Brooke Memorial
A historical pillar in Kuching honoring Sir Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah, offering a glimpse into Sarawak's unique colonial past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Brooke Memorial
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historical pillar in Kuching honoring Sir Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah, offering a glimpse into Sarawak's unique colonial past.
"A lowkey historical landmark that deserves more recognition and protection."
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot from Kuching Waterfront and Carpenter Street. :athletic_shoe:
📜 History Recall
A great spot for a quick 'sejarah' (history) recall of the Brooke era. :books:
Highlights
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Charles Brooke Memorial
Jalan Main Bazaar, Kuching
A historical pillar honoring the second White Rajah of Sarawak, Sir Charles Brooke. A key piece of Kuching's colonial past.

Proximity to Waterfront
Adjacent to Kuching Waterfront
Easily accessible from the vibrant Kuching Waterfront, making it a convenient stop on your city exploration.

Historical Calligraphy
Inscriptions on the monument
Admire the Chinese calligraphy by renowned Teo Kai Joo, adding an artistic and cultural layer to the monument.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot from Kuching Waterfront and Carpenter Street. :athletic_shoe:
📜 History Recall
A great spot for a quick 'sejarah' (history) recall of the Brooke era. :books:
📸 Photo Opportunity
Perfect for a quick photo stop, especially during the golden hour. :camerawithflash:
📍 Central Landmark
A low-key historical landmark that deserves recognition and protection. :shield:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Location
Easily accessible on foot from Kuching Waterfront and Carpenter Street. :athletic_shoe:
📜 History Recall
A great spot for a quick 'sejarah' (history) recall of the Brooke era. :books:
📸 Photo Opportunity
Perfect for a quick photo stop, especially during the golden hour. :camerawithflash:
📍 Central Landmark
A low-key historical landmark that deserves recognition and protection. :shield:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Brooke Memorial to be a significant historical landmark in Kuching, offering a glimpse into the Rajah Putih era. Its central location and historical context are appreciated, though some feel it could receive more recognition and protection.
"A historical landmark in the heart of Kuching. It was erected in 1924 to honour Charles Brooke."
Lim Cher Young
"Good to stop by for 'sejarah' recall 😉
This pillar - in front of the old court house, on Jalan Main Bazaar - was erected in the memory of Rajah Putih Sarawak Kedua, Sir Charles Brooke (nephew of Sir James Brooke).
Just walking distance from Kuching Waterfront & Kuching's Carpenter Street."
E. T.
"Lowkey historical landmark that deserve more recognition and protection."
Khairul Ehsani Sapari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brooke Memorial is conveniently located in the heart of Kuching, easily accessible on foot. It's situated on Jalan Main Bazaar, just a short walk from the Kuching Waterfront and Carpenter Street. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll from their accommodation if staying in the city center. :walking:
Yes, Brooke Memorial is a prominent landmark in front of the Old Court House on Jalan Main Bazaar, making it quite easy to locate. Its central position ensures it's a common point of reference for exploring Kuching. :round_pushpin:
While direct public transport to the memorial itself might be limited, Kuching's city center is well-served by local buses and ride-sharing services. You can take a taxi or Grab to the Kuching Waterfront area, and then it's a short walk. :bus: :car:
Exploring the area around Brooke Memorial on foot is highly recommended. This allows you to fully appreciate the historical architecture and easily visit nearby attractions like the Waterfront, Old Court House, and Carpenter Street. :footprints:
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Jalan Main Bazaar can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use designated parking areas near the Kuching Waterfront or consider using ride-sharing services for convenience. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Brooke Memorial is an outdoor historical landmark and is free to visit. You can admire it and its surroundings at any time. :ticket:
As an outdoor monument, Brooke Memorial does not have specific opening hours. It is accessible 24/7, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety. :clockwithface:
There is no entrance fee to view or visit Brooke Memorial. It's a public monument for everyone to appreciate. :moneywithwings:
Yes, you can visit Brooke Memorial at night, and it can offer a different ambiance, especially with the city lights. However, visibility will be limited, and it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. :nightwithstars:
