At a glance Sandakan, Sabah may appear like some forgotten industrial area. Many of the towns’ charming but forlorn buildings are encrusted with fine coats of soot and screaming for a fresh coat of paint or at the very least a good pressure washing. But settle in for a few days and Sandakan’s unique charm, character, and beauty emerges. There’s something about Sandakan I can’t quite put my finger on, but it may be the diversity that alerts my internal ‘Like’ button. Sandakan has a lot going for it; from wildlife and historic places to food festivals and nature events. There are plenty of things to do in Sandakan. And I do mean plenty!
Located on the east coast of Sabah, Sandakan is the largest of five divisions in the state of Sabah. Its namesake capital city, Sandakan is the second-largest township in the state, after Kota Kinabalu. Here’s a little background and mini guide for first time visitors.
Sandakan Quick List:
Sandakan History
Sandakan, North Borneo was ‘officially’ founded on June 21, 1897, by a man named William B. Pryer, a British accountant turned adventurer. He had been given the title ‘Resident’ in 1872, which was seen at the time as a diplomatic function and power of indirect rule. However, the first European settlement (named Kampung Jerman) was established in 1872 by Scotsman William Clarke Cowie, a friend of the Sultan of Sulu.
After Kampung Jerman accidentally burnt to the ground on June 15, 1879, Pryer elected to rebuild Kampung Jerman in a new location at Buli Sim Sim. Pryer named the new township, Elopura, which means ‘The Beautiful City’, but the locals would have none of that and aptly renamed it Sandakan, which means in Sulu, ‘The place that was pawned’. Sandakan was also later referred to as ‘Little Hong Kong’ due to the number of immigrants who arrived from Hong Kong.
Back in the day, timber was the biggest revenue maker for Sandakan, with the industry making its debut in 1885. That’s an astonishing fact considering, that despite the continual felling of trees, Sandakan has managed to remain so wildlife-friendly for more than 100 years. Life in early Sandakan was good until January 19, 1942, when the Japanese military moved in. Although World War II ended on September 2, 1945, the town of Sandakan wasn’t liberated until October 19, 1945, by the Brigade of the Australian 9th Division.
Sandakan was nearly destroyed by the bombings of World War II and resulted in North Borneo becoming a British Colony in 1946. The Sabah state capital was then moved to Jesselton, which is now known as Kota Kinabalu. It took three years after the war ended for Sandakan to be fully re-occupied and revived. On September 16, 1963, North Borneo joined the Federation of Malaysia, together with Malaya (present-day Peninsula Malaysia), Sarawak and Singapore and became known as Sabah.
Things to Do in Sandakan
With such a diverse cultural and historic background, it’s no wonder that there are so many things to do in Sandakan. And for first time visitors, maybe enough to make your head spin (just a wee bit). So without overwhelming you, here are a few Sandakan highlights which are conquerable in just a few days and will leave you vowing to return for more.
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre
An absolute not-to-be-missed if visiting the Sandakan district, the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre is 25-kilometers west of Sandakan. The center opened in 1964, long before rescuing wildlife became trendy. It was the first orangutan rehabilitation project focused on rescuing orphans (and later injured adults) whose lives had been negatively affected by the logging industry, plantations, illegal hunting, and the illegal pet trade. Orangutans are presently only found in the jungles of Borneo and Sumatra.
Baby Orangutans stay with their mothers for 7 to 10 years to learn all of the skills necessary to survive in the jungle. If the mother is killed, the babies have little chance of surviving. That’s why it is essential to have proper rehabilitation. It will take up to 10 years for Sepilok rehabilitation graduates to be releasable to the wild, at the cost of 8K Ringgit per Orangutan per year. It’s a commitment. So please visit them during your visit to Sandakan because the center needs all the support it can get. Plus, the Orangutans are guaranteed to put a smile on your face because they’re so gosh darn cute.
