About Sabah
Sabah, located on the northern tip of the island of Borneo, is one of the thirteen states of Malaysia and the second largest in the country. Known as the “Land Below the Wind,” Sabah together with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesia’s Kalimantan, form part of one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Historically known as North Borneo, Sabah was under British administration until it gained self-government on 31 August 1963. It subsequently became one of the founding states of Malaysia on 16 September 1963, alongside Malaya, Sarawak, and Singapore.
Today, Sabah is widely recognised for its extraordinary natural landscapes and ecological richness. It is home to Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting climbers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The state is also famous for the rare Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, and Sipadan Island, which is regarded as one of the best diving sites in the world.
Inland, protected areas such as the Danum Valley Conservation Area and Tabin Wildlife Reserve preserve vast stretches of ancient rainforest, offering refuge to diverse and endangered wildlife species to note a few.
Sabah’s cultural heritage is equally diverse and vibrant. With more than 30 indigenous ethnic groups, including the major ethnic tribes of the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, Murut, and Rungus, Sabah reflects a rich blend of traditions, languages, and lifestyles. This diversity is further enriched by communities, creating a unique multicultural society. Bahasa Malaysia, English and Mandarin are widely spoken, making it easy for visitors to communicate.
With its stunning natural attractions, rich cultural diversity, and welcoming people, Sabah offers an unforgettable travel experience and truly represents the best of Borneo.
CONNECTIVITY
AIRPORTS
Expanding your reach from KL to Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu International Airport serves as the primary gateway to Sabah, particularly for international arrivals. For access to Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Tawau, domestic flights are available from Kuala Lumpur.
As of 28 April 2026
Current International Flights Into Kota Kinabalu
1. Kuala Lumpur
2. Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei)
3. Singapore
4. Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam)
5. Taipei (Taiwan)
6. Beijing (China)
7. Chongqing (China)
8. Fuzhou (China)
9. Guangzhou (China)
10. Guiyang (China)
11. Hangzhou (China)
12. Hong Kong (China)
13. Shanghai (China)
14. Shenzhen (China)
15. Seoul (South Korea)
services
Transportation within Sabah
Services are currently the most convenient way to get around, with platforms such as Grab and Maxim widely available. Simply download the apps to book your ride.
Also available at designated taxi stands throughout the city.
services
Transportation within Sabah
Padang Merdeka
Located in the Kota Kinabalu city centre, this terminal serves buses to most towns along the West Coast and Interior of Sabah, including Keningau, Tenom, Kudat, Kota Belud, and Ranau.
Wawasan Bus Terminal
located in front of Marina Court. This terminal caters to outstation minibuses serving areas such as Papar, Kinarut, and Penampang.
Bandaran Berjaya
(located in front of Howard Johnson by Wyndham) This terminal serves as a key transit hub for outstation minibuses traveling to Tuaran.
KK Sentral
Situated near Wawasan Plaza, this terminal provides transport to Southern Sabah (e.g. Sipitang), as well as cross-border routes to Lawas (Sarawak) and Brunei. Do bring your passport if you intend to travel across the border.
FAQ
Currency
Electrical Plug & Voltage
Banking Hours
Money Changers
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Weather & Clothing
Language
Transportation
Safety & Etiquette
Tipping
Visa and Travel Documents
- Passport validity (usually 6 months minimum)
- Malaysia Digital Arrival Card
Taxes
- Tourist Refund Scheme: Foreign tourists in Kota Kinabalu can claim a 6%