November 2007

November 2007 Volume

Volume 81
81

RM 1.00

Sabah Tourism Awards 2007

Honouring the industry’s best

INSIDE: Cruising the Kinabatangan, Pesta Jagung, Eating Out and more!
SEE YOUR
AD HERE!
For advertising details,
please call 088-232121
 Contents
ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin

EDITOR Melissa Leong

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

What’s New At Kadaiku design by Charlieking Padasian

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board 3 Feature Personality

51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu
Najmi Thys Abdullah, Director of Sutdies, Asian Tourism Institute
TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese)
Rie Harada (Japanese)
Emzee Lee (Korean)
DESIGNED & PRINTED BY 4 Happenings & Highlights
Inna Kinabalu Sdn Bhd Sabah Tourism Awards 2007
(Publisher of The New Sabah Times)
Pesta Jagung
Jalan Pusat Pembangunan Masyarakat, Sembulan
88100 Kota Kinabalu Remembrance Day
Bamboo Music Festival
Ever y ef for t has been made to ensure that the information is
correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be held Pesta Kubis
responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions and alterations which
may occur as a result of last minute changes. No par t of this
Decorative Art & Craft Show
magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the 4M Kiulu Challenge
Sabah Tourism Board.

7 Eating Out
Scoops Gelato Bar

Editorial At the
Sunset Bar, Nexus Resort Karambunai

M
ajestic hornbills soaring 8
recent Spa Essentials
above us, proboscis monkeys
Borneo Spa, Nexus Resort Karambunai
leaping from tree to tree and
in a distance, Borneo pygmy
elephants grazing without a care in 9 Places of Interest
the world…Ah, to cruise the Gomantong Caves
Kinabatangan. I had the wonderful
opportunity to explore Sukau, the
wildlife hotspot of Sabah, and cruise 10 Feature
the second longest river in Malaysia, Cruising the Kinabatangan
the winding waters of
Kinabatangan. There were so many
heart-stopping moments of awe and 12 Through The Lens
if anything, many of us left with a Historical Sites of Sabah
newfound respect and appreciation
for God’s creatures great and small.
Read all about this ‘wild’ adventure 14 Culture
in this month’s Feature section (p.10) Doing my part in the tree planting
and I hope it will inspire you to make Limbai - Dance of the Bajau People
project at Kg. Abai
a trip to Sandakan in the near
future.
15 What’s New at Kadaiku
As I flip another page on my We hope the magazine will serve Sabah Souvenirs & Handicrafts
calendar, it’s hard to believe we’re you well during your time in Sabah.
reaching the end of the year. But that For a better insight on what the Land
hardly means it’s time to slow down! Below The Wind has to offer, log on 16 Bahasa Malaysia Section
November promises a range of to www.sabahtourism.com or come
exciting events, many of which are chat with our friendly tourist
uniquely Sabah. Head to Kota assistants at our Sabah Tourism or Sri 18 Chinese Section
Marudu for the Pesta Jagung or Pelancongan Sabah information
Maize Fest, or nearer to Kota counters. Here’s wishing you sunny
Kinabalu city is Tamparuli where you skies, fun-filled days and a suitcase of 20 Japanese Section
can catch the Bamboo Music Festival. Sabahan souvenirs!
November also marks a special time
for the Sabah tourism industry as we Jumpa lagi, 22 Korean Section
celebrate and honour outstanding
contributors during the Sabah
Tourism Awards (limited tickets are 24 Directory Listings
available for purchase). It’s all about
glam, glitz and glory! Check out the
Calendar of Events on page 2 for a 25 Sabah Map & Listings
complete list of what’s happening in
Sabah this month.
26 Sandakan Heritage Trail
Melissa Leong
Editor
7th Annual Palliative Care Association Charity Dinner –
Featuring The Supremes
3 November
Come and watch renowned 60s soul divas, The Supremes,
perform live at the Grand Ballroom of the Magellan Sutera at
the Sutera Harbour Resort, Kota Kinabalu during the 7th Women Painters Art Exhibition
annual charity dinner organized by the Palliative Care 22 November – 17 December 2007
Association (PCA). The exhibition showcases the works of art of Sabah’s well-
Organiser: known female artists and their latest masterpieces.
Palliative Care Association (PCA) / Sutera Harbour Resort Organiser:
For further info: Sabah Art Gallery
Tel: 088-303001 (Sutera Harbour Resort) / 088-231 505 For further info: Datuk Mohd. Yaman Hj. Ahmad Mus
(PCA) / 016 841 1499 (Emily Koh) / 019 862 6838 (Liza Yong) Tel: 088 268875 Fax: 088 210040
Email: gallery_9@msn.com
Deepavali Day
8 November 2007 Ranau Cultural Carnival 2007
Deepavali is a festival where Hindus of all ages participate in 24-25 November 2007
festivities that give expression to their hapiness by lighting This event is held in Ranau, home of the friendly Dusun
earthern diyas, decorating their houses, lighting fire crackers people. Join the local folks as they showcase their rich culture
and inviting near and dear ones to their homes. The lighting through displays of kenduri adat (traditional feast), colourful
of lamps is a way of paying obeisance to God for attainment dance performances, crafts and traditional games.
of health, wealth, knowledge, peace, valour and fame. Organiser: Sabah Cultural Board
For further info: Sabah Tourism Board For further info: Mackey Apison
Sri pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd Tel: 088 268812, 268884 Fax: 088 264235
Tel: 088 212121, 232121 Fax: 088 212075, 265540 Remembrance Day Email: Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my,
Email: info@sabahtourism.com 11 November 2007 Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my
A poignant event held yearly to remember the courageous
10th Annual Decorative Art & Craft Exhibition and Sale men who died during the war. This day is observed on the Sabah Tourism Awards 2007
10 November 11th hour of the 11th day of November. Each year, red pop- 25 November
The 10th Annual Decorative Art & Craft Exhibition and Sale pies are worn during this time, which denotes the poppies of The Sabah Tourism Awards 2007 is a biennial event that
will take place at Beverly Hotel’s Nipah Room, Kota Kinabalu. the Flanders in France. celebrates and honours industry players for their outstanding
Purchase one of a kind crafts created by art and craft enthu- Organiser: contribution. This year’s awards will take place at Shangri-
siasts from around Sabah. The event takes place from Destination Borneo Sdn Bhd / Labuan Corporation La’s Tanjung Aru Resort.
10:00am to 5:00pm. Venue: Organiser:
For more information, please contact Christianne Goonting at Labuan War Cemetery, Federal Territory of Labuan Sabah Tourism Board/Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.
019 881 1330 For further info: Willie Teo For further info:
Organiser: Christianne Goonting Tel: 087 414611 Fax: 087 413459 Tel: 088-212121 / 0188-232121
For further info: Tel: 019 881 1330 Email: wteo@tm.net.my Fax: 088-212075/ 088-265540
E-mail: cynthia@sabahtourism.com /
Pesta Jagung (Maize Fest) Balik Kampung School Activities shahira@sabahtourism.com
10 – 11 November 2007 16 – 23 November 2007
An annual festival of Kota Marudu District that celebrates the An integrated assortment of traditional and cultural activities
maize industry. Featuring a myriad of activities including targeting primary and secondary students as part of their
maize-related exhibitions, competitions, traditional sports, preparation to return to their respective villages or kampungs
Pesta Jagung beauty pageant and colourful cultural perform- during the long school holidays. Special programmes will be
ances. set and arranged for students to enjoy, while creating an
Organiser: Kota Marudu District Office awareness of their vital role in preserving tradition and
Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd culture.
For further info: Encik Matius Sator (District Office) Organiser: Sabah Museum
Zachary Mobijohn For further info: Mr. Dius Kubud
Tel: 088 661321, 232121 Fax: 088 661419, 265540 Tel: 088 253199 Fax: 088 240230
Email: Matius.Satur@sabah.gov.my, Email: Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my
zachary@sabahtourism.com
Pesta Kubis 2007 (Cabbage Fest)
MAH-ATI 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta 17 November 2007
10-11 November Home to the freshest vegetables in Sabah, come and join the
The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) and the Asian folks of Kundasang in their effort to promote their vegetables-
Tourism Institute (ATI) will be jointly organizing the 10th cabbage being the main Produce to visitors. Fresh vegeta- Bamboo Music Festival
Sabah Hospitality Fiesta, which takes place at the Asia City bles and exciting activities complemented with cool and 28 November 2007
Complex. This annual event will be showcasing hospitality, refreshing weather, make your way to Kundasang this month Higlights include a musical performance by various Bamboo
tourism and culinary skills of budding talents in the industry. for the Pesta Kubis. Orchestra musicians in Sabah, using a traditional bamboo
Organisers: Organiser: instruments such as the Sompoton, Seruling (flute) and the
The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) / Asian Tourism District Council of Ranau Tagunggak as percussions. This is also a great opportunity to
Institute (ATI) For Further info: Siriman Basir ( District Officer) purchase rare bamboo handicraft.
For further info: Mr. Najmi Abdullah Suatin Mayor (Organising Secretary) Organiser: Persatuan Orkestra Muzik Bambu
Director of Studies Tel: 088 875253, 013 8771666, 019 8411435 For further info: Jane Thing (president) / Wendy Guntarik
Tel: 088-253 732 / 242 633 / 252 633 Fax: 088 876754 Tel: 013 8665612 / 013 8783238
E-mail najmi@ati.edu.com Email: siriman.basir@sabah.gov.my Fax: 088 981346

