SABAH - A TROPICAL GEM IN EAST MALAYSIA

DEMOGRAPHY AND CULTURE

The state has a population is a vibrant mix of over 30 indigenous groups, with the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, and Murut being the largest. This rich cultural diversity is reflected in the state’s festivals, traditions, and way of life. Additionally, Sabah has a significant Chinese community, along with Malay and Indian groups, further enhancing the cultural and culinary richness of the region. Inter-cultural marriages are common, fostering strong bonds between different communities and creating a unique blend of traditions, languages, and customs that highlight Sabah’s harmonious multi-ethnic society. This cultural tapestry makes Sabah a true melting pot, where diverse influences come together in everyday life, festivals, and social practices.

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Mount Kinabalu and
Kinabalu National Park

The majestic Mount Kinabalu, towering at 4,095 meters, attracts hikers and adventurers from all over the globe, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding climb with breathtaking views from its summit. As the highest peak in Southeast Asia, it provides unparalleled panoramic vistas, stretching across lush rainforests, deep valleys, and rugged landscapes.

Surrounding Mount Kinabalu is the famous Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its astounding biodiversity. The park is home to over 5,000 plant species, including the rare and magnificent Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, admired for its impressive size and distinct appearance.

Additionally, the park features unique species of carnivorous plants that thrive in this rich and diverse environment. Kinabalu National Park’s vast array of flora and fauna makes it a haven for nature lovers, botanists, and adventure seekers who are keen to explore the wonders of this extraordinary ecosystem, all while experiencing the magic of Mount Kinabalu.

Islands and
Marine Parks

Sabah’s pristine coastline is dotted with picturesque islands, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing beach getaways. Just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park consists of five stunning islands, each offering beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. Among them, Manukan, Sapi, and Gaya islands are particularly popular with tourists seeking a mix of water sports, snorkeling adventures, and serene relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Situated off the east coast of Sabah, Mabul Island, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional diving opportunities. Its vibrant coral reefs and unique marine creatures, like the flamboyant cuttlefish, make it a must-visit destination. Mabul’s tranquil atmosphere also makes it perfect for both adventurous divers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

Further south lies Sipadan Island is widely regarded as one of the world’s top diving destinations. Renowned for its incredible underwater biodiversity, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and thriving coral reefs, Sipadan is a true diver’s paradise.

Sunsets, Beaches,
and Seas

Along Sabah’s western coast, the sunsets are nothing short of spectacular, with Tanjung Aru Beach standing out as an iconic spot to witness this daily phenomenon. Just outside Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru offers unobstructed views of the sun descending into the South China Sea, transforming the sky into brilliant shades of red, orange, and pink. The beach’s tranquil vibe, lined with beachfront resorts and inviting cafes, makes it a favoured retreat for travelers seeking to relax in a picturesque setting.

Other stunning locations for sunsets, beaches, and seas in Sabah include the scenic coastlines of Kota Belud, where tranquil beaches offer breathtaking views of the sunset reflecting on crystal-clear waters.

Further north, Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, commonly known as the Tip of Borneo, provides extraordinary vistas where the South China Sea and Sulu Sea converge at the northernmost point of the island. These captivating locations offer unforgettable experiences for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Sabah, making them must-visit destinations for sunset lovers and beachgoers alike.

OUTDOOR SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

A wide range of outdoor activities showcases Sabah’s diverse natural landscapes, from dense rainforests to pristine coastlines. Visitors can embark on guided jungle treks in areas like Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, and Maliau Basin, where they can discover exotic wildlife and navigate challenging terrains. Adventure seekers will find excitement in white-water rafting on the Padas and Kiulu Rivers, while paragliding over scenic spots like Tuaran offers stunning aerial views. The waters invite exploration through world-class diving at Sipadan Island, snorkeling in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and peaceful kayaking in the Klias Wetlands. For hikers, climbing Mount Kinabalu presents a rewarding challenge, offering panoramic views and unique ecosystems along the way.

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Mountain Climbing

Embark on an exhilarating ascent of Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, rising 4,095 meters. This adventure provides breathtaking panoramic views and showcases a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Suitable for both seasoned climbers and enthusiastic hikers, the climb offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. As you ascend, you’ll have the chance to explore unique alpine and montane ecosystems, making it a memorable journey through one of the region’s most stunning natural landscapes.

