Tawau The Guide

F i r s t F r e e T r a v e l G u i d e i n M a l a y s i a TAWAU TAWAU Bohey Dulang Semporna FREE COPY TAWAU THE GUIDE TAWAU THE GUIDE

Sabah slang bah Hi, welcome to Sabah! In Sabah, we speak Bahasa Malaysia with Sabahan Baku dialect; which is a little different from West Malaysian dialect. Read on to know more! Every day expressions In a short while - Sikijap Breakfast - Sarapan pagi We/ us - Siorang Lunch - Makanan tengah hari Many - Banyak Dinner - Makan malam Man - Lelaki Thank you - Terima kasih Woman - Wanita/Perempuan Please - Sila Toilet - Kamar mandi Please sit down - Sila duduk Thank You - Terima Kasih Please come in - Sila masuk You are welcome - Sama-sama Excuse me - Tumpang lalu Why - Kanapa To pass/walk by - Maaf, saya limpas dulu? Later - Karang I come from - Saya datang dari ……… What’s that? - Apai itu? My goodness! - Doi dogo Good - Bagus Numbers Beautiful - Cantik Number - Numbur Expensive - Mahal Zero - Kosong Cheap - Murah One - Satu Open - Buka Two - Dua Close - Tutup Three - Tiga Small - Kicil Four - Empat Big - Basar Five - Lima Reverse - Gostan Six - Enam Forward - Gohed Seven - Tujuh Faster - Lakas Eight - Lapan Nine - Sembilan Directions Ten - Sepuluh How do I get to…? - Macam mana saya mau pi…? Eleven - Sebelas Over there - Saaana Twelve - Dua Belas (Num) teen - (Num) belas Please draw me a map - Tolong lukiskan saya peta Right - Kanan (Num) ty - (Num) puluh Left - Kiri Hundred - Ratus Straight ahead - Terus Thousand - Ribu Here - Di sini Days There - Di sana Front - Depan Date - Tanggal Back - Belakang Yesterday - Kemarin Usually - Kepaingan Monday - Hari satu Uncertain - Inda Tuesday - Hari dua Wednesday - Hari tiga Thursday - Hari ampat Common words Yes - Bah Friday - Hari lima No - Endak Saturday - Hari anam Is it? - Gia Sunday - Hari minggu

TAWAU TAWAU Publisher Lyndon Yap GrouP Chief oPeratinG offiCer Annie Goh business ManaGer Adele Chin finanCe & adMinistration ManaGer Chang Lee Ming Writer Elvi Suraya desiGner Muhammad Afiq Zaki Published bY Bluedale Publishing (M) Sdn. Bhd. No. 31-2, Block F2, Level 2 Jalan PJU 1/42A, Dataran Prima 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor D. E. tel (6)03-7886 9219 faX (6)03-7887 8212 enQuiries [email protected] Website www.tawautheguide.com.my Find us at www.facebook.com/tawautheguide https://www.instagram.com/tawautheguide/ Sabah Tourism Board, 51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia Tel : 087-771 800 Fax : 087-773 122 www.sabah.gov.my Printer Superior Press Sdn Bhd (032092-H) Lot 2063A, Jalan Kusta Sg. Buloh, Kawasan Industri Taman Jaya, 47000 Sg. Buloh, Selangor. Malaysia. Complimentary Copy not for sale © bluedale Publishing (M) sdn. bhd. (769278-W) All rights reserved. No reproduction, copy or transmission of this publication may be made without written permission. No contents of this publication may be reproduced, copied or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Any person involved in unauthorized acts in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all the information, the Publisher can accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. For all enquiries related to advertising please contact us at [email protected]

FOREWORD FROM MINISTER OF TOURISM SABAH Welcome to tawau ! Tawau is a land blessed with agricultural attributes, located in the middle of the economic corridor in the BIMP-EAGA region, holds a great potential in driving Sabah’s economy. Gateway to the world top diving site, Sipadan, as well as Maliau Basin the only few remaining untouched forest areas in the world. Tawau is one of the upcoming destinations in Sabah which will contribute to the development of Sabah as an all- encompa s si ng tourism State in Malaysia. Apart from its natural attraction, it is also home to countless ethnic groups that are still 2