hen Dutchman Najmi Thys Abdullah first stepped onto Sabah
W soil in 1989, little did he know how his infatuation with the Land
below the Wind would grow into a full-blown love affair. A back-
packing trip in Peninsular Malaysia led him to a chance meeting with a
Sabahan lady with whom he now has 2 lovely children with, a son aged
5 and a 20-month old daughter.
Today, Najmi is the Director of Studies for the Asian Tourism Institute,
better known as ATI, in Kota Kinabalu. The school offers training in the
areas of hospitality, tourism and culinary arts. Having been with ATI for six
and a half years, Najmi speaks with passion when it comes to
shaping the future of Sabah’s tourism industry. “We offer various
qualifications to students interested in pursuing a career in the tourism
industry. But it goes beyond that as anyone with a diploma can find a job.
Here at ATI, we aim to groom and train our students to work at
managerial levels and tap into their full potential,” he explains. Najmi
further explained that the skills learned in ATI are just 40 percent of what
makes an individual successful in the tourism and hospitality industry.
“Apart from instilling in them the theoretical background, it is important
that the students build confidence and have the right attitude to be in the
service industry. Management skills are also an important aspect, which
is something we stress upon here,” he explains. Najmi points out that
Sabah is particularly known for its charming people, a highly valuable
asset in the tourism industry. “Sabahans are known for their friendliness
and warmth. In fact, this is why hotels and resorts in Peninsular Malaysia
prefer Sabahan staff as they are known for their excellent people skills,”
he says.
Feature Personality 3
With its warm people and eco-treasures from mountain high to ocean
deep, Najmi is confident that Sabah’s tourism industry can look forward
to a bright future. “Compared to many other destinations, Sabah has so
much to offer. The culture, the food, the sun, the sea – these are the great
things about Sabah but once again, I do believe the charm lies in its peo-
ple,” he says. “Also, Sabah – and all of Malaysia for that matter – is a
hassle-free destination. For example, you can choose to lie on the beach
or stroll in town without worrying about being hassled by vendors and the
like. This makes Sabah such a pleasant holiday destination,” he adds,
stressing that Sabah should not compete to be another mass tourism
destination and pace its development process. “We don’t need to be
another Bali or Bangkok. We are, after all, a nature resort city and it is
very important to maintain the nature that surrounds it,” he says. Sabah’s
growing popularity also cannot be denied. “At the Youth Tourism
Conference in Putrajaya last year, they conducted a survey to see which
State in Malaysia was a preferred destination and Sabah came out as the
number one choice of the participants (a majority of whom were from
Peninsular Malaysia). I think this is testament that Sabah has indeed
made its mark as one of the best places to visit, particularly among
domestic travellers,” Najmi says.
As for his hopes for ATI, Najmi said that he hopes the institute will
continue to do well and produce individuals who can contribute greatly to
the tourism industry. “As for the State’s tourism industry, I hope that we
continue to focus on preserving and conserving our existing attractions
and not strive to be another Bali or Phuket. Our real charm lies in the
friendly people and as long as we do not lose sight of that, Sabah will
continue to prosper as a preferred travel destination,” he concluded.
4 Happenings & Highlights
Pesta
Jagung
(Maize
Festival),
10-11
November
his month, the folks of Kota
T Marudu celebrate the
maize industry, one of the
main contributors to the
©Sabah Tourism
district’s economy and
livelihood. Located some
Sabah Tourism Awards 2007, 25 November 130km from Kota Kinabalu, the
©Sabah Tourism
Kota Marudu town field comes
he Sabah Tourism Awards 2007 is a biennial event that celebrates
T and honours industry players for their outstanding contribution. This
year, the event will be held at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La’s
alive with a variety of events
for all to enjoy, including a corn-eating competition, traditional games,
cultural performances and several maize-related exhibitions. One of the
Tanjung Aru Resort at 7:00pm. Among the coveted awards include Best unique highlights is none other than the Pesta Jagung Beauty Pageant.
Tour Operator, Best Tour Guide, Excellence in Hotel Services, Best Local beauties don maize-inspired outfits with creative touches. See
Entertainment Spot, Best Shopping Centre and Best Tourism Article on them parade in skirts adorned with the leaves of the maize plant and
Sabah. A night of glamour and glitz featuring the crème de la crème of kernel earrings and matching necklaces! When in Kota Marudu, visit the
Sabah’s tourism industry. famous Sorinsim Waterfall, located 40km from the main town and Taman
Tickets are available for purchase. For more information and ticket Sagabon, an agriculture research station at the Buyut lake. You can also
enquiries, please contact Sabah Tourism Board at 088-212121 or Sri find South East Asia’s biggest solar power station in right here in Kota
Pelancongan Sabah at 088-232121. Marudu.
For more information, please contact District Officer Jane Tan Hoi
Kwan at tel. no 088-661321 or Zachary Mobijohn at 088-232121.
E-mail jane.tan@sabah.gov.my or zachary@sabahtourism.com

