RM 1.00

INSIDE: Feature Personality, On The Street, Directory Listing and more!

February 2009 Volume 96February 2009 Volume 96

Romancing Sabah!

Contents3 Feature Personality - Scot Toon, Gaya Eco-Resort

4 Happenings & HighlightsCity Day RegattaZoom Kota Kinabalu City Tourism Treasure HuntLocal Handicraft ExhibitionNorth Borneo Sacred Legacy Photographic ExhibitionFiesta CahayaUpcoming EventsNews

6 Eating OutKedai Kopi Chuan HinCalifornia Grill

7 On The Street

8 Places of InterestHIking at Bukit Gemok

9 Places of InterestTun Mustapha Tower (Menara Tun Mustapha)

10 FeatureBuilt For Two!

12 Through The LensSabah Thrills and Spills!

14 CultureThe Sompoton

15 Products of the Month at KadaikuSabah Souvenirs & Handicrafts

16 Bahasa Malaysia Section

18 Chinese Section

20 Japanese Section

22 Korean Section

24 Directory Listings

25 Sabah Map & Listings

26 The Legend of Mount Kinabalu &Tanjung Simpang Mengayau - The Tip of Borneo

ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin / Sitti B. Damsal

EDITOR Melissa Leong

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

Charlieking Padasian Faizal Jaini (Kadaiku Section)

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu

TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese) Rie Harada (Japanese) Emzee Lee (Korean) BM EDITOR Puan Hjh. Asmiah Ajamain, Dewan Bahasa Dan Pustaka

DESIGNED & PRINTED BY COVER David Kirkland

Inna Kinabalu Sdn Bhd(Publisher of The New Sabah Times)Jalan Pusat Pembangunan Masyarakat, Sembulan88100 Kota Kinabalu

Ever y ef for t has been made to ensure that the in format ion is correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be held responsible for anyinaccuracies, omissions and alterations which may occur as a result of last minutechanges. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the writ ten permission of the Sabah Tourism Board.

Melissa LeongEditor

Iam a fool for love. The sunset walks,the flowers and the sappy declarations – They make me smile

just as much as the next love-struck fool.Needless to say, the month of Februarybeckons me to present you Sabah in allits romantic glory. Valentine’s Daydoesn’t have to be about overpricedroses and over-the-top evenings. In ourFeature pages (p.10-11) this month,check out great romantic ideas for youand your significant other that are notonly unique but many of which areaffordable too. Fall in love all overagain - Sabah-style! From honeymoongetaways to an unforgettable weddingdestination, Sabah has plenty to offerfor any twosome.

While in Sabah, take the time to experience the various Happenings andHighlights (p.4-5) including the localhandicraft exhibition at the MonsopiadCultural Village and the NorthborneoSacred Legacy PhotographicExhibition. The city of Kota Kinabaluturns 9 years old this month and a myriad of events are held in conjunction with the celebrations.Check out our Calendar of Events or formore information, contact the KotaKinabalu City Hall. Look forward tomore exciting events in the comingmonths.

We also took to the streets this monthand spoke to the local folk on theirfavourite coffee shop picks (p.7). Lookout for more ‘On The Street’ opinions inour upcoming issues. We’ve also givenour listing page a new look – a usefulguide to help make your trip asmoother one. We hope our publicationgives you a better insight on Sabah andall it has to offer. Are you ready to fallin love with Sabah?

Message from the Editor

Local Handicarft ExhibitionEvery Saturday and Sunday for the month ofFebruary 2009Sabah is known for its authentic handicraft, madeusing skills that are passed down from one generation to the next. In this exhibition, visitors willget to know the various types of handicraft found inSabah and meet the craftspeople behind it.Organiser:Monsopiad Cultural VillageFor further info:Monsopiad Cultural VillageTel: 088 761336, 774337Fax: 088 761680Email: info@monsopiad.com

International Darts Tournament 2009February 2009An annual event held in conjunction with the City’s9th anniversary. Participants include local and inter-national darts enthusiasts.Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Lifred Wong Tel: 088 521800 Fax: 088 219175Email: lifred@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

VIP Golf TournamentFebruary 2009Tee off for the needy at the City Charity GolfTournament, organized in conjunction with the CityDay celebrations.Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Alijus SipilTel: 088 521800 Fax: 088 244544Email: alijus@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

9th City Day Celebration2 February 2009Join the city folks as they celebrate Kota Kinabalu’s

9th anniversary as a city.Have your family andfriends participate in the

many activities held during the week to win excitingprizes.Organiser:Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Faradillah Abd RaniTel: 088 521800 Fax: 088 233815Email: faradillah@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

North Borneo Sacred Legacy PhotographicExhibition 2 – 27 February 2009The establishment and founding of the SabahMuseum was based on this special and exclusiveG.C Woolley collection. The collection wasbequeathed by its collector George Catchart Woolley,a Senior British Administrator, a graduate fromQueens College, Oxford to the then North BorneoGovernment. This superb collection has become agreat legacy of Sabah’s pre-colonial era that helpmold and shape Sabah’s current socio-cultural andsocio-economic landscape. G.C Woolley’s romanticexperience with the various indigenous ethnic communities will be showcased in this exhibition.Come visit and experience the legacy yourselves.Organiser:Sabah MuseumFor further info:Datuk Jospeh Pounis GuntavidTel: 088 253199 Fax: 088 240230Email: Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my

