Lawas Jetty Sarawak
Introduction
Lawas Jetty, located in the northernmost part of Sarawak near the borders of Sabah and Brunei, is a vital transportation hub connecting travelers across Borneo. Serving as a convenient link between Lawas Town, Labuan, Brunei, and Limbang, the jetty is popular among both locals and tourists for its ferry services, scenic waterfront views, and proximity to key attractions in Lawas.
This travel guide covers everything you need to know about Lawas Jetty — from ferry schedules and ticket prices to nearby attractions and facilities.
Location Details
Address: Jalan Jelawat, Lawas Town, 98850 Lawas, Sarawak, Malaysia
Coordinates: 4.8543° N, 115.4086° E
Google Map: View on Google Maps
Situated along the Lawas River, the jetty is within walking distance from Lawas Town Centre and just 10 minutes from Lawas Airport (LWY).
How to Get to Lawas Jetty
From Major Airports
| Departure Point | Transport Option | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lawas Airport (LWY) | Taxi / Grab | 10 minutes |
| Miri International Airport (MYY) | Domestic flight to Lawas / 4-hour drive | 1 hr flight / 4 hrs drive |
| Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) | Bus / Car via Sipitang | 3.5–4 hours |
| Labuan Airport (LBU) | Ferry to Lawas Jetty | 2.5 hours |
Transport Options and Access Routes
Lawas Jetty serves as an inter-state and cross-border maritime gateway. Travelers can connect to Labuan, Limbang, and Brunei via regular ferry services and also reach the jetty easily by road or air.
Domestic Access
- By Road: Daily express buses operate from Miri, Kota Kinabalu, and Sipitang to Lawas.
- By Air: MASwings operates short-haul flights from Miri, Kota Kinabalu, and Limbang to Lawas Airport.
- By Ferry: Services connect Lawas with Labuan and occasionally Menumbok (Sabah).
International Access
Travelers from Brunei can reach Lawas by crossing at Merapok Checkpoint, about 30 minutes by car from the jetty.
Ferry Routes and Schedule
| Route | Operator | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawas – Labuan | Labuan Express Ferry | 2.5 hours | Daily (Morning & Afternoon) |
| Lawas – Limbang | Local Ferry Service | 1.5 hours | Daily |
| Lawas – Menumbok (Sabah) | Menumbok Ferry | 2 hours | Limited (Twice weekly) |
Operating Hours:
- Jetty Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Ticket Counters: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ticket Prices (Approximate)
| Route | One-Way Fare (Adult) | One-Way Fare (Child) |
|---|---|---|
| Lawas – Labuan | RM30 – RM40 | RM20 – RM25 |
| Lawas – Limbang | RM20 – RM30 | RM15 – RM20 |
| Lawas – Menumbok | RM35 – RM45 | RM25 – RM30 |
Note: Prices may vary based on season and ferry operator.
Facilities at Lawas Jetty
Lawas Jetty offers basic yet convenient amenities for travelers:
- Waiting area with seating
- Ticketing counters
- Public restrooms
- Nearby food stalls and cafes
- Prayer room (Surau)
- ATMs and mini markets located in Lawas Town (5–10 minutes walk)
- Taxi stand and Grab pickup point near the entrance
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance from Jetty | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lawas Town Centre | 500 m | Small town with shops, cafes, and local eateries. |
| Merarap Hot Springs Lodge | 35 km | Natural hot spring resort surrounded by rainforest. |
| Lawas Museum | 1 km | A cultural museum showcasing Lawas’ heritage and artifacts. |
| Tamu Lawas (Local Market) | 800 m | A vibrant weekend market for fresh produce and handicrafts. |
| Trusan River Estuary | 12 km | A scenic spot ideal for photography and fishing. |
Tips for International Travelers
- Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
- Nearest Immigration Checkpoint: Merapok (Malaysia-Brunei border)
- Visa Requirements: Ensure valid passport and entry visa (if applicable).
- Customs & Duty-Free: Labuan-bound ferries allow limited duty-free goods.
- Language: Malay and English are widely spoken.
Getting Around Lawas
Lawas is compact and easy to explore:
- Grab: Widely available for short-distance travel.
- Taxis: Can be hired at the jetty or town centre.
- Car Rentals: Available near Lawas Airport for regional travel.
- Buses: Local buses connect Lawas to Sipitang, Limbang, and Miri.
Travel Tips
- 🕒 Arrive Early: Be at the jetty at least 30 minutes before departure.
- 🧳 Pack Light: Luggage space on ferries is limited.
- ☔ Check Weather: Ferry schedules can be delayed during monsoon seasons (Nov–Feb).
- 💳 Cash Ready: Some ticket counters and food stalls accept only cash.
- 📱 Stay Connected: Purchase a local SIM card for better connectivity.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lawas Town, Sarawak |
| Coordinates | 4.8543° N, 115.4086° E |
| Ferry Routes | Labuan, Limbang, Menumbok |
| Ticket Prices | RM20 – RM45 |
| Operating Hours | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Facilities | Restrooms, surau, food stalls, ATMs nearby |
| Nearby Attractions | Lawas Museum, Tamu Lawas, Merarap Hot Springs |
Final Thoughts
Lawas Jetty may be small in scale, but it plays a big role in connecting travelers across the northern region of Borneo. With easy access to Labuan, Brunei, and Sabah, it’s a convenient stop for adventurers exploring East Malaysia’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re passing through or starting your journey here, Lawas Jetty offers a glimpse into Sarawak’s warm hospitality and tranquil riverside charm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the nearest airport to Lawas Jetty?
The nearest airport is Lawas Airport (LWY), just 10 minutes away.
2. Are there daily ferries to Labuan from Lawas Jetty?
Yes, ferries to Labuan operate daily, typically in the morning and afternoon.
3. Is there parking available near the jetty?
Yes, limited parking spaces are available near the jetty area.
4. Can I buy ferry tickets online?
Some operators allow online bookings; otherwise, tickets can be purchased at the counter.
5. Are there hotels near Lawas Jetty?
Yes, several accommodations are nearby, such as Hotel Seri Malaysia Lawas and Merritz Hotel Lawas.
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