RM 1.00

INSIDE: Cruising the Kinabatangan, Pesta Jagung, Eating Out and more!

November 2007 Volume 81November 2007 Volume 81

Sabah Tourism Awards 2007Honouring the industry’s best

SEE YOUR AD HERE!For advertising details, please call 088-232121

At therecentMajestic hornbills soaring

above us, proboscis monkeysleaping from tree to tree and

in a distance, Borneo pygmy elephants grazing without a care inthe world…Ah, to cruise theKinabatangan. I had the wonderfulopportunity to explore Sukau, thewildlife hotspot of Sabah, and cruisethe second longest river in Malaysia,the winding waters ofKinabatangan. There were so manyheart-stopping moments of awe andif anything, many of us left with anewfound respect and appreciationfor God’s creatures great and small.Read all about this ‘wild’ adventurein this month’s Feature section (p.10)and I hope it will inspire you to makea trip to Sandakan in the nearfuture.

As I flip another page on my calendar, it’s hard to believe we’rereaching the end of the year. But thathardly means it’s time to slow down!November promises a range of exciting events, many of which areuniquely Sabah. Head to KotaMarudu for the Pesta Jagung orMaize Fest, or nearer to KotaKinabalu city is Tamparuli where youcan catch the Bamboo Music Festival.November also marks a special timefor the Sabah tourism industry as wecelebrate and honour outstandingcontributors during the SabahTourism Awards (limited tickets areavailable for purchase). It’s all aboutglam, glitz and glory! Check out theCalendar of Events on page 2 for acomplete list of what’s happening inSabah this month.

We hope the magazine will serveyou well during your time in Sabah.For a better insight on what the LandBelow The Wind has to offer, log onto www.sabahtourism.com or comechat with our friendly tourist assistants at our Sabah Tourism or SriPelancongan Sabah informationcounters. Here’s wishing you sunnyskies, fun-filled days and a suitcase ofSabahan souvenirs!

Jumpa lagi,

Contents3 Feature Personality

Najmi Thys Abdullah, Director of Sutdies, Asian Tourism Institute

4 Happenings & HighlightsSabah Tourism Awards 2007Pesta JagungRemembrance DayBamboo Music FestivalPesta KubisDecorative Art & Craft Show4M Kiulu Challenge

7 Eating OutScoops Gelato BarSunset Bar, Nexus Resort Karambunai

8 Spa EssentialsBorneo Spa, Nexus Resort Karambunai

9 Places of InterestGomantong Caves

10 FeatureCruising the Kinabatangan

12 Through The LensHistorical Sites of Sabah

14 CultureLimbai - Dance of the Bajau People

15 What’s New 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 Sandakan Heritage Trail

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 51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu

TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese) Rie Harada (Japanese)Emzee Lee (Korean)

DESIGNED & PRINTED BY

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

Every ef for t has been made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be heldresponsible for any inaccuracies, omissions and alterations whichmay occur as a result of last minute changes. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the writ ten permission of theSabah Tourism Board.

Melissa LeongEditor

Editorial

Doing my part in the tree plantingproject at Kg. Abai

7th Annual Palliative Care Association Charity Dinner –Featuring The Supremes3 NovemberCome and watch renowned 60s soul divas, The Supremes,perform live at the Grand Ballroom of the Magellan Sutera atthe Sutera Harbour Resort, Kota Kinabalu during the 7thannual charity dinner organized by the Palliative CareAssociation (PCA). Organiser:Palliative Care Association (PCA) / Sutera Harbour ResortFor further info:Tel: 088-303001 (Sutera Harbour Resort) / 088-231 505(PCA) / 016 841 1499 (Emily Koh) / 019 862 6838 (Liza Yong)

Deepavali Day8 November 2007Deepavali is a festival where Hindus of all ages participate infestivities that give expression to their hapiness by lightingearthern diyas, decorating their houses, lighting fire crackersand inviting near and dear ones to their homes. The lightingof lamps is a way of paying obeisance to God for attainmentof health, wealth, knowledge, peace, valour and fame.For further info: Sabah Tourism BoardSri pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdTel: 088 212121, 232121 Fax: 088 212075, 265540Email: info@sabahtourism.com

10th Annual Decorative Art & Craft Exhibition and Sale10 NovemberThe 10th Annual Decorative Art & Craft Exhibition and Salewill take place at Beverly Hotel’s Nipah Room, Kota Kinabalu.Purchase one of a kind crafts created by art and craft enthu-siasts from around Sabah. The event takes place from10:00am to 5:00pm. For more information, please contact Christianne Goonting at019 881 1330 Organiser: Christianne GoontingFor further info: Tel: 019 881 1330

Pesta Jagung (Maize Fest)10 – 11 November 2007An annual festival of Kota Marudu District that celebrates themaize industry. Featuring a myriad of activities includingmaize-related exhibitions, competitions, traditional sports,Pesta Jagung beauty pageant and colourful cultural perform-ances.Organiser: Kota Marudu District OfficeSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdFor further info: Encik Matius Sator (District Office)Zachary MobijohnTel: 088 661321, 232121 Fax: 088 661419, 265540Email: Matius.Satur@sabah.gov.my, zachary@sabahtourism.com

MAH-ATI 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta10-11 NovemberThe Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) and the AsianTourism Institute (ATI) will be jointly organizing the 10thSabah Hospitality Fiesta, which takes place at the Asia CityComplex. This annual event will be showcasing hospitality,tourism and culinary skills of budding talents in the industry. Organisers:The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) / Asian TourismInstitute (ATI)For further info: Mr. Najmi Abdullah Director of Studies Tel: 088-253 732 / 242 633 / 252 633 E-mail najmi@ati.edu.com