Fiesta Cahaya 200921 FebruaryOrganised by the Culture and Arts Exco of UniversitiSabah Malaysia, the Fiesta Cahaya 2009 showcasesthe unique and colourful Indian culture. Enjoy a variety of entertainment including traditional songand dance performances. The event takes place atthe University’s Chancellor Hall. Tickets are availablefor purchase.Organiser:Culture and Arts Exco of Universiti Sabah MalaysiaFor further info:Mr. SathiaseallanTel: +017 532 3371Website: www.fiestacahaya.com

City Day Regatta21 – 22 February 2009The City Day Regatta is held over two days, comprising of several races to determine the champions in various classes of boats. The event isheld as part of the KK City Day celebrations.Organiser:Kinabalu Yacht ClubFor further info:Bobby Willie – Vice CommodoreTel: 088 240070, 243070, 019 8808859Fax: 088 243007Email: kyctaru@tm.net.my

Kota Kinabalu City Tourism Treasure Hunt 200922 February 2009An annual event held in conjunction with the City DayCelebration. Treasure hunters search the city highand low while getting to know Kota Kinabalu better.Everone is welcome to join the hunt and win attractive prizes.Organiser:Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Fauziahton Ag. SamadTel: 088 521800 Fax: 088 316137Email: fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

City Run1 March 2009The City Run is held in conjunction with the City’s 9thanniversary. Some 10, 000 citizens of Kota Kinabaluare expected to participate in this years run, whichoffers attractive prizes and a fun lucky draw.Organiser:Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Joannes SolidauTel: 088 521800 Fax: 088 316137Email: joannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

3F e a t u r e P e r s o n a l i t y

Scot Toon– Gayana Eco-Resort, General ManagerThe sound of waves lapping against the

shore, blue-green waters surround youand the warmth of the sun kissing your

skin all day long – While most of us toy with theidea of such an idyllic holiday, for Scot Toon, it’sjust another day at the ‘office’.

“This place is just beautiful – I love what Ido,” says the current General Manager ofGayana Eco-Resort. And who could blamehim? The New Zealand native has been in thehotel industry since 1991, having worked andhelp established several hotels and resorts inAustralia, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. As fatewould have it, he soon found his way to Sabahshores some 9 months ago. “I was excited tocome here. I’ve actually visited Sabah when Iwas around 6 or 7 years old and I am amazedat how it has changed in the last 20 years!” hesays. Today, Scot is back with his wife and twosons in tow, with big plans for refurbishedGayana Eco-Resort. “Our direction is to make ita unique luxury Borneo island experience. Wewant to immerse our guests in the tropicalisland experience with a heavy emphasis on thesea – hence the over-water chalets,” heexplains. Scot also takes pride in the fact thatGayana provides each guest a personalizedservice, making them feel right at home. “Ourstaff makes an effort to know each guest byname and check-in is even done in the roomitself – we don’t have a large lobby area whereguests have to line up to check-in. We keep itsmall and personalized here. After the check-in,we offer a tour of the resort to our guests,” hesays, adding that most of their guests are couples who come to Gayana for a tranquil andluxurious experience.

But it’s not all just frills here at Gayana. Scotand his team are dedicated in playing their partfor marine conservation and this is evidentthrough efforts such as the coral regenerationand giant clam propagation projects. Guestscan learn more about these efforts at theresorts’ Marine Ecological Research Centre.Earlier in March 2008, a boat was sunk just offthe resort and turned into a wreck-diver’shaven. Cleanliness is also at the top of Scot’slist of concerns. “When I first came to KK, I waspleasantly surprised at how clean the city wasin comparison to most other Asian cities.However, we seem to have a problem with rubbish in the sea,” he voices out. “Some of ourboats transporting guests to the resort have tostop halfway to avoid floating rubbish in the seaand this isn’t really a good way for guests to

start their holiday!” he laments. The staff ofGayana painstakingly cleans their stretch ofbeach each day only to have the tide bring inmore rubbish. “I think it starts with education.It’s not enough that we tell people to not throwtheir rubbish into the rivers and sea. It has to bea practice, a way of life. For example, here atGayana, we educate the staff (most of whomcome from nearby villages on the island) on theimportance of disposing their rubbish correctlyand they in turn relay the message to their family and friends,” he shares, adding thatGayana was also named a Litter-Free Resort bythe Kota Kinabalu City Hall in 2008 – the firstsuch establishment to receive the title.