Tawau is a tranquil city and a gateway to the most beautiful islands practising their age-old customs and fascinating rituals that will give its visitors an enduring experience. While many efforts have been done to promote Tawau as a destination, a guidebook on Tawau will certainly push the current initiative further. This guidebook is made possible through the support of my Ministry, as well as our agency, Sabah Tourism Board. This is a dynamic publication that will add value to the tourism industry not just in Tawau, but also in Semporna and Lahad Datu. The comprehensive information in this handy book is packed with extensive maps that will guide travellers to uncover the hidden gems of Tawau and the surrounding areas. It is my hope and expectation that tourism in the destinations mentioned will continue to grow and blossom to its full potential in the coming years. Warmest regards, Yb datuK Christina lieW Sabah Deputy Chief Ministers / Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment 3

TAWAU TAWAU CONTENTS historY 7-20 History of Sabah Sabah map Tawau at a glance History of Tawau Tawau Yearly Festival Map of Tawau Getting around Tawau Map from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau ethniC GrouP 21-26 The Indigenous People of Tawau Bajau Murut Buginese people (Bugis) Ida’an Cocos Malay siGhtseeinG 28-30 Teck Guan Cocoa Village Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Tawau Street Art historiCal PlaCes 31-34 Tawau Bell Tower Tawau monument Tawau Japanese War Memorial Confrontation Memorial eCo-tourisM 35-43 Tawau Hills Park Maliau Basin Conservation Area Ulu Kalumpang Forest Reserve Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve Bukit Tengkorak Hot Springs and Resorts Bird – Watching 4

sPorts & reCreation 44-45 PlaCes of WorshiP 46-48 shoP liKe a loCal 49-51 Top 5 souvenirs Modern shopping places niGhtlife 52-53 eat liKe a loCal 54-57 aCCoMModation 58-61 Beyond Tawau seMPorna 62-81 History of Semporna Transportation in Semporna Semporna map Cultures: Get to know ‘Bajau Laut ethnic: the Sea Gypsies of Semporna’ Festival: Regatta Lepa Lepa: a colorful festival in Semporna Eco Tourism Island hopping Accommodation Eating out lahad datu 82-93 Transportation Lahad Datu map Cultures 10 things you didn’t know about Lahad Datu Places of interest Eating out Shopping places Accommodation useful ContaCts 94-96 5

History 6

history History of Sabah Sabah is the second biggest state in Malaysia after Sarawak and located on the northern portion of Borneo Island. Often referred as ‘The Land below the Wind’, Sabah is located just south of the typhoon-prone region making it free from climatic disturbances. Sabah was known as North Borneo before it joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963, was part of Sultanate of Brunei in the 16th century while the north-eastern coast of the state became part of the Sultanate of Sulu which was centered in the southern islands. history behind the name of sabah The origin of the name Sabah is uncertain, and there are many theories have arisen. One theory is that during the time it was part of the Bruneian Sultanate, it was referred to as Saba’ because of the presence of pisang saba, a type of banana, found on the coasts of the region. Due to its location, Sabah is in relation to Brunei, it has been suggested that Sabah was a Bruneian Malay word meaning upstream or the place where palm sugar is extracted. In Arabic, Sabah gives the meaning of morning. The presence of multiple theories makes it difficult to pinpoint the true origin of the name. local time Sabah is using the Malaysian Standard Time with UTC Malaysia + 8 hours, it is also 8 hours ahead of GMT. electricity The voltage used throughout Malaysia is 220-240 volts AC, at 50 cycles per second. Standard 3-pin square plugs and sockets are used. languages and religion The unique part of Sabah is that even though the state is a part of Malaysia, and of course Bahasa Malaysia is widely spoken across ethnicities in Sabah. However, the way Sabahans speak Bahasa Malaysia is 7

history with the Baku dialect; which is a little different from West Malaysian dialect – having more similarity in pronunciation to Indonesian. Apart from the respective indigenous mother-tongue such as Kadazan, Dusun, Bajau, and Murut; Mandarin and some Chinese dialects like the Hakka and Cantonese, as well as the English language are also spoken here. Islam is the state religion; but other religions may be practiced in peace and harmony in any part of the state. Cultures Sabah is a home to over 30 different ethnic races with over than 80 local dialects. The state has a diverse mix of races, with the Kadazan, Bajau and Murut forming the main indigenous groups. There are of course, sizeable populations of Chinese, Malays and Indians who form the majority of Malaysia’s social landscape. nature of sabah Sabah has the boasting rights when it comes to its lush biodiversity and abundant animal and plant species. As such, Sabah has been blessed with equatorial climate. This state is an ideal destination for any types of travelers, especially backpackers; as it is richly blessed with nature diversity, unique cultures, fun adventures, beautiful beaches, and fantastic cuisines for the adventurous taste buds. 8