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Diving and Snorkelling

Immerse yourself in Sabah’s underwater paradise by exploring world-class diving spots like Sipadan Island, famous for its stunning marine biodiversity, including sea turtles, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, with its five picturesque islands, provides crystal-clear waters and a rich array of marine life. This park is ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers, offering a spectacular glimpse into the diverse underwater world of Sabah.

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White-Water Rafting

Get your adrenaline racing with an exhilarating white-water rafting adventure on the Padas and Kiulu Rivers. These rivers feature a range of rapids, from beginner-friendly to advanced, providing heart-pounding excitement for all skill levels. As you navigate the thrilling rapids, you’ll also be immersed in the breathtaking jungle landscapes of Sabah, adding a spectacular backdrop to your high-energy experience.

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Caving

Explore the enigmatic depths of Sabah’s cave systems, including the renowned Mulu Caves in Gunung Mulu National Park. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. On guided tours, you’ll traverse expansive chambers and marvel at intricate cave formations, uncovering the breathtaking subterranean wonders of this extraordinary cave network.

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Jungle Trekking

Embark on guided jungle treks through Sabah’s vibrant rainforests for an adventure that promises lasting memories. Traverse diverse trails in Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, and Maliau Basin, each offering a unique experience. In Kinabalu Park, explore lush highland forests and alpine meadows. Danum Valley presents ancient rainforests with opportunities to spot rare wildlife, while Maliau Basin’s remote and rugged terrain challenges your skills and endurance. Along each trail, you’ll discover Sabah’s rich biodiversity, from exotic flora and fauna to breathtaking landscapes. These treks offer an immersive chance to connect deeply with nature, providing an unparalleled way to witness the pristine environments and stunning natural beauty of this remarkable region.

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Wildlife Watching

Experience the thrill of encountering Sabah’s incredible wildlife in their natural habitats. Embark on a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, where you can spot elusive species such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys in their serene surroundings. The river’s diverse ecosystem offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close in a breathtaking setting. For a more immersive experience, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, you can witness these majestic creatures being rehabilitated and learn about ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting them and preserving their habitats.

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Golfing

Tee off at some of Sabah’s most picturesque golf courses, where the sport meets stunning natural beauty. The Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club in Kota Kinabalu offers a breathtaking backdrop, with lush greens set against striking views of the sea. Sabah’s golf courses are known for blending challenging play with beautiful surroundings, creating an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts. Other notable courses include the historic Kota Kinabalu Golf Club (KKGC), the well-manicured Sabah Golf & Country Club, the scenic Dalit Bay Golf & Country Club, the serene Nexus Resort Golf Course, and the highland charm of Mount Kinabalu Golf Club. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player, Sabah’s courses promise an unforgettable golfing experience amidst the region’s natural splendour.

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Paragliding

Soar above Sabah’s breathtaking landscapes with exhilarating paragliding adventures. Experience the thrill of flight as you glide gracefully through the air, capturing panoramic views of the coastline, rugged mountains, and verdant valleys below. Popular paragliding spots like Tuaran provide optimal conditions for this high-flying adventure, letting thrill-seekers enjoy the region’s natural beauty from a stunning aerial perspective. As you navigate the skies, you’ll be immersed in Sabah’s diverse scenery, offering an unforgettable way to connect with the land while satisfying your adventurous spirit. This unique perspective allows you to appreciate the full splendor of Sabah’s landscapes, making it a truly remarkable experience.

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Kayaking and Canoeing

Discover Sabah’s tranquil waters with kayaking and canoeing adventures. Paddle through serene lakes and winding rivers like the Klias Wetlands, where you can enjoy the peaceful reflections of nature and spot local wildlife in a calm, picturesque setting. These activities provide a gentle and immersive way to connect with Sabah’s diverse aquatic environments, offering a relaxing yet enriching experience in the region’s natural beauty.

