kuching isthmus

Kuching Isthmus project is so far the most potentially not-just-rumored mega project in Kuching. There are several other ambitious projects planned for Kuching before such as the city of 2000 around the masja area and new telaga air administrative district (which all have failed to materialized). But, Kuching Isthmus is progressing quite well with the nearly complete Borneo Convention Centre in the barrack area of Demak-Pending area. The whole masterplan for the breathtaking island is well-planned and designed for the ever developing city of Kuching. Basically, the plan is to developed the land into a new city planning. The whole planning of this ambitious project covers the development of some major projects such as the Kuching Tower, Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Kuching Isthmus Hypermarket Mall, Office buildings, Luxury hotel and housing area.

Existing site for Kuching Isthmus

The ground breaking ceremony was initiated by Pehin Sri Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud on 2 October 2005 with RM300 million start for Borneo Convention Centre. The mega project is situated on a 240 acre riverfront area on the east of Kuching City centre about 5 km away to be specific. The part of Kuching Extension Plan was designed to balance up the identity of Kuching as the capital of Sarawak and also the Borneo island as a whole.

Model of Borneo Convention Centre Kuching
3d rendering of BCCK

latest update on Isthmus Project and Borneo Convention Centre (January 2009)

Taking leaf as an inspiration for roof design

The convention centre is set to become a landmark for the city as well as providing convention and exhibition facilities for the state and also the world in the mystical land of Sarawak. It will be complete with state-of-the-art infrastructure and services to cater the needs for MICE industry. With a capacity of 1,500 delegates at one time, the convention centre, also known as BCCK costs about 195 million ringgit is estimated to be fully completed in August 2009 though there are news of possible delay. The construction of BCCK is accompanied with another the marina which is set to be built at the edge of the island.

Initial design for Kuching Tower by a canadian firm, ZW Group with City Gate Corporation

3d renderings of Kuching Tower by Hijjas Kasturi

The Kuching Tower is another key project in Kuching Isthmus as it is poised to be the tallest building in Sarawak. It will be a landmark for the city as well as the state. Stages of development, the project has not started since the main focus for the time being is on the BCCK. The designing stage however have been considered done and it was designed by famous Malaysian architect, Hijjas Kasturi. The 300 million ringgit tower complex will accomodate offices and luxury 315 room hotel. Standing at height of 150 meters, the 31 level tower (initially 39 floors) will house 200,000 square feet of first class business support office for the first 12 floors. From 15th floor upwards, a luxury hotel with a breathtaking view to the South China Sea and Sungai Sarawak. An 8 storey atrium completes the tower, offering high class Sky Lounge service viewing the surrounding landscape.

perspective rendering of the Isthmus Hypermarket Mall

Other projects are still under unknowned status such as condominium development, Shopping centre complex (Isthmus Hypermarket Mall) and Office building. Ken Yeang, another well-knowned Malaysian architect have been rumored to be building one of his masterpiece on the island. A twin tower with environmental elements in the design. ISthmus Hypermarket Mall is also a anticipating project since it will house big names in retail shopping such as Tesco, Jusco and Ikea. Upon completion, it is expected to be the largest in the region.