The center has a feeding platform and outdoor nursery where visitors can observe the Orangutans (at a distance) and take plenty of photos. Interestingly enough, despite the feeding station looking a bit staged, if it’s fruit season in the jungle then there is a good chance that no Orangutans will show up at the feeding station. During fruit season the jungle has plenty of tasty snacks for the Orangutans to feed on. You can read more about the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre HERE
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre
Jalan Sepilok, off Jalan Labuk
Open: Daily, 9:00am to 11:00pm, 2:00pm to 3:00pm
Thursday, 9:00AM to 11:30am, 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Tel: 089- 531 180
Entry: RM30 (additional RM10 for cameras)
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Established in 2008, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) offers a sanctuary and rehabilitation program for injured or (previously) captive sun bears. Sun Bears are the smallest bears in the world and are presently in danger due to habitat loss (development and timber industry), illegal hunting, and they are also at risk of capture for the illegal pet trade industry.
The BSBCC presently has 40 rescued sun bears within their 2.5 ha parcel of forest. Visitors can observe the sun bears via an elevated wooden walkway but are never allowed to come into direct contact with them. Sign boards introduce some of the bears and tell their stories as well as display sun bear information. Education and awareness are a big part of the center’s objective so don’t be shy about asking questions. In Sabah, sun bears are now categorized as a Totally Protected Species under the Sabah Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997. Jail time and big money fines are given to anyone ignoring sun bear protection laws.
Since the BSBCC is conveniently located next to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, visitors can easily spend several hours visiting the two sanctuaries, so be sure to allot yourself enough time to thoroughly explore both. You can also ‘Adopt a Sun Bear’ from the conservation center. Adoptions can be made under your own name or given as a gift. An excellent gift for the wildlife lovers or animal rights supporters in your life.
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Jalan Sepilok, off Jalan Labuk
(next to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre)
Open: Daily, 9:00am to 3:30pm
Tel: 089-534491 Entry: Adults RM31.80, Kids (13-17 years) RM15.90, Kids under 12 free
www.bsbcc.org.my
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Located within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve (and just 2km from the Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre), the Rainforest Discovery Centre is an environmental education facility run by the Sabah Forestry Department. The Rainforest Discovery Walk is paved for the most part and wheelchair and stroller friendly. A rather intimidating 347-meter, long Canopy Walkway provides a birds-eye-view of the surrounding forest. It also has sign boards to help non-bird experts identify some of the 300 species of birds that call the RDC home. The Rainforest Discovery Centre is so abundant with birds that it’s the official location for the Annual Borneo Bird Festival, which is usually held in October.
An onsite Exhibition Hall offers an introduction to Sabah’s flora and fauna and a Plant Discovery Garden has displays of more than 250 species of native orchids, pitcher plants, ginger plants, and more. You may need to allow yourself a couple of hours, for exploring, to fully appreciate all that the center has to offer. So be prepared. They also have a Night Walk: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve
Open: Daily, 8:00am to 5:00pm
Tel: 089-533780/1
Entry: Adults RM15, Kids (5-17 years) RM7, Kids under age 5 free
www.forest.sabah.gov.my/rdc
Sandakan Memorial Park
Located 11km from Sandakan city, the Sandakan Memorial Park is the site of a former World War II prison camp. With its careful landscaping and modern signboards, the park is almost too sterile, aside from a few rusty pieces of forgotten machinery dotting the grounds. But for those who are acquainted with the past horrors of this site, the quiet whispers of nature could easily be interpreted as the whispers of the dead.
Approximately 2500 Australian and British prisoners of war died at the Sandakan POW camp. Many had initially been captured by the Japanese military during the Battle of Singapore (in February 1942) and were shipped to Borneo to help build an airstrip for the Japanese military. 6,000 Javanese civilians were also used as forced labor on the airstrip construction. In 1945, the surviving Australian prisoners were, on three separate occasions, used to carry baggage and supplies for the Japanese battalions relocating to the western coast. The hike across North Borneo took its toll on many of the already weak prisoners. Sandakan Memorial Park is the first stop of these prisoner of war routes known as ‘The Sandakan Death Marches’. Only six prisoners survived.
Although the park or its small onsite museum has no entry fee, donations are used for daily maintenance and upgrades. The Office of Australian War Graves operates an account for donations, which can be made payable to DVA Official OAWG Contributions.
