March 2008 Volume 85

RM 1.00

Top 10 Things
to Do in Sabah
INSIDE: Sabah Agriculture Park, Fauziah Gambus, Eating Out, Listings and more!
UsefulPhrasesIn
BahasaMalaysia
Apa khabar? – How are you?
Khabar baik – I’m fine
Terima kasih – Thank you
Sama-sama – You’re welcome
Pukul berapa…? – What time…?
Di mana…? – Where…?
Bolehkah anda membantu saya?
– Can you help me?
Minta maaf – I’m sorry/Excuse me
Saya sedang mencari tempat makan
– I’m looking for a place to eat
Berapa harga? – How much is this?
 Contents
ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin / Sitti B. Damsal

EDITOR Yolanda Graham

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

What’s New At Kadaiku design by Charlieking Padasian

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.

51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu
3 Feature Personality
TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese)
Rie Harada (Japanese) K1 Fighters
Emzee Lee (Korean) Cover Pic © Scubazoo.com
DESIGNED & PRINTED BY
Inna Kinabalu Sdn Bhd 4 Happenings & Highlights
(Publisher of The New Sabah Times) Sabah Agricultural Park 7th Anniversary
Jalan Pusat Pembangunan Masyarakat, Sembulan
88100 Kota Kinabalu
Sabah and Sarawak Art Link Exhibition
Pesta Lunsai
Ever y ef for t has been made to ensure that the information is 9th Annual Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008
correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be held
responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions and alterations which Freedom of Entry to the City
may occur as a result of last minute changes. No par t of this
magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the
Sabah Tourism Board.
7 Eating Out
Yoshimi Japanese Testaurant, Warisan Square
A Malaysian Staple - Chicken Rice

Editorial 8 Spa Essentials

Just Relax

I
t is my pleasure to present the 2007 perform- and Brunei besides 20
ance of tourism in Sabah, the insights into daily Kuala Lumpur-
and direction for the tourism industry in The Kota Kinabalu flights
Land Below The Wind for the next three years. that provide conven- 9 Leisure
ient connectivity for
international flights to
Sabah Polo
Sabah is an emerging, exotic, exciting,
highly diverse, unique, friendly, hospitable, Sabah via Kuala
Lumpur International
safe, politically stable, a value and a world class
destination that is being promoted and market- Airport. 10 Feature
ed as ‘Sabah Nature’ally’, A Premier Top 10 things to do in Sabah
Ecotourism Destination, capitalizing on its mega Sabah’s huge potential for sustainable
biodiversity and rich living heritage as A growth will be enhanced by the recently
Premier Nature Adventure Destination, Eco launched Sabah Development Corridor which
Treasures from Mountain High to Ocean Deep. will put in place world class tourism infrastruc- 12 Through The Lens
ture and services to strengthen Sabah’s position
as a premier eco-adventure destination and to
Exciting events all year round
The harmony, high degree of tolerance and
integration among the multi religion and multi make Sabah among the most liveable places in
ethnic people of Sabah of a delightful mix of Asia by 2025.
over 30 indigenous communities epitomize 14 Culture
Sabah is Truly Malaysia. Malaysia is being suc- The challenge is a shared vision, tourism
cessfully promoted Malaysia Truly Asia. culture of cleanliness, politeness and efficiency A Gambus Album by Fauziah Suhaili
be a way of life, development in harmony with
Sabah’s tourism industry performed very nature, energizing the Sabah tourism industry,
well with an average growth of 22% per annum ramping up Sabah’s tourism capabilities to 15 What’s New at Kadaiku
in the last ten years. The Land Below The Wind move up to the next level, and for Sabah to be
is ‘a shooting star’ in the East Asia Pacific a preferred destination of choice in the glob- Sabah Souvenirs & Handicrafts
Region. Total arrivals of just over 400,000 in al market.
1998 significantly increased five folds to 2.48
I would like to take this opportunity to
million in 2007, yielding RM 4.7 billion in
tourism receipts which is 14.8% of the GDP of thank the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, Tourism 16 Bahasa Malaysia Section
Sabah . The average length of stay is 8 nights 9 Malaysia, the Sabah State Government par-
days. 96% of the arrivals are by air. 40% are ticularly the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and
Environment for the leadership and budget, all
repeat visitors. The focus is on high yield longer
our industry partners and members of the trav-
18 Chinese Section
staying tourists ‘Less is More’ in pursuance of
sustainable tourism development. The hotel el industry, the management, staff and mem-
occupancy statewide averaged 75%, with over bers of the Sabah Tourism Board, and Sri
80% occupancy for 4-5 Star hotels There is a Pelancongan Sabah, for their strong support 20 Japanese Section
need to double to 6,000 rooms of 5-Star and cooperation towards our effort in making
beach resort hotels by 2010. Sabah A Premier Ecotourism Destination and
To Shine Among The Best.
The growth of tourist arrivals is projected to 22 Korean Section
average about 20% per annum in the next five To all our visitors, we wish you Selamat Datang
years. The projection for 2010 is 3.4 million and have a pleasant experience of The Land
Below The Wind in Malaysian Borneo.
tourist arrivals yielding RM 6.5 billion tourism
receipts. The focus is domestic, the East Asia
24 Directory Listings
Pacific Region and the aviation hubs of Terima kasih.
Singapore and Hong Kong. The completion of
the redevelopment of Kota Kinabalu 25 Sabah Map & Listings
International Airport (KKIA) by mid-2009 will
increase three folds its passengers per annum
capacity from 4 million to 12 million, and with
an Open Sky policy, will encourage more 26 The Sabah Agriculture Park
direct international scheduled flights to Sabah,
Malaysia’s Eastern Gateway. Currently 9 airlines Tengku Zainal Adlin
fly directly to KKIA from South Korea, Japan, Chairman,
China,Hong Kong,Taiwan,Philippines,Singapore Sabah Tourism Board
 A carnival will be held to celebrate the 7th
anniversary of the Park’s launching. It will be a
fun-filled event, featuring various competitions
and exhibitions. Bring your family and friends
for a fun day out at the park and take the oppor-
tunity to visit the many gardens of the sprawling
Sabah Agriculture Park.
Organiser:
Sabah Agriculture Park
Sarawak and Sabah Art Link For further info:
6 March – 6 April 2008 Muhidin Hj. Ismail (Park Warden)
Come and see a display of works of art by 20 Puan Wan Masamah Wan Abedin (Marketing
artists from the neighbouring Sabah and Officer)
Sarawak. Tel: 087-737952, 737558 (Tenom)
Organiser: Fax: 087-737571 (Tenom)
Sabah Art Gallery Tel: 088-258529
For further info: Fax: 088-258529 9th Annual Sabah Adventure Challenge
Tel: 088-268875 Email: agripark@sabah.net.my 2008
Fax: 088-210040
21 – 23 March 2008
Pesta Lunsai The 9th Annual Sabah Adventure Challenge
Email: gallery_9@msn.com 2008 is scheduled for the 21st to the 23rd
15 March 2008
In the northeast of Sandakan lies the island of March 2008 in the Ranau, Kota Belud and Kota
Sabah Agriculture Park 7th Anniversary Marudu districts with a race around Mount
Carnival Libaran. Many agree that the charm of this
island lies in its simplicity: a long stretch of Kinabalu covering some 200 kilometres. The
15 – 16 March 2008 race will see teams racing in teams of two cov-
beach, crystal blue waters and beautiful sun-
sets. Visit Pulau Libaran this month to learn ering a dawn till dusk event with a series of dis-
more about the local culture during the Pesta ciplines including trail running, orienteering,
Lunsai. mountain biking and traditional bamboo rafting.
Organiser: Organiser:
Sandakan Municipal Council / Pejabat Ahli Sabah Adventure Challenge
Parlimen Libaran For further info:
For further info: Avtar S. Sandhu
Catherin Chua Tel: 088-261070 Fax: 088-261070
Tel: 089-224026 Fax: 089-272112 Email: sabahvchallenge@yahoo.co.uk
Email: Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my Website: www.sabahadventure.com

