The development of the area was to rediscover Kuching's relationship with the riverfront and to unlock its potential as a leisure and recreation resource for the future.

The overall concept took into account the need to provide a mix of community and tourist centered activities while still recognizing the importance of preserving the historical and cultural setting of the area. It was also intended to become the landmark and showpiece of the city. This concept thus influenced everything that the Kuching Waterfront is - the materials used; the structures; the facilities; the artworks; the activities; etc. most of which are unique to the Kuching Waterfront only.

The Sarawak Economic Development Corporation was assigned by the State Government in 1989 to develop the riverfront in time for the State's 30th Anniversary in Malaysia in 1993.

The consultants selected to design the project were a team of local and foreign consultants - Conybeare Morrison and Partners (Australia) and United Consultants (Kuching). Construction by local contractors spanned over a period of 2 and a half year (May 1991 to September 1993).

During this period, the old riverfront characterized by dilapidated godowns and jetties, dirty mud flaps and eroded riverbanks were transformed into a beautiful landscaped and bustling Waterfront. This Metamorphosis has acted as a catalyst to the development and improvement in the adjacent areas in that the ripple of economic revitalization is felt through improved land values, enhanced environment and general amenity throughout the city.

The Kuching Waterfront was officially launched by YAB Chief Minister of Sarawak on September 3, 1993.