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Sea Kayaking

Discover Sabah’s stunning coastline from a whole new vantage point with sea kayaking. Paddle through the clear, calm waters surrounding islands like Gaya and Manukan, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking coastal views and the chance to encounter marine life up close. Glide over vibrant coral reefs, explore hidden coves, or stop at secluded beaches for a tranquil break. Sea kayaking offers a peaceful and scenic adventure, perfect for those looking to connect with the natural beauty of Sabah’s pristine waters.

LOCAL DELICACIES
“Sabah’s Culinary Delights”

“Sabah’s delicacies contribute to Malaysia’s diverse culinary scene,
which includes iconic dishes like nasi lemak, beef rendang,
and char kway teow. This is further complemented by
international cuisines such as Japanese sushi,
Italian pasta, Middle Eastern shawarma, and Western dishes
like burgers, steaks, and sandwiches.
Fusion creations like chilli crab pizza, Korean BBQ tacos,
and durian cheesecake further showcase the rich,
creative blend of flavors that makes dining in Malaysia
a unique and vibrant experience.”

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Hinava

Hinava is a Sabah icon, a Kadazan-Dusun specialty made from raw fish (usually mackerel) marinated in lime juice, ginger, chili, and grated Bambangan, a local wild mango. It’s similar to ceviche and offers a refreshing, zesty taste.

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Tuaran Mee

Tuaran Mee is a must-try noodle dish from Tuaran, near Kota Kinabalu. The egg noodles are stir-fried until golden and crispy, served with pork slices, vegetables, and eggs, with variations including seafood or chicken.

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Latok

Latok, or sea grapes, is a type of seaweed found in Sabah’s coastal waters. It is often served as a salad, accompanied by a spicy sambal sauce. The seaweed has a unique crunchy texture, bursting with briny flavor.

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Ngiu Chap

A popular Chinese dish in Sabah, Ngiu Chap is a beef noodle soup that features various cuts of beef, including tripe, tendon, and meatballs, served in a flavorful broth with noodles. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that locals and visitors alike enjoy.

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Ambuyat

A traditional dish shared with neighbouring Brunei, Ambuyat is made from the starch of the sago palm, cooked into a sticky, glue-like consistency. It is usually eaten with a variety of dipping sauces and side dishes, offering a unique culinary experience.

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Sabah Laksa

A regional twist on classic laksa, Sabah Laksa features a rich, creamy coconut broth infused with aromatic spices. This flavorful soup combines tender noodles with seafood or chicken, garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sambal for added heat.

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Udang Salai

This traditional Sabah delicacy offers a rich smoky flavor and succulent texture. Often enjoyed alone or with rice, Udang Salai provides a unique, aromatic taste, reflecting the region’s culinary tradition of smoking meats and seafood.

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Sinalau Bakas

Sinalau Bakas is a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish featuring smoked wild boar meat. Marinated with spices and smoked over an open fire, it has a robust, smoky flavor and tender texture, often served sliced or shredded.

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Bambangan

Bambangan is a wild mango native to Sabah, known for its tangy, slightly sweet flavour and distinct aroma. Often pickled, it adds a unique, zesty touch to dishes, highlighting its vibrant, tropical taste.

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Fish Soup

Sabah Fish Soup is a flavourful dish featuring tender noodles in a savory broth made from fresh fish. It includes chunks of fish, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting, delicious, and satisfying meal.

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Losun

Losun is a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish from Sabah made with wild spring onions (losun) stir-fried with chili, garlic, and anchovies. It offers a flavorful, aromatic blend of savory and spicy, highlighting the fresh, pungent taste of losun.

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Pinasakan Sada

Pinasakan Sada is a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish made from fish, usually mackerel, simmered with tangy buah bambangan, turmeric, and other spices. The slow cooking process results in a rich, flavorful dish with a balance of sour and savory tastes.

TROPICAL FRUITS
“A Taste of Sabah’s Exotic Produce”

“Sabah’s fertile soil and tropical climate provide perfect conditions for cultivating a wide variety of exotic fruits, many of which are highly seasonal and cherished for their distinct flavours. Fruits like durian, rambutan, mangosteen, and tarap thrive in this region, offering both locals and visitors an opportunity to experience rare and flavourful tropical delicacies. In addition to these local treasures, Sabah also imports a range of international fruits, including apples, grapes, and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. This blend of locally grown and imported fruits enhances Sabah’s diverse fruit offerings, reflecting its abundant natural resources and culinary appeal, making it a fruit lover’s paradise.”