Maulidur Rasul Easter Sunday

20 March 2008 23 March 2008
Muslims all over the world celebrate the birth- A meaningful celebration across the land as
day of Prophet Muhammad. Christians mark the Resurrection of Christ.
For further info: Easter brunch with family members is a com-
Email: info@sabahtourism.com mon practice and most major hotels in Kota
Kinabalu celebrate this day with various activi-
Good Friday ties such as egg painting and Easter egg hunt-
21 March 2008 ing.
A time when all Christians commemorate the For further info:
crucifixion of Jesus Christ in mass services and Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah
prayers. Sdn Bhd
For further info: Tel: 088-212121 / 232121
Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Fax: 088-212075 / 265540
Sdn Bhd Email: info@sabahtourism.com
Tel: 088-212121/232121
Fax: 088-212075/265540
Email: info@sabahtourism.com
Feature Personality
K 1 Fighters
hree K1 Fighter champions from Japan
T and their 32 fans enjoyed a 4-day fan
club tour of Sabah in January this year. I
had the pleasure of lunching and chatting with
these three burly men about their lives, K1
fighting and what they think about the Land
Below the Wind.
With four Japan GP championship titles
under his belt, Akio Mori, 35, is better known by
the name of the famous and revered samurai
Musashi. He sits towering in the middle,
flanked by his brother Tomo, 33, who has been
bronzed by the Sabah sun, and Kazuyo
Yasuhiro, 31, one of the top three fighters in
the below 70-kg category.
The three of them tell me their background
to K1 fighting is Seidokei-kan karate and that
they have far from abandoned the art. Yasuhiro
is a teacher of karate and his students range
from tiny tots aged 4 to seniors aged 60. When
he’s not teaching karate, he’s training for
K1fights. “We train 5 days a week for K1,” says
Yasuhiro. “We train at least 2 hours a day and
before a fight, training is intensified to 2 hours
in the morning and 2 hours in the evenings,”
adds Tomo. Musashi clarifies that K1 is a tough
sport and one can only take part in 5–6 tour-
naments in a year. “The time in between fights
is spent improving and training for the next
fight.”
They tell me K1 is not all about fighting and
not all about winning. Musashi straightens up
with a gleam of enthusiasm in his eyes.
“Everybody has passion and a fighting spirit
and K1 really brings that out in a person. Your
training, your body, your mind and your soul go
into the ring and become your life. K1 is a
fighter’s life."
“But K1 is just as much about performance
as it is about fighting. Think of K1 as a concert
– the fighters go out there to perform a good
fight and to thrill the fans. The stadium comes
alive with cheering fans because we put up a
good fight.”
“K1 is not dangerous,” Tomo promises. "I
almost broke my neck in a kickboxing fight last
year on a Muay Thai neck hold and kick
manoeuvre and had to cancel a fight. K1 is
much safer.” Yasuhiro agrees but goes on to
tell me that fighting for real in the ring is safer
than training, confirming it with smile and a
story of how he broke his nose twice during
training as if it were a fond memory.
K1 is a combat sport combining moves
from Muay Thai, karate, taekwondo, Savate,
San shou, kickboxing and boxing. It had its
beginnings in Japan, but is now popular the
world over in countries like Korea, France,
Hong Kong, Germany, Switzerland, the USA,
Australia, Canada and many other countries.
3
Knowing that they had spent some time
having fun in the sun banana-boating,
parasailing and mangrove cruising for the
previous three days, I asked them if they’ve
had a good time. They instantly flash happy
smiles and sing Sabah praises. “We LOVE
Sabah. We had so much fun here with our
fans. Thank you so much!” Their sincerity and
delight was so infectious I couldn’t help but
beam from their compliments. I asked what
they will tell the people back home about my
home. “Sabah is so beautiful the people have
warm hearts. Sabah is paradise! We will defi-
nitely come back again and tell people they are
missing out on a lot if they don’t come here.”
As we leave the restaurant, starstruck
Japanese fans come from nowhere,
exclaiming in delight and immediately snap-
ping photos of the three K1 heroes. Musashi,
Tomo and Yasuhiro are extremely gracious and
mingle with the fans who were clearly dizzy
from the sight of them. Before climbing into
their vehicle to return to their hotel, Musashi
turns to us and gives a final Japanese bow.
Then with a sparkle in his eye he waves and
says, “I’ll be back!”
Their trip to the Land below the Wind was
made possible by Malaysia Airlines Tokyo and
H.I.S Co Ltd, the official ground handler for the
K-1 Fan Club tour in Kota Kinabalu.
4 Happenings & Highlights