Remembrance Day, 11 November

emembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day) is usually observed
R on the 11th hour of the 11th day on November every year to
commemorate the Allied servicemen who perished during the war. Red
poppies are worn during that day, which denotes the poppies of the
Flanders Field in France.
This year, Remembrance Day will be observed on November 11 at
the Labuan War Cemetary, Labuan FT. This is the final resting place of
3,908 brave men, including British and Australian Prisoners of War,
members of the 2/15 Punjab Regiments as well as Malaysian soldiers
from the Special Z unit.
The event is free of charge and all are welcome to attend. The event
begins with an introduction of Remembrance Day followed by prayers
according to the respective faith, wreath-laying and a moment of silence.
For further information, please contact Willie Teo at 087-414 611 or
©Sabah Tourism
fax 087- 413 459. E-mail wteo@tm.net.my
Happenings & Highlights 5
MAH-ATI 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta
10-11 November
T he Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) and the Asian Tourism Institute
(ATI) will be jointly organizing the 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta. This annu-
Bamboo Music Festival
al event will be showcasing hospitality, tourism and culinary skills of budding
talents in the industry. Students will pit against each other in various competi-
tions such as fruit carving,
28 November
bartending, themed bed-making, themed table setting and pastry-
making. Come and witness these young talents in actions at the Asia City
Complex.
The Closing Dinner will be held on 11 November at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru
Resort at 6:30pm. Contact the organizers to purchase tickets.
For more information on the event, please contact Mr. Najmi Abdullah,
Director of Studies at tel. no.088-253 732 / 242 633 / 252 633 or e-mail
najmi@ati.edu.com

Kiulu 4M Challenge, 2 December

hallenge your physical abilities and have a splashing good time during the
C Kiulu 4M Challenge in December! This much-awaited annual race features
four traditional activities/ survival skills of the natives of Sabah which all begin
with the letter “M”in the Kadazandusun language. The 4 M’s are challenging
events that participants must complete in sequence: manangkus (running for
6 km), mamangkar (bamboo rafting for 5 km), manampatau (swimming with a
length of bamboo for 1.3 km) and mamarampanau (bamboo stilt-walking for
0.2 km).
Since its debut in 1996, the race has become a much-anticipated annual
event, attracting adventure enthusiasts from all over. The competition has sev-
eral categories, including the
X-treme 5M, the Mixed Open and Junior Open. Come and cheer for your
favourite team. It’s all happening right here in Kiulu!
For further information, please contact the Organising Chairman, Mr. Ariffin
Gadait at tel. no +6088-225752 / +6019 862 4585 or e-mail
to:Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my, Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my. Visit the web-
site at http://www.geocities.com/k4mc/index.html
http://www.geocities.com/k4mc/index.html

