to a waterfall in Belaga, Razie said it took five days to get there due to the remote location and dense forest.
The hike, he said, was most suitable for fitness buffs.
“We started with a longboat journey along a small river.
“Once we reached the forest, we had to trek through tough terrain.
“Most of us had sore legs afterwards. We had to camp in the jungle during the trip.”
Hikers enjoying a refreshing dip at Silungkung Waterfall.
As an avid hiker, Razie regularly invites enthusiasts to join him by sharing trip announcements on social media.
“Our trips are open to all Sarawakians.
“We organise hikes to places like Kuching, Bintulu, Miri and even remote areas like Belaga.
“For places like Belaga, participants often need to stay overnight in the jungle,” he said.
A typical group has about 10 people but sometimes it grows to 15 or 20 participants.
Razie once led a group of 30 to a waterfall in Bako.
“Most of the time, I guide the group. Occasionally, local villagers volunteer as guides as they know the terrain better,” Razie said.
Having explored a number of waterfalls over the years, he intends to cover more.
“There are between 10 to 20 waterfalls in Bau, 25 in Padawan, 20 in Bako and many more in other places. We want to visit as many as possible,” Razie said.
His upcoming trip will be to the hinterland of Bario in the Kelabit highlands from Dec 28 to 30 to experience the cool weather and local culture.