Sabah has certainly made quite the impression on Scot. “The people here are very

friendly. I walk down the street and people sayhello to me and even welcome me to Sabah,thinking I am a tourist!” he laughs. “Sabahansare fantastic people. All our guests always comment on how personable and friendly ourstaff is. I think Sabahans are very good hosts bynature, mainly because they are family-orientedpeople and are just naturally very warm andwelcoming,” Scot says proudly of his crew.Having been here less than a year, he statesthat there’s definitely plenty he’d like to explorein Sabah. “I’ve brought my family to Sepilok tosee the Orang-Utan and explored parts of KKcity. However, I would like to climb MountKinabalu one day,” he concludes. Now, if onlyhe could find time to pull himself away from his‘dreary office’…

©D.Kirkland/Sabah Tourism

News

4 H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

City Day Regatta, 21-22 February Sails up! Watch as the South China Sea comes alive with a myriad of sails during the City Day Regatta, held in conjunction with the City’s 9th anniversary.As with every year, the Regatta will take place along Tanjung Aru Beach and isheld over two days. Sailors participate in several races to determine the champi-ons in various classes of boats. Races run from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

The annual event is to celebrate the importance of the sea and its significant rolein the lives of Kota Kinabalu residents for leisure, sports and the economy.Organised by the Kinabalu Yacht Club, the regatta has a reputation for attractingtop sailors from around Borneo and many come from the Peninsular States tocompete as it is a benchmark regatta for sailing performance standards. ForSabah sailors, it is a very important ranking race.For more information, please contact Bobby Willie (Vice Commodore) at tel.no 088-240070 / 243070 / 019 880 8859 or e-mail kyctaru@tm.net.my

Zoom Kota Kinabalu City Tourism Treasure Hunt 22 FebruaryGrab your friends and go on an unforgettable adventure during the annual Kota Kinabalu CityTourism Treasure Hunt this month! Groups of two to four people are given clues and ‘rally tulips’ atthe beginning of the hunt, which will take them around popular sites in KK city. At certain points ofthe hunt, be prepared to get physical. Fun and sometimes unusual tasks are at hand, from eatingexotic delicacies to coconut bowling! A briefing prior to the race will explain in detail on the rulesand regulations of the treasure hunt. Get your registration forms from the Kota Kinabalu City Halltoday. The hunt flags off from Nexus Resort Karambunai at 7:00am. Happy hunting!For more details and information, please contact Fauziahton Ag. Samad at 088-521800 oremail fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my.

Sukau Rainforest Lodge Receives Nominations At15th World Travel AwardsSukau Rainforest Lodge wasnominated in two categories dur-ing the 15th World Travel Awardsrecently, namely World’s LeadingEco-Lodges and one of Asia’s 5Leading Green Hotels. Managedby Borneo Eco-Tours, the award-winning lodge is located at theedge of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary in Sandakan.

5H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

North Borneo Sacred LegacyPhotographic Exhibition2-27 February The establishment and founding of the Sabah Museum was based on this

special and exclusive George Catchart Woolley (better known as G.CWoolley) photograph collection. The collection was bequeathed by Woolley,a Senior British Administrator to the then North Borneo Government. Thistimeless collection has become a great legacy of Sabah’s pre-colonial erathat helped mold and shape Sabah’s current socio-economic landscape.His romantic experience with the various ethnic communities is among thehighlights of this exhibition at the Sabah Museum.The Sabah Museum is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Entrancefees apply. For more information, please call 088-253199 or e-mailMuzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my

Monsopiad Cultural Village brings you the Local HandicraftExhibition this month! Learn more about the age-old skills passed

down from one generation to the next in the art of handicraft making.From intricate bead-making to skillful weaving, see how the local crafts-people transform raw material into handy household goods, beautifulsouvenirs and even fashion wear that are timeless. You might evenhave a go at weaving your own basket! A great opportunity to discoverthe fascinating art of craftmaking and its role in the livelihood of thelocal people. For more information, please contact the Monsopiad CulturalVillage at telephone no. 088-761336 / 774337, fax 088-761680 or e-mail info@monsopiad.com. The village is open daily (includingpublic holidays) from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. Visit the website atwww.monsopiad.com.

Local Handicraft Exhibition Every Saturday and Sundaythroughout February

City Run, 1 March There are many activities to look out for in conjunction with KK City’s 9th

Anniversary and the City Run is not one to be missed! Get those running shoes out and prepare to join some 10,000 City folk in this year’srun. This year, the 4-km route takes runners around the city, flagging off at7:30am from the historical Padang Merdeka, which is also the finishingpoint for the run. Attractive prizes await winners and the fun continues afterthe run where you can participate in a lucky draw. Come join the fun withyour friends and family.

The City Run is organized by the Kota Kinabalu City Hall. For more information, please contact Joannes Solidau at tel. no 088-521800 or e-mail joannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

Upcoming events...Planning a trip to Sabah? Mark your calendars for these exciting events!Sabah Agriculture Park’s 8th Anniversary, 7 & 8 March – Visit thesprawling Sabah Agriculture Park in Tenom to the mark the anniversary ofthe Park’s launch. From rare and beautiful orchids to giant lily pads, thereis plenty to see and discover at the 202-hectare establishment. Enjoy a hostof activities during the anniversary including colouring contests for children,a fishing competition and many more!