Remembrance Day11 November 2007A poignant event held yearly to remember the courageousmen who died during the war. This day is observed on the11th hour of the 11th day of November. Each year, red pop-pies are worn during this time, which denotes the poppies ofthe Flanders in France.Organiser:Destination Borneo Sdn Bhd / Labuan CorporationVenue:Labuan War Cemetery, Federal Territory of LabuanFor further info: Willie TeoTel: 087 414611 Fax: 087 413459Email: wteo@tm.net.my

Balik Kampung School Activities16 – 23 November 2007An integrated assortment of traditional and cultural activitiestargeting primary and secondary students as part of theirpreparation to return to their respective villages or kampungsduring the long school holidays. Special programmes will beset and arranged for students to enjoy, while creating anawareness of their vital role in preserving tradition and culture.Organiser: Sabah MuseumFor further info: Mr. Dius KubudTel: 088 253199 Fax: 088 240230Email: Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my

Pesta Kubis 2007 (Cabbage Fest)17 November 2007Home to the freshest vegetables in Sabah, come and join thefolks of Kundasang in their effort to promote their vegetables-cabbage being the main Produce to visitors. Fresh vegeta-bles and exciting activities complemented with cool andrefreshing weather, make your way to Kundasang this monthfor the Pesta Kubis.Organiser: District Council of RanauFor Further info: Siriman Basir ( District Officer)Suatin Mayor (Organising Secretary)Tel: 088 875253, 013 8771666, 019 8411435Fax: 088 876754Email: siriman.basir@sabah.gov.my

Women Painters Art Exhibition22 November – 17 December 2007The exhibition showcases the works of art of Sabah’s well-known female artists and their latest masterpieces.Organiser:Sabah Art GalleryFor further info: Datuk Mohd. Yaman Hj. Ahmad MusTel: 088 268875 Fax: 088 210040Email: gallery_9@msn.com

Ranau Cultural Carnival 200724-25 November 2007This event is held in Ranau, home of the friendly Dusun people. Join the local folks as they showcase their rich culturethrough displays of kenduri adat (traditional feast), colourfuldance performances, crafts and traditional games.Organiser: Sabah Cultural BoardFor further info: Mackey ApisonTel: 088 268812, 268884 Fax: 088 264235Email: Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my,Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my

Sabah Tourism Awards 200725 NovemberThe Sabah Tourism Awards 2007 is a biennial event that celebrates and honours industry players for their outstandingcontribution. This year’s awards will take place at Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort.Organiser: Sabah Tourism Board/Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.For further info:Tel: 088-212121 / 0188-232121 Fax: 088-212075/ 088-265540E-mail: cynthia@sabahtourism.com / shahira@sabahtourism.com

Bamboo Music Festival28 November 2007Higlights include a musical performance by various BambooOrchestra musicians in Sabah, using a traditional bambooinstruments such as the Sompoton, Seruling (flute) and theTagunggak as percussions. This is also a great opportunity topurchase rare bamboo handicraft.Organiser: Persatuan Orkestra Muzik BambuFor further info: Jane Thing (president) / Wendy GuntarikTel: 013 8665612 / 013 8783238Fax: 088 981346

Feature Personality 3

When Dutchman Najmi Thys Abdullah first stepped onto Sabahsoil in 1989, little did he know how his infatuation with the Landbelow the Wind would grow into a full-blown love affair. A back-

packing trip in Peninsular Malaysia led him to a chance meeting with aSabahan lady with whom he now has 2 lovely children with, a son aged5 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 theareas of hospitality, tourism and culinary arts. Having been with ATI for sixand 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 tourismindustry. 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 whatmakes an individual successful in the tourism and hospitality industry.“Apart from instilling in them the theoretical background, it is importantthat the students build confidence and have the right attitude to be in theservice industry. Management skills are also an important aspect, whichis something we stress upon here,” he explains. Najmi points out thatSabah is particularly known for its charming people, a highly valuableasset in the tourism industry. “Sabahans are known for their friendlinessand warmth. In fact, this is why hotels and resorts in Peninsular Malaysiaprefer Sabahan staff as they are known for their excellent people skills,”he says.

With its warm people and eco-treasures from mountain high to oceandeep, Najmi is confident that Sabah’s tourism industry can look forwardto a bright future. “Compared to many other destinations, Sabah has somuch to offer. The culture, the food, the sun, the sea – these are the greatthings 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 beachor stroll in town without worrying about being hassled by vendors and thelike. This makes Sabah such a pleasant holiday destination,” he adds,stressing that Sabah should not compete to be another mass tourismdestination and pace its development process. “We don’t need to beanother Bali or Bangkok. We are, after all, a nature resort city and it isvery important to maintain the nature that surrounds it,” he says. Sabah’sgrowing popularity also cannot be denied. “At the Youth TourismConference in Putrajaya last year, they conducted a survey to see whichState in Malaysia was a preferred destination and Sabah came out as thenumber one choice of the participants (a majority of whom were fromPeninsular Malaysia). I think this is testament that Sabah has indeedmade its mark as one of the best places to visit, particularly amongdomestic 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 tothe tourism industry. “As for the State’s tourism industry, I hope that wecontinue to focus on preserving and conserving our existing attractionsand not strive to be another Bali or Phuket. Our real charm lies in thefriendly 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 H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