While there might not be specific tours solely for Brooke Memorial, many general Kuching historical walking tours or city tours will include a stop here. It's worth checking with local tour operators. :guide_dog:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main feature is the memorial pillar itself, erected in honor of Sir Charles Brooke. You can also appreciate the historical context of its location in front of the Old Court House and the Chinese calligraphy inscribed on it. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
A visit to Brooke Memorial is typically brief, often just 10-15 minutes, as it's a monument to observe. It's usually combined with exploring the surrounding historical sites. :stopwatch:
Yes, Brooke Memorial offers good opportunities for photography, especially with the historical backdrop of the Old Court House and the waterfront nearby. The inscriptions also add unique details. :camerawithflash:
It commemorates Sir Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak, who ruled from 1868 to 1917. The memorial is a reminder of the Brooke dynasty's influence on Sarawak's history. :scroll:
Restroom facilities are generally available in the vicinity, particularly around the Kuching Waterfront and the Old Court House complex. :toilet:
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon. The soft light during these periods enhances the monument's details and the surrounding historical architecture. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
You can capture close-ups of the inscriptions, wider shots with the Old Court House in the background, or include the bustling street life of Jalan Main Bazaar. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban and historical areas. It's best to check with local authorities or the Sarawak Tourism Board for specific regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
For general shots, aperture priority mode with a mid-range aperture (f/5.6-f/8) works well. For inscriptions, use a macro mode or get close with a prime lens. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare. :camera:
Absolutely! The Chinese calligraphy by Teo Kai Joo is a significant artistic element. Capturing detailed shots of this calligraphy is highly recommended. :writing_hand:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it part of a larger exploration of Kuching's historical center. The short duration of the memorial visit means it won't tire out little ones, and the surrounding areas offer more interactive elements. Pack some snacks and water, as exploring the waterfront can be a pleasant way to spend a family afternoon. :ice_cream:
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Focus on exploring the surrounding free attractions to maximize your experience. The waterfront offers great views and photo opportunities without any cost. Enjoying local street food from stalls near Carpenter Street is also an affordable way to experience Kuching's culinary scene. :street_food:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to showcase the memorial's place within the bustling Jalan Main Bazaar. The Kuching Waterfront nearby also provides excellent opportunities for capturing the city skyline and river life, especially during the golden hour or at night. :cityscape:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Brooke Dynasty's Legacy
Under the Brooke Rajahs, Sarawak saw the establishment of institutions that shaped its modern identity. The Sarawak Rangers, an elite force, was founded during this period to maintain law and order. The Brooke family's rule, though colonial in nature, is often viewed with a degree of complexity, balancing paternalistic governance with a genuine effort to develop the region. The memorial serves as a focal point for recalling this unique chapter in Bornean history.
Visiting Brooke Memorial offers a tangible connection to this past. Its location in the heart of Kuching, near other historical buildings like the Old Court House, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's colonial heritage. The inscriptions, including the Chinese calligraphy by the esteemed Teo Kai Joo, add further layers of cultural and historical appreciation.
Exploring Kuching's Historical Core
Adjacent to the memorial is the Old Court House, a grand colonial-era building that now houses the Sarawak Tourism Information Centre and other offices. Its architecture is a significant draw, and it complements the historical narrative of the Brooke era. A short walk will also lead you to Carpenter Street, known for its traditional shophouses, artisan shops, and eateries, offering a glimpse into Kuching's vibrant local life.
This cluster of historical sites allows for a rich and immersive experience. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring the memorial, the waterfront, the Old Court House, and the charming streets, piecing together the historical tapestry of Kuching. The accessibility and density of these landmarks make it an efficient and rewarding exploration for history buffs and casual tourists alike. :world_map:
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