Venue and Accommodation

The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching

The Waterfront Hotel, located atop Plaza Merdeka Shopping Centre in the heart of Kuching City, is surrounded by a unique blend of historic heritage buildings and modern architecture. As the venue for the conference, the hotel offers breathtaking views of Padang Merdeka and the Sarawak River, making it more than just a place to stay—it is the ideal starting point for your adventures in Kuching City.

HOTEL RESERVATION

Conference participants wishing to stay at The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching can make a reservation through any of the methods below:

Call The Waterfront Hotel, Kuching directly at +60 82 227 227 and inform the staff that you will be participating the 19th Sakyadhita 2025 Conference from 15 to 23 June 2025

Fill in the BOOKING FORM and email it to reservation@thewaterfrontkuching.com. Please state the check-in date, check-out date and number of nights you plan to stay in the ‘Remarks’ section of the form.

*Please note that rooms will be subject to availability when the booking is made.

Discover comfortable and convenient accommodations in Sarawak.

We’ve curated a selection of nearby hotels offering a range of amenities and price points to suit your preferences. Explore these options and book your stay in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Recommended Hotels:

Hotels within 15 minutes walking distance of The Waterfront Hotel (Conference Venue):
– The Waterfront Hotel: https://thewaterfrontkuching.com/ (Conference Venue)
– The Ranee Boutique Suites: https://www.theranee.com/ (3 mins)
– The Marian Boutique Lodging House: https://themarian.com.my/ (6 mins)
– Harbour View Hotel: https://harbourview.com.my/ (9 mins)
– Imperial Riverbank Hotel Kuching: https://imperial.com.my/imperial-riverbank-suites-kuching (11 mins)
– The Dormani Hotel https://dormanihotel.com/ (11 mins)
– Hilton Kuching: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/kuchitw-hilton-kuching/ (12 mins)
– The Borneo Hotel: https://www.theborneohotel.com/ (12 mins)
– Riverside Majestic Hotel: https://www.riversidemajestic.com/ (12 mins)
– Tune Hotel – Waterfront Kuching: https://www.tunehotels.com/malaysia-hotels/waterfront-kuching-sarawak/ (13 mins)
– Bukit Mata Hotel: https://www.bukitmatahotel.com/ (14 mins)
– Grand Margherita Hotel: https://www.grandmargherita.com/ (15 mins)
– Pullman Kuching: https://www.pullmankuching.com/ (15 mins)
– Sheraton Kuching Hotel: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/kchsi-sheraton-kuching-hotel/overview/ (15 mins)
– Abell Hotel: https://www.abellhotel.com/ (15mins)

Hotels beyond walking distance:
– Theatre Hotel Kuching https://www.theatrehotelkuching.com/
– Meritin Hotel: https://meritinhotel.com/
– Padungan Hotel: http://www.padunganhotel.com/
– Hotel LongHouse: http://hotellonghouse.com/
– The LimeTree Hotel: https://www.limetreehotel.com.my/
– Roxy Hotel Padungan: https://roxyhotel.my/padungan/
– Grand Continental Hotel: https://www.grandconkuching.com/
– Kuching Park Hotel: https://www.kuchingparkhotel.com.my/
– Kingwood Hotel: https://www.kingwoodkuching.com/
– Hock Lee Hotel & Residences: https://www.hockleehotel.com/
– USCI Hotel Kuching: https://www.ucsihotelkuching.com/
– Imperial Boulevard Hotel: https://www.imperialhotelkuching.com.my/index1.html
– Raia Hotel & Convention Centre Kuching: https://www.raiahotels.com.my/

Additional Tips:
To secure the best rates and availability, we recommend that you book your accommodation well in advance, since the conference dates are peak season.

Most hotels in Kuching can be conveniently booked through major travel platforms such as Agoda.com, Trip.com, Booking.com, and others, making it easy to secure your preferred stay.

Weather overview in June

June in Kuching typically falls within the dry season, but occasional rain showers can still occur, as the weather in Sarawak remains tropical and humid year-round. Daytime temperatures usually range between 26°C to 33°C (79°F to 91°F), with high humidity levels, making it warm and often sunny.

Indoor Temperature Advisory:
The conference venue, The Waterfront Hotel, typically maintains an indoor temperature of around 20°C (68°F) for the comfort of all attendees.

Tips for Staying Comfortable Indoors:
To stay warm in the air-conditioned environment, participants are advised to bring a light sweater, cardigan, or shawl. Wearing layers is also recommended for adjusting comfort as needed, and those sensitive to cooler temperatures may find a scarf or light jacket helpful.

Staying prepared ensures you can focus fully on the conference sessions without discomfort!

Transportation in town

Public transportation in Kuching, such as the ART (Automated Rapid Transit), is still under development, and the frequency of public buses remains limited. While bus fares are relatively inexpensive, the routes primarily connect to major tourist destinations. Timetables for buses can be obtained at the tourist information center near the waterfront. A visit to Kuching can easily be enjoyed on foot or by using the local bus services within the Central Business District (CBD).

Another convenient option for getting around the city is e-hailing. Services like Grab, Maxim, and AirAsia Ride are readily available within the town area. However, please be aware that these services may be harder to secure late at night or for trips from the outskirts of the town to your hotel. E-hailing services are reasonably priced and provide a flexible transportation choice. Traditional taxi services are also generally available at key locations, such as the airport, major hotels, and shopping malls.