Pesta Kalimaran, 4 & 5 April – Once famous for their legendary headhunting ways, the Murut people of Sabah celebrate their culture andtraditions during the annual Pesta Kalimaran in the interior district ofTenom. Come join the festivities through a showcase of a mock tribal wedding, cultural performances and a fun-filled day of traditional games.

Fiesta Cahaya, 21 February

Universiti Sabah Malaysia is proud to present the annual Fiesta Cahaya2009. The concert showcases the colourful and unique aspects of the

Indian culture, featuring traditional song and dance performances. The concert takes place at the University’s Chancellor Hall from 6:00pm tp11:00pm.Tickets are available for purchase.Tickets are sold at RM10.00 for members of the public and RM7.00 for students. For more information, please contact Mr. Sathiaseallan at017 532 3371.

6 E a t i n g O u t

Not many restaurants can boast of holding on to a family recipe thanspans four generations. But the family-run Chuan Hin Coffee Shop inKota Kinabalu can proudly attest to that. Since opening its doors in

1986, the Lee family has been attracting diners with their famous ‘wo-teh’ orpork dumplings. Guests can enjoy the crispy goodness of a deep-frieddumpling while the health-conscious prefer the steamed version, known as‘shui jiao’. According to the Lee sisters, the recipe was passed down fromtheir great-grandmother in China and today, each dumpling is still preparedthe traditional way. Apart from their delicious dumplings, Chuan Hin is knownfor savoury delights such as the grilled fish, stingray and squid – all servedwith a generous dollop of homemade shrimp paste (belacan) and lime.Another great snack? The classic ‘sotong kangkung’ (squid served withkangkung, a local vegetable topped with a special sauce and peanuts) is amust-try as well as the fruit ‘rojak’ (a mixture of cucumber, pineapple and the‘mengkuang’ fruit topped with a home-made sauce). Unlike other Chineserestaurants and coffee shops that serve an array of main dishes complemented with white rice, Chuan Hin delights their customers with awide variety of ‘snack-like’ dishes (served small, medium or large to yourpreference) as well as hearty servings of noodles, kuey teow (flattened rice-noodle strips) and rice fried to perfection! Once frequented mostly by olderpatrons, Chuan Hin is now a popular pick for youngsters looking for late-night snacks and a quick drink. In the morning, you can also start yourday with a delicious bowl of beef noodles or home-made noodles servedwith pork slices (pai kut kon lau mein). Kedai Kopi Chuan Hin is located at Lot 13, Ground Floor, LuyangPhase 8, Wisma Leven, Kota Kinabalu (same area as KK SpecialistCentre). Open daily from 7:00am to 1:00pm (breakfast and lunch) and5:30pm to midnight (dinner). Contact 013 870 5781 or 019 800 7873.

California in Sabah? California Grill, that is. Head over to 1Borneo in Kota Kinabalu to taste the some of the finest grilledWestern delights with an interesting Asian twist! The cozy

establishment can seat up to 88 diners and is ideal for private functions. Glancing at the menu, it’s hard to decide where to start! Thechef recommends the Red Curry Oyster to kick off your gastronomi-cal experience and we can see why. The delicious fresh oysters arestir-fried to perfection in a red curry paste that leaves you wantingmore. For an Asian flavour, try the Ox-Tail soup. For the main course,the grilled Rack of Lamb served with homemade mint sauce melts inthe mouth or if poultry is your preference, go for the Grilled MaharajaChicken, marinated with ginger juice, soy sauce and paprika. If youwant the best of everything, we recommend the Fisherman Platter –a combination of half a lobster, tiger prawns and beef steak grilledover charcoal and served with vegetable and potatoes. You can alsoopt for pasta, pizza and other grilled favourites – speak to your friend-ly waiter on your preferred preparation. Saving the best for last? Bespoilt for choice during dessert and go for the Le Parfait Banana Split,offering 3 scoops of ice cream topped with mixed fruits, chocolatefudge and, of course, a banana! The Apple Pie is also a great choice,even better when served with ice cream. So if it’s a family outing or aromantic Valentine’s Day dinner for two, California Grill is the newestplace in town to offer you that divine dining experience.California Grill is located at G-807, Ground Floor of 1 BorneoHypermall, Kota Kinabalu. Open from 11:00am to 10:30pm on week-days and until 11:00pm on weekends. For more information or to make reservations, please call 088-447 041. California Grill serves no pork and is a halal establishment

California Grill

Kedai Kopi Chuan Hin (Chuan Hin Coffee Shop)

O n T h e S t r e e t 7

Adrian Goh, 29, Loan Officer“Be it for breakfast or quick snack, I alwaysenjoy a plate of shui jiao,(dumplings stuffedwith century eggs and minced pork). Thesteamed dumplings are delicious andhealthy so I can enjoy them without feelingguilty! My favourite shui jiao are found inKedai Kopi 33, located at Lintas Square,Kota Kinabalu.”

Hjh. Dayang Kalthum, 49,Government Officer“My favourite coffee shop fare is idli at SriLatha in Bandaran Berjaya. Idli are like minifluffy pancakes made of black lentil and flourand usually served with chutney. It’s a popularIndian snack but I like

having it for breakfast.”