Sandakan Memorial Park
Mile 8, Jalan Labuk, Taman Rimba
Open: Daily, 8:00am to 6:00pm
Tel: 089-275 400
Entry: Free, Donations appreciated
http://www.sta.my/sandakan_memorial.cfm
Sandakan Heritage Museum (Muzeum Warison Sandakan)
Not what you might expect from a Malaysian heritage museum, but the Sandakan Heritage Museum houses several displays which highlight the Borneo movements of American adventurers Martin and Osa Johnson. The Johnson’s legacy may include a certain degree of exploitation, especially in the case of their time in North Borneo, depending on the source. But on the plus side, their film documentations of Borneo during the 1920s and 1930s has left the world with an incredible glimpse of an amazing part of Malaysia. You can read more about this adventurous couple HERE
A stop at the Sandakan Heritage Museum is also included in the free Wednesday and Friday walking tours, given by Borneo Sandakan Tour, so keep that in mind when planning your itinerary.
Sandakan Heritage Museum
Pusat Bandar Sandakan
Open: Daily, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Tel: 088-225 033
Entry: Free
http://www.museum.sabah.gov.my/sandakan-heritage-museum
St. Michael and All Angels Church
The St. Michael and All Angels Church is the oldest stone church in Sabah. The construction of the church began in 1888 and took nearly 13 years to complete. Reverend W.H. Elton initiated the lofty project, which was designed by New Zealander B.W. Mountfort and inspired by the Christchurch Cathedral in New Zealand. The church was first constructed with belian timber, followed by brick and then stone. The stones were delivered from Buli Sim Sim by prison labor, with each stone weighing about 140lbs. each. The additional white stones around the windows and doors are said to have come from Hong Kong.
The stain glass windows were a much later addition. In 2003, the church’s rector Moses Chin initiated the installation of the stain glass windows as a memorial to the Australian POWs who had risked their lives to help the people of Sandakan during the Japanese occupation. You can read more about St. Michael and All Angel’s Church HERE
St. Michael and All Angel’s Church
51, Jalan Puncak, Pusat Bandar Sandakan
Open: Daily, 8:00am to 4:30pm (closed Tuesday)
Tel: 089-213 457
Entry: Free
http://stmicsdk.org/
Agnes Keith House
If you’re a fan of colonial style architecture, then you will appreciate the Agnes Keith House. This once upon a time British colonial government quarters, known as ‘Newlands’, was the home to Henry George Keith, his wife Agnes and son George. Henry Keith was the Assistant Conservator of Forests for the governor of North Borneo. However, in addition to the gorgeous refurbishing of the original building (which was destroyed during World War II) it was Mrs. Keith who brought fame and recognition to the property.
Agnes Newton Keith wrote three books based on her life in Borneo; Land Below the Wind in 1939, Three Came Home in 1946, and White Man Returns in 1951. Three Came Home is the only book which was not written from the shores of Sandakan. It was a post-World War II account of the Keith family’s life as prisoners of war, and was penned after their temporary, post-wartime departure to Canada. Newlands was rebuilt after 1946. It became the first government permanent timber building to be built after World War II and was forever referred to as the ‘Agnes Keith House’. The Keith’s permanently left Sabah in 1952.
Today the building has been restored and turned into a heritage house by Sabah Museums and the Federal Department of Museums and Antiquities. It is furnished with reproductions of colonial furniture and antiques and highlights the life of Agnes and her family. To keep in the colonial spirit of things, The English Tea House & Restaurant is right next door.
Agnes Keith House
296, Jalan Utara
Open: Daily, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Tel: 089-221140
Entry: RM15 (Under age 12, free)
Puh Ji Shih Temple
Located 5km from town, the Puh Ji Shih Temple stands sentry over the adjacent Sandakan Bay from the hilltop of Tanah Merah. Built in 1987, Puh Ji Shih is the largest Chinese temple in Sandakan. But that’s not its only claim to fame. The temple was also featured in the American television series The Amazing Race 4.
The colorful interior is only one upped by the temple’s unique exterior décor. The road leading up to the temple is lined with identical Buddhist statues as if tempting fate for just one errant vehicle to knock them down Domino style. In addition to the panoramic views of the bay, the Puh Ji Shih Temple grounds are lush with tropical plants and include an eye-catching swastika shaped topiary. The swastika might catch some western visitors off guard if they are unfamiliar with the swastika as an ancient symbol of Buddhism (and not Nazi Germany).
