Bintulu City Guide

Local food includes Sarawak Laksa, Kolo Mee, and seafood. Some Chinese, Malay, and Western options are available. Late-night hawker centers and mamak stalls operate. Vegan and vegetarian options are limited.

Nightlife is low-key with some bars, pubs, and karaoke places near commercial areas.

A small but growing coffee scene with local cafes and some chains.

Tipping is not required. Service charges and taxes are usually included in bills. Small tips for great service are appreciated but rare for taxis.

SIM cards are available at the airport and mobile shops. Maxis and Celcom have the best coverage. ID registration is required.

Clean in main areas with regular waste pickup.

Some 24/7 convenience stores and petrol stations. Late-night food options limited to hawker stalls and some mamak outlets. Few 24-hour pharmacies or clinics.

Large supermarkets stock international goods. Local fresh markets offer produce. Stores usually open 9 AM to 10 PM, including Sundays.

Card payments work well in big supermarkets and malls. Small local shops and markets often prefer cash. Mobile payment apps like Touch 'n Go eWallet are growing in use.

ATMs are common at banks, shopping malls, and gas stations. Maybank, CIMB, and Public Bank are the main providers. Fees for international cards vary by bank.

Local schools teach in Malay and English. No clear info on international schools.

No established nomad community or events.

Parks like Tanjung Batu and Esplanade offer shaded walks and green space.

Esplanade and Tanjung Batu Beach offer safe, scenic running routes.

Gyms and public sports complexes are available for workouts.

Tennis courts are at some sports complexes and private clubs.

Padel is not common in Bintulu.

Some gyms may offer yoga classes but limited dedicated centers.

Some dojos for Taekwondo and Karate exist, mainly for locals.

No skiing due to tropical climate.

Basic water activities at Tanjung Batu Beach, but no dedicated water sports centers.

Bintulu is not a surfing destination.

Limited diving and snorkeling options locally; better spots are further north.

Bintulu Hospital is the main public facility; private clinics exist. English-speaking staff are more common in private clinics. Pharmacies are easy to find.

Tap water is treated but many locals and visitors prefer bottled or boiled water.

Parks like Tanjung Batu Beach Park offer playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes exist but are few. Similajau National Park nearby provides nature activities.

Public acceptance and safety for LGBTQ+ people are low due to conservative local laws.

Pet-friendly accommodations and services exist but are limited. Strict import rules apply.