CV Chong, ProfessionalPhotographer“Oh definitely the chu chap (mixture of porkinnards and meat) in one of the Tanjung

Aru coffee shops. You can have it with soup or kon lau style(noodles mixed with sauce) but I prefer the latter. The coffeeshop is often crowded but I’m willing to line up for half an hourjust to have my bowl of chu chap in the morning!”

Norkatah Puddin, 37, SpecialEvents Executive“I love the soto daging (a bowl of noodlesserved in a beef broth and topped with beefslices) in Kedai Kopi Happy, Sinsuran (locat-ed behind Le Meridien Hotel). They alsohave soto ayam (chicken) but I prefer thebeef. For added zest, I ask for extra friedonions and add chilli into my soup.”

Vanessa George, 27, IT Executive“There’s a special dish served in Jing WanRestaurant II in Lintas Square called pai kutStout – that’s because they actually cook thepork ribs in Stout! A great meal to be enjoyedwith a plate of white rice, particularly for lunchor dinner.”

Looking for coffee shop delights? This month, we speak toSabahans on their favourites picks!

8 • P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t

Strap on those hiking shoes and get ready to explore the untouchedforest of Tawau’s Bukit Gemok. Situated 10 km from the city centre, Bukit Gemok (Gemok Hill) has recently become a popular

spot for avid trekkers and Hash runners who love the challenge of variedterrain. Bukit Gemok is approximately 428 metres above sea level and ispart of the Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve, covering 445 hectares.

The hike begins with an easy trail of concrete stairs which eventually‘disappear’ and make way for natural ground. The uphill walk is fairlychallenging, particularly for beginners. Watch out for rocks, bulging treeroots and the like. Some parts get steeper and more demanding, but thebeautiful natural surroundings make it all worthwhile. Along the way thereis so much to marvel at, such as the giant trees that seem to stretch endlessly to the sky and the elusive creatures that scurry about. Thereare seven huts along the way for walkers to rest and relax. After hikingfor about an hour (depending on your fitness level), you will arrive at the

Titian Selara canopy walkway. At 231 metres long, it is deemed one ofthe longest canopy walkways in Sabah. Your ‘struggle’ to the top will beworthwhile once you get a glimpse of the breathtaking view of Tawaufrom this high up. The stunning scenery spans the town centre, the picturesque coastline and its surrounding areas. The trek down BukitGemok should take a shorter time, but be warned that the trail becomesmuddy and slippery during the rainy season, so exercise extra caution.

The forest reserve was developed in the early 1990s and is nowequipped with basic facilities such as washrooms and rest huts along thetrail. Any land vehicle can be used to get to Bukit Gemok. Just be sure todress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids and get ready to soak in themajesty of the lush greenery along the trails of Bukit Gemok.For more information, contact the Tawau District Forestry Office at:089-761833 / 761835 / 761863 or Forestry Officer En. Miskon Siminat 089-770604.

Hiking atBukit Gemok

P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t • 9

The Tun Mustapha Tower is one of Sabah’s most outstanding works ofarchitecture, built along a concept and design that was way ahead ofits time back in the seventies. Facing the blue waters of Likas Bay it

is accessible by scenic coastal road of 11.2km. From a distance, it appearsto be a cylindrical tower but it is in fact a 72-sided polygon with walls of2,160 special reflective glass panels, which can withstand strong windswith speeds of up to 272kms per hour.

The building is the headquarters of the Sabah Foundation and has beenlikened to a modern day Taj Mahal. The building ‘changes’ colour depending on the movement of the clouds and ever-changing shades ofthe sky. Remarkably, it is the fourth only such high-rise ‘hanging’ officebuilding in the world. It consists of only a central column from which steelradial brackets are suspended. These are some 96 high-tensile steel rods,which hold up the 30 floors of the vuilding. Each floor weighs only about500 tonnes while each of the 96 cables that support the floor can take theweight of up to 100 tonnes each.

This means the structure is made up of floors hung from the top of the central core, each of them suspended strong and steady rods. The hightensile steel rods, which are one and a half inches thick, form a vital partof the building, sealed permanently out of harm’s way in vermiculite fireprotection covering, which has a four-hour fire rating. This allows all occupants four hours to evacuate the building in the event of a fire.However, thanks to its efficient design, it takes no more than 15 minutes toclear the building in case of an emergency.

Tun Mustapha Tower

Feature10

Road TripThey say the best test for any relationship is to go on a holidaytogether – and what better way than to go on a road trip toexplore Sabah! Take a leisurely drive up north to Kudat andvisit the Tip of Borneo, Tanjung Simpang Mengayau.Imagine standing over a majestic cliff overlooking the meetingpoint of the Sulu and South China Seas while the waves crashon the rocks below. It’s a scene out of a movie! Or find a reason to cuddle by the fireplace as you enjoy the cool mountain air at Kinabalu National Park. Start your day withbreakfast on the balcony as you watch Mount Kinabalu unravel itself.

