Cat Museum
Sarawak
The Kuching Cat Museum, established in 1993 and located in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, is the first museum worldwide devoted exclusively to cats. It is housed on the ground floor of the Kuching North City Hall in Petra Jaya. The museum covers an area of approximately 1,035 square meters and contains four main galleries featuring over 4,000 artifacts including paintings, memorabilia, and sculptures. Its collections trace the history of cats back around 5,000 years and explore their cultural significance and influence on superstitions. Highlights include a mummified cat from ancient Egypt, exhibits on feline-related advertising, and displays of the five species of wild cats native to Borneo. Notably, the museum claims to hold the only preserved specimen of the rare Bay cat (Felis badia). The museum also features a gift shop with a wide range of cat-themed items. The city of Kuching, whose name means "cat" in Malay, is also known for its numerous cat statues, celebrating this feline heritage.
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Tip: Visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the museum in advance for opening hours and any special events. Tickets can often be purchased on-site, but planning ahead may help secure entry during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. The museum's location on Bukit Siol, a hill approximately 60 meters above sea level, offers pleasant surroundings to explore after your visit.
Interesting facts
- •Kuching Cat Museum is the first museum in the world dedicated entirely to cats.
- •The museum houses a mummified cat from ancient Egypt, showcasing the historical reverence of cats.
- •It holds the only preserved specimen of the Bay cat (Felis badia), one of the world's rarest wild cats.
- •The museum's collection includes over 4,000 artifacts, including paintings, memorabilia, and sculptures related to cats.
- •Kuching city itself is famed for numerous cat statues, celebrating its name which means 'cat' in Malay.
History
The idea for the Kuching Cat Museum was initiated by Sarawak's Chief Minister Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Laila Taib.
The initial cat-related artifacts were first exhibited in 1988 at the Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
After the completion of the Kuching North City Hall headquarters in 1992, the collections were transferred there, and the museum officially opened in 1993.
The museum's establishment coincided with Kuching gaining city status in 1988, further cementing the city's identity linked to cats.
Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection to include over 4,000 items, reflecting feline history and culture worldwide.
Place Guide
Ancient Egyptian Gallerycirca 1000 BCE
Features a mummified cat and artifacts illustrating the significance of cats in ancient Egyptian culture and religion.
Wild Cats of Borneo Exhibit
Showcases the five species of wild cats found in Borneo, including the rare Bay cat, with detailed information and preserved specimens.
Feline Advertising Gallery
Displays a collection of cat-themed advertisements, highlighting the cultural influence of cats in marketing and media.
Memorabilia and Artifacts Collection
A diverse array of cat-related items including sculptures made from marble, glass, crystal, copper, ceramics, and porcelain, as well as paintings and sketches.
Contact
Phone: 082-512 200