Written by Glory Roslily
Sabah is renowned for its vibrant culture, social customs, and colorful traditions. Furthermore, the state diligently preserves its rich history through stories passed down from generation to generation.
Feast your eyes on a collection of books available at Kadaiku, all dedicated to safeguarding and documenting the treasures, history, and tales of Sabah. Let’s begin by providing you with a selection of books grouped by themes and categories to help you get started!
- Cultural: “Cultures, Customs & Traditions of Sabah, Malaysia: An introduction This book delves into the cultures of Sabah, encompassing attire, accessories, celebrations, musical instruments, melodies, dances, craftsmanship, and traditional dishes. One example mentioned in the book is the exquisite Sigal which is a colorful headpiece worn by male Rungus individuals for gatherings and daily wear. The Sigal is skillfully crafted from Tinohian, a type of Pis cloth, embellished with intricate patterns reflecting elements of nature. Sabah remains an enigma to many, and this book allows readers to explore its diverse heritage and practices, which play a vital role in sustaining the local communities and their ways of life.
- Language: “Kadazan Dictionary”
Did you know that the Kadazan-Dusun comprises nearly 30% of the population in Sabah, making it the largest ethnic group? That means that the Kadazandusun language community is also the largest in Sabah. Not only that, but the Kadazandusun language comprises 13 distinct dialects, spoken by over 300,000 individuals residing in the districts of Ranau, Tambunan, Penampang, Papar, Tuaran, Kota Belud, and those parts of Kota Kinabalu outside the city.
This local dictionary is handy for those learning Kadazan words or phrases. It offers translations from English to Kadazan, Kadazan to English, and Bahasa Malaysia to Kadazan.
- Wildlife: “Tabin, Sabah’s Greatest Wildlife Sanctuary”
Besides its landscapes, Sabah is also known for its exotic wildlife. The cover photo of this book captures the abundant biodiversity of Sabah, showcasing its rich variety. This book showcases the largest protected wildlife area in Sabah, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is home to an exceptional array of Borneo’s rare and endangered species. The book aims to inspire readers to safeguard, nurture, and preserve endangered or uncommon species in Sabah.
- History: “Sandakan A Conspiracy of Silence”, “Blood Brothers”, “World Within A Borneo Story”
The impact of World War II extended to regions such as Sabah. Written by an Australian author, this book highlights the experiences of British and Australian soldiers under Japanese occupation in Sabah. Both books, Sandakan: A Conspiracy of Silence and Blood Brothers, depict the horrific atrocities that led to only a handful of survivors.
World Within A Borneo Story documents the experiences of Tom Harrison, widely known as an ornithologist, radio critic, and author. It recounts his life in Borneo’s remarkable interior before the arrival of the white man, as well as his wartime exploits. The 349-page volume includes maps, line drawings, black and white plates, and an index.
- Landscapes Recommendations: “A Colour Guide To Kinabalu Parks” and “A Journey Through Sabah”
If you love beautiful landscapes, these books are for you! These books capture some of the expeditions and the natural beauty of Sabah.
A Colour Guide to Kinabalu Parks is a convenient handbook for tourists visiting Kinabalu Park, a renowned park in Sabah and Malaysia’s initial World Heritage Site. It also details sections on Mount Kinabalu’s geology, one of the tallest peaks in Southeast Asia. Alongside its flora and fauna, it provides captivating content to enhance the thrill for novice climbers heading to the summit. The guidebook features coloured photographs, plant and animal identification, accommodation details, and other points of interest near park headquarters and Poring Hot Springs.
A Journey Through Sabah is an 80-page photo book that explores the natural wonders of Sabah, compiled over two years of adventures and intriguing stories at each location.
- Colouring Book: “The Wild Tree House of Borneo”, “By The River of Borneo”, “Beautiful Borneo Colouring Book”, “Borneo Tales”
Here’s our recommendation for our little friends: The Wild Tree House of Borneo, By the River of Borneo, Beautiful Borneo Colouring Book, and Borneo Tale. Some of these books feature charming cartoon illustrations, engaging text stories, and interactive activities for children, making them a great alternative to keep kids busy and give their eyes a rest from blue light exposure.
Don’t stop here! These are just a few of the book selections we recommend you try first. There are many more captivating books waiting to be discovered at Kadaiku. Visit our store in Sinsuran to explore a wide range of genres and find authentic souvenirs crafted by local artisans. See you at Kadaiku!
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