Dear MSC14 participants,

Welcome to the 14th International Malaysian Studies Conference (MSC14). We are honoured to have your presence at this important gathering of scholars, practitioners, and changemakers. Below are some important administrative details to help make your participation smooth, enjoyable, and enriching.

1. Conference Venue

MSC14 will take place at The Waterfront Hotel, located in the heart of Kuching, Sarawak. The venue offers excellent facilities with a panoramic view of the Sarawak River and is located within walking distance to historical and cultural landmarks, eateries, and the Kuching Waterfront. The hotel is located 10km from the Kuching International Airport (KCH). If you are flying to Kuching, you can take a taxi or “grab” from the airport to the hotel. It is also recommended that you purchase Travel insurance.

2. Recommended Accommodation

For your convenience, we recommend the following hotels near the venue:

  • The Waterfront Hotel (0 minutes walk): The conference venue itself, offering direct access to all sessions and events.
  • Hilton Kuching (5–7 minutes walk): A riverside 5-star hotel with modern amenities and beautiful river views.
  • Merdeka Palace Hotel (7–10 minutes walk): A colonial-style hotel located beside the Sarawak Museum complex.
  • The Marian Boutique Lodging House (3–5 minutes walk): A charming heritage hotel on a hill with historical architecture and city views.

Please note that no official transport will be provided between these hotels and the conference venue.

3. Meals and Dietary Preferences

Meals and refreshments will be served throughout the conference. We strive to cater to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian options. Kindly inform the secretariat in advance by July 31, 2025 of any specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

Do bring reusable water bottle to the Conference.

4. Site Events and Optional Activities

We warmly invite you to attend our welcome remarks and farewell receptions, as well as to enjoy the special multimedia presentation during the closing ceremony.

Side Events will take place on Thursday, August 14, 2025. These are Optional activities for participants (registration and entrance fees apply):

  1. Visit to Orchid Conservation & Tea-Making SDG Learning Centre in Kota Samarahan – experience community-based sustainability practices hosted by APPGM-SDG Sarawak. A bus will be provided from UNIMAS.
  2. Guided walk to the Borneo Cultures Museum – led by UNIMAS staff (entrance ticket required).
  3. Visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre – home to semi-wild orangutans (entrance fee applicable).
  4. Trip to Sarawak Cultural Village – experience traditional houses and cultural performances (entrance fee required)

Details on registration for these optional events will be provided at the conference registration desk.

5. Weather and Attire

Kuching has a tropical climate—expect warm, humid weather with occasional rain. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with an umbrella, hat or raincoat for outdoor movement. Do bring a shawl of jacket to use in the Conference venue if necessary.

6. Currency

The Malaysian currency is Ringgit Malaysia (MYR). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and major hotels. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas.

7. Health and Medical Support

Your wellbeing is important to us. A qualified medical doctor will be stationed at the conference secretariat to provide basic medical assistance. There are pharmacies, clinics and hospital nearby. However, participants are advised to bring any personal medications they may require. It is also recommended that you have Health insurance coverage.

8. Key Contacts

Should you have questions or need assistance, feel free to approach our hospitality team:

We are here to support you throughout your conference journey.

We look forward to welcoming you to Kuching and to MSC14. Should you need further assistance before your arrival, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our secretariat at msc@pssm.org.my. Thank you for being part of this significant event.

Warm regards,

MSC14 Secretariat
Persatuan Sains Sosial Malaysia (PSSM)