Sabah Agriculture Park 7th Anniversary Carnival

15th-16th March 2008 Sarawak and Sabah Art Link Exhibition
6th March to 6th April 2008
he Sabah Agriculture Park is the Kota Kinabalu Mini Club. Bring
T celebrating its 7th anniversary your family and friends for a fun n exhibit showcasing art-
A
this year with a lineup of thrilling
activities for the public to take part
day out at the Park and take the
opportunity to visit the many
work from Sarawak and
Sabah will be held in the
in including a fishing competition, gardens of the sprawling Sabah months of March and April this
traditional games competitions, a Agriculture Park. year at the Sabah Art Gallery,
treasure hunt, a karaoke contest featuring the work of 10
and tons of other fun events. Car For further information, Sarawakian and 10 Sabahan
enthusiasts may want to come contact Ms. Wan Masalmah artists. This event is jointly
and check out the carnival this Wan Abedin (Sabah Agriculture organised by the Galleria,
year, because to celebrate their Park Promotion Unit) tel/fax: Kuching and Sabah Art
7th year running is also a Mini 088-258529 or e-mail Gallery, with the aspiration to
Austin Car Show, organised by agripark@sabah.net.my illustrate the relationship
between the artworks of the
two neighbouring states and
to draw art enthusiasts to
Pesta Lunsai, 15 March 2008 come and behold the work of
our artistic talents.
n the northeast of Sandakan lies the island of Libaran. Many agree that
Ithe charm of this island lies in its simplicity: a long stretch of beach,
crystal blue waters and beautiful sunsets. Visit Pulau Libaran this month
For further information,
contact the Sabah Art
Gallery on Jalan Muzium,
to learn more about the local culture during the Pesta Lunsai.
88300 Kota Kinabalu,
Organiser: Sandakan Municipal Council/Pejabat Ahli Parlimen
tel: 088-268748/ 268825/
Libaran. For further info, contact Catherin Chua at tel: 089-224026,
268875 or fax 088-210040.
fax: 089-72112 or e-mail: Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my
Happenings & Highlights 5
Flea Market at Warisan Square
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

9th Annual Sabah Adventure

Challenge 2008, 21 – 23 March 2008
he 9th Annual Sabah Adventure Challenge 2008 is scheduled for the 21st
T to the 23rd of March 2008 in the Ranau, Kota Belud and Kota Marudu dis-
tricts with a race around Mount Kinabalu covering some 200 kilometres. The
race will see teams racing in teams of two covering a dawn till dusk event with
a series of disciplines including trail running, orienteering, mountain biking and
traditional bamboo rafting.
For further info contact Avtar S. Sandhu (Sabah Adventure Challenge)
at tel: 088-261007 or fax: 088-261070 or e-mail:
sabahvchallenge@yahoo.co.uk. Check out their website:
http://www.sabahadventure.com
heck out the flea market at Warisan Square held on the
Coming in April – Freedom of Entry to the City C weekend from 4pm to 11pm. Food, clothes, accessories and
an assortment of bits and bobs are laid out for you to browse
In April the “Freedom of Entry Ceremony” will be held on the 26th April
2008, a naval tradition that stems from medieval times. Watch out for through and buy. Fancy handling a store yourself? Booth rentals
updates in our April issue about this significant event! are open to the public.
For more information contact Lizio Mosigil at 017-8987199

News
First Airasia Airbus Touchdown
Air Asia’s first Airbus320 touched down in
Sabah Development Corridor
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah
KK for the first time in January this year,
Ahmad Badawi recently launched the
the first of a complete fleet to replace the
Sabah Development Corridor, which is set
current Boeing 737s currently servicing
to accelerate Sabah’s economy and to
Kota Kinabalu. The plane flies the Kuala
make Sabah a more competitive and
Lumpur-Kuching-Macau from Kota
attractive place to do business. The focus
Kinabalu and seats 180 compared to the
of the SDC will be the agriculture, tourism
Boeiing 737’s capacity of 140.
and logistics services.
Fauziah Gambus
19 year old Fauziah Suhaili launched her
first album entitled Fauziah Gambus in Update: Tabin Wildlife Reserve
January, an album featuring melodies and In our February issue we featured the exciting Tabin Wildlife Reserve on
rhythms from the traditional musical instru- our back cover. Their new contact details are now as follows:
ment, the gambus. Fauziah was applaud- Tabin Wildlife Holidays Sdn Bhd (Co No 160437-V) (formerly known as
ed by YB Datuk Hj Karim Bujang, the Tabin Wildlife Sdn Bhd ) Lot 11-1, 1st Flr, Blk A, Damai Point, Jln Damai,
Assistant Minister of Tourism Culture and 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: 088-267266
Environment, who officiated the launch, Fax: 088-258266 Website: http://www.tabinwildlife.com.my
and celebtrated by those who appreciate
traditional music.
Eating Out 7