From mountaineering and scuba diving to wildlife spotting or just simply relaxing at the beach, Sabah is the ultimate place to go. Not only will you be amazed by the places to see and things to do here, you will also get to meet warm and friendly people in Sabah who are very hospitable. Get immersed in the unique culture and tradition of Sabah, not forgetting the sweet memories to last a lifetime. sabah flag The current flag of the state of Sabah, in Malaysia, was adopted on 16 September 1988. It is red, white and three different shades of blue. The mountain is in the canton as in the 1963 flag, but now in dark blue on a light blue background. The field is medium blue over white over red. The mountain shown on the flag (and the state’s coat of arms) is Mount Kinabalu. The five different colors represent the five divisions in Sabah. A silhouette of Mount Kinabalu represents the state of Sabah. 1 Zircon blue represents peace and 1 calmness. 2 2 Icicle blue represents unity and prosperity. 3 3 Royal blue represents strength 4 and harmony. 4 White represents purity and 5 justice. 5 Chili red represents courage and determination 9

LEGEND P. BANGGI Dive Sites P. BALAMBANGAN City & Town Simpang Mengayau MAP KUDAT Cape (Tip of Borneo) Parks & Forest Reserves Main Roads Kudat Matunggong Longhouse PITAS Jambongan Trunk Roads Mantanani Island Railway and Island Langkon Kota Marudu Station Golong Airport KOTA BELUD Sungai Sungai Reef Tuaran Labuk & Sugut Tamparuli P. SILINGAN Mount Pulau Kanawi P. GULISAN P. LIBARAN Turtle Islands KOTA KINABALU P.Gaya Telipok Kinabalu National Park Pamol Rainforest Sandakan Kinabalu SANDAKAN Tg. Aru Kundasang Labuk Bay Proboscis Discovery Golf Club Monkey Sanctuary Donggonan War Memorial Centre Sabah Kundasang Sepilok Orang Putatan Penampang Tea Garden Pamol Sabah Utan Sanctuary Golf Club Kuala Kinarut Monsopiad Culture Village TAMBUNAN Ranau Beluran (House of Skull) Penyu Papar Kinabatangan Labuk Bay Monkey Sukau Mount Kinabalu Garama Crocker Range Mount Trus River Rainforest Proboscis Sanctuary Madi Wetland National Park Bingkor Kinabatangan Lodge Tambisan Island KENINGAU Klias River Beaufort Murut Tabin Wildlife Reserve Menumbok Cultural Sabah Beluran Kinabalu National Park Padas Centre Agricultural Sandau Golf & Sipitang Tenom White Water Park Country Club LABUAN Rafting Danum Valley LAHAD DATU FEDERAL Lawas Nabawan Maliau Basin TERRITORY Conservation Area Conservation Area (Sabah’s List World) Matiku Kunak Sapulut Madai-Baturong Forest Reserve Semporna Klias River Tun Sakaran Island Park Baturong Caves Marine Park Pensiangan Muruk Batu Punggul Tawau Hills SEMPORNA Miau Pinnacle Park Tawau Long Pa Sia Golf Club TAWAU Kg. Gading Kapalai Island Long Pa Sia Padas White Water Rafting (Lundayeh Village) Mabul Island Sebatik Island Pulau Sipadan

