Sabah Borneo

Stunning tropical islands and luxuriant nature makes Sabah the ideal destination for eco-adventures. The state’s most famous icon is the majestic Mount Kinabalu, reputed to be one of the highest in Southeast Asia. Another jewel is Sipadan, an internationally-famed dive destination.

The capital of Sabah is Kota Kinabalu, with a population that is made up of 32 ethnic communities. It is the gateway to eco-adventures such as diving, river cruising, mountain climbing, white-water rafting and caving. Kota Kinabalu was formerly known as Jesselton. Most parts of the city have been reconstructed after World War II and there are only three surviving buildings from the war. Visit this “Land Below the Wind’ and enjoy unforgettable adventures!

Mount Kinabalu

Standing at just over 4,095m above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia and the towering centerpiece of Kinabalu Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderland of ecological treasures, ranging from rare pitcher plants, montane birds, to the endemic Paphiopedilum Slipper Orchids.

The view from the pinnacle of Mountain Torq, the world’s highest and Asia’s first is unparalleled and well worth the climb.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilation Center

Enjoy the rare and thrilling opportunity to observe an orangutan up close. Situated in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve which spans over 4,300 hectares, this sanctuary serves to rehabilitate orphaned orangutans as well as educate the public on the importance of wildlife conservation. The viewing gallery provides an opportunity to see the orangutans being fed by rangers.

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation

The conservation is a sun bear rescue and rehabilitation facility being developed in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Malayan sun bears are the smallest bears in the world and are only found in Southeast Asia. These bears continue to be threatened by forest degradation, illegal hunting for bear parts and poaching to obtain young cubs for the pet trade. As a result, young sun bears have been found living in unnatural captive conditions in Sabah, with no access to outdoor areas.

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Only 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village is a vibrant destination that offers insight into Sabah’s diverse cultural heritage. Nestled within a remote jungle setting, the village showcases five different ethnic communities – the Bajau sea gypsies, Kadazan-Dusun rice farmers, Lundayeh hunters and fisherfolk, Rungus longhouse residents and the feared Murut headhunters. Enjoy activities such as blowpipe and fire-making demonstrations, bamboo cooking, traditional dances and don’t miss a chance to sample the local fare.

Sipadan

Sipadan is an internationally famous dive site in the Celebes Sea. The geographic position of Sipadan at the Indo-Pacific Basin (the center of the richest marine habitat in the world) makes it a paradise for divers. The seascape is decorated with huge gorgonian sea fans, barrel sponges and gigantic soft tree corals. Steep walls form a stunning backdrop while pelagic species such as sharks and turtles swim gracefully.

Further away, the Turtle Cavern contains skeletons of turtles that were lost in the tunnels. At Barracuda Point, divers may have exciting encounters with schools of barracuda. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, accommodation is only provided at the neighbouring islands of Mabul and Kapalai, and tours must be pre-arranged. The nearest airport to Sipadan is Tawau. From Tawau, take an hour’s drive to Semporna before proceeding with a 40-minute speedboat ride to the island.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

Made up of a cluster of five islands – Pulau Gaya, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik, Pulau Sapi and Pulau Sulug –Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s crystal-clear water is filled with an abundance of corals and aquatic species. Popular among eco-tourists, the park’s relatively shallow waters are perfect for snorkelers and novice divers. Pulau Gaya is the largest island and is the site of a luxury resort.

Tawau – The Tip of Borneo

This dramatic headland is situated in the northern-most tip of Borneo. It is located in the Kudat Peninsula, about three and a half hours (or 215 kilometers) drive from Kota Kinabalu City.

Simpang Mengayau means ‘lingering junction’ as it is here that the South China Sea lingers and meets the Sulu Seas flowing from the east. The sunsets and full moons are breathtaking.