Yoshimi
G
irls dressed in kimonos greet you with pleasure as you
walk through the door. Then as you sit yourselves down
and look around, you will notice the delightful Japanese
images hanging from the ceiling and on the walls, adding to the
atmosphere. There is also a VIP room with shoji doors that can
fit up to eight diners. Yoshimi boasts that there is no other
Japanese restaurant in town that will offer Japanese food as
authentic as theirs. There is no fusion food on their menu and
they import authentic ingredients down to their green teas. Their
kitchen is staffed with chefs who are experts in preparing
Japanese delights, including a seasoned 5-star hotel chef and
a chef from Japan. Dishes like the Rainbow Oshi Sushi (an
array of raw fish), Yari Ika Ni Maki (simmered squid with vine-
gared rice) and rice paper roll No Age Kani Maki are among the
simply scrumptious and fantastically presented dishes served at
this Japanese eatery. Try their Kisu Sakana Furai (crispy fried
kisu fish) and Kurma Ebi No Salada Uramaki (boiled whole king
prawn with vinegared rice seaweed roll with cucumber, crab
stick, mayonnaise salad coated with fish roe). Another recent
new addition to their menu is the Cha Zuke, the traditional
Japanese steamed rice with green tea clear soup! With succu-
lent dishes like the Gyuniku Enoki Maki (beef rolls with golden
mushrooms and butter soy sauce) and their famous Shake
Kabuto Teriyaki (a salmon head delicacy) it’s no wonder that
customers come back for more.
Yoshimi is situated at C-01-06, Block C, first floor, Warisan
Square and is open 11.30 am – 2.30 pm and 6–10.30 pm on
weekdays and 11.30 am to 10.30 pm on weekends and public
holidays. Catering is available for private functions for up to 50
people. For further information please contact them at 088
488388.

Chicken Rice – A Malaysian Staple ou have to try this simple yet delicious dish while you’re in the country, and
Y it won’t be too difficult to find it! Go on a chicken rice hunt in the city – there
are more than a few popular chicken rice shops around. The main ingredients
may be the same but for the discerning tongue not all chicken rice is created
equal! The hard-to-resist chicken rice set consists of rice cooked in chicken
broth, with a serving of succulent steamed or roasted chicken, laid on a platter
with a few crunchy slices of cucumber, dashed with some soy sauce for flavour.
Eat it just like that or order a side of vegetables to accompany your meal. Order
a different type of meat, such as duck, for variety. One thing is for sure though,
there’s no wonder this dish is one of Malaysia’s favourites. So if you’re head-
ing out to grab a bite, sample chicken rice.
Chicken rice can be found almost anywhere; popular shops specializing in
this dish include Rafflesia Chicken Hut in Karamunsing and Damai, Singapore
Chicken Rice in Karamunsing, and Nasi Ayam 2.80 in Centrepoint to name a
few. For more information contact Sabah Tourism Board at 088 212121 or Sri
Pelancongan Sabah at 088 232121.
8 S p a E s s e n t i a l s
ust Relax in Kota Kinabalu offers a great sooth-
J
Just Relax
ing experience for the tired and stressed body,
right here in the heart of city. The relaxation centre
is particularly known for its body relaxation therapy
sessions, using a few techniques during a session
including traditional shiatsu and Chinese-style
methods. Each session may last up to 60 minutes,
depending on your preference. Foot reflexology is
also a specialty, ideal for those who have spent a
great deal of time on their feet, be it wandering
through shopping centres or climbing Mount
Kinabalu! Let the professional therapists knead
your aching soles, leaving you relaxed and rejuve-
nated.
Many people also swear by the ear-candling
sessions. This unique technique (which is comfort-
able and completely painless) is believed to
remove toxins from the body and help to alleviate
headaches.
If it’s smooth and flawless skin you desire, try
the hand and foot scrubs which get rid of dead skin
cells and leave your skin feeling baby smooth.
For a bit of everything, try out the packages
which combine the above-mentioned sessions to
suit your needs. Just Relax is a cosy, clean and
comfortable establishment, with trained therapists
to cater to your needs. Its strategic location makes
it easily accessible to those staying around the city
area. Pamper yourself at Just Relax!
Open from 11:00 pm to 11:00 pm daily. Just
Relax is located at Lot 69, 1st Floor, Block H,
Asia City, 88000, Kota Kinabalu. For more
information, please call tel. 088-246700 or 012-
837 7000.
L e i s u r e 9

Sabah Polo
Association
lthough unheard of to some, there is a Polo Association in

A Sabah that has been around for more than two decades. The
sport dubbed by many as the ‘game of kings’ was first
introduced to the country by the British settlers. The first polo club in
Malaysia was formed in Port Swettenham (now Port Klang) in 1902.
Although horse-riding was not foreign to Sabah, the sport did not catch
on until the early 1980s.

Sabah Polo Association, (SPA) was first established on the 9th

August 1982 after two good friends and pony lovers, David Wang and
Vernon Skinner found that there was an interest for the sport in the
state. What started as two riding friends eventually developed into a
full-fledged association that now competes in inter-club tournaments,
friendly tournaments and test matches, national and international tour-
naments besides doing visits to overseas counterparts.

2007 marked their 25th anniversary which was celebrated at

Mosaic, Hyatt Regency on the 16th December and Had Dato’ Seri
Tengku Zainal Adlin, Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board as their
guest of honour. A competitive and spirited tournament was held the
day before. Mr. Wang, the clubs’ current Chairman, recalled the hum-
ble beginnings of SPA and said he looks forward to having polo as a
highly recognized sport in the state. At the end of the night, he
quipped, “In Sabah, polo is not the game of kings but the king of all
games.”

