Arkib Negara Malaysia Sarawak Branch (ANM Negeri Sarawak)

History and Background

The Sarawak Branch of the Arkib Negara Malaysia (National Archives of Malaysia, or ANM) is one of several state-level branches of the national archival system. The National Archives of Malaysia was established in 1957 as the Public Records Office before being renamed in 1963 following Malaysia's formation. The National Archives Act 2003 (Act 629) provides the current legislative basis for the institution and its branches. The Sarawak Branch is located in Kuching, the state capital of Sarawak, and serves the archival needs of Malaysia's largest state by area.

Collections and Holdings

As a branch of Arkib Negara Malaysia, the Sarawak Branch holds public records, private records, memorial and library materials relating to the state of Sarawak. Collections typically include government files, publications, newspapers and periodicals, agreement letters, audiovisual materials, photographs, maps, plans, and charts — all in accordance with ANM's national custodial mandate. The Sarawak Branch focuses on records relevant to the administrative, social, and cultural history of Sarawak and the broader Borneo region.

Access and Usage

Access to the archive is available to registered researchers who obtain a research number through ANM's online or in-person registration system. Researchers may purchase, view, or order reproductions of documents, audio, and video materials through the reading room and online systems. Subscription options provide extended access to full PDF documents and multimedia materials.