This month, the folks of KotaMarudu celebrate the

maize industry, one of themain contributors to the district’s economy and livelihood. Located some130km from Kota Kinabalu, theKota Marudu town field comesalive 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 theunique highlights is none other than the Pesta Jagung Beauty Pageant.Local beauties don maize-inspired outfits with creative touches. Seethem parade in skirts adorned with the leaves of the maize plant and kernel earrings and matching necklaces! When in Kota Marudu, visit thefamous Sorinsim Waterfall, located 40km from the main town and TamanSagabon, an agriculture research station at the Buyut lake. You can alsofind South East Asia’s biggest solar power station in right here in KotaMarudu. For more information, please contact District Officer Jane Tan HoiKwan at tel. no 088-661321 or Zachary Mobijohn at 088-232121. E-mail jane.tan@sabah.gov.my or zachary@sabahtourism.com

Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day) is usually observedon the 11th hour of the 11th day on November every year to

commemorate the Allied servicemen who perished during the war. Redpoppies are worn during that day, which denotes the poppies of theFlanders Field in France.

This year, Remembrance Day will be observed on November 11 atthe Labuan War Cemetary, Labuan FT. This is the final resting place of3,908 brave men, including British and Australian Prisoners of War,members of the 2/15 Punjab Regiments as well as Malaysian soldiersfrom the Special Z unit.

The event is free of charge and all are welcome to attend. The eventbegins with an introduction of Remembrance Day followed by prayersaccording to the respective faith, wreath-laying and a moment of silence.For further information, please contact Willie Teo at 087-414 611 orfax 087- 413 459. E-mail wteo@tm.net.my

The Sabah Tourism Awards 2007 is a biennial event that celebratesand honours industry players for their outstanding contribution. This

year, the event will be held at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-La’sTanjung Aru Resort at 7:00pm. Among the coveted awards include BestTour Operator, Best Tour Guide, Excellence in Hotel Services, BestEntertainment Spot, Best Shopping Centre and Best Tourism Article onSabah. A night of glamour and glitz featuring the crème de la crème ofSabah’s tourism industry.Tickets are available for purchase. For more information and ticketenquiries, please contact Sabah Tourism Board at 088-212121 or SriPelancongan Sabah at 088-232121.

Remembrance Day, 11 November

Sabah Tourism Awards 2007, 25 November

Pesta Jagung(Maize

Festival), 10-11

November

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

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

The Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) and the Asian Tourism Institute(ATI) will be jointly organizing the 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta. This annu-

al event will be showcasing hospitality, tourism and culinary skills of buddingtalents in the industry. Students will pit against each other in various competi-tions such as fruit carving, bartending, themed bed-making, themed table setting and pastry-making. Come and witness these young talents in actions at the Asia CityComplex. The Closing Dinner will be held on 11 November at Shangri-La’s Tanjung AruResort 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-mailnajmi@ati.edu.com

Head to Tamparuli in November to witness the Bamboo MusicFestival – a celebration that highlights the melodies of bamboo

instruments, unique to this part of the world. The famed KinabaluBamboo 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 (bamboostilt-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’sall happening this month at the Bamboo Music Festival inTamparuli. See you there!For more information, please contact Jane Thing at tel. no 013 8665612 or Wendy Guntarik at 013 878 3238

Kiulu 4M Challenge, 2 December

Bamboo Music Festival28 November

MAH-ATI 10th Sabah Hospitality Fiesta10-11 November

©Sabah Tourism

Challenge your physical abilities and have a splashing good time during theKiulu 4M Challenge in December! This much-awaited annual race features

four traditional activities/ survival skills of the natives of Sabah which all beginwith the letter “M”in the Kadazandusun language. The 4 M’s are challengingevents that participants must complete in sequence: manangkus (running for6 km), mamangkar (bamboo rafting for 5 km), manampatau (swimming with alength of bamboo for 1.3 km) and mamarampanau (bamboo stilt-walking for0.2 km).

Since its debut in 1996, the race has become a much-anticipated annualevent, 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 yourfavourite team. It’s all happening right here in Kiulu!For further information, please contact the Organising Chairman, Mr. AriffinGadait at tel. no +6088-225752 / +6019 862 4585 or e-mailto:Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my, Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my. Visit the web-site at http://www.geocities.com/k4mc/index.htmlhttp://www.geocities.com/k4mc/index.html

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

Don’t miss the 10th AnnualDecorative Art & Craft Exhibition

and Sale at Beverly Hotel’s NipahRoom, Kota Kinabalu. Purchase oneof a kind crafts created by art and craftenthusiasts from around Sabah. Theone-day exhibition features a varietyof contemporary art and craft technique such as folk art, stencilingwork, copper tooling, glass painting,tin guilding and decoupage. Some ofthe items on display and on sale aremade of recycled materials, includingbiscuit tins, cereal boxes and eventfused light bulbs and bottles. A greatopportunity to start looking for interesting Christmas gifts for friendsand loved ones! The event takesplace from 10:00am to 5:00pm.For more information, please contact Christianne Goonting at019 881 1330

