From boring to beautiful: Colourful murals transform hidden alleyway in downtown Kuching into outdoor art gallery

Explore the murals in a quiet alleyway tucked between India Street and Electra House in downtown Kuching.

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, Oct 2: In a quiet alley tucked between India Street and Electra House, an eye-catching surprise awaits those who venture off the main roads of Kuching’s downtown.

This hidden corner, once a simple and unnoticed passageway, has been transformed into a lively outdoor gallery where walls come alive with vibrant murals.

The artwork here reflects Sarawak’s unique cultural identity, showcasing local heritage, everyday scenes, and the beauty of its wildlife.

One of the most striking murals in this alley is a vivid depiction of the iconic hornbill, soaring majestically across a blue sky. This bird is not just any hornbill—it symbolises Sarawak’s identity and natural beauty, as the hornbill is deeply ingrained in the local culture and traditions.

Below it, a painted figure of an indigenous person in traditional attire stands proudly, representing the cultural richness and diversity of Sarawak.

A colourful tapestry of Sarawak’s identity.

As one moves along the alley, more murals are revealed. There’s a cheerful scene of two musicians sitting side-by-side, one strumming a red guitar and the other holding a microphone.

Another section of the alley features black-and-white images of vintage buses, paying tribute to Kuching’s past. The mural, marked ‘since 1965’, captures the city’s historical transformation, showing how public transport has changed over the years.

The musicians.

A tribute to Kuching’s transport history.

Just a few steps away, another mural showcases a scene from everyday life, featuring a local street vendor with an umbrella-covered stall, selling what looks like iced drinks and snacks. Malaysian flags flutter from the top of the stall, giving the mural a patriotic touch.

Another interesting piece is a mural of a local busker, strumming his guitar with a soft smile. This simple yet evocative image captures the essence of street performers who bring music to life on Kuching’s streets.

On another corner, a mural of orangutans swinging playfully in the trees reminds viewers of Sarawak’s lush rainforests and the need to protect its endangered wildlife.

The street vendor stall.

The busker by the bus.

The playful orangutans.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the murals invite you to slow down and see Kuching in a new light.

Every wall is a reminder that art is not confined to galleries and museums. Sometimes, the best stories are found in the most unexpected places—like an unassuming alleyway that has been turned into a colourful celebration of life, culture, and community.

In addition to the alley nestled between India Street and Electra House, DayakDaily explored other parts of downtown Kuching to track down more stunning murals. — DayakDaily

A variety of murals can be found throughout downtown Kuching.