Sarawak eyes takeover of General Post Office building as it continues to conserve heritage buildings
Sarawak’s continued commitment to preserving its rich heritage may soon see another iconic landmark returning to state stewardship, with the Sarawak Government expressing interest in taking over the historic General Post Office building in the city centre.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg recently revealed that discussions are underway with the Federal Government to acquire the colonial-era building located opposite Plaza Merdeka.
Should the negotiations succeed, the building will be restored while retaining its original architectural character and historical significance.
The old General Post Office has been one of Kuching’s most recognisable landmarks for decades.
Standing prominently along Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg and overlooking the city’s heritage precinct, the building represents an important chapter in Sarawak’s administrative and communication history.
According to the Premier, the post office is only one of several historical buildings that the state hopes to preserve through restoration and adaptive reuse instead of allowing them to deteriorate over time.
Preserving History, Creating New Attractions & Boosting Tourism
Over the years, Sarawak has increasingly invested in conserving heritage buildings as part of its broader tourism and cultural development strategy.
Rather than replacing old structures with modern developments, the state’s approach has focused on giving historic buildings new purposes while maintaining their original façade and architectural identity.
This philosophy has already been demonstrated through successful restorations of several heritage landmarks around Kuching, including the Old Courthouse, Round Tower and various buildings along the city’s heritage trail, which continue to attract both local visitors and international tourists.
Just this year, it was announced that the Old Nurses Quaters near the Sarawak General Hospital would be converted into ‘Anjung Kasih’ which is a facility for Sarawak General Hospital outstation patient family members.
The move aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen Kuching’s identity as a heritage city where history, culture and modern urban development coexist.
If the acquisition proceeds, the old General Post Office could become another important heritage attraction within walking distance of the Kuching Waterfront, Old Courthouse, Main Bazaar and Carpenter Street.
The building’s strategic location makes it well suited for adaptive reuse, whether as a museum, cultural centre, exhibition space or another public facility that celebrates Sarawak’s history.
That said, if realised, the Kuching General Post Office would further strengthen Kuching’s reputation as one of Malaysia’s most historically significant cities, where the preservation of heritage continues to play an important role in shaping its future.
Article sources: The Borneo Post