The SPA members, who come from all walks of life, convene every
Saturday after noon for riding and a few chukkas (games) from 2.00pm
– 4.00pm at their club field in Tuaran, 20 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.

The club also offers riding sessions at their Tambalang stable every
Monday to Thursday from 8.00am to 4.00pm. For further information,
please contact Simon Chia at 013-8639707 or e-mail
sabahpolo@yahoo.com.my
10 • Feature

Top 10 Things to
Do in Sabah

ith its wealth of nature, culture and unique surroundings, there are a million

W and one things that you could do here in Sabah. We’ve got it narrowed down
to the favourite 10 things to do while you’re here in the Land Below the Wind.

1. Climb Mt Kinabalu
There’s no doubt that this mountain is admired by tourists and locals alike. Standing at 4095
© Scubazoo.com metres, the highest peak in Malaysia, you can see it from practically every corner of Sabah, but
get a little closer and take pleasure in its splendour or climb it and see much more. Situated in
Kinabalu Park, 88 kilometres or about one and a half hours from the city of Kota Kinabalu,
Mount Kinabalu should be on the top of your list of places to visit while you’re here in Sabah.

2. Explore the jungles

Whether you’re a self-confessed tree hugger or know someone who is a nature lover, the words
‘jungles of Borneo’ will surely conjure the visions of a thrilling adventure. Sabah is definitely THE
place for jungle trekkers, being home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, saturated with
a plethora of flora and fauna with equals found no where else in the world. The celebrities of
Sabahan rainforests include the Maliau Basin, Danum Valley and the Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

3. Scuba dive
If you’re already a diver then you will know that Sabah waters are a complete bliss for divers
and remains as one of the best scuba-diving venues in the world. Sipadan has the reputation
of being one of the top five in the world with hundreds of Green, Hawksbill and Olive Ridley tur-
tles, numerous species of sharks and schools of barracuda and jacks inhabit the waters, along
with innumerable other fantastic sea creatures, swimming above amazing coral reefs. Sabah’s
underwater world is certainly famous for an amazing diving experience and places like
Mataking, Mabul, Lankayan and Mantanani are among the favourites for divers.

4. Spot Wildlife
Where there are jungles, there is wildlife to be seen. By simply cruising along the Kinabatangan,
you’ll have the chance to spot the pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, various species of
birds and other exquisite animals that populate nowhere else but Borneo. Visit the Orang Utan
Sanctuary in the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre and see how they mingle freely there.
5. Laze on the beach
Sandy white beaches, surrounding blue waters and the sun in the bluest skies. You don’t
really need another excuse to spend a day relaxing on a heavenly beach. All you need is
good weather, some sunscreen and a ticket to one of Sabah’s many beautiful islands your
beach holiday will be fantastic. The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s 5 islands are just min-
utes from Kota Kinabalu, but other popular island destinations include Pulau Tiga, Mabul
Island and Pulau Selingan.

6. Sightsee
Get your camera ready for places of worship, markets and historical buildings placed in
the city and towns, or drive through the country roads to enjoy the sights. Some notable
landmarks around Sabah are the Menara Tun Mustapha in Kota Kinabalu, a cylindrical
glass structure that also boasts to be the tallest building in Borneo. Get cultural and go to
the Monsopiad Cultural Village in Kampung Kuai Kandazon, Penampang, just 10 minutes
from the city. If you’re in Sandakan then be sure to drop in the historical Agnes Keith
House, home to the local author Agnes Keith from 1930 to 1952 which was destroyed in
World War 2 then restored to what it is now.

7. Visit a tamu
A ‘tamu’ is a market held once or twice weekly, found in almost every district of Sabah.
Make it a point to make a trip to the Gaya Street Fair held every Sunday, the Penampang
tamu held on Thursdays and Fridays or to the Kundasang tamu in Ranau on Fridays.
Better yet, mark your calendars for Kota Belud’s spectacular Tamu Besar on the 25th and
26th October this year. Fresh farm produce, local handicrafts, fruits, seafood, livestock
and an assortment of curious knick-knacks are sold in this vibrant atmosphere, where a
rich experience of sights, sounds and smells await you.

8. Eat
When you’re in Sabah, decide to live to eat! Have your fill of fresh seafood or tantalize
your taste buds with the local favourites. Walk along Gaya Street in Kota Kinabalu and
venture into popular coffee shops like Kedai Kopi Kinabalu and Kedai Kopi Yee Fung and
eat up - try a delicious bowl of ngiu chap (beef noodles in a clear soup) or get addicted
to laksa, a mouth watering bowl of noodles in a spicy, curry-like soup with shrimp and
shredded chicken. Pick a coffee shop, an outdoor eatery or a fancy restaurant; whether
you try the superb local cuisine or something that reminds you of home, the food here will
make you hungry for more.

9. Shop for crafts

Sabah is famed for its many wonderful crafts made of bamboo, woven leaves, wood and
other natural materials crafted by the locals. Unique ethnic prints and colourful motifs
make eye-catching souvenirs and decorative items. Drop in the Handicraft Market in Kota
Kinabalu, visit Kadaiku in Sinsuran for authentic local handicraft or browse through a
tamu near you to buy a pretty little something to remind you of Sabah.

10. Play golf

Sabah is a proud owner of numerous designer golf courses located in all corners of the
state. The Shan Shui Golf & Country club’s 18-hole golf course, designed by Nelson &
Haworth, is situated on the airport highway 15 km off Tawau. Sutera Harbour’s magnifi-
cent 27-hole golf course, designed by Graham Marsh is one of the largest in Malaysia and
the only one on Borneo that offers night golfing. Mount Kinabalu Golf Club in Ranau has
the highest tee-off point in Sabah with a view of Mount Kinabalu. Located just an hour
away from KK city, the Borneo Golf and Country Club designed by Jack Nickalus is both
beautiful yet challenging. It’s not suprising that some find it hard not to make time for a
game of golf on at least one of Sabah’s remarkable golf courses.

