Sarawak

Sarawak, a Malaysian state on Borneo, stretches along the island's northwest coast, including many beaches on the South China Sea. It's known for the rugged, dense rainforest of its interior, much of it protected parkland. The capital, Kuching, is a bustling city set on the Sarawak River. Its 19th-century landmarks include the Astana, former palace of the White Rajahs, and Fort Margherita, built to thwart pirates.