Where Sand Meets Story
School holidays are a time that students cherish the most. Many people step back from their endless workloads and studies to spend time with loved ones—and I am no exception. We made our way to Telok Melano Beach, famously known as the “Lower Tip of Borneo,” where the land meets an endless stretch of sea in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry.
Upon arrival, we settled into a serene beach homestay, where golden sands met the gentle waves of the South China Sea. The greenish-blue water shimmered under the luminous sky, reflecting light like a river of diamonds. We stayed at Hana’s Homestay, located directly on the beach, offering a stunning view of both the sunset and sunrise.
During our stay, we filled our days with kayaking, riding ATVs along the shore, and savouring warm bowls of bakso lovingly prepared by locals at a cosy seaside eatery. They told us that if we were lucky, we might witness a green turtle laying eggs—a rare sight, as these creatures usually choose beaches far from human activity. Through conversations with the locals, we learned about their rich, blended culture—a fusion of traditions shaped by mixed marriages and deeply rooted superstitions.
One evening, while collecting firewood for our barbecue, I noticed my sandals were missing. I looked around in confusion. Who would steal old sandals? That was when I spotted two dogs casually strolling along the beach, each carrying a sandal in its mouth. I followed them, half amused, half annoyed, until they stopped by a small coastal stream and dropped their loot. To my surprise, there was an entire stash—flip-flops, bottles, toys. My sandals were far from their only target. These dogs had been running a full-scale sandal-stealing operation!
As night fell, we enjoyed our barbecue dinner by the shore, serenaded by the gentle hush of waves and bathed in silver moonlight. Above us, stars glittered like jewels, turning the sky into a masterpiece. We took a quiet stroll along the beach, lighting our path with a torch. Out on the horizon, the distant lights of fishing boats danced, completing the breathtaking view.
Morning came with golden sunlight spilling across the beach, the air crisp and full of promise. Another day of adventure awaited—but more than that, a quiet understanding settled in my heart.
Sarawak is more than a destination. It is a living trove of cultures, flavours, and timeless stories. Its majestic rainforests, the wisdom of traditional fishermen, and landscapes dotted with natural gems, not of emerald or ruby, but of unity, heritage, and untouched beauty, are treasures no amount of money can buy. And they must be protected, for us and for those who will one day walk these same shores. —DayakDaily
Dania Nur Alesha Dilah from Kuching is the Top 10 Winner (Youth Category) in the ‘Homestay Odyssey’ writing competition organised by DayakDaily and supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