Puh Ji Shih Temple
Tanah Merah at Sandakan Bay
Open: Daily, 8:00am to 6:00pm
Tel: 089-225399
Entry: Free
Sandakan Walking Tours
Due to the country’s cultural diversity, walking tours in Malaysia are usually quite interesting, and well worth the exercise. In addition to the sightseeing options above, Sandakan also has a well-marked Sandakan Heritage Trail which visitors can take on their own time and at their own pace. The route takes about one hour and begins at the 100-year old Masjid Jamik and ends at the Sandakan Heritage Museum. Get your map of the Sandakan Heritage Trail HERE
Visitors to Sandakan can now also take advantage of Borneo Sandakan Tour’s free Walking Tours given on Wednesdays and Fridays, 10:00am until 12:00pm. Yes, that’s right, free! The tours are led by local volunteers who support sustainable tourism, local businesses, culture and tradition, as a way of supporting and giving back to the community they love.
Included in the two-hour walking tour are stops at the William Pryer Monument, Sandakan Central Market, Masjid Jamek, Sandakan Heritage Museum (Muzeum Warison Sandakan, Sam Sing Kung Temple, Sandakan Harbour Square and the Malaysia Fountain. Borneo Sandakan Tours asks that you book 24 hours in advance and do note that the maximum number of participants is 15. For booking, WhatsApp them at +6 016 520 5754 or check their website HERE
Kinabatangan River Cruises
If you can spare the time, the 2.5-hour journey from Sandakan to the Kinabatangan River is absolutely worth the effort to partake in a Kinabatangan River Cruise. Although mornings and sunsets are more conducive to seeing wildlife, there is still a 99.9% chance you will indeed see wildlife at any time of the day. The Kinabatangan River, at 560km, is the longest river in Sabah. It is home to a plethora of wildlife including Proboscis and Macaque monkeys as well as Pygmy Elephants, Crocodiles and more! Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars and a telephoto lens (if you have one) because the National Geographic moments on the Kinabatangan River are incredible.
River Cruise Arrangements can be made through Myne Travel & Resort at +6089 223366 /223377 or email them at [email protected]
Where to Stay
Sandakan has an extensive range of accommodation options, but there are a few notable stars that deserve a place at the top of the list. Here are three places in the Sandakan area that I can recommend.
S’Kan Styles Hotel: Sandakan Harbour Square
Located right next to the ‘I Love Sandakan’ sign at Sandakan Harbour Square, S’Kan Styles Hotel offers affordable waterfront rooms with plenty of amenities; luxurious rain showers, a desk, free internet throughout the hotel, coffee and tea set and they even include a lovely breakfast at onsite Treats Restaurant. The rooms come with a window view of either the town or waterfront, which is, of course, the better of the two choices (in my opinion). Anything else you need, check with the front desk, as the staff goes above and beyond to be helpful.
The standard rooms are a bit on the small side if you are considering doubling up with someone you barely know, but perfect for single travelers or couples. S’Kan Styles also have Family Rooms and Suites available if you need more leg space. It may also get a big noisy-ish at night with direct waterfront foot traffic and the neighborhood karaoke scene. But if I can sleep through that you probably can too. The sea view makes up for it. S’Kan Styles also has many mom and pop shops nearby, as well as a shopping mall, several restaurants and a couple of Reflexology-Massage shops. Check rates and availability HERE
Sepilok Nature Resort: Sepilok, Sandakan
For an interesting mix of rustic with a classy ambiance, the Sepilok Nature Resort will dazzle your senses with its surrounding nature and colorful décor. Located 17-kilometers from the Sandakan Airport and just a 5-minute walk from the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, the Sepilok Nature Resort is a perfect choice for travelers focusing on Sandakan’s nature and wildlife.
