Sibu, River port city in Sarawak, Malaysia
Sibu lies at the meeting point of the Rajang and Igan rivers in Sarawak and stretches along both banks for several kilometers. Streets run parallel to the water and lead to docks where boats arrive and depart throughout the day.
A fort was built here in 1862 under the administration of James Brooke and attracted Chinese traders who opened shops nearby. The timber trade shaped the growth of the town from the early 20th century and led to the construction of many warehouses along the river.
The large clock on the city hall tower has stood at the center for decades and serves as a meeting point for residents who gather beneath its face. Along the riverbanks, fishermen meet in the early morning while coffee roasters and noodle cooks set up their stalls in the streets behind.
The airport connects the city to other parts of Malaysia and lies around half an hour's drive from the center. Boats run regularly to smaller towns upriver and are often the only link to remote areas.
Several floating docks move with the water level of the river and remain accessible even during high water. Loggers still bring their timber downriver in long rafts that can take days to arrive.
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