RM16 Million Rentap Fortress Replica Finally Begins Construction at Bukit Sadok

The Sarawak government has officially broken ground on the highly anticipated Rentap Fortress Replica at the legendary peak of Bukit Sadok in Betong.

Officiated recently by Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, this RM16 million heritage mega-project is not just a tribute to Sarawak’s most iconic Iban warrior—it’s poised to become one of the state’s most formidable history-based tourism attractions.

According to recent reports by DayakDaily, the construction, which commenced on March 24, 2026, is expected to be fully completed by March 2028.

What to Expect: Bringing the 19th Century Back to Life

The replica fortress is being meticulously designed to echo the sheer scale and architectural ingenuity of Rentap’s original stronghold.

It will heavily incorporate traditional Iban longhouse elements mixed with modern facilities to accommodate visitors comfortably.

According to the Sarawak Tribune, the sprawling complex will feature:

• Traditional Architectural Elements: Complete with a tanju (fortified open-air platform), panggau (guard post), ruai (covered veranda), and a tempuan (watchtower).
• Immersive Accommodation: 10 fully equipped chalets featuring pantries and bathrooms, allowing tourists to spend the night at the historic summit.
• Information Centre & Gallery: A dedicated space detailing Rentap’s fierce anti-colonial campaigns, featuring a replica of his legendary cannon, the Bujang Timpang Berang (The One-Armed Bachelor).

Boosting Betong’s Local Economy and Tourism

This project is far more than an homage to the past; it is a vital catalyst for Betong’s economic future. The strategic initiative is designed to elevate Betong from a quiet district into a premier heritage tourism hub in Sarawak.

During the site handover ceremony, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas highlighted that the fortress is an active effort to bring the world to Betong. “The construction of the Rentap Fort Replica will benefit the people, especially the local community. We are striving to create an attraction that draws outsiders to visit Betong,” he stated.

With the upcoming completion of the Batang Lupar 2 Bridge and the Spaoh Airport (Bebuling STOLport), accessibility to Betong is seeing a massive upgrade, creating direct business and homestay opportunities for local communities.

The RM39 Million Access Road

While not part of the Rentap Fortress Replica, the government is also constructing a 3.1-kilometer access road stretching from Rumah Panjang Jambu Kerampak straight to the foot of Bukit Sadok. Costing RM39 million, this road will allow visitors of all ages to comfortably reach the historic site.

This comes as historically, Bukit Sadok’s incredibly steep and rugged terrain was its greatest defense.

It was notoriously difficult for the White Rajah’s forces to conquer, and until recently, it has remained a grueling 3-hour jungle trek for modern hikers.

The completion of the new road will allow better access to this up-coming attraction.

The Legacy of Libau Rentap: “Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban”

For those unfamiliar with Sarawakian history, Rentap (born Libau anak Ningkan) is a symbol of absolute defiance and indigenous autonomy.

His praise name translates roughly to “Earth-tremor, World-shaker.” Throughout the mid-19th century, Rentap led an unwavering resistance against the Brooke administration. He famously fortified Bukit Sadok, repelling multiple heavily armed military expeditions led by Charles Brooke between 1857 and 1861.

It wasn’t until a third, massive assault using a 12-pounder cannon dubbed Bujang Sadok that Rentap’s fortress was finally breached. Even then, he never surrendered, retreating deep into the jungle where he lived out his days.

His immortal battle cry, “Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban” (Still Alive, Still Fighting), remains the official motto of the Royal Malaysian Ranger Regiment to this day.

That said, once the fortress replica is ready in 2028, both locals and international tourists will be able to stand exactly where Rentap stood, look out over the Saribas plains, and experience the sheer gravity of Sarawak’s most legendary standoff.

Source of information: DD, ST, Wiki