Known as the Land Below the Wind, Sabah lies at the northeast of Borneo. This eastern most state of Malaysia is best known for its lush tropical rainforests, magnificent islands and aquatic splendour, majestic mountain and colourful ethnic cultures.
This state has a population of nearly 3.1 million that is made up of 32 ethnic communities. The capital city of Kota Kinabalu, formerly known as Jesselton, has seen much development in its reconstruction since World War II where only a total of three buildings still stands since the end of the war. Home to the tallest peak in South East Asia in Mount Kinabalu to the world renowned Sipadan Island, Sabah is truly a gem of a destination for anyone with the spirit to explore. It is a must visit for peace and nature lovers, as it is for anyone looking for rugged outdoor adventures and activities. A memorable and mesmerising experience awaits you in The Land Below the Wind!
Some of the top recommended attractions to visit and activities to experience in Sabah are Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site), Crocker Range, Poring Hot Springs, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Turtle Islands Park, Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Danum Valley Conservation Area, Rainforest Discovery Centre, Maliau Basin, Mari Mari Cultural Village, Tawau Hills Park, Sabah Tea Garden, Sipadan Island, Mabul & Kapalai Islands, Tuaran Upside-down House, Teck Guan Cocoa Village & Museum, Monsopiad Heritage Village and the North Borneo Railway.
A wide range of indigenous specialties awaits adventurous visitors. Rare ferns, greens, fruits and vegetables here are whipped into a myriad of mouth-watering dishes. Aside from the local delights, Continental cuisine is also widely available at major hotels while fast food can be found in the larger towns. Authentic local favourites includes Tuaran Mee (a popular hawker dish), Ambuyat (porridge made from sago, tapioca or rice), Hinava and Tuhau (local salads) and Kelupis (aromatic glutinous rice dish). Do also enjoy a cup of the locally-grown Sabah tea or Tenom coffee as the cool mountains and hilly terrain make Sabah a great place to grow tea and coffee.
Sabah is well-connected domestically and internationally. Kota Kinabalu is the main gateway to Sabah and the International Airport (KKIA) is about 20 minutes away from the city. There are daily direct flights to Sabah from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city. A good network of rural air service also connects Kota Kinabalu to the gateway towns of Sandakan, Tawau and Lahad Datu and the smaller towns of Kudat and Semporna are equipped with airstrips. Local buses and taxis are easily available in Kota Kinabalu while tour operators normally arrange most of the overland transfers. The local train service that connects Tanjung Aru to Beaufort and Tenom is a refreshing alternative to enjoy the beautiful natural sceneries.
Mystical Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia. It occupies the southwestern ridge of Borneo and is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders. Its lush tropical ancient forests are spread with massive natural formations where the world’s largest cave chambers sits at The Gunung Mulu National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With her numerous protected National Parks, endemic flora and fauna and the vast number of wonderful hornbills found here, Sarawak is affectionally known as ‘The Land of the Hornbills’. Its capital Kuching (cat in Malay) is a bustling city set on the snake-like Sarawak River, is known as one of the prettiest spots in the region.
With a plethora of intriguing ethnic cultures, nature, food, festivals and rich history woven with the legacy of the Rajah Brooke dynasty, Sarawak is a fascinating destination waiting to be discovered.
Mystical Sarawak is the largest state in Malaysia. It occupies the southwestern ridge of Borneo and is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders. Its lush tropical ancient forests are spread with massive natural formations where the world’s largest cave chambers sits at The Gunung Mulu National Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With her numerous protected National Parks, endemic flora and fauna and the vast number of wonderful hornbills found here, Sarawak is affectionally known as ‘The Land of the Hornbills’. Its capital Kuching (cat in Malay) is a bustling city set on the snake-like Sarawak River, is known as one of the prettiest spots in the region.
With a plethora of intriguing ethnic cultures, nature, food, festivals and rich history woven with the legacy of the Rajah Brooke dynasty, Sarawak is a fascinating destination waiting to be discovered.