LEGEND P. BANGGI Dive Sites P. BALAMBANGAN City & Town Simpang Mengayau MAP KUDAT Cape (Tip of Borneo) Parks & Forest Reserves Main Roads Kudat Matunggong Longhouse PITAS Jambongan Trunk Roads Mantanani Island Railway and Island Langkon Kota Marudu Station Golong Airport KOTA BELUD Sungai Sungai Reef Tuaran Labuk & Sugut Tamparuli P. SILINGAN Mount Pulau Kanawi P. GULISAN P. LIBARAN Turtle Islands KOTA KINABALU P.Gaya Telipok Kinabalu National Park Pamol Rainforest Sandakan Kinabalu SANDAKAN Tg. Aru Kundasang Labuk Bay Proboscis Discovery Golf Club Monkey Sanctuary Donggonan War Memorial Centre Sabah Kundasang Sepilok Orang Putatan Penampang Tea Garden Pamol Sabah Utan Sanctuary Golf Club Kuala Kinarut Monsopiad Culture Village TAMBUNAN Ranau Beluran (House of Skull) Penyu Papar Kinabatangan Labuk Bay Monkey Sukau Mount Kinabalu Garama Crocker Range Mount Trus River Rainforest Proboscis Sanctuary Madi Wetland National Park Bingkor Kinabatangan Lodge Tambisan Island KENINGAU Klias River Beaufort Murut Tabin Wildlife Reserve Menumbok Cultural Sabah Beluran Kinabalu National Park Padas Centre Agricultural Sandau Golf & Sipitang Tenom White Water Park Country Club LABUAN Rafting Danum Valley LAHAD DATU FEDERAL Lawas Nabawan Maliau Basin TERRITORY Conservation Area Conservation Area (Sabah’s List World) Matiku Kunak Sapulut Madai-Baturong Forest Reserve Semporna Klias River Tun Sakaran Island Park Baturong Caves Marine Park Pensiangan Muruk Batu Punggul Tawau Hills SEMPORNA Miau Pinnacle Park Tawau Long Pa Sia Golf Club TAWAU Kg. Gading Kapalai Island Long Pa Sia Padas White Water Rafting (Lundayeh Village) Mabul Island Sebatik Island Pulau Sipadan

history Tawau at a glance Located on the east coast of Sabah, Tawau is one of the largest towns in Sabah. The town is served by Tawau Airport, which is a popular hub for flights from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu, as well as limited flights from Singapore. This town is an important transportation hub not only for these cities but also serves as a gateway to popular vacation islands such as Nunukan and Sebatik, as well as many others. Geography of tawau It is located on the South East Coast of the state in the administrative centre of Tawau Division which bordered by the Sulu Sea to the east, the Celebes Sea to the south at Cowie Bay and shares a border with North Kalimantan. The main town area is divided into three sections, namely Sabindo, Fajar and Tawau Lama. Tawau is surrounded by lush forest, and it is a gateway to a few oldest forests in the world. Explore Danum Valley, Tabin Wildlife, Maliau Basin and Tawau Hill Park. economy Tawau is a major export and import town, as it is located near the sea. Its main export and import is timber, especially from North Kalimantan. Other than timber, they also exports spices, cocoa and tobacco. Not only have that, bird’s nested also being exported to other country, such as China. The bird’s nest is harvested at Baturong, Sengarung, Tepadung and Madai Caves in Kunak by the Ida’an community. Tawau is one of the top cocoa producers centers in Malaysia, as the cocoa production is mostly concentrated in the interior, north of the town, while palm oil production is concentrated along the roads to Merotai, Brantian, Semporna and Kunak. Both cocoa and palm oil are part of the large agriculture sector that has become the main income producer for the town. People in Tawau have always relied on the sea for their sustenance. Every day, you can see that there are hundreds of deep sea trawlers at the Cowie Bay. The fishing industry remains important, with tiger prawn farming contributing to the export trade with Japan and Taiwan. 12