Getting to Kuching: Airline Options for Your Journey

Participants traveling to the 19th Sakyadhita Conference in Kuching have several airline options to fly to Kuching International Airport (KCH), one of Malaysia’s key gateways to Sarawak. These airlines offer a range of routes and services, making it convenient for both domestic and international travelers to reach Kuching.

AirAsia: A leading low-cost carrier providing extensive connectivity from major cities across Malaysia and several international destinations.
Malaysia Airlines: The national carrier offering full-service flights from Kuala Lumpur and key international hubs.
Royal Brunei Airlines: Connecting Brunei and Kuching, ideal for participants from or transiting through Borneo and Southeast Asia.
Scoot Airlines: A budget-friendly carrier operating from Singapore, providing a direct and affordable route to Kuching.
Batik Air (formly known as Malindo Air): These airlines serve various domestic and regional routes, ensuring accessible travel options from neighboring countries and cities.
Firefly: A regional airline providing connections primarily from Peninsular Malaysia, including direct flights to Kuching.

With a variety of airlines serving Kuching International Airport, participants can choose options that best suit the travel preferences and schedules.

VISA Information

Most nationalities do not need a visa for short visits to Malaysia, with passports typically stamped for three months. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

For countries requiring a visa, applications can be made at the nearest Malaysian embassy or online via the eVisa system. Required documents include a visa form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, and a letter of introduction or invitation.

If you require a Letter of Invitation from the local host (Kuching Buddhist Society), please do not hesitate to request one by emailing us at kgbskch@gmail.com. Kindly include your full personal particulars and confirmation of registration to facilitate the preparation of the letter.

Visit Malaysian Immigration official website for details and updates.

Airport Transfer Service (Shuttle Service)

We will provide complimentary airport transfer services to the hotel or Kuching Buddhist Society (temple accommodation) tentatively on 15 June (Sunday). The detailed schedule will be announced at a later date. Please stay tuned for further updates.

For transport outside of this period, you may use e-hailing services such as Grab, Maxim, or AirAsia Ride. The fare from the airport to the hotel is typically no more than MYR 30, though this may vary depending on peak or off-peak hours.

Traditional taxi services are also readily available at the airport. Passengers can purchase tickets at the airport taxi service counter before proceeding to the designated taxi waiting area at Exit 1 (Gate 1).

Electrical Appliances Advisory for International Participants

Please be informed that the standard electrical voltage in Malaysia is 240V, 50Hz, and the wall plug socket type is Type G, as shown in the image below.

We strongly advise all international participants to bring along suitable travel adapters and ensure that your electrical devices are compatible with the 240V supply to avoid any damage or malfunction.

If in doubt, kindly consult your device manufacturer or a local electronics retailer prior to your travel.

Conference Venue Convenience – Everything You Need, Right Below

The 19th Sakyadhita Conference will be held at The Waterfront Hotel, which is strategically located on top of Plaza Merdeka Shopping Centre — right in the heart of Kuching.

Plaza Merdeka Shopping Centre offers a wide range of amenities including supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, cafes, fashion and accessory outlets, electronic and telecommunication shops, ATM and convenience services — all just an elevator ride away. With over 350,000 sq. ft. of retail space, it is one of the most well-equipped malls in the city, providing easy access to all your daily needs throughout the conference.

This central location ensures that participants enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free stay, with essential items and services readily available right beneath the conference venue.

For more information, visit: http://plazamerdeka.com

Health and Safety Advisory

As Malaysia is a tropical country with a high volume of international visitors, there may be occasional risks of exposure to seasonal illnesses such as influenza. To help ensure a safe and healthy experience for all, we kindly recommend the following:

Get an influenza vaccination at least one month before travelling, especially if you are prone to respiratory illnesses.
If you feel unwell during the conference, particularly if experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, or sore throat, please wear a face mask as a courtesy to fellow participants.
Consider purchasing comprehensive international travel insurance, which may cover unexpected medical treatment or travel disruptions.

Thank you for taking these precautions seriously and helping us create a comfortable and safe environment for everyone.

Data Roaming

International Participants can easily purchase prepaid SIM cards upon arrival. Major Malaysian mobile operators such as CelcomDigi, Maxis (Hotlink), U Mobile, and Yes offer a variety of short-term prepaid plans that include data, local calls, and international calling options.

SIM cards are available for purchase at shopping malls and convenience stores, including outlets like 7-Eleven, and Telco retail shops are also found in most shopping areas and city centres.

To purchase a SIM card, you will need to present your passport for identity verification, as required by law. The retailer will assist with registering the SIM card on the spot, which is a mandatory process before use.

Malaysia offers reliable 4G coverage in most urban areas, including Kuching, and 5G services are available with selected providers.

Prepaid SIM starter packs typically range in price from RM10 to RM50, depending on the data package and validity period.

If you have a dual-SIM phone or eSIM capability, you can keep your home SIM active while using a Malaysian line for data and local services.

For those who do not subscribe to data roaming on their home SIM, it is recommended to purchase an eSIM or a prepaid SIM card at Merdeka Plaza Shopping Mall, which is conveniently located underneath the venue.

19th SAKYADHITA CONFERENCE

Navigating Change: Buddhist Women In Transition
15th -23rd June 2025 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.