Island EscapesSun, sea, sand and a sweetheart – What more do you need fora romantic getaway? Start by island hopping around the TunkuAbdul Rahman Park off the coast of KK City. A tip: opt forsmaller islands, namely Sulug or Sapi, for more quiet time andtry to schedule your trip on a weekday rather than busy week-ends. Want to be treated like royalty? Be King and Queen fora day (or two) at the Gayana Eco-Resort where breakfast isserved right to your door…on a boat! Or visit the ultra-roman-tic Reef Dive Resort in Mataking Island for a honeymoon youwon’t soon forget. Need an adrenaline rush? Try parasailing fortwo or give wakeboarding a go. If all fails, spend the day work-ing on your tan or – a true classic - enjoy a romantic walk alongthe beach as the sun sets.

Built for Two! In the mood for love? There’s plenty to see and do for thecuddlesome twosome or daring duo when in Sabah!

©D.Kirkland

©D.Kirkland ©Mewot/Sabah Tourism

Table for TwoAh, food, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways…ForValentine’s Day, go the extra mile and make it unforgettable as youdine at any one of Sabah’s fine dining establishments. Our five-starresorts all offer top-notch restaurants and are yours for the choosing. Award-winning Peppino’s at Shangri-La’s TanjungAru Resort and Spa is a popular pick this time of the year as wellas the romantic Italian joint Ferdinand’s at the Magellan Sutera.The Coast at Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort can arrange an out-door dinner experience as you wine and dine in your private gaze-bo under the moonlit sky. @mosphere (located on the 18th floorof Menara Tun Mustapha) also offers a fantastic menu and a 360degree view of the city. With all the candlelight action going on, beprepared for knee-bending, question-popping and heart-meltingmoments!

Spa TreatmentsWhat could be better than having your body pampered while yourmind drifts off into oblivion? Enjoying this while having your partnerbeside you of course! Sabah’s spas offer plenty of packages fortwo, such as the Ka’andaman Traditional Healing Garden andThe Borneo Spa at Dalit Bay. The Nexus Resort Karambunaialso offers massage treatments in quaint huts on its sandy beach,a tranquil experience like no other. Looking a traditional touch?Jari Jari in Tanjung Aru Plaza, Kota Kinabalu, specializes in traditional treatments to soothe your mind, body and soul. Spatreatments for two? DouBle the bliss!

Fun!Romance isn’t all candlelit dinners and gazing into each other’seyes. Think out of the box and think fun, fun, fun! Bring out thechild in you and have a ‘wild’ time at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Parkas you discover some of Sabah’s amazing creatures great andsmall.How about a walk under the sea? Seawalking is a great wayto explore the underwater world without getting a single strand ofhair wet. If the conventional spa treatment isn’t quite your thing,head over to Ranau and try the unique Kampung Luanti FishMassage. Simply dip yourself in the cool pond and wait for thefriendly fish to gently ‘massage’ you with their mouths! Now there’sone for the album.

For more information, visit www.sabahtourism.com or call ourTourist Information Centres at 088-212121 (Sabah TourismBoard) or 088-232121 (Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.). E-mail info@sabahtourism.com

©D.Kirkland

©D.Kirkland

©Mewot/Sabah Tourism

12

SABAH©CV Chong

White Water Rafting alo

Hiking at Mount Ki

Parasailing in KK City

T h r o u g h t h e L e n s

H THRILLS AND SPILLS!

©Suchen S.K

©Melvin Ho/Sabah Tourism ©CV Chong

©Calvin Ng/Sabah TourismMountain biking in Kudat

4-Wheel Drive Expedition during the BorneoSafari

ong Padas River

inabalu

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Sabah is known for its myriad of unique traditionalmusical instruments. The sompoton is perhapsone of the better known instruments. Traditionally

from Tambunan, it is now prevalent among theKadazandusun and Murut people. The sompoton is con-structed from a dried gours and eight bamboo pipesarranged in a double-layered raft. A small lamella ofpolod palm (like a tiny bungkau or jaw’s harp) is insertedin the side of each sounding pipe near its base. Thepipes are fitted into a hole on one side of the gourd andsealed with bees wax. The lamellae lie inside the gourdand provide the sound of the completed instrument. Thepipes are bound with thin strands of rattan. By blowing orsucking gourd’s mouth, the played can produce a softsweet harmonious sound. It can be played as a soloinstrument or in groups to accompany dancing.

*Taken from ‘An Introduction To The Traditional MusicalInstruments of Sabah’ (1992), Department of SabahMuseum and State Archives.

Sompoton

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Regatta Bandaraya21-22 FebruariNaikkan layar! Saksikan Laut China Selatan dimeriahkan dengan

pelbagai layar pada Regatta Hari Bandaraya, diadakan bersempenadengan ulang tahun ke-9 Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu. Seperti setiap tahun,Regatta ini akan diadakan di tepi Pantai Tanjung Aru dan diadakan selama dua hari dari pukul 9:00 pagi hingga 6:00 petang. Pelayar-pelayar mengambil bahagian dalam beberapa perlumbaan untukmenentukan juara dalam pelbagai kelas perahu.

