The original church was constructed using timber sourced from the local jungle in 1848.
The current cathedral was consecrated on St. Thomas's Day, December 21, 1956.
The building was designed to accommodate the growing expatriate and local Christian community in post-war Kuching.
It is the central point for the Anglican Church in the Province of South East Asia for the Sarawak and Brunei region.
St Thomas's Cathedral is the oldest Anglican church in Sarawak, established in 1848 as the mother church of the Diocese of Kuching. The current brick structure, completed in 1955, replaced an earlier wooden building damaged during the Second World War. It serves as the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Kuching and Brunei. The architecture features a distinctive blend of post-war colonial design with traditional liturgical arrangements. The cathedral grounds house the offices of the Anglican Diocese and several associated mission schools. It remains an active place of worship with a regular schedule of Holy Eucharist services. The cathedral is located on McDougall Hill, overlooking the historical center of Kuching.
From the base of the main steps looking up at the cathedral's brick facade.
Visit during a Sunday morning service to hear the pipe organ music.
Walk the cathedral grounds to view the historic school buildings nearby.
Respect ongoing religious activities by maintaining silence in the nave.
Taking photographs during active worship services or of congregants without prior permission.
Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Remove hats upon entering and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