Come and watch renowned 60s soul divas, TheSupremes, perform live at the Grand Ballroom

of the Magellan Sutera at the Sutera HarbourResort, Kota Kinabalu during the 7th annual charity dinner organized by the Palliative CareAssociation (PCA). The Supremes will be performing hits such as ‘Stop! In The Name OfLove’, ‘Back In My Arms Again’ and ‘River DeepMountain High’. There will also be an auction of

paintings by local artists. Do your part for charityand have an unforgettable night with TheSupremes! Tickets are available at RM15,000.00 /RM10,000.00 / RM5,000.00 / RM3,000.00 andRM2,000.00 per table. For reservations, please call the SuteraHarbour Resort at tel. no. 088-303001 or thePCA at 088-231 505 / 016 841 1499 (Emily Koh)or 019 862 6838 (Liza Yong)

10th AnnualDecorative Art &Craft Exhibition

and Sale,10 November

7th Annual Palliative Care Association Charity Dinner– Featuring The Supremes, 3 November

©Sutera Harbour

E a t i n g O u t 7

What could be better than a refreshing serving of delicious gelato ona 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 anypreservatives or artificial colouring. The weight watchers will also be gladto know that gelato has no more than 8 percent fat. They also servedairy-free sorbet and sugar-free gelato (vanilla and cappuccino).Choose from a wide variety of flavours, from the classic chocolate to themore unusually flavoured banana cheese! There are over 60 flavours tochoose from and 14 are served each day on rotation. Other flavoursinclude 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

percent discount on selected gelatos so askyour friendly waiter for the picks of the day. Looking for a snack? Scoopsserves a variety of salads and finger foods, such as fish fingers, sandwiches and French fries. Enjoy these dining delights with any oftheir beverages – we recommend the mock Sangria, a delicious fizzyfusion 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 wemention the fantastic and friendly service? See you at Scoops!

Scoops Gelato Bar is located at Unit no. A-G-19, Block A, GroundFloor, 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 moreinformation, contact Raymond at tel. no 088-484 337 or 016 8362652.

If you are in Nexus Resort Karambunai, drop by the Sunset Bar to enjoy ahearty meal or sip on a cocktail as you enjoy the sunset. Located on the

beachfront, the Sunset Bar is a quaint establishment, offering diners an alfresco environment to enjoy the South China Sea breeze while they eat. Forstarters, check out the Lite Bites which offer an array of finger food including satay (a Malaysian favourite), Greek salad, spicy potato wedgesand soup of the day. They also serve an array of sandwiches – try the tandoori chicken served in tortilla bread with cucumber yogurt. Kids will lovethe Sunset Burger, chargrilled with onions or the Jumbo New York Hot Dog,served with caramelized onions, mustard and home-made relish. Moving onthe main course, the Sunset Bar can whip up a hearty charcoal-grilledAustralian Rib Eye Steak or if you prefer something light, try the GrilledSeabass Fillet with spring onions and lemon dressing. However, the pizzahas proved to be the real winner at the Sunset Bar. Choose from a varietyof flavours, including quarto formaggio, margarita and Mediterranean.There’s definitely something for everyone! Craving for something sweet? Gofor the chocolate cake, apple crumble or caramello cheesecake. Simplydelectable! Cocktails, mocktails, smoothies and fresh juices are also available so take your pick. Surrounded by the great outdoors and with anamazing view of the sunset, the Sunset Bar will not disappoint.Open daily from 12 noon to 11:00 pm. For more information, contactNexus Resort Karambunai at 088-411222.

Sunset Bar, Nexus Resort Karambunai

©Sabah Tourism

©Nexus Resort Karambunai

8 S p a E s s e n t i a l s

Step into a world of relaxation and indulgenceat the Borneo Spa at the Nexus ResortKarambunai. As you step into the luxurious

spa, you are greeted by the sounds of the rainforest and a calming ambience. The RelaxationLounge, as it is aptly named, is where your pampering begins. After donning your robe in thechanging room, guests make their way to theRelaxation Lounge where they will be met by theirpersonal therapist. Your treatment will take place ina private room. One of the more popular treatmentsis the Aromatherapy Massage – a relaxing massage that relieves knots and pains in the bodyusing a specially blended oil. Guests can choosefrom a range of oils – Borneo Spice, BorneoPassion, Borneo Laut or Borneo Relax. The massage begins with the therapist gently kneadingyour back, working her way from shoulders to hips.Be sure to communicate with your therapist on thedesired pressure. Your massage should be comfortable at all times. The therapist then movesto the arms and then the legs, applying pressure tothe palms and soles to relieve any soreness. Thefinal stage of the massage involves a gentle massage of the neck and head. Much-needed aftera long day of shopping or a hard day at work! TheBorneo Spa also offers a variety of treatments,such as the Borneo Sun Soother, a rehydrating andsoothing process for the body after a day out in thesun. Signature treatments include the BorneoDetox, which exfoliates dead skin cells, stimulatesblood circulation and eliminates toxins, and theBorneo Massage, a combination of massage techniques to improve blood circulation and digestion whilst draining toxins via the lymphaticsystem. For an unforgettable session, ask for theRelax By The Sea, where you can enjoy a massage at the beachfront massage cabanas asthe sounds of the sea seduces your senses.Pedicures, manicures and facials are also available. Ask the friendly reception for moredetails on the packages and treatments available.Other facilities at Borneo Spa include hot and coldpools, sauna, steam room and showers. To make an appointment, contact Nexus ResortKarambunai at 088-411 222 ext. 6241 or fax 088-408 188. Visit the website at www.nexusresort.com

Borneo SpaNexus Resort Karambunai

Note: In the last issue of Sabah Malaysian Borneo, the contactdetails 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 till5:00 pm on Sunday and Public Holidays. The saloon is locatedat Lots D29-31, 3rd Floor, Centre Point Sabah, Kota Kinabalu,tel. no. 088-241578. Another branch is located at 242-243, 2ndfloor of Wisma Merdeka, tel. no.: 088-238318. Appointmentsare recommended to avoid disappointment.