Acara tahunan ini diadakan bagi meraikan kepentingan laut danperanannya dalam kehidupan penduduk Kota Kinabalu untuk beriadah,

bersukan dan ekonomi. Dianjurkan oleh Kelab Perahu Yacht Kinabalu,regatta ini memiliki reputasi untuk menarik pelayar-pelayar terkemukadari sekitar Borneo. Ramai antara mereka juga datang dari negeri-negeriSemenanjung untuk bertanding kerana ia merupakan regatta penandaaras bagi tahap persembahan masing-masing. Untuk pelayar-pelayarSabah, ini adalah perlumbaan penentu kedudukan yang amat penting.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Bobby Willie (Naib Komodor) ditalian 088-240070/243070/019 880 8859 atau e-melkyctaru@tm.net.my

Pameran Kraftangan TempatanSetiap Sabtu dan Ahad sepanjangbulan FebruariKampung Budaya Monsopiad membawakan anda Pameran

Kraftangan Tempatan bulan ini! Pelajari lebih banyak mengenaikemahiran lama yang diturunkan dari satu generasi ke generasi yanglain dalam seni membuat kraftangan. Dari pembuatan manik sehinggalah kemahiran menganyam, lihat bagaimana pembuat kraftempatan mengubah bahan mentah menjadi barangan kegunaanrumah, cenderahati yang cantik serta pakaian bergaya yang tidakdimamah usia. Malah anda boleh mencuba untuk menganyam bakulanda sendiri! Peluang baik untuk melihat seni mengagumkan pembuatan kraf dan peranannya dalam kehidupan penduduk tempatan.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Perkampungan BudayaMonsopiad di talian 088-761336/ 774337, faks 088-761680 atau e-mel info@monsopiad.com. Kampung Budaya Monsopiad dibukasetiap hari (termasuk cuti umum) dari 9:30 pagi sehingga 5:00petang. Kunjungan laman web di www.monsopiad.com.

Larian Bandaraya , 1 MacBanyak aktiviti yang disediakan bersempena dengan Hari Ulang Tahun ke-9 Hari Bandaraya

Kota Kinabalu dan Larian Bandaraya adalah salah satu acara yang tidak patut dilepaskan!Bersiap sedia untuk menyertai larian tahun ini bersama lebih kurang 10,000 warga kota yang lain.Larian sejauh 4-km ini membawa pelari mengelilingi bandaraya, berlepas pada pukul 7:30 pagidari tempat bersejarah, Padang Merdeka, yang juga menjadi titik penamat untuk larian tersebut.Hadiah-hadiah menarik menanti peserta dan keseronokan diteruskan selepas itu dimana andaboleh menyertai acara cabutan bertuah. Datang dan sertailah keseronokannya bersama rakan-rakan dan keluarga.Larian Bandaraya dianjurkan oleh Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu. Untuk maklumat lan-jut, sila hubungi Joannes Solidau di talian 088-521800 atau e-meljoannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

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California di Sabah? Restoran California Grill kini ada di Sabah!Datanglah ke 1 Borneo di Kota Kinabalu untuk merasai sendirihidangan panggang terbaik barat digabungkan dengan citarasa

menarik Asia. Tempatnya boleh memuatkan sehingga 88 pelanggan dansesuai untuk majlis persendirian. Melihat pada menunya, memang sukaruntuk membuat pilihan! Chefnya mencadangkan tiram kari merah untukmemulakan pengalaman anda menjamu selera. Tiram segar digorengbersama adunan kari merah yang pasti membuatkan anda mahu lagi.Untuk citarasa Asia, cubalah Sup Ekor Lembu. Bagi hidangan utama,rusuk kambing dihidang bersama sos pudina buatan sendiri dan sekiranya ayam menjadi pilihan anda, cubalah Ayam PanggangMaharaja, diperam bersama pati halia, kicap dan cili. Jika anda mahukanyang terbaik antara semua, kami mencadangkan Hidangan Nelayan(Fisherman’s Platter) – gabungan separuh bahagian udang kara, udangharimau dan stik daging lembu yang dipanggang di atas arang dan dihidangkan bersama sayuran dan kentang. Anda juga boleh memilihpasta, pizza dan hidangan panggang kegemaran yang lain. Untuk yangterakhir, banyak sekali pilihan untuk pencuci mulut! Cubalah Le ParfaitBanana Split - menawarkan tiga senduk aiskrim bersama campuranbuah-buahan, manisan coklat serta sebiji pisang. Pie Epal juga merupakan pilihan yang bijak, lebih baik jika dihidangkan bersamaaiskrim. Sama ada untuk jamuan sekeluarga atau makan malam romantik Hari Kekasih berduaan, California Grill adalah tempat terbaru dibandar ini yang menawarkan anda pengalaman makan malam yangindah.California Grill terletak di G-807, Tingkat Bawah 1 Borneo Hypermall,Kota Kinabalu. Dibuka dari 11:00 pagi hingga 10:30 malam pada Isninhingga Jumaat dan sehingga 11:00 malam pada hujung minggu. Untukmaklumat lanjut atau tempahan, hubungi 088-447041.