©Sabah Tourism

ead to Tamparuli in November to witness the Bamboo Music

H Festival – a celebration that highlights the melodies of bamboo
instruments, unique to this part of the world. The famed Kinabalu
Bamboo Orchestra will be performing songs on various bamboo-
based instruments, including the sompoton (a bamboo aerophone),
bungkau (a harp jaw) and tagunggak (a hollow bamboo idiophone).
Don’t miss other exciting events such as the rampanau (bamboo
stilt-walking) race, bamboo raft-building competition and a ram-
panau parade. This is a great chance to learn more about and pur-
chase local bamboo-based handicraft and musical instruments. It’s
all happening this month at the Bamboo Music Festival in
Tamparuli. See you there!
For more information, please contact Jane Thing at tel. no 013 866
5612 or Wendy Guntarik at 013 878 3238
6 Happenings & Highlights
©Sutera Harbour
7th Annual Palliative Care Association Charity Dinner
– Featuring The Supremes, 3 November
ome and watch renowned 60s soul divas, The
C Supremes, perform live at the Grand Ballroom
of the Magellan Sutera at the Sutera Harbour
Resort, Kota Kinabalu during the 7th annual
charity dinner organized by the Palliative Care
Association (PCA). The Supremes will be
performing hits such as ‘Stop! In The Name Of
Love’, ‘Back In My Arms Again’ and ‘River Deep
Mountain High’. There will also be an auction of
10th Annual
Decorative Art &
Craft Exhibition
and Sale,
10 November
on’t miss the 10th Annual
D Decorative Art & Craft Exhibition
and Sale at Beverly Hotel’s Nipah
Room, Kota Kinabalu. Purchase one
of a kind crafts created by art and craft
enthusiasts from around Sabah. The
one-day exhibition features a variety
of contemporary art and craft
technique such as folk art, stenciling
work, copper tooling, glass painting,
tin guilding and decoupage. Some of
the items on display and on sale are
made of recycled materials, including
biscuit tins, cereal boxes and event
paintings by local artists. Do your part for charity
and have an unforgettable night with The
Supremes! Tickets are available at RM15,000.00 /
fused light bulbs and bottles. A great
opportunity to start looking for
interesting Christmas gifts for friends
RM10,000.00 / RM5,000.00 / RM3,000.00 and
and loved ones! The event takes
RM2,000.00 per table.
place from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
For reservations, please call the Sutera
For more information, please
Harbour Resort at tel. no. 088-303001 or the
contact Christianne Goonting at
PCA at 088-231 505 / 016 841 1499 (Emily Koh)
019 881 1330
or 019 862 6838 (Liza Yong)
Eating Out
hat could be better than a refreshing serving of delicious gelato on
W a sunny Sabah day? For this piece of heaven, visit Scoops Gelato
Bar at Warisan Square in Kota Kinabalu. Unlike regular ice-cream,
Scoops gelato is freshly made every day in small 4-litre batches,
ensuring all around freshness. It is also creamier and has less air
content than ice cream, giving it an intense flavour. Health conscious?
No problem as Scoop Gelato Bar uses natural ingredients without any
preservatives or artificial colouring. The weight watchers will also be glad
to know that gelato has no more than 8 percent fat. They also serve
dairy-free sorbet and sugar-free gelato (vanilla and cappuccino).
Choose from a wide variety of flavours, from the classic chocolate to the
more unusually flavoured banana cheese! There are over 60 flavours to
choose from and 14 are served each day on rotation. Other flavours
include blueberry cream, espresso, marshmallow, green tea, tiramisu,
Bailey’s cream, pink guava, pineapple sorbet, mango sorbet and
strawberry yoghurt…to name a few! Scoops Gelato Bar also offers a 50
Sunset Bar, Nexus Resort Karambunai
I hearty meal or sip on a cocktail as you enjoy the sunset. Located on the
©Nexus Resort Karambunai
7
©Sabah Tourism
percent discount on selected gelatos so ask
your friendly waiter for the picks of the day. Looking for a snack? Scoops
serves a variety of salads and finger foods, such as fish fingers,
sandwiches and French fries. Enjoy these dining delights with any of
their beverages – we recommend the mock Sangria, a delicious fizzy
fusion of fruits. All this can be enjoyed in a cool and hip ambience,
perfect for an after-dinner get together with friends and family. Did we
mention the fantastic and friendly service? See you at Scoops!
Scoops Gelato Bar is located at Unit no. A-G-19, Block A, Ground
Floor, Warisan Square (opposite The Island Shop). Opening hours:
11:00 am to 11:00 pm (Monday to Thursday) and 11:00 am to 12:00
midnight (Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays).
For more offers, sign up for the Scoops privilege card. For more
information, contact Raymond at tel. no 088-484 337 or 016 836
2652.
f you are in Nexus Resort Karambunai, drop by the Sunset Bar to enjoy a
beachfront, the Sunset Bar is a quaint establishment, offering diners an al
fresco environment to enjoy the South China Sea breeze while they eat. For
starters, check out the Lite Bites which offer an array of finger food
including satay (a Malaysian favourite), Greek salad, spicy potato wedges
and soup of the day. They also serve an array of sandwiches – try the
tandoori chicken served in tortilla bread with cucumber yogurt. Kids will love
the Sunset Burger, chargrilled with onions or the Jumbo New York Hot Dog,
served with caramelized onions, mustard and home-made relish. Moving on
the main course, the Sunset Bar can whip up a hearty charcoal-grilled
Australian Rib Eye Steak or if you prefer something light, try the Grilled
Seabass Fillet with spring onions and lemon dressing. However, the pizza
has proved to be the real winner at the Sunset Bar. Choose from a variety
of flavours, including quarto formaggio, margarita and Mediterranean.
There’s definitely something for everyone! Craving for something sweet? Go
for the chocolate cake, apple crumble or caramello cheesecake. Simply
delectable! Cocktails, mocktails, smoothies and fresh juices are also
available so take your pick. Surrounded by the great outdoors and with an
amazing view of the sunset, the Sunset Bar will not disappoint.
Open daily from 12 noon to 11:00 pm. For more information, contact
Nexus Resort Karambunai at 088-411222.
8 S p a E s s e n t i a l s
tep into a world of relaxation and indulgence

S at the Borneo Spa at the Nexus Resort

Karambunai. As you step into the luxurious
spa, you are greeted by the sounds of the
rainforest and a calming ambience. The Relaxation
Lounge, as it is aptly named, is where your
pampering begins. After donning your robe in the
changing room, guests make their way to the
Relaxation Lounge where they will be met by their
personal therapist. Your treatment will take place in
a private room. One of the more popular treatments
is the Aromatherapy Massage – a relaxing
massage that relieves knots and pains in the body
using a specially blended oil. Guests can choose
from a range of oils – Borneo Spice, Borneo
Passion, Borneo Laut or Borneo Relax. The
massage begins with the therapist gently kneading
your back, working her way from shoulders to hips.
Be sure to communicate with your therapist on the
desired pressure. Your massage should be
comfortable at all times. The therapist then moves
to the arms and then the legs, applying pressure to
the palms and soles to relieve any soreness. The
©Nexus Resort Karambunai
final stage of the massage involves a gentle
massage of the neck and head. Much-needed after

Borneo Spa
a long day of shopping or a hard day at work! The
Borneo Spa also offers a variety of treatments,
such as the Borneo Sun Soother, a rehydrating and
soothing process for the body after a day out in the
sun. Signature treatments include the Borneo
Detox, which exfoliates dead skin cells, stimulates
blood circulation and eliminates toxins, and the