©Nexus Resort Karambunai

©Nexus Resort Karambunai

P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t 9

Gomantong Hill is the largest limestoneoutcrop in the Lower Kinabatanganarea, and contains at least nine

caves. For centuries, the Gomantong Caveshave been renowned for the valuable ediblebirds’ nests made by two of the four speciesof swiftlets that roost in the caves. Duringthe harvesting months, visitors may be ableto witness the birds’ nest collectors inaction. This is an age-old tradition and thetrade history of birds’ nest spans severalhundreds of years.

Gomantong consists of two cave com-plexes, Simud Hitam and Simud Putih.Simud Hitam is the main cave, a five-minutewalk from the Registration Centre. Along theway to the cave, enjoy the beautiful greensurroundings and, if you are lucky, youmight even catch a glimpse of a macaque ortwo. A boardwalk inside the cave makesexploration an easy task. Be sure to have atorchlight ready. Once inside, be amazed atthe 90-metre high cave roofs, which iswhere the swiftlets’ nests are often found.Exploring Simud Putih is for more the moreadventurous, requiring rock climbing skills.The ‘white saliva’ birds’ nests found here

are more valuable as they are more difficultto collect.

The birds’ nests harvesters are individu-als who have nerves of steel and skillshoned through years of experience.Dangling precariously from the narrow net-work of ladders is not a task for the fainthearted! It is not surprising that there areonly a few experienced individuals who arevery 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 andthe Forest Enactment. Heavy fines andpenalties are imposed on unlicensed collec-tors.

Generally, two collections are made. Thefirst takes place early in the breeding sea-son before the swiftlets lay their eggs. Thebirds then make another nest in which theyfinally lay their eggs. After the young havefledged, the second collection is made. Caremust be taken to assure that the nests arecollected only after the young swiftlets haveabandoned these nests.

Besides observing the exciting displayof skill and courage by the birds’ nest har-

vesters, another activity for keen naturalistswould be to watch the spectacular displayof over 2 million or so resident bats as theyspiral out for their evening feed. This usual-ly occurs between 5:15pm and 6:15pm butrain may delay or ‘cancel’ this spectacularevent. As the bats leave, the swiftlets areusually beginning to make their way back tothe caves after a day’s foraging. The chang-ing of ‘shifts’ between the bats and birdsmakes quite a fascinating scene! Look outfor the Bat Hawks that linger not far from thescene, as they prey specifically on the batsas they leave their roost.

How to get thereTake a 45-minute flight or enjoy a leisurely6-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu toSandakan. From Sandakan town, makearrangements for a journey to theKinabatangan region, which is approximate-ly 2 hours by road.For more information, please contact SabahTourism Board at 088-212121 or SriPelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd. at 088-232121.

GomantongCaves

10

In the still of the night, the swampy jungle feels almost alive. Thegreen canopies of the day transform into lifeless shadows loomingabove our heads, enveloping our tiny boat as we chug along theKinabatangan river. Nobody makes a sound and our eyes dart leftand 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 ofSabah’s wildlife hotspot, the riverbanks of the Kinabatangan. The secondlongest river in Malaysia, Kinabatangan is a nature enthusiasts’ dream.It is probably one of the few remaining places in the world where mancan venture into the natural habitats of some of the most elusive wildlifeand catch a personal glimpse of creatures great and small. My journeybegan in Kampung Abai, a quaint community just an hour and a half byspeedboat from the Sandakan jetty. Our humble abode for the first daywould be the Abai Jungle Lodge – and a jungle lodge it was. Surroundedby the forest, we were visited by macaques in the evening and were toldthat some fortunate guests had even come across a clouded leopardduring their nature walk (guests can stroll along the boardwalk builtbehind 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,

“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. Juniorsaid that during the night cruise, there was a good chance we would spotnocturnal friends. “But be reminded that these wildlife cruise outings donot guarantee a sighting – It really depends on your luck,” he pointed out.“No elephants I suppose?” I asked. Probably tomorrow, he said. Wecrossed our fingers. We managed to catch a glimpse of severalKingfisher birds, asleep on tiny branches and at some point, a crocodilemade 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 twodays 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-plantingproject organized by S.I Tours, our handler for the trip. The companyembarked on an interesting project whereby the villagers of Abai monitora tree-planting activity. Each visitor to the lodge contributes RM1.00 toplant a tree in their name and in return, the villagers receive RM10.00 foreach tree planted. Amy Chin, Director of S.I Tours, explained that thiswas their way of giving back to the community and to have the local people involved in tourism development. “The villagers have beenextremely co-operative and over the years, they have developed anappreciation for the tourism industry and how important it is to have

KinabatanganBy Melissa Leong

Cruising theAll photos ©Sabah Tourism

sustainable development. As much as we benefit from theindustry, so should the local residents and this is our way of giving back,” she said. In fact, most of the fresh seafood servedat 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 studentsfrom Kg. Abai to pursue their studies. Their sincere efforts tohelp the local community are truly commendable.

