Not sure about the price of nasi lemak because I rarely eat it

I'm only familiar with the E-mart at Batu Kawa because of the bowling alleys. Other than that, yes, this is an accurate description of Kuching: Chill and laid back place but doesn't have that many places for entertainment. Good place to stay once you've retired.

Dun need talk so much.
East Malaysia is like a republic.  No visa no stay. Unless you marry local.
I once heard of a guy working in Bintulu 20yrs. The day he retired he had 3 months tourist visa to leave sarawak.

Quality, choice of food, entertainment,  better mall---> kk
Security, cheaper cost of living, cleaner town---> kuching

Dun bother with other towns, you'll be bored till your mother doesnt recognize you.
My choice would be kk.

Kuching life way better than KK. More Chinese friendly, more land, cheaper cost of living, fresher air, so much more things to do.

The climate and air in Kuching is quite nice compared to many Malaysian cities. Clean and not too hot where it is located at the southern end of Sarawak state.

Closer to Indonesia's upcoming new capital city Nusantara too :thumbsup:

Kuching is very cheap to live in, but property prices have been increasing quite a bit. Kolo mee is the benchmark but laksa can be double in price.

Also, remember that Borneo is an island so everything that is not local is more expensive than KL, as you'll need to cover the shopping costs etc. Same for flights to anywhere, you normally need to add KCH-KL leg and the time.

A non Sarawakian would need a permit, pass, or visa to stay long term... even if you marry a local. The bright side is, if you marry a Sarawakian bumi, your children will be bumi.