A Reflection of the Heart of Sarawak
Basking under the glorious power of sunlight,
Its presence alone brings us the utmost delight.
As the saddle-brown wooden bridges welcomed our arrival,
Everyone could sense a deep feeling that no other could rival.
Resting deep inside the impenetrable jungle that once covered the entirety of our homeland, a humble yet entrancing homestay lies still. The tranquillity that dwells in this place is unfathomable—far beyond all that we can imagine… and if we close our eyes and feel the breeze brush past our skin, it is almost as if we could not only hear the voice of nature calling out to us, but truly understand and grasp its significance.
Strolling past the river that encircles our homestay, the thick foliage and bushes sway gracefully in warm hospitality. The choir of crickets, along with the rustling leaves and whispering rivers, played a quiet melody as we walked into the wooden house. The homestay itself was adorned with intricate beadwork native to the land, as Iban pua kumbu blankets hung from the wall, and the whole room overflowed with the fragrant smell of ayam pansuh—all a reflection of the uniqueness found only in Sarawak.
Waking up in this paradise was a blessing, as we were greeted with the warm touch of sunlight descending on our cheeks. The birds chirped their little songs and the trees joined them in unison—seemingly forecasting a beautiful day of adventure for us. After breakfast, we set off on our journey as the tour guide led us on a hike around the area. With every step we took, our hearts sank deeper and deeper in awe of the landscape around us. Insects buzzed, toads croaked, rivers gushed—when all of a sudden, there was a sharp shriek…
Accompanying that shriek was a terrifying hiss. Everyone froze in silence—all except the tour guide, who burst into laughter. The tour guide reassured us that the snake (nicknamed the ‘Sarawak Water Snake’) was harmless and prompted us to move along without agitating it. Upon reaching the tip of the hill, we arrived just in time to witness the sun retreating back into its nest behind the faraway mountains. The breathtaking retirement of the sun was escorted by the soft change in gradients of the sky, along with the gentle breeze caressing our faces. The day ended with a jolly stroll back to our homestay, filled with laughter, joy, and chatter.
Needless to say, Saloma’s Homestay is the exact reflection of the heart of Sarawak; and if we look a little more carefully, a new adventure could be just around the corner, waiting to find us each time. —DayakDaily
Sharlene Melissa Lau Ya Wen from Sibu is the Top 10 (Adult Category) in the ‘Homestay Odyssey’ writing competition organised by DayakDaily and supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