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Durian

Known as the “king of fruits,” durian is famous for its strong smell and creamy, custard-like flesh. Sabah produces some of the finest durian varieties, loved by locals for its rich, sweet flavor.

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Rambutan

Covered with soft, hairy spikes, Rambutan is a juicy, sweet fruit similar to lychee. Its translucent flesh is refreshing and slightly tangy.

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Mangosteen

Often called the “queen of fruits,” Mangosteen is known for its dark purple rind and sweet, tangy white flesh. It is highly prized for its refreshing flavour.

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Mango

Known for their luscious, juicy, and sweet flavor with a rich, vibrant orange flesh, Mango's tropcal aroma and versatile use make them ideal for desserts, salads, and smoothies.

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Pineapple

With its fibrous, yellow flesh, pineapple delivers a vibrant, sweet-tart flavor that’s perfect for both savory and sweet recipes, adding a tropical zing to any dish.

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Watermelon

Known for its refreshing, sweet flavor, Watermelon perfect for hydrating snacks, smoothies, or summer salads. It is a large, juicy fruit with a smooth green rind and vibrant red or yellow flesh.

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Jackfruit

With a thick, spiky green skin. Jackfruit's yellow, fibrous flesh is sweet and aromatic, often used in desserts, curries, or eaten fresh.

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Langsat

Small and round, Langsat has translucent white flesh with a sweet yet slightly bitter taste. The fruit is a popular snack and can be found in local markets.

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Passion Fruit

A tropical fruit with tough, wrinkled skin and aromatic pulp filled with crunchy seeds. Its tangy-sweet flavour and tropical fragrance make it a delightful addition to desserts, cocktails, and salads.

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Pomelo

This large citrus fruit features juicy segments that range from sweet to mildly sour, delivering a refreshing, crisp taste with a subtle, tangy aroma.

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Tarap

A fruit unique to Borneo, Tarap has a sweet, custard-like flesh inside a spiky, soft shell. Its creamy texture and mild, fragrant aroma make it a favourite among locals.

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Banana

Including varieties like Pisang Mas, bananas offer a range of sweet, creamy flavors and textures, making them a versatile fruit for snacking, baking, or cooking.

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Starfruit

When sliced, this star-shaped fruit reveals juicy, mildly sweet flesh with a crisp texture, offering a visually appealing and tasty addition to various dishes.

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Snake Fruit

Featuring a scaly skin, this small fruit has sweet, slightly acidic flesh with a unique flavor, offering a distinctive and intriguing tropical taste experience.

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Soursop

Known for its creamy texture and slightly sour taste, soursop is often used in beverages and desserts, providing a rich, tropical flavor with a creamy consistency.

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Papaya

This tropical fruit has bright orange flesh with a naturally sweet flavor, perfect for desserts, salads, or as a refreshing snack, providing a tropical taste experience.

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Kasturi Lime

A small, round lime with vibrant green skin and aromatic zest. Known for its intense, tangy flavor and fragrant aroma, it adds a refreshing note to dishes and beverages.

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Coconut

A tropical fruit with a hard, fibrous outer shell and sweet, creamy white flesh. Its refreshing water and rich, flavorful meat are widely used in beverages, desserts, and savory dishes.

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Dragon Fruit

An exotic fruit with striking red skin and vibrant magenta flesh speckled with tiny black seeds. Its mildly sweet flavour, crisp texture, and eye-catching appearance make it perfect for smoothies, salads, and desserts.

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Guava

A tropical fruit with green or yellow skin and pink or white flesh. Known for its sweet, fragrant flavor and slightly grainy texture, guava is rich in nutrients and perfect for juices, salads, and desserts.

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Honey Melon

Honey Melon is a sweet, juicy fruit with pale green or golden flesh and a smooth, yellowish rind. Its mild, refreshing flavor makes it perfect for fresh eating or in fruit salads, offering a hydrating and cooling taste.

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Custard Apple

A tropical fruit with a green, scaly exterior and soft, creamy white flesh. Its sweet, custard-like flavor, combined with its smooth texture, makes it ideal for desserts, smoothies, and eating fresh.