Sambas

An ancient port town in the northern region with historical sultanate heritage and traditional wooden architecture along the riverbanks. It offers insight into Kalimantan's maritime trading past and local Malay culture.

Things to do

• Sambas Sultanate Palace — Explore the historic royal residence that reflects the sultanate's maritime trading heritage and houses artifacts from Sambas's golden age as a port kingdom.
• Kapuas River Boat Tour — Navigate the Kapuas River by traditional wooden boat to see colonial-era warehouses, riverside Malay villages, and mangrove forests that showcase the town's connection to maritime trade.
• Sambas Grand Mosque — Visit this striking white mosque overlooking the river, an important spiritual center that reflects the Islamic heritage of the Malay community and offers panoramic views of the waterfront.
• Old Chinese Temple Complex — Discover the centuries-old temples in the town center that document the Chinese merchant community's role in Sambas's trading history and feature traditional ornate architecture.
• Wooden Architecture Walking Tour — Stroll through the old town to observe traditional wooden houses, shops, and administrative buildings built in classic Kalimantan riverside style with intricate carved details.
• Local Fish Markets at Dawn — Visit the early morning waterfront markets where fishermen sell fresh catches and observe daily Malay trading customs that have persisted for centuries.

Food to try

• Sambal Belacan with Fresh Fish — A pungent shrimp paste condiment served with grilled river fish, a staple pairing that reflects Sambas's fishing heritage and Malay coastal cuisine.
• Bubur Manado or Sambas Rice Porridge — A savory breakfast rice porridge topped with salted fish, anchovies, and hard-boiled eggs, popular among locals as a morning meal before work.
• Dried Fish and Seafood Snacks — Shop for ikan asin (salted dried fish) and other preserved seafood products from the market, traditional items that merchants have exported from Sambas for generations.
• Soto Banjar — A rich turmeric-based soup with beef or fish, aromatic herbs, and potatoes that represents South Kalimantan influence on Sambas's multicultural food traditions.
• Tahu Goreng and Perkedel Street Food — Crispy fried tofu and potato patties sold by riverside vendors, affordable local snacks eaten alongside sambal and fresh lime throughout the day.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully Near Mosques and Palaces — Wear long pants or skirts and cover your shoulders when visiting religious or royal sites, as Sambas is a traditional Malay Muslim community.
• Timing Around Prayer Times — Plan your visits in the morning or late afternoon, as midday activities may close temporarily during Friday prayers and the noon prayer call.
• Respect for Sultanate Heritage — Ask permission and follow local guidance when photographing royal sites or speaking about the local monarchy, as the sultanate remains a cherished institution in Sambas culture.
• Greet with Courtesy Phrases — Learn basic Malay greetings like 'Assalamualaikum' and 'Selamat pagi' (good morning), which will earn respect from locals in this traditional community.