Our next night would be spent on another side of theKinabatangan river, the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. Theboat ride took approximately one hour from Abai and uponarrival, we asked the pertinent question of the day: “Are thereany elephants here?” Junior smiled at our child-like enthusiasmand said we’d have to wait and see. Our afternoon cruise alongthe river proved fruitful. We spotted plenty of proboscis monkeys, who quickly scurried and disappeared at the sight ofour boats. We had also seen a beautiful python, a civet and atotal of 5 of the 8 hornbill species found in the area, includingthe largest of its kind, the Rhinoceros hornbill to which Juniorsaid we were “Very lucky indeed. Don’t get me wrong, we wereexcited at all the wildlife we had come across so far…But wehad 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 therewas a commotion on one of the riverbanks. That’s when I sawit. A large grey head, flapping ears and…A trunk! The BorneoPygmy Elephant was just 20 feet away. Not one, not two but awhole herd of elephants emerged from the thick of the jungle tofeed. Cameras snapped away, eyes fixated and mouth agape –everyone reveled in the moment. This was truly the highlight ofmy trip as the sighting of the Borneo Pygmy Elephant in the wild– the smallest of its kind- is extremely rare. Even the rain thatpummeled us as we made our way back to the lodge did notdampen our spirits and the dinner conversation was made up ofexcited chatter on the elephant sighting. It was a trip of a lifetime and no matter how many times I visitthe 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 www.sitoursborneo.com

Tree planting in Abai Seeing Borneo Pygmy Elephants in the wild is a truly unforgettable experience

The jungle night-walk: In search of nocturnal creatures

Abai Jungle Lodge

12

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

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

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

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

©S

cuba

zoo

of the

e major damage during

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

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

14 C u l t u r e

The graceful turning hand gesture is a trademark of the Limbai, the traditional dance of the Bajau people. Originating from the West CoastBajau 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 silverleaves called ‘mandapun’ accentuate the neckline. The full skirt is adorned by awoven panel called ‘Kain Belangkit’. Around her waist is a silver belt with a widebuckle known as ‘ingkot pangkat’. The headdress is called ‘sarempak’ whilst thefingernail extensions are known as ‘keku’.

The men don a high collared shirt called ‘badu’ with betawi buttons adorningthe front. A selendang (or scarf) is tied around his waist together with his silvercoin 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 drumscalled ‘gendang’.

-Dance of the Bajau People

Limbai©Sabah Tourism ©Sabah Tourism

16 B a h a s a M a l a y s i a

Datanglah ke Tamparuli November ini untuk menyaksikan FestivalMuzim Bambu – satu perayaan yang mengetengahkan irama

daripada peralatan bulu. Orkestra Bambu Kinabalu yang terkenal akanmempersembahkan lagu-lagu menggunakan pelbagai peralatanberasaskan buluh, termasuklah sompoton (aerofon buluh), bungkau(harp jaw) dan tagunggak (idiofon buluh). Jangan lepaskan acaramenarik yang lain seperti perlumbaan rampanau (berjalan menggunakan galah buluh), pertandingan membuat rakit buluh dan perbarisan rampanau. Ini peluang baik untuk menambah pengetahunmengenai alatan buluh dan membeli kraftangan tempatan serta peralatan muzik berasaskan buluh. Semuanya berlangsung bulan ini diFestivan 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 sanaTamparuli hanya 40 minit memandu menggunakan kereta dariBandaraya KK. Naiki bas dari stesen bas di hadapan Plaza Wawasanuntuk RM3.00 bagi perjalanan sehala. Pastikan anda memberitahupemandu bas mengenai tempat perhentian anda. Biasanya tempatberhenti ini juga menjadi tempat naik untuk perjalanan pulang. Basberulang alik dari 7.30 pagi hingga 5.00 petang.

Banyak yang bolehdinikmati di Kudat,

cuma tiga jam memandudari Kota Kinabalu denganpemandangan menariksepanjang perjalanan.Persinggahan pertamaanda tidak lain tidak bukanTanjung SimpangMengayau yang masyhurdan dikenati sebagaiPenghujung Borneo.Rakamkan gambar anda dititik paling utara Borneodan saksikanlah titik pertemuan menakjubkanLaut Sulu dan Laut ChinaSelatan. MasyarakatRungus terkenal dengankemahiran membuatkraftangan dan anda bolehmelihatnya lebih dekat diKampung Sumangkap (membuat gong), dan Kampung Tinangol (kilangmanik). Juga mesti dikunjungi ialah rumah panjang KampungBavanggazo untuk pengalaman penginapan tradisional dan ladanglebah tempatan yang menghasilkan Madu Kudat yang terkenal,Kampung Gombizau. Di pekan Kudat, Sidek Esplanade menyediakanbilik 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 ikannyadimana makanan laut segar Kudat boleh dibeli.

Bagaimana ke sanaKudat terletak 190km dari Kota Kinabalu dan perjalanan menerusidarat akan mengambil masa 3 jam. Anda boleh menaiki bas dariTerminas Bas Bandaraya (Utara) untuk RM18.00 seorang (sehala).Perjalanan pulang akan berlepas dari tempat anda turun di pekanKudat. Maklumkan pemandu bas mengenai destinasi anda. Bas berop-erasi dari 7.30 pagi sehingga 5.00 petang. Selain itu, anda juga boleh

Kunjungi KudatKunjungi Kudat

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

©CL Chan

Dengan 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 penghunihutan dan hanya terhad di hutan paya bakau. Walaupun merekabiasanya ditemui di tebing sungai Kinabatangan, penduduk yang tinggal di kawasan tersebut berkata monyet-monyet ini sering dilihat dikawasan tertentu dimana makhluk tersebut pasti muncul setiap pagi.Lain-lain tempat untuk melihat monyet belanda beraksi ialah PerairanLabuk 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 sebabkumpulan besar monyet belanda adakalanya dapat dilihat. Satu lagifakta yang kurang diketahui ialah monyet belanda merupakan perenang yang hebat!