Nexus Resort Karambunai Borneo Massage, a combination of massage

techniques to improve blood circulation and
digestion whilst draining toxins via the lymphatic
system. For an unforgettable session, ask for the
Relax By The Sea, where you can enjoy a
massage at the beachfront massage cabanas as
the sounds of the sea seduces your senses.
Pedicures, manicures and facials are also
available. Ask the friendly reception for more
details on the packages and treatments available.
Other facilities at Borneo Spa include hot and cold
pools, sauna, steam room and showers.
To make an appointment, contact Nexus Resort
Karambunai at 088-411 222 ext. 6241 or fax 088-
408 188. Visit the website at www.nexusresort.com
Note: In the last issue of Sabah Malaysian Borneo, the contact
details for Patrick Saloon’s SEAH Hair Spa treatment was
omitted due to a printing error: Patrick Saloon also offers
regular wash, cut and dry services, permanent cold wave,
digital perms, hair rebonding, hair colouring, manicures and
pedicures. Open from 9:30 am to 7:00 pm (Mon-Sat) and till
5:00 pm on Sunday and Public Holidays. The saloon is located
at Lots D29-31, 3rd Floor, Centre Point Sabah, Kota Kinabalu,
tel. no. 088-241578. Another branch is located at 242-243, 2nd
floor of Wisma Merdeka, tel. no.: 088-238318. Appointments
©Nexus Resort Karambunai are recommended to avoid disappointment.
 P l a c e s o f
Gomantong
Caves
omantong Hill is the largest limestone
G outcrop in the Lower Kinabatangan
area, and contains at least nine
caves. For centuries, the Gomantong Caves
have been renowned for the valuable edible
birds’ nests made by two of the four species
of swiftlets that roost in the caves. During
the harvesting months, visitors may be able
to witness the birds’ nest collectors in
action. This is an age-old tradition and the
trade history of birds’ nest spans several
hundreds of years.
Gomantong consists of two cave com-
plexes, Simud Hitam and Simud Putih.
Simud Hitam is the main cave, a five-minute
walk from the Registration Centre. Along the
way to the cave, enjoy the beautiful green
surroundings and, if you are lucky, you
might even catch a glimpse of a macaque or
two. A boardwalk inside the cave makes
exploration an easy task. Be sure to have a
torchlight ready. Once inside, be amazed at
the 90-metre high cave roofs, which is
where the swiftlets’ nests are often found.
Exploring Simud Putih is for more the more
adventurous, requiring rock climbing skills.
The ‘white saliva’ birds’ nests found here
I n t e r e s t
are more valuable as they are more difficult
to collect.
The birds’ nests harvesters are individu-
als who have nerves of steel and skills
honed through years of experience.
Dangling precariously from the narrow net-
work of ladders is not a task for the faint
hearted! It is not surprising that there are
only a few experienced individuals who are
very much in demand by people and com-
munities that hold the Government’s har-
vesting licenses. Edible birds’ nests are pro-
tected under the Birds Nest Ordinance and
the Forest Enactment. Heavy fines and
penalties are imposed on unlicensed collec-
tors.
Generally, two collections are made. The
first takes place early in the breeding sea-
son before the swiftlets lay their eggs. The
birds then make another nest in which they
finally lay their eggs. After the young have
fledged, the second collection is made. Care
must be taken to assure that the nests are
collected only after the young swiftlets have
abandoned these nests.
Besides observing the exciting display
of skill and courage by the birds’ nest har-
9
vesters, another activity for keen naturalists
would be to watch the spectacular display
of over 2 million or so resident bats as they
spiral out for their evening feed. This usual-
ly occurs between 5:15pm and 6:15pm but
rain may delay or ‘cancel’ this spectacular
event. As the bats leave, the swiftlets are
usually beginning to make their way back to
the caves after a day’s foraging. The chang-
ing of ‘shifts’ between the bats and birds
makes quite a fascinating scene! Look out
for the Bat Hawks that linger not far from the
scene, as they prey specifically on the bats
as they leave their roost.
How to get there
Take a 45-minute flight or enjoy a leisurely
6-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu to
Sandakan. From Sandakan town, make
arrangements for a journey to the
Kinabatangan region, which is approximate-
ly 2 hours by road.
For more information, please contact Sabah
Tourism Board at 088-212121 or Sri
Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd. at 088-
232121.
 10
Kinabatangan
By Melissa Leong
n the still of the night, the swampy jungle feels almost alive. The
I
green canopies of the day transform into lifeless shadows looming
above our heads, enveloping our tiny boat as we chug along the
Kinabatangan river. Nobody makes a sound and our eyes dart left
and right for signs of night life. A rustle in the bush and an
unidentifiable squawk make us jump ever so slightly. And suddenly,
two glowing eyes peer from behind the foliage and quickly disappear…
Forget National Geographic. I spent a weekend in the thick of
Sabah’s wildlife hotspot, the riverbanks of the Kinabatangan. The second
longest river in Malaysia, Kinabatangan is a nature enthusiasts’ dream.
It is probably one of the few remaining places in the world where man
can venture into the natural habitats of some of the most elusive wildlife
and catch a personal glimpse of creatures great and small. My journey
began in Kampung Abai, a quaint community just an hour and a half by
speedboat from the Sandakan jetty. Our humble abode for the first day
would be the Abai Jungle Lodge – and a jungle lodge it was. Surrounded
by the forest, we were visited by macaques in the evening and were told
that some fortunate guests had even come across a clouded leopard
during their nature walk (guests can stroll along the boardwalk built
behind the lodge that runs into the jungle and back to the lodge area.
Great for spotting wildlife). My first question was straight to the point,
All photos ©Sabah Tourism
Cruising the
“Can we see elephants?” Perhaps, came the reply of our guide, Junior.
In the evening, we hopped into a boat and began our night cruise. Junior
said that during the night cruise, there was a good chance we would spot
nocturnal friends. “But be reminded that these wildlife cruise outings do
not guarantee a sighting – It really depends on your luck,” he pointed out.
“No elephants I suppose?” I asked. Probably tomorrow, he said. We
crossed our fingers. We managed to catch a glimpse of several
Kingfisher birds, asleep on tiny branches and at some point, a crocodile
made a brief appearance but disappeared faster than you can say,
“Crikey, she’s a beauty!” It was a rather quiet night but we still had two
days to go. And I had yet to see my elephant.
The next day, my friends and I were off to take part in a tree-planting
project organized by S.I Tours, our handler for the trip. The company
embarked on an interesting project whereby the villagers of Abai monitor
a tree-planting activity. Each visitor to the lodge contributes RM1.00 to
plant a tree in their name and in return, the villagers receive RM10.00 for
each tree planted. Amy Chin, Director of S.I Tours, explained that this
was their way of giving back to the community and to have the local
people involved in tourism development. “The villagers have been
extremely co-operative and over the years, they have developed an
appreciation for the tourism industry and how important it is to have
 Tree planting in Abai Seeing Borneo Pygmy Elephants in the wild is a truly unforgettable experience

