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Located in East Malaysia with Sarawak, Sabah is
Malaysia's second largest state and northernmost province. Its natural attractions entice
travelers in search of a different kind of Southeast Asian experience. Those with a taste
for adventure will find that Sabah has almost everything. Most visitors head straight for
Mount Kinabalu, which is one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia. Sabah is also
legendary among nature lovers. Its lush tropical forests have more than their fair share
of unique wildlife. And their easily accessible national parks and reserves ensure that
certain animals, such as the rare orang utans can be seen in their natural environment.
One can choose to jungle trek, explore caves, try water rafting, visit secluded beaches,
dive in remote tropical islands, or visit longhouses to meet their genuine friendly and
hospitable people and be intrigued by their traditional lifestyles. Sabah is simple yet
sophisticated. It has retained its traditional charms despite keeping up with
modernization. Sabah will certainly impress you with its unique and unspoiled character.
Sabah's natural riches have drawn both traders and
raiders for centuries. Its history dates back to 1881. Sabah was then known as North
Borneo and was administered by the British North Borneo Company. The British continued to
rule the colony until 1942 when the Japanese invaded it. However, Britain recaptured the
state in 1946 and converted it into a Crown Colony. The British rule ended in 1963 when
the state obtained its independence by joining the Federation of Malaysia.
But Sabah's natural wealth still attracts other
prospectors. Sabah's proximity with Indonesia and Philippines ensures both nations claim
parts of the state as their own. There are close cultural ties with the Philippines
although Sabah shares strong Islamic traditions with Peninsula Malaysia.
The Long
Houses of Sabah
These long houses, which are built from wood, can
accommodate up to 20 families! Activities such as cooking, weaving, and beading are all
done in a common place for all residents. Visitors are welcomed to spend a night or two in
these houses. Most of these long houses are found among the Rungus tribe near Kudat town.
Tamu
 Tamus are traditional open-air fairs where natives sell a wide variety of
local food, agricultural produces, and traditional crafts. Rural Sabahans take this
opportunity to peddle their wares for city folks to buy, barter, or trade. Tamus also acts
as a social place for community members to meet and chat. It is indeed a colorful 'bazaar'
that should not be missed.
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