For further information, contact the Sabah Tourism Board at 088 212121, Sri
Pelancongan Sabah at 088 232121 or email info@sabahtourism.com. To find out
more about Sabah, visit the Sabah Tourism Board’s website at
http://www.sabahtourism.com
12

©Scubazoo
 Through the Lens

© Calvin Ng

Fauziah Suhaili and the Gambus
he gambus is one of the many traditional musical instruments played
T by the Malay Bruneians who are known for their artistic talents.
History has it that the gambus was brought to this region by Middle
Eastern traders in the 15th century. The sounds and rhythm of the
gambus, the kompang, the gulintangan, the gong, the flute and the drums
are never absent from celebrations and festivities of the people of Brunei.
Until today gambus music is still prominent, especially on the west coast
of Sabah where there are many Bruneian Malays.
In January this year, 19-year-old Fauziah Suhaili from the small town
of Bongawan, Sabah, made waves when she launched Fauziah Gambus,
an album featuring traditional sounds of the gambus. Among the songs on
Culture
the album are the popular folk songs Adai-Adai, Umang Tin Ting, Dayang
Mengalai, Cencang Rabung and Zapin Brunei – all performed beautifully
by the talented Fauziah.
This is a milestone event for the traditional lute as there are no formal
lessons for learning the gambus. The skill of playing the gambus is passed
down from generation to generation and the popularity of this music is
celebrated in the annual Pesta Gambus (Gambus Fest) held in Sipitang
from the 25th to the 27th of July this year, organised by the Sabah Brunei
Community Association.
Fauziah Gambus is available for purchase at local music stores and at
Kadaiku in Sinsuran, Kota Kinabalu.
16 Bahasa Malaysia
Karnival Ulang Tahun ke-7 Taman
Pertanian Sabah, 15-16 Mac 2008
Taman Pertanian Sabah meraikan ulang tahunnya yang ke-7 tahun ini
dengan pelbagai aktiviti menyeronokkan untuk disertai orang ramai
termasuk pertandingan memancing, pertandingan permainan
tradisional, pencarian harta karun, pertandingan karaoke dan banyak
lagi acara menarik. Peminat kereta pasti ingin datang dan melihat
sendiri karnival tahun ini, kerana turut meraikan tahun ke-7 mereka
ialah Kelab Mini Kota Kinabalu yang akan mengadakan Pertunjukan
Kereta Mini Austin. Ambillah peluang untuk mengunjungi taman di
sekitar Taman Pertanian Sabah. Bawa keluarga dan rakan-rakan anda
untuk hari yang menyeronokkan pengujung di sana!
Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Cik Wan Masalmah Wan Abedin (Unit
Promosi Taman Pertanian) di talian/fax: 088-258529 atau email
agripark@sabah.net.my

Taman Pertanian Sabah Pameran Art Link Sarawak dan Sabah

6 Mac hingga 6 April 2008
ameran yang mengetengahkan karya lukisan dari Sarawak dan

P Sabah ini akan diadakan pada bulan Mac dan April tahun ini di
Galeri Lukisan Sabah (Sabah Art Gallery). Pameran ini mem-
bariskan karya 10 pelukis Sarawak dan 10 pelukis Sabah. Acara ini dian-
jurkan bersama oleh Galleria, Kuching dan Galeri Lukisan Sabah, den-
gan tujuan mengukuhkan hubungan antara karya dua negeri berjiran ini
dan menarik peminat-peminat seni lukis untuk datang menyaksikan hasil
kerja pelukis berbakat kita.
Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Galeri Lukisan Sabah di Jalan
Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, tel: 088 -268748/ 268825/ 268875 atau
faks 088-210040.

