Sabah

Location

It is located on the North Eastern tip of Borneo Island

Sabah is a state within the Federation of Malaysia.

Facts

Land Area: 76,115 Sq.Km

Population: 3.2 Million

Climate: Tropical

Temperature: Average 32C throughout the year

The people are multiethnic Chinese, Kadazan form the majority. There many groups such as Murut and others with their exotic dressing and festivals.

The history is checkered by disputes claming ownership and sovereignty by the Neighboring countries.

The cultural mix and the colonial influence of the British and Spanish has left an interesting mix.

The people are mainly Roman Catholic, Anglican and Muslims.

The indigenous people are mainly the Kadazan, Murut. The state economy is largely based on agriculture and timber harvesting.

The are many interesting places for a visitor to explore.

The tallest Peak in South East Asia

Mount Kinabalu (Malay- Gunung Kinabalu) - This highest peak in south East Asia rising more than 4095 meters. There are well established routes to scale this mountain. The route passes through some of the most beautiful and important environmental reserves. One can get to see the largest flower in the world -the rafflesia, the mountain monkeys -Orang Hutan. Some of the routes do require rock Climbing Skills. Climbers must always be accompanied by certified guides before embarking on a Climb.

Nature Parks and Reserves

The Kinabalu national park covers an area of 754 Sq.Km, surrounding Mount Kinabalu and is a designated UNESCO world Heritage site.

Sepilok Orang Utan rehabilitation Center. The center proves rehabilitation facilities for these exotic Orang Utan primates. The center is also a Research center for endangered species such as the Rhinoceros.

Beaches and Dive sites

Head to Sipadan Island and Mabul Island. The The Pulau Tiga National park and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

Sipadan Island is one of the World's Best diving Spots

Sandakan War Memorial. During WW2 -the infamous Sandakan death march where more than 2428 British, Australian servicemen and Sabahans died. A memorial park is erected. Every year on ANZAC day a memorial service is held in remembrance of them.

Cultural events

Pesta Kaamatan( harvest festival)- this festival is celebrated mainly by the Kadazan and Muruts

How to get there

Visitor by Air Arrive at the Kota Kinabalu international Airport

From Kuala Lumpur- flight time 2.5 hours

From Singapore -Flight Time 2.25 hours

From Taipeh Taiwan- Flight time 3.3 hours

If you are flying from Peninsular Malaysia there are many daily flights to Kota Kinabalu.

Sabah offers you a unique perspective of South East Asia. Spend at least a week or two to savor all Sabah delights, the food, the mountains, parks, beaches and the Sea.

Please do leave a note of your experiences in Sabah at my blog.