Matang Wildlife Centre, Sarawak
Matang Wildlife Centre is one of Sarawak’s hidden gems — a sanctuary nestled in lush rainforest where you can encounter orangutans, sun bears, and other native Bornean wildlife in their natural environment. Located just an hour from Kuching, this centre plays a vital role in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation, making it a meaningful stop for eco-travelers and animal lovers alike.
Introduction
Matang Wildlife Centre (MWC) sits on the western edge of Kubah National Park, covering about 180 hectares of pristine rainforest. Managed by Sarawak Forestry Corporation, it serves as a refuge for rescued and endangered animals, including orangutans, hornbills, crocodiles, and clouded leopards.
Matang Wildlife Centre opened in 1997 and is the second rehabilitation centre for orangutan in the state of Sarawak.
Matang Wildlife Centre is a rehabilitation centre in Sarawak that works to rescue and rehabilitate orangutans.
Unlike a zoo, MWC’s primary mission is rehabilitation — teaching rescued animals the survival skills they need before being released back into the wild. Visitors can learn about conservation, enjoy nature walks, and see animals up close in a forest setting.
📍 Getting There
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Kubah National Park, 30–40 km from Kuching City |
| Address | Matang Wildlife Centre, Kampung Rayu, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia |
| Travel Time | Approximately 40 minutes by car |
| Transport | No regular public bus; visitors are advised to hire a taxi, Grab, or self-drive |
| Opening Hours | Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Best Visiting Time | Early morning (animals are more active) |
Tip: Arrange your return transport before you enter, as it’s a quiet area with limited ride availability.
💰 Entry Fees
| Category | Malaysians | Non-Malaysians |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | RM 10 | RM 20 |
| Child (7–18 years) | RM 3 | RM 7 |
| Child (Below 6 years) | Free | Free |
Visitors may be asked to show ID or passport for rate verification.
🐒 Highlights & Attractions
🧡 Orangutan Rehabilitation
Matang is one of only three orangutan rehabilitation centres in Malaysia. Rescued and orphaned orangutans undergo long-term care, learning how to forage, climb, and live independently before reintroduction into protected forests.
Animals live at Matang Wildlife Centre
Matang Wildlife Centre is home to a wide range of Bornean wildlife species, all native to Sarawak’s rainforests. Alongside the iconic orangutans, visitors can encounter sun bears, saltwater crocodiles, long-tailed macaques, civet cats, and many tropical bird species that thrive in the dense canopy.
Nature Trails
Jungle trekking is also possible as there are four jungle trails here, the Pitcher Trail (takes about 2 hours), the Sungai Rayu Trail (about 3 – 4 hours), the Sungai Senduk trail (about 1 hour) and Sungai Buluh trail (about 2 hours)
Several rainforest trails start from the Centre, such as:
- Pitcher Trail (2 hours) – Moderate walk featuring tropical flora, including pitcher plants.
- Sungai Rayu Trail (3–4 hours) – A longer trek leading to scenic rivers and waterfalls.
Wildlife Viewing
See native animals like:
- Sun bears
- Hornbills
- Civets
- Sambar deer
- Crocodiles
- Porcupines
Many of these animals were rescued from illegal pet trades or injury.
Picnic & Rock Pools
After exploring the trails, relax at riverside picnic areas or dip into cool natural rock pools — perfect for a refreshing afternoon break.
Overnight Stays
Eco-lodges, hostels, and camping sites are available near the Centre. Staying overnight lets you experience the rainforest’s sounds after sunset.
Tips for Visitors
- Go early for better wildlife activity.
- Wear sturdy shoes — trails can be muddy, especially after rain.
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and drinking water.
- Respect wildlife: no feeding or loud noises.
- Check weather updates — heavy rain may close some trails or enclosures.
- Plan return transport before your visit.
Visitor Insights
Matang Wildlife Centre offers an authentic conservation experience rather than a commercial zoo visit. Some facilities may appear weathered, but the work being done here is vital. It’s a meaningful stop for those who value wildlife protection and want to support sustainable tourism in Sarawak.
Contact Information
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Matang Wildlife Centre, Kubah National Park, Sarawak, Malaysia |
| Address | Lot 218, KCLD, Jalan Tapang, Kota Sentosa, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia |
| Phone | +60 11-6572 9228 / +60 11-6572 9293 (+60 82-610088) Toll-Free: 1800-88-2526 |
| info@sarawakforestry.com | |
| Managed by | Sarawak Forestry Corporation |
| Official Website | sarawakforestry.com |
Operating Hours
- Monday-Thursday: 8:00am to 1:00pm & 2:00pm to 5:00pm
- Friday: 8:00am to 11:45am & 2:15pm to 5:00pm
- Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday – Counter closed
Getting There
By Bus or Taxi
Matang Wildlife Centre is about 30km from Kuching City and it takes about 40 minutes to reach the Centre. Since there is no regular bus that goes directly to the centre, hiring a taxi is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Matang Wildlife Centre is not just a tourist destination — it’s a window into Sarawak’s conservation efforts. Watching orangutans swing freely through the trees or hearing the calls of hornbills echo through the jungle is an unforgettable reminder of Borneo’s wild heart.
If you’re visiting Kuching, make time to explore this sanctuary and support the ongoing mission to protect Sarawak’s wildlife for generations to come.
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