| Malaysia - Sabah |
| Sabah |
 Located at the northeast corner of Borneo, Sabah was known in ancient times as the "Land Below The Wind" because it lies below the typhoon belt. Sabah's terrain is rugged, with Mt. Kinabalu, at 4,101 metres, dominating the surrounding landscape. It has a wide diversity of flora and fauna, as well as one of the world's largest rainforests. Sabah's people comprise 31 different indigenous groups, including the Kadazans, Muruts, Bajaus, Kedayans, Sulu, Bisaya, Rumanau, Minokok, and Rungus. |
It was once known as North Borneo, under the British colony rule from the late 19th century to early 20th century. It changed its name to Sabah after gaining independence through Malaysia on 16 September 1963. Sabah is the second largest State in Malaysia behind Sarawak. With a land mass of 76,115 square kilometres, Sabah is home a host of invaluable tourist wonders such as one of the oldest rainforest in the world at the "Lost World" Danum Valley, one of the richest biodiversity site in the world where the highest mountain in Southeast Asia — the majestic Mount Kinabalu — which stands at 4,093 metres, is located, and the world's only mushroom-shaped island-diving destination, Sipadan. |
 International access to Malaysia'a eastern gateway is through Sabah's capital, Kota Kinabalu, which receives flights from Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila, Brunei, Jakarta, Seoul, and Taipei. Domestic travel in this vast state is via daily flights between Labuan, Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Tawau, though large areas are still inaccessible. A rail network stretches from Kota Kinabalu to Tenom, and buses, taxis, and boats are also available. |