aman Pertanian Sabah mungkin berada jauh di Tenom, tetapi per-

T mata ini boleh memukau sesiapa saja peminat bunga-bungaan dan
tumbuh-tumbuhan. Dengan keluasan 1500 ekar, taman ini mengeten-
gahkan pelbagai flora menarik, disusun menarik mengikut bahagian.
Terdapat lebih kurang 1500 spesies orkid yang ditemui di Borneo,
dan Pusat Semula jadi Orkid yang terletak di dalamnya mengandungi
400 spesies. Bersiar-siarlah di taman ini pasti anda akan terpukau den-
gan spesies terancam dan jarang ditemui seperti orkid telinga gajah,
orkid ekor tikus dan orkid selipar. Terdapat banyak lagi spesis lain boleh
ditemui di sini yang tidak akan anda temui di tempat-tempat lain di
dunia.
Sekiranya anda berminat pad ataman tumbuh-tumbuhan,, Taman
Evolusi adalah tempat yang sesuai untuk anda. Datanglah ke sini untuk
melihat bagaimana tabiat dan evolusi tumbuh-tumbuhan untuk kelang-
sungan hidup serta berkembang di persekitaran habitat mereka.
Melangkahlah ke Living Crop Museum. Di sana ada 400 spesies tum-
buhan ditanam secara sistematik berdasarkan penggunaannya.
Tumbuhan rempah ratus, perubatan, minuman, serat, buah dan minyak
wangi ditanam di muzium ini, tetapi menjelang musim buah-buahan,
pokok-pokok buah menjadi bintang tumpuan dan pelawat dapat mera-
sai spesies liar eksotik selain buah-buahan bukan asal tropikal.
Taman Perhiasan adalah gambaran syurga dunia yang menghim-
punkan 21 taman yang landskapnya amat menarik. Antara taman di
dalam taman ini ialah Taman Hoya, Taman kaktus dan Taman
Ketimuran, yang mempersembahkan pelbagai jenis tumbuhan dan
bunga yang menakjubkan. Berjalan-jalanlah di antara flora di sini. Anda
akan terasa seperti berjalan mengharungi taman kayangan!
Sama ada anda peminat setia atau cuma ingin bersiar-siar ke tem-
pat yang cantik, Taman Pertanian Sabah adalah antara tempat di
Sabah yang perlu anda tuju!
Waktu buka ialah Selasa-Ahad 9.00 pagi – 9.00 – 4.30 petang, ditut-
up pada Isnin (kecuali cuti umum). Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila
hubungi Pengurus Taman Pertanian Sabah, tel: 087-737952 atau
faks: 087-737571 atau email: agripark@sabah.net.my atau kunjun-
gi laman web mereka di http://www.sabah.net.my
Bahasa Malaysia
Galeri
Tun Mustapha
aleri Tun Mustapha membuka pintunya pada 2006, memberi
G penghargaan kepada salah seorang personaliti terkemuka Sabah
iaitu Allahyarham Tun Mustapha. Beliau adalah seorang
pemimpin berwawasan yang memainkan peranan besar dalam menget-
uai Sabah untuk merdeka. Dia merupakan pejuang kebebasan ketika
Perang Dunia II, seorang tokoh yang menjadi grakan kemerdekaan, seo-
rang pemimpin dan Yang Dipertua Negeri Sabah yang pertama, meru-
pakan antara pencapaiannya yang banyak.
Galeri cantik ini yang terletak di premis yang pernah menjadi Dewan
Negeri Sabah dari 1980 sehingga 1995, mempamerkan sejarah kehidu-
pan Tun Mustapha. Ia menawarkan imbasan kejayaan dan kesen-
gsaraannya kepada pengunjung, dengan penjelasan yang mengiringi
gambar-gambar yang dipamerkan di sini. Galeri ini juga mempamerkan
tinggalan peribadi Tun Mustapha, daripada pingat kebesaran sehing-
galah baju yang dijahit khas. Beberapa topi golf turut menghiasi galeri
ini. Menurut inskripsinya, isteri beliau telah mengoyakkan topinya dan
mencampakkannya ke luar rumah mereka dalam satu pertengkaran.
17
Topi tersebut dibaiki semula oleh pemandu mereka yang menyimpannya
sekian lama dan hari ini ditempatkan di galeri tersebut. Tun Mustapha
bukan saja seorang peminat golf tetapi juga seorang ahli muzik
berbakat. Himpunan biolanya boleh dilihat di galeri ini. Di galeri ini ter-
catat juga cerita mengisahkan perihal tentera Jepun yang tidak mem-
bunuhnya selepas mendengar dia bermain beberapa lagu Jepun dengan
menggunakan biolanya ketika Perang Dunia II. Semua fakta menarik
dan barangan kenangan ini diabadikan di Galeri Mustapha ini. Galeri ini
turut menyediakan sebuah kedai cenderamata yang menjual kraftangan
bermutu tinggi, diilhamkan daripada motif etnik tradisional pelbagai
kaum di Sabah.
Galeri Tun Mustapha terletak di Podium Yayasan Sabah. Galeri ini
dibuka dari Selasa sehingga Ahad, 9 pagi hingga 6 petang (ditutup
pada Isnin – kecuali ketika cuti sekolah dan cuti umum). Untuk mak-
lumat lanjut, hubungi 088-326683, faks 088-438026.
Nasi Ayam
– Hidangan
Malaysia
nda perlu mencuba hidan-
A gan ringkas tetapi lazat apa-
bila anda berada di negeri
ini, dan ia tidak terlalu sukar untuk
ditemui! Pergilah ke kedai-kedai
makan nasi ayam di bandar ini.
Ada banyak kedai nasi ayam yang
terkenal di sini. Cubalah
semuanya, kerana bukan semua
nasi ayam dicipta sama! Setiap kedai yang menjual menu ini akan mem-
buatkan anda mengakui sendiri kesedapannya yang berbeza, walaupun
ramuan utamanya adalah sama. Nasi ayam yang sukar ditolak ini terdiri
daripada hidangan nasi yang dimasak dengan rebusan daging ayam,
dengan bahagian ayam yang direbus atau dipanggang, dihidangkan di
atas pinggan bersama beberapa hirisan timun, sertai sos perasa.
Makan begitu saja atau boleh dihidangkan sayur-sayuran bersama-
sama hidangan anda. Mintalah beberapa jenis daging yang berbeza
seperti itik untuk kepelbagaian. Satu yang pasti, tidak hairanlah hidan-
gan ini merupakan antara kegemaran utama di Malaysia. Jadi jika anda
ingin makan, puaskan selera anda dengan antara makanan nombor
satu Malaysia ini – nasi ayam.
Nasi ayam boleh didapati hampir di mana-mana saja. Antara kedai
terkenal yang menyediakan hidangan ini termasuklah RCH di
Karamunsing dan Damai, Singapore Chicken Rice di Karamunsing dan
Nasi Ayam 2.80 di Centre Point.
1 8 C h i n e s e
C h i n e s e 1 9
20 Japanese

15 16

Sabah Art Gallery on Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu,

tel: 088-268748/ 268825/ 268875 or fax 088-210040.
Japanese 21
22 Korean

15 16
Korean 23
 PITAS

© Sabah Travel Guide

TAMU MARKETS MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

KOTA KINABALU SANDAKAN Bukit Tengkorak Archaelogical
* most tamus operate as early as 6am and close by 2pm. Sabah State Museum Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Site Museum, Semporna
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Mon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pm Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Kota Kinabalu Kudat Jln. Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Tel: 089-222679 Tel: 088-253199