sustainable development. As much as we benefit from the

industry, so should the local residents and this is our way of
giving back,” she said. In fact, most of the fresh seafood served
at the lodge is supplied by the villagers, who also enjoy a
variety of job opportunities thanks to tourism boom in the area.
S.I Tours even has a scholarship fund for deserving students
from Kg. Abai to pursue their studies. Their sincere efforts to
help the local community are truly commendable.
Our next night would be spent on another side of the
Kinabatangan river, the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. The
boat ride took approximately one hour from Abai and upon
arrival, we asked the pertinent question of the day: “Are there
any elephants here?” Junior smiled at our child-like enthusiasm
and said we’d have to wait and see. Our afternoon cruise along
the river proved fruitful. We spotted plenty of proboscis
monkeys, who quickly scurried and disappeared at the sight of
our boats. We had also seen a beautiful python, a civet and a
total of 5 of the 8 hornbill species found in the area, including
the largest of its kind, the Rhinoceros hornbill to which Junior
said we were “Very lucky indeed. Don’t get me wrong, we were
excited at all the wildlife we had come across so far…But we The jungle night-walk: In search of nocturnal creatures
had not given up on our gentle grey giants. And so our boat,
along with many others, glided its way along the
mocha-coloured waters of Kinabatangan when suddenly there
was a commotion on one of the riverbanks. That’s when I saw
it. A large grey head, flapping ears and…A trunk! The Borneo
Pygmy Elephant was just 20 feet away. Not one, not two but a
whole herd of elephants emerged from the thick of the jungle to
feed. Cameras snapped away, eyes fixated and mouth agape –
everyone reveled in the moment. This was truly the highlight of
my trip as the sighting of the Borneo Pygmy Elephant in the wild
– the smallest of its kind- is extremely rare. Even the rain that
pummeled us as we made our way back to the lodge did not
dampen our spirits and the dinner conversation was made up of
excited chatter on the elephant sighting.
It was a trip of a lifetime and no matter how many times I visit
the Kinabatangan river, it never fails to awe and inspire.

For more information on cruising the Kinabatangan,

contact S.I Tours at tel. no 089-673 502 / 673 503 / 673 508,
fax 089-673788 or e-mail sitours@tm.net.my /
info@sitoursborneo.com. Visit the website at Abai Jungle Lodge
www.sitoursborneo.com
 12

The Church of St. Michael and All Angels in Sandakan managed to escape
World War II is one of the the oldest stone buildings in Sabah

The refurbished Sabah Tourism Board building, located along Gaya Street, is one o
few buildings that survived the blitz of the second world war.

More than a hundred years old, the Atkinson Clock tower proudly stands in Kota Kinabalu city
 Through the Lens

e major damage during

©Scubazoo
Many prisoners were detained at Berhala Island, off the coast of Sandakan, during the
Japanese occupation.

of the

Explorer Ferdinand Magellan and his fleet stopped by the breathtaking Tanjung Simpang
Mengayau, also known as the Tip of Borneo, for 42 days to repair his damaged ships.
 14 Culture

©Sabah Tourism ©Sabah Tourism

Limbai
he graceful turning hand gesture is a trademark of the Limbai, the

T traditional dance of the Bajau people. Originating from the West Coast
Bajau Settlers, the dance is normally performed by three or four couples.
The Limbai is often performed during festivities, particularly weddings to
welcome the bridegroom as he arrives at the bride’s house.
The women wear the ‘badu sipak’, which has flared and slashed sleeves,
revealing contrasting coloured fitted sleeves inside. A bib of gold and silver
leaves called ‘mandapun’ accentuate the neckline. The full skirt is adorned by a

-Dance of the
woven panel called ‘Kain Belangkit’. Around her waist is a silver belt with a wide
buckle known as ‘ingkot pangkat’. The headdress is called ‘sarempak’ whilst the
fingernail extensions are known as ‘keku’.
The men don a high collared shirt called ‘badu’ with betawi buttons adorning
the front. A selendang (or scarf) is tied around his waist together with his silver

Bajau People coin belt and ‘supu’, a tobacco container. His headdress is called a ‘tanjak’.
The Limbai is accompanied by an ensemble made up of three small gongs,
two large gongs, a kulintangan (a row of small brass gongs) and two drums
called ‘gendang’.
 16 Bahasa Malaysia

Festival Muzik
Festival Muzik Bambu,
Bambu,
28 November
28 November ©Sabah Tourism
Monyet Belanda ©Sabah Tourism

atanglah ke Tamparuli November ini untuk menyaksikan Festival

D Muzim Bambu – satu perayaan yang mengetengahkan irama
daripada peralatan bulu. Orkestra Bambu Kinabalu yang terkenal akan
mempersembahkan lagu-lagu menggunakan pelbagai peralatan
berasaskan buluh, termasuklah sompoton (aerofon buluh), bungkau
(harp jaw) dan tagunggak (idiofon buluh). Jangan lepaskan acara
menarik yang lain seperti perlumbaan rampanau (berjalan
menggunakan galah buluh), pertandingan membuat rakit buluh dan
perbarisan rampanau. Ini peluang baik untuk menambah pengetahun
mengenai alatan buluh dan membeli kraftangan tempatan serta
peralatan muzik berasaskan buluh. Semuanya berlangsung bulan ini di
Festivan Muzik Bambu di Tamparuli. Jumpa anda di sana!
Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Jane Thing di talian 013-
8665612 atau Wendy Guntarik di talian 013-8783238.
Bagaimana ke sana
Tamparuli hanya 40 minit memandu menggunakan kereta dari
Bandaraya KK. Naiki bas dari stesen bas di hadapan Plaza Wawasan
untuk RM3.00 bagi perjalanan sehala. Pastikan anda memberitahu
pemandu bas mengenai tempat perhentian anda. Biasanya tempat
berhenti ini juga menjadi tempat naik untuk perjalanan pulang. Bas
berulang alik dari 7.30 pagi hingga 5.00 petang.
D engan perut yang kembung, ekor panjang dan hidung besar
berjuntai, tidak sukar untuk mengenali monyet belanda!
Monyet belanda (nasalis larvatus) didapati hanya di Borneo,
menjadikannya unik di bahagian ini di dunia. Mereka adalah penghuni
hutan dan hanya terhad di hutan paya bakau. Walaupun mereka
biasanya ditemui di tebing sungai Kinabatangan, penduduk yang
tinggal di kawasan tersebut berkata monyet-monyet ini sering dilihat di
kawasan tertentu dimana makhluk tersebut pasti muncul setiap pagi.
Lain-lain tempat untuk melihat monyet belanda beraksi ialah Perairan
Labuk di Sandakan dan tebing Sungai Garama di Beaufort.
Monyet Belanda hidup berpuak-puak, dimana kumpulannya
mengandungi seekor jantan, seekor hingga lapan betina dan
anak-anak mereka. Kumpulan ini hampir setiap masa bersama,
terutama sekali di tebing sungai pada sebelah malam. Inilah sebab
kumpulan besar monyet belanda adakalanya dapat dilihat. Satu lagi
fakta yang kurang diketahui ialah monyet belanda merupakan
perenang yang hebat!
Kunjungi Kadaiku untuk membeli patung monyet belanda, Lucky
Laki. Kadaiku terletak di Lot 5, Tingkat Bawah, Blok L, Kompleks
Sinsuran, Kota Kinabalu (lihat peta di What’s New di Kadaiku pada
muka surat 15).