Kunjungi Kadaiku untuk membeli patung monyet belanda, LuckyLaki. Kadaiku terletak di Lot 5, Tingkat Bawah, Blok L, KompleksSinsuran, Kota Kinabalu (lihat peta di What’s New di Kadaiku padamuka surat 15).

17B a h a s a M a l a y s i a

Apa yang lebih baik daripada hidangansegar gelato yang sedap pada hari panas

di Sabah? Untuk menikmati pengalaman ini,kunjungi Scoops Gelato Bar di WarisanSquare di Kota Kinabalu. Bukan sepertiaiskrim biasa, gelato di sini disediakan dengan segar setiap hari dalam kotak kecil 4liter dalam satu masa, memastikankesegaran sepenuhnya. Ia juga lebih berkrimdan kurang kandungan air berbandingaiskrim, membuatkan rasanya lebih menyerlah. Waspada kesihatan? Tiadamasalah kerana Scoop Gelato Bar menggunakan ramuan semulajadi tanpasebarang pengawet atau pewarna tiruan.Mereka yang prihatin dengan berat badanjuga pasti gembira mengetahui gelato memiliki tidak lebih daripada 8 peratus lemak.

Mereka juga menyediakan sorbet bebaslemak dan gelato bebas gula (vanilla dancappucino). Pilihlah dari bermacam jenisperisa, daripada coklat klasik sehinggalahperisa unik seperti keju pisang! Ada lebih 60perisa 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, manggadan dadih strawberi. Scoops Gelato Bar turutmenawarkan potongan 50 peratus untukgelato terpilih jadi tanyalah pelayan andayang peramah mengenai hidangan pilihanharian. Mahukan snek? Scoops menyediakan pelbagai jenis salad danmakanan ringan, seperti nuget ikan, sandwicdan kentang goreng. Nikmatilah hidangan ini

bersama bermacam jenis minuman –kamisyorkan Sangria, gabungan enak bermacamjenis buah-buahan. Semua ini boleh dinikmatidalam suasana santai, sesuai untukberkumpul bersama rakan-rakan dan keluar-ga selepas makan malam. Belum lagi kamisebut tentang layanannya yang mesra danmemuaskan. 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 sehinggaAhad dan Cuti Umum. Untuk lebih tawaran,daftarlah untuk kad kemudahan Scoops.Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Raymonddi talian 088-383337 atau 016-8362652.

Bulan ini, masyarakat Kota Marudu meraikanindustri jagung, salah satu penyumbang

utama ekonomi dan kehidupan di daerah tersebut. Terletak kira-kira 130km dariKota Kinabalu, Padang Pekan Kota Maruduakan disemarakkan dengan pelbagai acarauntuk dinikmati semua, termasuk pertandinganmakan jagung, permainan-permainan tradisional, persembahan kebudayaan danbeberapa pameran berkaitan jagung. Salahsatu tarikan unik ialah Ratu Cantik PestaJagung. Gadis-gadis tempatan mengenakanpakaian berilhamkan jagung dengan sentuhan kreatif. Saksikan mereka bergaya

dengan gaun pokok jagung dan subang bijijagung serta rantai yang dipadankan! Bila berada di Kota Marudu, berkunjunglah ke AirTerjun Sorinsim yang terkenal, terletak 40kmdari pekan utama dan Taman Tabagon, sebuahpusat kajian pertanian di Tasik Buyut. Andajuga boleh menemui stesen kuasa solar terbesar di Asia Tenggara di Kota Marudu ini.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungiPegawai Daerah Jane Tan Hoi Kwan di talian 088-661321 atau Zachary Mobijohn di talian 088-232121. E-meljane.tan@sabah.gov.my atauzachary@sabahtourism.com

Pesta Jagung, 10-11 November

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism ©Sabah Tourism

1 8 C h i n e s e

©Sabah Tourism

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©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

20 J a p a n e s e

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

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© Sabah Tourism

22 K o r e a n

Kalampunian Beach, Kudat©D.Kirkland, Sabah Tourism

© Sabah Tourism

K o r e a n 23

Golf

©SabahTourism

Sutera Harbour Golf & Country Club

Ambulance/Police -999

Police HotlineHQ SABAH – 088-253555 KK – 088-221191

Airport - 088-238555

Queen Elizabeth Hospital088-218166

Damai Specialist Centre088-222922

Information Services 088-280600/ 280631/ 280641

Us

efu

l N

um

be

rs

Yayasan Sabah Ambulance088-326655

International Telephone Directory Assistance -108Sabah Medical Centre

088-211333

Fire Department - 994SANDAKAN (089)

!Hospital 212111

!Airport 660405

!Immigrations 668308

TAWAU (089)

!Hospital 773533

!Airport 950013

!Immigrations 773343

LABUAN (087)

!Hospital 413333

!Airport 415015

!Immigrations 412298

Sabah Tourism Board No.51, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-212121 Fax: 088-212075Email: info@sabahtourism.comWebsite: www.sabahtourism.comOpen: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

9:00am to 4:00pm (Weekend & PH)

Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdLot 4, Ground Floor, Block L, Sinsuran Complex,88000, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-232121 Fax: 088-265540Email: info@sabahtourism.comWebsite: www.sabahtourism.comOpen: 8:00amto 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

