The Astana: Kuching's Palace Of The White Rajahs

An English Dynasty called the White Rajahs ruled Malaysia’s largest state on Borneo Island for more than a century. During this time, they expanded the territory to today’s borders, developed infrastructure and built Kuching’s Astana or Palace. Here’s the story of the White Rajah’s colonial Palace.

Sarawak’s White Rajahs

The White Rajahs ruled over the Kingdom of Sarawak for more than 100 years from 1841 to 1846. James Brooke received the territory from the Sultan of Brunei after he helped defeat regional insurgencies. Covering three generations and having difficulties finding heirs, the Brooke Dynasty finally became part of the British Crown after World War Two. Despite the controversy, the White Rajahs expanded Sarawak’s territory to the modern day borders, commissioned the colonial buildings, and renamed the capital Kuching. But the most beautiful legacy is the stunning Astana overlooking the northern banks of the Sarawak River.

The Astana is the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak

Kuching’s Astana

Despite being a historical landmark in Kuching, the Astana is not open to the public

The modern day Astana

Today, Kuching’s Astana serves as the Governor of Sarawak’s official residence. The Palace sits elegantly on the northern flank of the Sarawak River surrounded by manicured lawns and the word ‘Astana’ in huge white letters. From a distance, the white-washed colonial structure with steeped roofs looks almost like a castle. Stand opposite the river for the best views of it, especially after dark when lights bath the structure. Tourists can’t go inside, but it does open to the public once a year.

See the Astana lit up at night when you stroll along the waterfront

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