Kunjungi Kud at
anyak yang boleh
B dinikmati di Kudat,
cuma tiga jam memandu
dari Kota Kinabalu dengan
pemandangan menarik
sepanjang perjalanan.
Persinggahan pertama
anda tidak lain tidak bukan
Tanjung Simpang
Mengayau yang masyhur
dan dikenati sebagai
Penghujung Borneo.
Rakamkan gambar anda di
titik paling utara Borneo
dan saksikanlah titik
pertemuan menakjubkan
Laut Sulu dan Laut China
Selatan. Masyarakat
Rungus terkenal dengan
kemahiran membuat ©CL Chan
kraftangan dan anda boleh
melihatnya lebih dekat di
Kampung Sumangkap (membuat gong), dan Kampung Tinangol (kilang
manik). Juga mesti dikunjungi ialah rumah panjang Kampung
Bavanggazo untuk pengalaman penginapan tradisional dan ladang
lebah tempatan yang menghasilkan Madu Kudat yang terkenal,
Kampung Gombizau. Di pekan Kudat, Sidek Esplanade menyediakan
bilik untuk berehat sambil menikmati ombak laut. Di Kelab Golf Kudat,
anda boleh bermain di lapangan 18 lubang yang mencabar. Tamu
tempatan juga mesti dikunjungan begitu juga dengan pasat ikannya
dimana makanan laut segar Kudat boleh dibeli.

Bagaimana ke sana
Kudat terletak 190km dari Kota Kinabalu dan perjalanan menerusi
darat akan mengambil masa 3 jam. Anda boleh menaiki bas dari
Terminas Bas Bandaraya (Utara) untuk RM18.00 seorang (sehala).
Perjalanan pulang akan berlepas dari tempat anda turun di pekan
Kudat. Maklumkan pemandu bas mengenai destinasi anda. Bas berop-
erasi dari 7.30 pagi sehingga 5.00 petang. Selain itu, anda juga boleh
Bahasa Malaysia
©Sabah Tourism
pa yang lebih baik daripada hidangan
A segar gelato yang sedap pada hari panas
di Sabah? Untuk menikmati pengalaman ini,
kunjungi Scoops Gelato Bar di Warisan
Square di Kota Kinabalu. Bukan seperti
aiskrim biasa, gelato di sini disediakan
dengan segar setiap hari dalam kotak kecil 4
liter dalam satu masa, memastikan
kesegaran sepenuhnya. Ia juga lebih berkrim
dan kurang kandungan air berbanding
aiskrim, membuatkan rasanya
menyerlah. Waspada kesihatan? Tiada
masalah kerana Scoop Gelato Bar
menggunakan ramuan semulajadi tanpa
sebarang pengawet atau pewarna tiruan.
Mereka yang prihatin dengan berat badan
juga pasti gembira mengetahui gelato
memiliki tidak lebih daripada 8 peratus lemak.
Pesta Jagung, 10-11 November
ulan ini, masyarakat Kota Marudu meraikan
B industri jagung, salah satu penyumbang
utama ekonomi dan kehidupan di
daerah tersebut. Terletak kira-kira 130km dari
Kota Kinabalu, Padang Pekan Kota Marudu
akan disemarakkan dengan pelbagai acara
untuk dinikmati semua, termasuk pertandingan
makan jagung, permainan-permainan
tradisional, persembahan kebudayaan dan
beberapa pameran berkaitan jagung. Salah
satu tarikan unik ialah Ratu Cantik Pesta
Jagung. Gadis-gadis tempatan mengenakan
pakaian berilhamkan jagung dengan
sentuhan kreatif. Saksikan mereka bergaya
©Sabah Tourism
Mereka juga menyediakan sorbet bebas
lemak dan gelato bebas gula (vanilla dan
cappucino). Pilihlah dari bermacam jenis
perisa, daripada coklat klasik sehinggalah
perisa unik seperti keju pisang! Ada lebih 60
perisa untuk dipilih dan 14 dihidangkan
setiap hari secara bergilir. Lain-lain perisa ter-
masuklah krim beri biru, espresso,
cendawan, teh hijau, tiramisu, krim Bailey,
guava merah jambu, sorbet nanas, mangga
lebih dan dadih strawberi. Scoops Gelato Bar turut
menawarkan potongan 50 peratus untuk
gelato terpilih jadi tanyalah pelayan anda
yang peramah mengenai hidangan pilihan
harian. Mahukan snek? Scoops
menyediakan pelbagai jenis salad dan
makanan ringan, seperti nuget ikan, sandwic
dan kentang goreng. Nikmatilah hidangan ini
17
dengan gaun pokok jagung dan subang biji
jagung serta rantai yang dipadankan! Bila
berada di Kota Marudu, berkunjunglah ke Air
Terjun Sorinsim yang terkenal, terletak 40km
dari pekan utama dan Taman Tabagon, sebuah
pusat kajian pertanian di Tasik Buyut. Anda
juga boleh menemui stesen kuasa solar
terbesar di Asia Tenggara di Kota Marudu ini.
Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi
Pegawai Daerah Jane Tan Hoi Kwan di
talian 088-661321 atau Zachary Mobijohn di
talian 088-232121. E-mel
jane.tan@sabah.gov.my atau
zachary@sabahtourism.com
©Sabah Tourism
bersama bermacam jenis minuman –kami
syorkan Sangria, gabungan enak bermacam
jenis buah-buahan. Semua ini boleh dinikmati
dalam suasana santai, sesuai untuk
berkumpul bersama rakan-rakan dan keluar-
ga selepas makan malam. Belum lagi kami
sebut tentang layanannya yang mesra dan
memuaskan. Jumpa anda di Scoops!
Scoops Gelato Bar terletak di United no. A-G-
19, Block A, Tingkat Bawah, Warisan Square
(berdepan The Island Shop). Waktu pernia-
gaan bermula 11:00 pagi hingga 11:00 malam
(Isnin hingga Khamis) dan 11:00 pagi sehing-
ga 12:00 tengahari pada Jumaat sehingga
Ahad dan Cuti Umum. Untuk lebih tawaran,
daftarlah untuk kad kemudahan Scoops.
Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Raymond
di talian 088-383337 atau 016-8362652.
1 8 C h i n e s e

©Sabah Tourism
C h i n e s e 1 9

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism
20 Japanese

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism
Japanese 21

© Sabah Tourism
22 Korean

© Sabah Tourism

Kalampunian Beach, Kudat

©D.Kirkland, Sabah Tourism
 Korean 23

Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club

Golf

©SabahTourism
 © Sabah Travel Guide

TAMU MARKETS MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

KOTA KINABALU SANDAKAN Bukit Tengkorak Archaelogical
* most tamus operate as early as 6am and close by 2pm. Sabah State Museum Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Site Museum, Semporna
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Mon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pm Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Kota Kinabalu Kudat Jln. Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Tel: 089-222679 Tel: 088-253199

