KUCHING: The big bike scene in Sarawak has shifted to high gear, evolving from casual gatherings in car parks to larger regional gatherings, thanks to growing interest, community leadership and a better platform for bikers to engage.
Daryl Chua of BorneoSuperBike (BSB) said the local bike community has grown significantly in the past decade, despite starting from humble beginnings.
“This big bike scene has been around for more than 10 years. Back then, there was no social media.
“It started by word of mouth, small gatherings of a few people, which grew to hundreds, and now thousands,” he said during an interview with Sarawak Tribune on Wednesday.
What started in open spaces, like car parks, has now moved to larger spaces provided by shopping malls and dedicated venues, thanks to better event management.
Chua added that today’s events are more organised, complete with entertainment, vendor booths, and collaborations with local artists.
The biker culture, which has its roots in Western influences, has been adapted to the local context.
“We try to bring that biker culture here, but in a more moderate and controlled way.
“In the US, biker culture is wild but here, we follow the rules, that are to have no alcohol, no obscenity and no brawling,” he explained.
Chua also noted the increasing creativity and openness seen in neighbouring countries such as Thailand and Indonesia, where biker events often feature bold modifications and free expression of identity.
However, Sarawak’s approach remains balanced, combining fun with safety and local customs.
On the events calendar, Sibu Bike Week continues to be the most consistently well-attended annual gathering, with riders from all over Sarawak and even international participants making the trip.
“Sibu Bike Week has the best timing as it is during school year-end holidays, and during the first week of a new month where everyone has already received their pay.
“That’s why it’s the biggest event.
“Kuching and Miri also have events, but Sibu is the most established,” said Chua.
As for cross-border participation, Chua said there was growing interest from bikers in Brunei and Kalimantan, with some YouTubers playing a role in promoting Sarawak’s motorcycle scene overseas.
“Sarawak is in a good place now, especially with the Pan-Borneo Highway nearing completion.
“Bikers are getting back on the road, and tourism is benefiting from it.
“Borneo is unique because we are one island with several countries within and that is something we can be proud of and promote,” he said.
The upcoming Sarawak International Bike Gathering (SIBG) event, which also involves participation from groups such as BSB, will be another achievement in showcasing Sarawak’s growing big bike culture, combining local spirit with global appeal.
