THE return of tourists to Kuching’s heritage streets is bringing a renewed sense of activity and optimism for small business owners.
From the bustling Carpenter Street to the historic shops of Main Bazaar and the Waterfront, visitors are once again exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, boosting foot traffic and creating opportunities for traders who rely on both local and international customers.
After years of disruption caused by the pandemic, the slow but steady rise in tourism is helping these businesses regain momentum, sustain livelihoods and preserve the unique character of Kuching’s traditional streets.
For Wan Bainun, 37, owner of Wan Bynun Boutique at Carpenter Street, the presence of visitors has had a positive impact on her business, especially during holiday periods and the early months of the year.
“When there are more tourists, sales usually increase,” she said, adding that most of her customers are foreign visitors from Western countries, as well as China and South Korea.
She noted that many show strong interest in locally inspired products, which remain the boutique’s best-selling items.
Specialising in modest wear inspired by local culture, Wan Bynun Boutique offers designs that reflect Sarawak’s identity while promoting individuality and elegance.
The boutique has been operating for 10 years and Wan Bainun also uses Instagram to reach customers beyond Kuching, allowing her to connect with both tourists and online shoppers.
At Main Bazaar near the Waterfront, Yeo Hong Chuan Trading reflects a story of resilience shaped by generations.
The family-run business, established in 1968, is now managed by the founder’s 40-year-old grandchild, who prefers to be known simply as Ju.
Ju said the business was significantly affected during the movement control order, with operations only resuming gradually from 2022 and becoming more consistent in 2023 and 2024.
While sales have not returned to levels seen in the early 2000s, he observed a modest improvement as people began going out again.
“Customers come from both local and overseas markets, but it is difficult to separate them,” he said.
Yeo Hong Chuan Trading primarily sells traditional handicrafts such as woven mats and bags, with wooden handicrafts and other items recently added to meet changing customer demand.
Meanwhile, at the Waterfront, Roselyn’s Gallery Cafe continues to grow at a measured pace.
Operated by Roselyn Long Gah, 60, the business evolved from an earlier craft-related venture into a cafe offering traditional Orang Ulu cuisine.
Roselyn said the cafe, which took its current form last year, has received encouraging responses from both locals and tourists.
Dishes such as ayam pansuh and other Orang Ulu specialties have attracted visitors seeking authentic Sarawak food experiences.
“The presence of tourists helps small businesses like ours.
“When people come to Kuching, they want to experience local culture through food,” she said.
Roselyn added that greater exposure of Sarawak’s culinary heritage would further strengthen tourism’s role in supporting small enterprises.
Together, the experiences of these business owners reflect a gradual recovery across Kuching’s heritage areas, where tourism continues to play an important role in sustaining small businesses and preserving local character.
While challenges remain, the steady return of visitors has helped restore confidence among traders, many of whom rely on seasonal foot traffic and word-of-mouth exposure.
As Kuching strengthens its position as a cultural and tourism destination, these small enterprises remain central to the city’s identity, linking heritage, livelihood and community life.