8:00am-4:00pm (Weekend & PH)

Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)Lot 1-0-7, Ground Floor, Block 1, Lorong Api-Api1, Api Api Centre, 88000, Kota KinabaluTel:088-248698/ 211732E-mail: enquiries@tourism.gov.myWebsite: www.tourism.gov.myOpen: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

Closed on weekends

Kota KinabaluGaya Street Fair - SundayKampung Air - Sunday

Penampang DonggongonThursday & Friday

PaparLok Kawi Sabindo - Saturday

SandakanSandakan Town - SundayGua Mantong Jaya - Sunday

TawauBandar Tawau - Sunday

Ranau Pekan Kundasang - Friday

KudatMatunggong Lama - SaturdayMatunggong Baru - Thursday

Kota MaruduPekan Kota Marudu -Saturday & Sunday

KeningauBingkor - Thursday

TambunanPekan Tambunan - Thursday

Kota BeludPekan Kota Belud - Sunday

* most tamus operate as early as 6am and close by 2pm.KOTA KINABALUSabah State MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmJln. Bukit Istana Lama, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-253199/263551

Sabah Islamic Civilisation MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmJalan Menteri, off Jalan Tunku AbdulRahman, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-538227/538228

Sabah Ethnobotanical Heritage MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmBukit Istana Lama, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-253199/263551

Second World War Memorial PetagasOpen dailyTel:088-253199

Kinarut Mansion Ruins MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199/263551

SANDAKANAgnes Keith House, SandakanMon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pmTel: 089-222679

Sandakan Memorial ParkMon - Sun: 9am-5pmSibuga Forest ReserveMile 7, Jalan Labuk, SandakanTel: 016 8221616 (Doris)

Sandakan Heritage MuseumMon - Sun: 9am-5pmWisma Warisan, SandakanTel: 089-222679

Batu Tulug Archaeological Site Museum, KinabatanganMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199

TAWAUTeck Guan Cocoa Museum Mon-Fri: 8am -11:30am

1:30pm-4:30pmSat: 8am-12pm Sun: ClosedMile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, Teck Guan Factory, TawauTel:089-775566 ext 2601

Bukit Tengkorak ArchaelogicalSite Museum, SempornaMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199

OTHER DISTRICTSMurut Museum (Sabah Murut Cultural Centre , Tenom)Mon – Sun: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Lembaga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah (Tenom Branch) W.D.T 72, 89909Tenom.Tel: 087-734506

Mat Salleh Memorial, TambunanOpen DailyKg. Tibabar, TambunanTel :088-253199/ 263551

Kundasang War Memorial, Open daily including Public HolidaysTel: 019 899 2041 (Mr. SeveeCharuruks)

MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

TAMU MARKETS

© Sabah Travel Guide

Once a bustling little town dubbedthe ‘Little Hong Kong of Borneo’,Sandakan is still one of Sabah’s

economic hotspots and boasts a myriadof fascinating historical landmarks.Remnants of the past are very muchalive in this exciting township andthere’s always something new to discov-er during your trip to Sandakan.

Perhaps the best way to seeSandakan’s famous historical land-marks is to take the Sandakan HeritageTrail. As you walk around the roads ofSandakan, you will come across interesting sites with historical signifi-cance. The trail is easy to follow asthere are signboards and indicatorsalong the road to lead you. The trailbegins at Masjid Jamek, the townmosque, which is more than a hundredyears old. Today it continues to faithfullyserve the Muslim community as a placeof worship, despite some disruptionsduring World War II. The new SandakanHotel stands beside it, replacing theoriginal, which was built in the 1880s.You will then see the William Pryer

Monument, which stands in memory ofWilliam B. Pryer (1845–1899), whofounded Sandakan on 21 June 1879. Hewas also the first Resident of the EastCoast.

Prepare to work those leg musclesas you make your way uphill using theStairs of 100 Steps. These were thevery stairs that the thriving Chinesecommunity residing behind the hillsused to make their way to town for busi-ness. At the top of the steps, you canalso find the World War II ChineseMemorial dedicated to the Chineseleaders and those who perished duringthe war.

One of the most notable landmarksyou will encounter is the Agnes KeithHouse – home the of the famousAmerican writer who coined the term‘Land below the Wind’ (also the title ofher first book that recounts her time inBorneo). As you walk further along thetrail, you will see the Sam Sing Kungtemple, built in 1887, making it 120years old. Here you will find the oldestsurviving bronze bell. Also along the trail

is the Goddess of Mercy Chinese temple and St. Michael’s and All AngelsChurch. This solid building managed toescape major damage during World WarII and remains one of the very few stonebuildings in the whole of Sabah.Strolling along the side of the field aftervisiting the Sam Sing Kung temple willbring you to the junction facing theMalaysia Fountain. Along the way, takenote of the Harrisons (& Crosfield) build-ing. It is one of the oldest-establishedBritish companies in Sabah. Oppositethe building are the former Hongkong &Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC)and Chartered Bank (now StandardChartered Bank) buildings, both prestige banks of the colonial period.The last historical landmark that awaitsyou is Wisma Warisan, which now houses the Tourist Information Centre.This was the main government buildingduring the British administration. Theformer Residency office was on the firstfloor and the present Tourist InformationCentre was the General Post Office formany years.

SandakanHeritage Trail

Agnes Keith House St.Michael’s and All Angels Church

Sam Sing Kung Temple William Pryer Monument