From endless stretches of white beaches and breathtaking coral reefs to thriving marine life, majestic mountain peaks and unique flora and fauna, Sabah has it all.
In a five-day working visit organised by Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), FMT crew found that Sabah offers those who like a flash of colour and uniqueness in their lives, exotic native arts and crafts that one cannot find anywhere else but here.
Sabah is divided into the west coast, Kudat, Sandakan, Tawau and the interior. The west coast division includes Kota Kinabalu, Ranau, Kota Belud, Tuaran, Penampang and Papar.
The captivating west coast
Island-hopping at the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a popular activity here.
Only a 15-minute boat ride from Sabah’s capital of Kota Kinabalu, this tourist spot is made up of five idyllic islands – Manukan, Sapi, Mamutik, Sulug, and Gaya – surrounded by some of the most beautiful coral and marine life.
Even a stop at the jetty is an experience in itself thanks to the crystal-clear waters teeming with colourful fish of every shape and size.
Other than snorkelling, travellers can also opt to go hiking up the rugged terrain and for the daredevils, a little parasailing will do the trick.
Manukan Island is famous for its stretches of white sandy beaches. There are also enough water sports here to keep one occupied from sun-up to sun-down.
The main attraction at Sapi Island meanwhile is the Coral flyer that involves ziplining to Gaya Island and back.
You can also try your hand at scuba diving and snorkelling in the calm blue waters, or hiking through the dense forest. Camping tents are available for those who love the outdoors and the natural beauty of the island.
Sulug Island meanwhile has the most isolated beaches teeming with corals and seashells.
If the kids are getting restless, stop at Rumah Terbalik in Tuaran. They’ll get a kick out of experiencing what it’s like to live in an upside-down house where you “walk on the ceiling” and where tables and chairs hang overhead.
There’s also white water rafting at Kiulu, a quaint farmhouse you can visit with the family and stretches of sandy beaches where you can take a breather before continuing on your way.
In Ranau, you can climb Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s tallest peak, standing at 4,095 metres. A two-day climb here will afford you the mesmerising sunrise at the peak.
Other tourist spots in Sabah include the Kundasang war memorial and Kinabalu Park, home to 5,000 vascular plant species. There is also the Sabah tea garden, Miki survival camp, and Poring hot springs – what’s there not to love?
At Kota Belud, the pristine Mantanani Island beckons, a hidden gem teeming with rich marine life. At Kampung Siasai, you can watch how parangs are handmade at the village centre.
Breathtaking sunrise, sunset at Kudat division
In Kudat, you can enjoy Mother Nature in all her glory at the northernmost part of Sabah. Other distinctive features here are the floating coral bars of Pitas, cultural centres and Kota Marudu waterfalls.
Kalampunian beach is insanely gorgeous – white sands, beautiful waters, and breathtaking views make this spot perfect for a private getaway.
Wild Sandakan
Sepilok is a sanctuary for Sabah’s precious wildlife. Established in 1964, the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre was created to rehabilitate these displaced animals.
Right next to this sanctuary, the world’s smallest sun bears are housed at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Turtle Island meanwhile gives you the rare opportunity to watch turtle landings.
Pristine Semporna in Tawau
Semporna means “perfect” in Malay, and there is no other word that better describes the islands here.
The pristine waters, great weather, and clear skies make Semporna a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy one of the most beautiful dive spots in the world.
Also known as the Coral Triangle, this area covering eight islands is home to more than 75% of coral species, more than half of the world’s reefs, 3,000 species of reef fish, and seven species of marine turtles, making it an absolute must-visit place for anyone interested in exploring marine life.
Survival at Interior
For those heading to the Interior division, there is the Pulau Tiga “Survivar Island”, where the television reality show “Survivor” was shot. Because of the popularity of the series, Pulau Tiga became a tourist hot spot soon after.