The resort grounds include a beautiful lake against an exotic landscape of jungle greenery and tropical flowers. The resort’s spacious wooden chalets offer plush beds, in-room seating areas with a flat-screen TV, and an oh-so relaxing bathtub. Private verandas are accented with hanging plants and hammock chairs. Sepilok Nature Resort’s in-house restaurant offers fine dining as well as a full bar. They also have a travel desk to assist guests with any tour bookings or onward travel. Check rates and availability HERE
Myne Travel & Resort: Kampung Bilit, Kinabatangan
Not exactly in Sandakan’s immediate area, but close enough to put on your radar at any rate. Located about 2.5 hours from Sandakan on the Kinabatangan River, the Myne Resort is definitely worth staying a night or two. Between a selection of connecting and non-connecting chalets, longhouses and dorms you are sure to find something to suit your accommodation tastes. My vote goes for the chalets though, as they are super comfortable and have verandas with birds-eye-views of the Kinabatangan River and surrounding forest.
The wooden chalets are well worn but have comfortable beds, air-con, coffee and tea set plus a view to die for. On the downside of the Myne is the intermittent internet connection and the steep stairs to some of the rooms. So, if having internet is mandatory for you, be sure to have a backup plan. And if climbing steep stairs is an issue request a room which is closer to the ground level.
Hiking nearby nature trails and boat cruises on the Kinabatangan River are the main attractions of the resort, but the wildlife encounters along the river will leave you wowed. The resort offers night walk tours as well as has visiting wildlife in the form of herds of Wild Boar, which enjoy lazing around the cool lawn. It’s definitely a sight to see.
Sandakan Has Delicious Food!
It’s easy to see why Sandakan has gained such popularity as a foodie destination, their food is outstanding. One can only visit so many eateries during a short trip, but wow, Sandakan had me from the first bite of Lobster Mee. And for those who love to sample as much delicious food as possible? The Annual Sandakan Food Festival is an absolute must. This annual event is usually scheduled for August or September, so keep that in mind when planning your trip to Sandakan.
In the meantime, there are plenty of local restaurants to explore, especially Seafood Restaurants. Here are a few personally tried recommendations to get you started on your Sandakan culinary journey:
Restoran Pasir Putih Baru (temporarily closed 2022)
Speaking of Lobster Mee, Restoran Pasir Putih Baru creates pure magic when it comes to their seafood dishes. All super fresh and no skimping on ingredients. The Lobster Mee is one of their specialty dishes and I can personally attest to its deliciousness. Location: Jalan Bokara, Sandakan/ Open: Daily, 10:00am to 2:00pm, 5:00pm to 9:30pm/ Tel: 012-818 8818
D’Sandakan Seafood Paradise (Temporarily closed 2022)
Another culinary winner is D’Sandakan Seafood Paradise. Excellent seafood, but don’t let the name fool you because they serve plenty of non-seafood dishes too. And they have a few vegetarian selections as well. D’Sandakan is family friendly and won’t kill your budget. Try the Corn Soup, it’s especially good! Location: Taman Fajar Perdana, Batu 7, Sandakan/ Open: Daily, 4:00pm to 11:00pm/ Tel: 019-833 4088
San Da Gen Kopitiam
San Da Gen Kopitiam is pure decadence. If the UFO Tart (aka Cow Dung Tart) is not enough to win you over, then I challenge you to try the Salted Egg French Toast. I thought I had died and gone to foodie heaven after trying this dish. Trust me, you’ll love everything about this kopitiam. Location: Jalan Pelabuhan Lama, Sandakan/ Open: Daily, 8:00am to 5:00pm/ Tel: 089-238 988
Getting Around Sandakan
Taxi
I’m all for taking a GRAB taxi if it happens to be an option, and since it is an option in Sandakan be sure to download the App. Otherwise, taxi rides shouldn’t set you back more than RM20 around Sandakan town. And if you are taking a taxi out to Sepilok just an FYI there is an abundance of drivers hanging out there so you may not need your taxi to wait. One way from Sandakan to Sepilok is about RM50 but ask the driver ahead of time as he or she may be negotiable.
Bus
Buses and minivans are plentiful in Sandakan. Public minivans are designated with colored stripes and stop at bus stops along the main road. Sandakan’s bus station (Terminal Bas Sandakan) is located behind the Centre Point Mall and has buses running from 6:00am until 6:00pm with fares ranging from RM2 to RM5.
Car
If you prefer to rent your own car, Sandakan Car Rental and Borneo Express both have offices at the airport, or you can check with a local tour operator for other car rental options.
