Sabah information and travel guide

Sabah - Land Below the Wind

Sabah is located in the northeastern tier of the island of Borneo. Overlooking the South China Sea, Kota Kinabalu, its capital, serves as the gateway to the varied attractions of the state. Known as Jesselton during the British era, it was totally destroyed during the last World War. The present day town has blossomed into a thriving commercial centre and holiday destination. A short boat-ride away takes one to the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a haven for camping and sea sports. A 21/, hour ride from the town brings you to the 754 sq km Kinabalu Park and Mount Kinabalu, the pride of Sabah. This 4095 m peak is easily accessible and is a favourite for jungle-trekking and mountainclimbing and offers a breathtaking view ofthelush surroundings. If you are lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the exotic Rafflesia, the world's largest flower.

The world's largest Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre is located at Sepilok, a 20-minute drive from the town of Sandakan. Here, one can observe first hand, these primeval apes (in their natural habitat) roam and play in non-captive breeding. Further south, in the interior of the state, lies the Danum Valley Conservation area, a lowland tropical forest endowed with an abundance of flora and fauna. Several hours away into the hinterland of Sandakan at Sukau, nature lovers will have a thrilling once-in-alifetime experience of sighting the unique proboscis monkey in its natural habitat, a variety of wildlife and perhaps, the rare clouded leopard.

Sabah is an enchanting mosaic of cultural diversity with at least 31 indigenous groups with their rich cultures and interesting traditions. The tamu, a weekly open bazaar, offers a vividglimpse into the colourful blend of local cultures. The tamu is where natives gather to trade in farm produce, local curios, handicraft, food and even buffaloes. Kota Belud is a favourite spot for tourists to capture this exotic occasion.

For those who are keen to taste the thrills of whitewater rafting, Sabah is the perfect destination. Its fast flowing rivers and turbulent rapids have attracted an increasing number of rafting enthusiasts. The Padas River offers a challengingand hearts top ping experience of this sport. The Kiulu River is also another popular spot for whitewater rafting as well as wholesome family fun.

The engrossing thrill of turtle-watching can be experienced on the islands of Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan, located approximately 40 km from Sandakan. Here, one can witness almost every night, especially during the peak season between July and September, turtles crawling to the beach to lay eggs. Layang - Layang, an oceanic atoll located 165 nautical miles north-west of Kota Kinabalu, is the ultimate destination for serious divers. Its 2000 m drop provides excellent wall-diving and the opportunity to see fascinating seascapes and encounter diverse species of sea creatures and corals such as turtles, manta rays and sharks. The island is also a sanctuary for numerous migratory birds.

THE PEOPLE

The three main indigenous groups of Sabah are the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut and Bajau. The Kadazan-Dusun make up one third of the population and live in the interior plains. They are mainly padi farmers though many have ventured into other trades. The padi harvesting, an important ritual, is accompanied by religious rites presided over by female priestesses called a bobohizan.

The Murut, who live in the interior region near the borders of Sarawak and Kalimantan, are farmers and hunters. Many of them still stay in longhouses. Murut weddings are elaborate affairs lasting for days. Everyone is welcome to these weddings!

The Bajau, who make up the second largest indigenous group, live mainly on the east and west coasts. East coast Bajau are sea nomads, coming ashore only to sell their fish catches. The west coast Bajau are farmers and are noted for their skilled horsemanship. These handsomely attired 'Cowboys of the East' add a distinctively Sabahan touch to local festivities.

FAST FACTS

State
Sabah

Capital
Kota Kinabalu

Head of State
Yang DiPertua Negeri: Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Ahmadshah Abdullah

Head of Govt.
Menteri Besar: Y.A.B. Datuk Musa Haji Aman

Area
74,500 sq.km.

Population
2,450,000

Location
Sabah sits at the eastern tip of Borneo, the world's third largest island. Its 1,440 km (900 miles) coast is washed by the South China Sea on the west and Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea on the East, and is ringed by a scattering of islands.

Population
Total population: 2,450,000

Districts
- Tawau
- Sandakan
- Kudat
- West Coast
- Interior