Sabah
Mount Kinabalu: Standing at 4,095 meters, Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Southeast Asia. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major attraction for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Located near Sandakan, this center is one of the most famous conservation centers for orangutans. It rehabilitates orphaned and injured orangutans before releasing them back into the wild.
The Kinabatangan River: A jewel of Borneo, offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Boat safaris along the Kinabatangan River offer an intimate look at these creatures in their natural habitats.
Sipadan Island: Ranked as one of the top dive sites in the world, Sipadan Island is famous for its rich marine biodiversity, including turtles, sharks, and colorful coral reefs.
Rafflesia Flower: Sabah is home to the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia. This parasitic plant can grow up to one meter in diameter and emits a strong odor to attract pollinators.
Kota Kinabalu: The capital city of Sabah is known for its vibrant night markets, bustling waterfront, and the iconic Signal Hill Observatory, offering panoramic views of the city and the South China Sea.
Cultural Diversity: Sabah is home to over 30 ethnic groups, each with its own unique language, culture, and traditions. The Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, and Murut are among the largest indigenous groups.
Danum Valley: This pristine rainforest is one of the best places in Borneo to experience untouched wilderness. It’s home to a vast array of wildlife, including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards.
Proboscis Monkeys: These unique monkeys, known for their large noses and potbellies, are endemic to Borneo. They are commonly found along the Kinabatangan River in Sabah.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Park: This marine park, consisting of five islands, is just a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and beach activities.
Turtle Islands Park: Located in the Sulu Sea, this park is a crucial nesting ground for green and hawksbill turtles. Visitors can witness turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea.
Sarawak
Mulu Caves: The Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to some of the world’s largest cave systems, including the Sarawak Chamber, which could fit several jumbo jets inside.
Kuching: Known as the “Cat City,” Kuching has a unique charm with its waterfront, colonial buildings, and numerous cat statues. The name “Kuching” is derived from the Malay word for cat.
Bako National Park: located just 37 kilometers from Kuching, is Sarawak’s oldest national park and one of its most fascinating natural treasures. Renowned for its incredible biodiversity, it supports supports a rich variety of wildlife, making Bako a prime location for wildlife spotting.
Sarawak Laksa: A culinary delight, Sarawak laksa is a spicy noodle soup that Anthony Bourdain famously called “the breakfast of the gods.” It’s a must-try dish for any visitor.
Iban Longhouses: The Iban people, one of the largest indigenous groups in Sarawak, traditionally live in longhouses. Visitors can stay in these communal homes and experience the living with the native culture firsthand.
Bako National Park: Sarawak’s oldest national park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including mangrove swamps, dipterocarp forests, and rocky shores. It’s also home to the proboscis monkey.
Rainforest World Music Festival: Held annually in Kuching, this festival attracts musicians from all over the world. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and the environment, set in the Sarawak Cultural Village.
Niah Caves: These caves have significant archaeological importance, with human remains dating back 40,000 years. The Great Cave is also famous for its swiftlet nests, harvested for bird’s nest soup.
Miri: Known as the gateway to the Gunung Mulu National Park, Miri is a vibrant city with beautiful beaches, bustling markets, and the Petroleum Museum, reflecting its oil-rich history.
Bidayuh Bamboo Bridges: The Bidayuh people, also known as Land Dayaks, are known for their traditional bamboo bridges, which are engineering marvels crafted without the use of nails.