Gaya Street Fair - Sunday Matunggong Lama - Saturday Sandakan Memorial Park OTHER DISTRICTS
Kampung Air - Sunday Matunggong Baru - Thursday Sabah Islamic Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Murut Museum (Sabah Murut
Civilisation Museum Sibuga Forest Reserve Cultural Centre , Tenom)
Mon – Sun: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
Penampang Kota Marudu Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Jalan Menteri, off Jalan Tunku Abdul
Mile 7, Jalan Labuk, Sandakan
Tel: 016 8221616 (Doris) Lembaga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah
Donggongon Pekan Kota Marudu - Rahman, (Tenom Branch) W.D.T 72, 89909
Thursday & Friday Saturday & Sunday Kota Kinabalu Sandakan Heritage Museum Tenom.
Tel: 088-538227/538228 Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Tel: 087-734506
Wisma Warisan, Sandakan
Papar Keningau Sabah Ethnobotanical Tel: 089-222679 Mat Salleh Memorial, Tambunan
Lok Kawi Sabindo - Saturday Bingkor - Thursday Heritage Museum Open Daily
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Batu Tulug Archaeological Site Kg. Tibabar, Tambunan
Tel :088-253199/ 263551
Sandakan Tambunan Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Museum, Kinabatangan
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sandakan Town - Sunday Pekan Tambunan - Thursday Tel: 088-253199 Kundasang War Memorial,
Gua Mantong Jaya - Sunday Second World War Open daily including Public Holidays
Kota Belud Memorial Petagas TAWAU Tel: 019 899 2041 (Mr. Sevee
Open daily Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Charuruks)
Tawau Pekan Kota Belud - Sunday Tel:088-253199 Mon-Fri: 8am -11:30am
Bandar Tawau - Sunday 1:30pm-4:30pm
Kinarut Mansion Ruins Museum Sat: 8am-12pm Sun: Closed
Ranau Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Mile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, Teck Guan
Factory, Tawau
Pekan Kundasang - Friday Tel:089-775566 ext 2601

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Sabah Tourism Board Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)
No.51, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Lot 4, Ground Floor, Block L, Sinsuran Complex, Lot 1-0-7, Ground Floor, Block 1, Lorong Api-Api
Tel: 088-212121 Fax: 088-212075 88000, Kota Kinabalu 1, Api Api Centre, 88000, Kota Kinabalu
Email: info@sabahtourism.com Tel: 088-232121 Fax: 088-265540 Tel:088-248698/ 211732
Website: www.sabahtourism.com Email: info@sabahtourism.com E-mail: enquiries@tourism.gov.my
Open: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri) Website: www.sabahtourism.com Website: www.tourism.gov.my
9:00am to 4:00pm (Weekend & PH) Open: 8:00amto 5:00pm (Mon-Fri) Open: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)
8:00am-4:00pm (Weekend & PH) Closed on weekends

SANDAKAN (089)
Fire Department - 994 Yayasan Sabah Ambulance
Useful Numbers

088-326655 !Hospital 212111 LABUAN (087)

Ambulance
/Police -999 !Airport 660405 !Hospital 413333
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Information Services !Immigrations 668308 !Airport 415015
088-218166 088-280600/ 280631/ 280641
Police Hotline !Immigrations 412298
HQ SABAH – 088-253555 TAWAU (089)
KK – 088-221191 Damai Specialist Centre
International
088-222922 !Hospital 773533
Telephone Directory
Airport - 088-238555 Sabah Medical Centre Assistance -108 !Airport 950013
088-211333 !Immigrations 773343

Agnes Keith House
Sandakan
Heritage Trail
nce a bustling little town dubbed
O the ‘Little Hong Kong of Borneo’,
Sandakan is still one of Sabah’s
economic hotspots and boasts a myriad
of fascinating historical landmarks.
Remnants of the past are very much
alive in this exciting township and
there’s always something new to discov-
er during your trip to Sandakan.
Perhaps the best way to see
Sandakan’s famous historical land-
marks is to take the Sandakan Heritage
Trail. As you walk around the roads of
Sandakan, you will come across
interesting sites with historical signifi-
cance. The trail is easy to follow as
there are signboards and indicators
along the road to lead you. The trail
begins at Masjid Jamek, the town
mosque, which is more than a hundred
years old. Today it continues to faithfully
serve the Muslim community as a place
of worship, despite some disruptions
during World War II. The new Sandakan
Hotel stands beside it, replacing the
original, which was built in the 1880s.
You will then see the William Pryer
Sam Sing Kung Temple
St.Michael’s and All Angels Church
Monument, which stands in memory of
William B. Pryer (1845–1899), who
founded Sandakan on 21 June 1879. He
was also the first Resident of the East
Coast.
Prepare to work those leg muscles
as you make your way uphill using the
Stairs of 100 Steps. These were the
very stairs that the thriving Chinese
community residing behind the hills
used to make their way to town for busi-
ness. At the top of the steps, you can
also find the World War II Chinese
Memorial dedicated to the Chinese
leaders and those who perished during
the war.
One of the most notable landmarks
you will encounter is the Agnes Keith
House – home the of the famous
American writer who coined the term
‘Land below the Wind’ (also the title of
her first book that recounts her time in
Borneo). As you walk further along the
trail, you will see the Sam Sing Kung
temple, built in 1887, making it 120
years old. Here you will find the oldest
surviving bronze bell. Also along the trail
William Pryer Monument
is the Goddess of Mercy Chinese
temple and St. Michael’s and All Angels
Church. This solid building managed to
escape major damage during World War
II and remains one of the very few stone
buildings in the whole of Sabah.
Strolling along the side of the field after
visiting the Sam Sing Kung temple will
bring you to the junction facing the
Malaysia Fountain. Along the way, take
note of the Harrisons (& Crosfield) build-
ing. It is one of the oldest-established
British companies in Sabah. Opposite
the building are the former Hongkong &
Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC)
and Chartered Bank (now Standard
Chartered Bank) buildings, both
prestige banks of the colonial period.
The last historical landmark that awaits
you is Wisma Warisan, which now
houses the Tourist Information Centre.
This was the main government building
during the British administration. The
former Residency office was on the first
floor and the present Tourist Information
Centre was the General Post Office for
many years.