Gaya Street Fair - Sunday Matunggong Lama - Saturday Sandakan Memorial Park OTHER DISTRICTS
Kampung Air - Sunday Matunggong Baru - Thursday Sabah Islamic Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Murut Museum (Sabah Murut
Civilisation Museum Sibuga Forest Reserve Cultural Centre , Tenom)
Mon – Sun: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
Penampang Kota Marudu Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Jalan Menteri, off Jalan Tunku Abdul
Mile 7, Jalan Labuk, Sandakan
Tel: 016 8221616 (Doris) Lembaga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah
Donggongon Pekan Kota Marudu - Rahman, (Tenom Branch) W.D.T 72, 89909
Thursday & Friday Saturday & Sunday Kota Kinabalu Sandakan Heritage Museum Tenom.
Tel: 088-538227/538228 Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Tel: 087-734506
Wisma Warisan, Sandakan
Papar Tuaran Sabah Ethnobotanical Tel: 089-222679 Mat Salleh Memorial, Tambunan
Lok Kawi Sabindo - Saturday Bingkor - Thursday Heritage Museum Open Daily
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Batu Tulug Archaeological Site Kg. Tibabar, Tambunan
Tel :088-253199/ 263551
Sandakan Tambunan Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Museum, Kinabatangan
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Sandakan Town - Sunday Pekan Tuaran - Sunday Tel: 088-253199 Kundasang War Memorial,
Gua Mantong Jaya - Sunday Kiulu - Tuesday Second World War Open daily including Public Holidays
Memorial Petagas TAWAU Tel: 019 899 2041 (Mr. Sevee
Open daily Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Charuruks)
Tawau Kota Belud Tel:088-253199 Mon-Fri: 8am -11:30am
Bandar Tawau - Sunday Pekan Kota Belud - Sunday 1:30pm-4:30pm Quailey Hill
Kinarut Mansion Ruins Museum Sat: 8am-12pm Sun: Closed Open daily including Public Holidays
8.00am to 5.00pm
Ranau Sipitang Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Tel: 088-253199/263551
Mile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, Teck Guan
Factory, Tawau Sabah Tea Garden, KM 17 Jalan
Pekan Kundasang - Friday Sindumin - Saturday Tel:089-775566 ext 2601 Ranau-Sandakan, Kg Nalapak, Ranau.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Sabah Tourism Board Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)
No.51, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Lot 4, Ground Floor, Block L, Sinsuran Complex, Lot 1-0-7, Ground Floor, Block 1, Lorong Api-Api
Tel: 088-212121 Fax: 088-212075 88000, Kota Kinabalu 1, Api Api Centre, 88000, Kota Kinabalu
Email: info@sabahtourism.com Tel: 088-232121 Fax: 088-265540 Tel:088-248698/ 211732
Website: www.sabahtourism.com Email: info@sabahtourism.com E-mail: enquiries@tourism.gov.my
Open: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri) Website: www.sabahtourism.com Website: www.tourism.gov.my
9:00am to 4:00pm (Weekend & PH) Open: 8:00amto 5:00pm (Mon-Fri) Open: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)
8:00am-4:00pm (Weekend & PH) Closed on weekends

SANDAKAN (089)
Fire Department - 994 Yayasan Sabah Ambulance
Useful Numbers

088-326655 !Hospital 212111 LABUAN (087)

Ambulance
/Police -999 !Airport 660405 !Hospital 413333
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Information Services !Immigrations 668308 !Airport 415015
088-218166 088-280600/ 280631/ 280641
Police Hotline !Immigrations 412298
HQ SABAH – 088-253555 TAWAU (089)
KK – 088-221191 Damai Specialist Centre
International
088-222922 !Hospital 773533
Telephone Directory
Airport - 088-238555 Sabah Medical Centre Assistance -108 !Airport 950013
088-211333 !Immigrations 773343
The Sabah
Agriculture Park
he Sabah Agricultural Park may be all
T the way down in Tenom, but this
botanic jewel can enchant even the
mildest fan of flowers and plants. Spanning
over 500 acres, the park features an
impressive variety of flora, laid out in various
fascinating sections.
There are about 1500 orchid species
found in Borneo and their 2-acre Native
Orchid Centre located within the premises
houses 400 of them. Take a stroll and be
awed by the sight of some rare and
endangered species like the Elephant Ear
Orchid, the Rat Tail Orchid and the Slipper
Orchid, but there are many other species
found within the 30 horticultural parks that you
won’t see any where else in the world.
If you’re an enthusiast looking for
interesting facts, then perhaps you should
pay a visit to the Evolution Garden. Come
here to see and learn about how plants
behave and evolve to survive and thrive in the
shifting surroundings of their habitats. Step
into the Living Crop Museum, where 400 plant
species are planted systematically based on
their use. Spices and condiments, medicinal,
beverage, fibre, fruit and perfume plants are
all in museum, but come fruiting season, the
fruit trees become the stars of the show and
visitors get to try exotic wild species as well
as non-native tropical fruits.
The Ornamental Gardens are a vision of
paradise, a collection of 21 gardens
landscaped into picture perfection! Among
these gardens are the Hoya Garden, the
Cactus Garden and the Oriental Garden,
which display an amazing array of plants and
flowers.
Whether you’re a green-fingered fan or
you just want a leisurely walk somewhere
beautiful, you will find the Sabah Agriculture
Park truly a botanical wonderland.
Opening hours are Tuesday–Sunday 9.00
am – 4:30 pm, closed on Mondays
(except public holidays). For further
information, please contact Pn. Wan
Masalmah at 088-258529 or The Park
Manager at tel: 087-737952 or
fax: 087-737571 or email:
agripark@sabah.net.my. Alternatively visit
their website at http://www.sabah.net.my