Singkawang, in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, is a unique city with a rich culture and history. Known as “Kota Seribu Kelenteng” (the City of a Thousand Temples), Singkawang is famous for its many Chinese-style places of worship, reflecting the presence of Chinese immigrants who settled here since the early 18th century.
IT has been more than two years since I intended to visit Singkawang. Finally, the dream of visiting the city in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, came true on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
We left the Suara Sarawak office in Matang at 7 am and arrived in Singkawang around 4 pm. Despite this, the entire journey actually took only about four hours, including immigration and the border crossing procedures at the Biawak-Aruk checkpoint between the two countries.
The drive from Kuching to Lundu via the Pan Borneo Highway was relaxing and comfortable, and we enjoyed the beautiful scenery. It was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the weekend.
We made a few stops in towns like Sambas and Pemangkat to enjoy Jus Jeruk (iced orange juice) and coffee.
Singkawang is a unique city with a rich culture and history. Known as the “City of a Thousand Temples”, Singkawang is famous for its many Chinese-style places of worship, reflecting the presence of Chinese immigrants who settled here since the early 18th century.
According to history, the Chinese were brought in large numbers by the Malay rulers, particularly the Sultan of Sambas and the leader of Mempawah, in the 1960s and 1970s. The purpose was to utilise their expertise and for them to work in the gold mines in the area.
Since the early 19th century, Singkawang had been known for its row of shops along the streets. We even had the chance to see the old Chinese settlement that looked like single-story terrace houses, which have now been converted into a museum.
Tua Pek Kong, also known here as a temple (kelenteng), is one of the main tourist destinations and a symbol of religious and cultural harmony between the various ethnic groups living here, including Malays, Dayaks, and the Chinese (Tionghoa).
The Chinese villages are prominent along the rivers surrounding Singkawang. Singkawang was once known as San Kew Jong, which means “the city at the foot of the mountain near the river mouth and sea.” Although the mountains face the sea, resembling the Santubong area, the city used to be more like Sibu in its earlier days.
Singkawang is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Pasir Panjang Beach is a popular tourist spot, with its mesmerising white sand and clear waters, ideal for activities such as swimming and picnicking.
Gunung Poteng, located not far from the city centre, is another attraction for nature lovers and hikers who want to enjoy the panoramic views of Singkawang from a bird’s-eye view.
There are also captivating waterfalls in the surrounding areas, adding to the natural beauty of Singkawang.
Singkawang’s culinary culture is also famous for its traditional dishes, which combine Chinese, Malay, and Dayak influences.
Dishes like choipan, bakso ikan, and laksa are popular choices for visitors wanting to taste the local cuisine.
The food in Singkawang is rich in flavour and variety, reflecting the influence of the city’s different cultures. We had the chance to enjoy Padang food at the Hong Kong Market after checking into our hotel.
Initially, I thought the night market would be similar to those in our country. However, rows of stalls selling various types of food lined the streets.
The sight was interesting, as we watched how locals and foreign tourists enjoyed the night atmosphere while riding the odong-odong (a type of amusement ride). Singkawang truly comes alive at night, much more so than Kuching, even though it only has one modern shopping mall as big as our own The Spring Mall.
I learned that Singkawang is famous for the Chap Go Meh festival, the Chinese New Year celebration that is filled with dragon dances and the Tatung ritual. Tatung involves participants performing extraordinary feats like walking on fire or piercing their bodies without injury. I was told that hotels are often fully booked around this time as many people want to experience this unique event.
This tradition has become a major tourist attraction, reflecting the deep spiritual beliefs of the Chinese community in Singkawang. The Chap Go Meh celebration in Singkawang not only showcases Chinese culture but also highlights other cultural elements that bring a colourful and harmonious atmosphere to the city.
Singkawang, a city that offers not only natural beauty and cultural richness but also demonstrates how a diverse community can live together in harmony, is truly a unique destination.
Every corner of the city, from the colourful temples to the stunning beaches and mountains, reflects its charm as a one-of-a-kind tourist destination in West Kalimantan. So, why not visit Singkawang next weekend? In just around two hours, you’ll be in another country.