Galeri Tun Mustapha membuka pintunya pada tahun 2006 sebagaipenghargaan kepada salah seorang personaliti unggul negeri Sabah.Allahyarham Tun Mustapha merupakan seorang pemimpin berwawasanyang memainkan peranan penting dalam memimpin Sabah menujukemerdekaan. Dia adalah seorang pejuang kebebasan ketika PerangDunia ke-II dan memainkan peranan sebagai seorang aktivis negara,pemimpin yang memberi inspirasi dan telah berjasa sebagai YangDiPertua Negeri Sabah yang pertama.Galeri indah ini terletak di premis yang pernah menjadi tempat persidangan Dewan Undangan Negeri dari 1980 sehingga 1995 danmengetengahkan kehidupan dan era Tun Mustapha. Ia menampilkanbukti-bukti kejayaan dan kepayahan yang pernah diharunginya, denganketerangan lengkap mengiringi gambar-gambar yang dipamerkan disini. Galeri ini turut mempamerkan banyak artifak peribadi TunMustapha, dari pingat-pingat kebesaran sehinggalah baju yang dijahitkhas. Sebuah topi golf yang koyak turut dipamerkan di galeri ini.Menurut keterangan, isteri kesayangannya telah mengoyakkan danmelontar topi tersebut keluar dari kediaman mereka ketika satu pertengakaran. Topi tersebut dikutip oleh pemandu beliau yang menyimpannya sekian lama dan kini ia ditempatkan di Galeri tersebut.Tun Mustapha bukan sahaja seorang peminat golf tetapi juga seorangpemuzik berbakat. Koleksi biolanya juga boleh dilihat di galeri ini. Satulagi cerita mengisahkan bagaimana dia terselamat daripada keganasantentera Jepun selepas mereka mendengar beberapa lagu Jepun yangdimainkannya dengan gesekan biolanya pada Perang Dunia II. Semuafakta menarik ini dan barang kenangan beliau diabadikan di Galeri TunMustapha ini. Galeri ini turut menyediakan sebuah kedaicenderakenangan yang khusus menjual kraftangan berkualiti tinggi, diilhamkan dengan motif etnik tradisional pelbagai kaum di Sabah.Galeri Tun Mustapha terletak di Podium Level di Yayasan Sabah. Galeriini beroperasi dari Isnin sehingga Sabtu dari 8:00 pagi sehingga 5:00petang. Bayaran kemasukan dikenakan. Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubun-gi 088-321153 / 326683

Tempat-Tempat Menarik

Galeri Tun MustaphaMari Makan

California Grill

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Revered, respected and even feared, Mount Kinabalu is a sacred emblem to the localpeople of Sabah. Legend has it that the name Kina-balu means ‘Chinese Widow’. Kinais a variation of the word ‘China’ and ‘Balu’ is the Malay word for ‘Widow’. This is anallusion to the legendary belief that many women were widowed when their husbandsattempted to obtain a pearl on top of the mountain. However, this pearl was fiercelyguarded by a dragon and many men perished at the hands of this creature. For theKadazandusuns (the main ethnic group of Sabah), Kinabalu derives from theKadazandusun phrase ‘Aki Nabalu’, which refers to ‘the revered resting place of thedead’. The locals believe that when a person dies, his or her soul finds its final restingplace in the mountains. This is why the mountain is treated with great respect and sev-eral rites are still practiced to ensure the spirits are appeased. Today, people come fromfar and near to scale Mount Kinabalu, which stands at 4095.2 metres.

The Legend Of Mount Kinabalu

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau derives from the original Rungusname ‘Tanjung Sampang Mangazo’. Literally, Tanjung means ‘tip’and ‘Sampang Mangazo’ means a junction where battle took

place. According to Rungus folklore, this was the site of a fierce battlefought by their forefathers, defending Rungus territory against invadingenemies.

Local folklore states that pirates often frequented this area, attackingand looting innocent villagers who lived nearby. The villagers decided tojoin forces and defend themselves. Hence, Tanjung Simpang Mengayaubecame an ideal spot to observe the arrival of pirates and foreign ships.The brave warriors stood guard here and kept unwanted visitors at bay.

History also claims that the fleet of famous explorer, FerdinandMagellan, on its voyage to circumnavigate the globe, stopped here forforty-two days to repair their ships.

In the distance, you can see a lighthouse. Locals believe that spirits‘move in’ to this lighthouse when their ‘homes’ in surrounding areas(either on the mainland or nearby islands) are disturbed by human activ-ity. Today, the lighthouse serves as a guiding beacon to passing shipsand vessels.

Visitors can find their way to the Tip of Borneo via road from KK City –a scenic 3-hour drive through the countryside. Along the way, enjoy thepristine Kalampunian beach or visit nearby attractions such as theGombizau Honey Bee Farm and the gong-making village ofMatunggong.

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau,The Tip of Borneo, Kudat

©CL Chan

©CV Chong

©CV Chong