How to get to Mukah

When planning a trip to Mukah, you are setting off for a colourful coastal town in the state of Sarawak, renowned for the unique culture of the Melanau people and its peaceful atmosphere. This corner of Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo, attracts travellers with its culinary traditions and festivals, while remaining a cosy and authentic destination free from the hustle and bustle of megacities. You can reach the town in various ways: by using the local airport or taking a drive from neighbouring regions, enjoying the scenic tropical views along the way.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is to take a flight to Mukah Airport (MKM). This small aviation hub handles domestic flights and provides a direct link to the town, allowing tourists to save travel time and immediately immerse themselves in the holiday atmosphere.

If direct tickets are unavailable, a good alternative is to fly to neighbouring cities with larger airports, such as Sibu or Bintulu. The distance from these cities to your destination is about a hundred kilometres, but this logistics option often offers more choices regarding departure times and connections.

Currently, it is impossible to reach Mukah directly by train, as there is no railway station in the town. The railway network on the island of Borneo is underdeveloped and does not cover this region, so tourists should rely on other modes of transport.

The nearest major cities, such as Sibu, Sarikei, and Bintulu, also lack rail connections to a national network. For travel in this part of the country, buses or car rentals are the best options.

Although detailed information on specific routes may change, bus services remain a popular way to travel between cities in the state of Sarawak. Tourists most often travel to Mukah via transit through regional transport hubs, enjoying views of the local nature from the window.

The most convenient services usually depart from neighbouring cities such as Sibu or Bintulu. Travel time and ticket prices depend on the class of the bus and the number of stops, so it is recommended to check the schedule at local bus terminals upon arrival in Malaysia.

Travelling by car will give you freedom of movement and the opportunity to see the picturesque landscapes of Borneo. The fastest route runs from the city of Bintulu: a distance of 132 km can be covered in approximately 1 hour 50 minutes. The journey from the city of Sibu will take a little longer — about 2 hours 10 minutes to drive 157 km.

If you are departing from the city of Sarikei, expect a trip lasting about 3 hours (the distance is 228 km). For comfortable travel, you can use taxi services or rent a car, which is particularly convenient for families and small groups.

A trip to Mukah will be more comfortable and interesting if you take a few local features into account beforehand. Here is a list of practical recommendations to help you better plan your journey:

1. Clothing and Climate. A tropical climate prevails here, so choose light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Do not forget a raincoat or umbrella, as sudden downpours are a frequent occurrence.
2. Transport. Public transport within the town may be irregular. For convenience, it is better to use a taxi or ride-hailing apps (such as Grab), or to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. Small shops and markets only accept cash, so ensure you have small change in advance, as ATMs may not be available everywhere.
4. Health. Use mosquito repellent, especially in the evening. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes.
5. Communication. The official language is Malay, but many locals, especially in the tourism sector, understand basic English. Learn a few phrases, such as "Terima kasih" (Thank you) — this is always appreciated.
6. Etiquette. When entering a private home or a place of worship (mosque), you must remove your shoes. Money or objects should only be passed with the right hand.
7. What to Avoid. Do not sunbathe topless or wear overly revealing clothing away from the beaches, as the local population holds conservative views.
8. Local Delicacy. Be sure to try Umai — a traditional Melanau dish made of raw fish marinated with lime and spices.

Observing these simple rules will help you show respect for local traditions and make your holiday in this amazing corner of Malaysia safe and memorable.