Getting There
By Bus
You can get to Sandakan by express bus from Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Semporna, but you may have some difficulties finding detailed information online. You can check Easy Book or Bus OnLine for information on the more popular bus routes.
By Plane
Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia have multiple direct flights to Sandakan from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Kota Kinabalu International Airport. MASwings has direct flights to Sandakan from Tawau Airport.
There you have it! Sandakan in a not-to-be-missed nutshell. However, there are many more things to do in Sandakan than are listed here. If you only have a few days, then I recommend tackling these top attractions while you have the opportunity. If you are lucky enough to be footloose and fancy free, then, by all means, hunker down for a longer period of time and savor as much of Sandakan as you can. Because Sandakan is ‘The Gateway to Borneo’s Wildlife‘ and then some.
For more information on things to do in Sandakan, as well as other parts of Malaysia,
check the Tourism Malaysia website HERE
Danik says
This area would totally appeal to me. I love rain-forests (exploring them that is) and the accommodation is nice but its great to see the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre – anything to help to save wildlife and protect them from dangers. Would love to check this place out.
Vanessa Workman says
Danik, Sabah has several extreme running events during the year which also embrace the rainforests. You should totally check into those. I can’t remember the names off-hand, but they loook a bit grueling. And your daughter would be thrilled to see the wildlife too. :D
Patricia says
I can’t believe this is the first time I’ve heard about Sandakan! Looks fascinating — I love how much nature/wildlife stuff there is to do. My first stop would definitely be Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. I’d also love to explore via the river cruise and visit the Agnes Keith House. So much to see!
Vanessa Workman says
A lot to see in the Sandakan area Patricia, that’s for sure. It well deserves more than just a few days of exploring. Wish I had known, I would have loved to stay longer.
Andi says
I have NEVER heard of this area of the world! But the wildlife is fascinating! My hubby is a photographer and loves animals so he would definitely enjoy a visit here! I have only been to KL for a business trip and did not get to see much!
Vanessa Workman says
Andi, your husband would be in photography heaven in Sandakan. We saw so many animals in the wild that I actually lost track of how many. I regret that I didn’t get to see any wild elephants this first go round, but there is always next time. I highly recommend you visit Sabah on your next trip to Malaysia, the whole state is fascinating. Especially the Sandakan area.
Nisha says
Do you know I was in Sabah only last month? When I read this post, I actually saw it on map about its location. :)
Was in Tawau, Kota Kinabalu and Semporna . And I fully agree with you that this is the region untouched and still not very commercialized. Looks like will have to go there again to see Orangutans.
And yeah, I remember about Mary too. :)
Vanessa Workman says
I saw some of your posts Nisha! I was thinking the same thing. Wish we had crossed paths during our adventures. I think all of Borneo is amazing, but I’m especially smitten by Sabah. I’m very much looking forward to a return trip soon.
Rosemary says
I just love the detail and the hidden gems you showcase about Malaysia. We’ve only been to GeorgeTown and every time I read your articles, I realize there is so much more to explore. I’m particularly intrigued by the food in Sandakan. All the seafood just looks amazing. Looking forward to exploring this region of the country soon.
Vanessa Workman says
Rosemary, team Authentic Food Quest should definitely tackle the cuisine of Sandakan (and the rest of Sabah). Not only is it the various Malaysian recipes, there are also many tribal that are offered. Plenty to literally sink your teeth into, blog-wise. :D
Hannah says
My mum travelled extensively in Sabah in the 90s, so I knew a little about Sandakan. But I am glad I now know more! She visited Sepilok Orangutan sanctuary and I remember being so jealous of her visit there. I would love to go to the annual food festival to celebrate the local cuisine!
Vanessa Workman says
That’s impressive. I bet it was almost like a no man’s (woman’s) land back in the 90s. And it couldn’t have been very easy to travel through Sabah back then. Sabah and Sarawak both have food festivals several times a year, so it’s a good idea to check with Tourism Malaysia, before traveling to the area, and see what it scheduled.
Adonis Villanueva says
Fascinating. Tropical rainforests is always up my alley. What a way to make an impression of Malaysia. The food pictures are making me hungry! Seeing all the wildlife there alone is worth the price of entry!