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Embark on a journey to discover Sabah's awe-inspiring natural beauty, where mountains meet the sea. Join us as we uncover the charm of this stunning land.
Located in Borneo, Malaysia, Sabah is a majestic natural paradise boasting lush forests, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural tapestry. It holds the distinction of being the only place in Southeast Asia recognized by UNESCO three times for its World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves, and Global Geoparks. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Sabah captivates visitors with its well-preserved cultural heritage. Join us on an adventure to Sabah, a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike!
Introduction to Sabah
Where is Sabah Located?
Sabah is one of Malaysia's prominent states, situated in the northern part of Borneo Island – the largest in Asia and third-largest in the world. Additionally, Sabah shares borders with the Philippines to the north and Indonesia to the east. This strategic location not only facilitates trade and tourism but also contributes to the cultural diversity of Sabah, shaped by the convergence of various cultural backgrounds.
Fascinating Facts About Sabah, Malaysia
The island of Borneo is divided into two regions and is managed by two different countries. On the island, there are five provinces belonging to Indonesia and two states (Sabah and Sarawak) belonging to Malaysia.
Sabah has a population of 3.5 million people, ranking third in population among the states in Malaysia, with the Chinese community accounting for nearly 10%.
Sabah is also known as the “Land Beneath the Wind” because it is situated at latitude 6 degrees north of the equator, under the tropical cyclone region, thus avoiding the impact of cyclones.
The name “Sabah” originates from the Sabaa Banana tree, a common type of banana in the region.
The Borneo Rainforest, over 130 million years old, is the oldest rainforest in the world, surpassing even the Amazon Rainforest in age.
Sabah is home to many rare and precious plant species such as the world's largest carnivorous flower – Rafflesia, the fourth most expensive flower in the world – the Gold of Kinabalu orchid, and the tallest tree in the world – Yellow Meranti.
The world's highest Via Ferrata mountain climbing route is located on Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
Travel Experience in Sabah, Malaysia
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Guide on How to Travel Independently in Sabah
Modes of Transportation in Sabah, Malaysia
Taxi: In Sabah, taxi services are widely available, making it convenient for you to travel according to your own schedule.
Motorbike: If you're up for exploring Sabah on a thrilling adventure, you can opt for a motorbike as your primary mode of transportation.
Boat: Around Sabah, there are many beautiful islands, so boats are a popular mode of transportation. If you're prone to seasickness, make sure to prepare motion sickness medication in advance!
Car Rental: In Sabah, there are many convenient car rental points for self-driving, allowing you the freedom to explore. You can consider the Private Car Rental Service in Kota Kinabalu and Suburbs, or the Private Car Rental with Driver in Kota Kinabalu for added convenience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Sabah?
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February is the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of Sabah. With its warm equatorial climate, temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C, travelers can experience the vibrant beauty of tropical rainforests.
Famous Tourist Destinations in Sabah
1. Kota Kinabalu
If mountain climbing isn't your thing, you can still enjoy leisurely strolls in Kinabalu Park, located at an altitude of over 1,520 meters, covering an area of 754 square kilometers. This park has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its top-ranking biodiversity. Here, you'll discover a world-class natural reserve with a diverse flora and fauna, including over 4,500 plant species and more than 300 bird species. Within the park area, there's also the Poring Hot Spring, offering a relaxing escape amidst lush greenery.
2. Mari Mari Cultural Village
Located just a 30-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village is an intriguing destination that takes #teamKlok back to Sabah's past. Established in February 2008, the village serves as a living museum showcasing the cultures of 5 ethnic groups: Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Amidst stunning nature and rustic stilt houses, visitors can learn about the history and traditions of these indigenous peoples of the island.
At Mari Mari, you not only get to observe but also participate in lively festivals, learn to cook traditional Bajau dishes in bamboo tubes, savor unique flavors, and explore the significance of Sabahan tribal tattoos. It's an adventure full of experiences, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in Sabah's culture.
3. Semporna
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Located in the eastern part of Sabah, Semporna attracts visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and stunning island beauty.
Semporna's unique feature lies in its famous islands: Mabul and Maldives boast turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and diverse coral reefs; Selakan offers serene white sands with gentle beauty and rich marine life; and Bohey Dulang, with its 353m high mountain peak, provides an exhilarating climbing experience and breathtaking views.
4. Sepilok Orangutan
Sepilok is located 25 km west of the city of Sandakan, covering an area of up to 4,300 hectares. It is home to orangutans, a species on the brink of extinction due to illegal hunting. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the wild natural environment, observe the daily lives of orangutans and other wildlife.
The conservation center is Sandakan's pride and continues to grow with investment from the local government. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace amidst nature. When in Malaysia, take the time to explore Sepilok, where unforgettable experiences await.
5. Kinabatangan River
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On both sides of the river are conservation corridors, where up to 10 species of primates coexist. Drifting quietly on a small boat, you'll encounter Proboscis monkeys, the symbol of Sandakan, swinging from branch to branch in playful antics. Moreover, this is also the habitat of the adorable Pygmy elephants and various other animals.
6. Tanjung Aru Beach
With its long coastline, visitors can enjoy surfing, diving, or relaxing on the gentle sandy beaches. Tanjung Aru is renowned for its spectacular sunset views in Kota Kinabalu, creating a magnificent scene. Nearby food and beverage outlets offer unique culinary experiences at affordable prices. Tanjung Aru Beach is not just a tourist destination but also a journey to discover the pristine beauty of Sabah.
7. Kundasang
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Venturing through the lush green fields of Desa Dairy Farm, visitors will savor the pure taste of fresh milk. The Kundasang War Memorial is a place of remembrance for brave soldiers, offering insights into the past and honoring present-day peace. The gateway to Kinabalu National Park opens up a journey to conquer the highest peak in Southeast Asia, enchanting adventurous souls. With its unique beauty spots and rich history, Kundasang is not just a stopover but also a marvelous journey to explore the distinctive beauty of Sabah.
Food Guide in Sabah
Exploring Sabah's unique cuisine is a journey to discover the diverse flavors of Malaysia. Here, you'll experience a blend of traditional and modern tastes, creating an enticing food guide.
Featured on the list of must-try dishes is Tuaran noodles, renowned for the blend of century egg, grilled pork, boiled egg, and green vegetables, creating a delightful flavor. Beaufort noodles with special sauce are also a tasty choice, and Ngiu Chap beef noodles offer a sophisticated combination of noodles and flavorful beef.
Sabah is not only famous for its noodles but also a paradise for fresh seafood. At the seaside night market in Kota Kinabalu, you can indulge in dishes like Hinava raw fish or Latok seaweed, complemented with green mango, lime, and chili.
Famous Hotels in Sabah
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru: Shangri-La Tanjung Aru immerses guests in a world of luxury with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and diverse dining options.
Address: No. 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu: This hotel stands out with modern architecture, comfortable rooms, and stunning views from higher floors.
Address: 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu
Hilton Kota Kinabalu: Hilton Kota Kinabalu offers a luxurious resort experience, catering to diverse needs, from conferences to relaxation, along with modern amenities such as fine dining restaurants and a fitness center.
Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Asia City
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu: Situated in the city center, this hotel is convenient for exploring tourist attractions and enjoying unique local cuisine.
Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Sinsuran
Kudat Riviera: With its superb seaside location, Kudat Riviera is a tranquil resort amidst pristine nature.
Address: Jalan Pantai Kelambu
Posted by: Nguyen Truong
Keywords: Exploring Sabah: Discovering the Stunning Nature of Malaysia