historyistory h History of Tawau Tawau, the third largest town of Sabah was originally one of the earliest ports of East Sabah being active since the late 1890’s. Located on the South Eastern coastal lands of Sabah, Tawau or Tawao as it was known in the early 1890’s began as a tiny nucleus of only 200 inhabitants that crossed borders from Kalimantan. These immigrants fled from Bulungan and Tawi-Tawi, away from the oppressive rule of the Dutch ‘masters’. The villagers soon began a small trade with passing ships including Dutch trading boats. Not long after, the community began trading sea and jungle produce such as rattan, birds’ nest and rubber with imports such as dammar, Indian rubber, tortoise shells etc. The British had a strong influence with the British North Borneo Chartered Company (BNBC) where trading was one of the main industries here. Tawau is also connected via roads from most cities around Sabah, and the Tawau Airport with direct flights here forms Kuala Lumpur and other major cities of Malaysia. While most people would transit in Tawau as the main gateway to Sipadan and Mabul Islands, the airport sits in between Semporna and Tawau, therefore this list of things to do in Tawau was created for general interest, especially for travelers wanting to explore further into one of Sabah’s old cities. history of tawau Tawau’s centre was the field, with the sea on one side and whitewashed timber buildings on the other three - the District Office, police quarters, the government rest house, none more than two storey high. A tower (which still stands at the Town Padang) was erected by the Japanese after World War I and hours are rung at intervals by the police guard. The scene was tranquil and beautiful. Traffic was scarce - a handful of private cars, Lorries and vehicles belonging to the estates. From the padang, Dunlop Street turned into Apas Road, which was metal led roads, which branched off to Kuhara rubber estate and Sin On. There was no ingress from further afield on the landward side. It was a very inhibited area and small and well defined. Its people knew intuitively that they had to live and work together. Despite the many races, ethnic groups and religions, the town was very peaceful. There was no serious crime; doors and windows of dwelling houses were normally left unlocked. 13

history There was neither electricity supply nor main drainage. The water supply to the town was by means of tubs set on trolleys which ran along the narrow gauge trolley line from Tawau River. The tubs were hauled by hand. A telephone line linked the District Office with the District Officer’s house, the light house and Kuhara estate. The Government’s wireless station communicated daily with Sandakan, whence messages were transmitted to Hong Kong and Singapore. There was no bank, but money could be remitted through the post office, and the Treasury accepted and repaid deposits on behalf of the state Bank. There were 300 Japanese working on the estates and 100 on Si-Amil Island. They owned the biggest estates (Kuhara Estate) (and a golf course). There was an estate hospital and representative office of a Japanese Bank set up for the benefit of the Japanese inhabitants. Their commercial fishing (mainly tuna) was unique. Their company, Borneo Fishing Company, whose office and factory was situated at Si-Amil Island (east of Mabul and Sipadan Islands). Apparently, all workers there were Japanese. Japanese men crewed the fishing boats, while canning factory was worked mainly by Japanese women. The workers and suppliers arrived in Tawau in Japanese ships, and all were disembarked into launches and lighters and taken directly to Si-Amil. Despite their commercial activities, they left no impact on Tawau in terms of local affairs, social or cultural life. The S.S. Kinabalu of the Sabah Steamship Company linked Tawau with Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Semporna and Tungku (yes, Sabah Steamship, the name ‘Sabah’ then was already in use and the company was a subsidiary of Chartered Company). The ship was wrecked off Semporna and later replaced by S.S. Baynain by the Bakau Company (also a subsidiary of the Chartered Company). The government cruiser, “Petrel”, was based in Tawau. But it was often used on duty elsewhere. Apart from that, there very few sailing crafts. There was no airfield in Tawau (or anywhere in Sabah). There was a small public hospital close to the shore but it had no medical officer. A medical doctor by the name of Ernst Sternfeld was sent from Sandakan to station in Tawau in 1939-1940, but lasted only a few months. The Chinese community maintained schools. The Roman Catholic Church was later established in 1922 and provided the only English primary school. Mosques were unostentatious. The District Office was headed by expatriate district officer and assisted by a chief clerk and court interpreter, Mr. Lim Ong Tun. In the community, a highly respected figure was OKK Abu Bakar. The Chinese “Kapitan” was Mr. Stephen Tann (who was later killed by Japanese invaders in 1944 shortly before the end of WWII). 14

history A letter from Tawau to Sandakan could take more than 9 days to arrive and nineteen days are needed to reach Singapore. Since it took many days for the locals to receive mails and newspapers, they tended to rely on radio to keep them informed of world news - for the wars in Europe, China etc. Even then, few people could afford a radio set. The best station, apparently, was Manila Station. In January 1942, North Borneo was invaded by Japanese naval and military forces. As the Japanese forces advanced around the coast of Borneo, from the old field of Kuching, then to Jesselton - Tawau carried on normally. On 19 Jan 1942, the Sandakan wireless station went off the air. On 24 Jan 1942, the Japanese launches were sighted from Batu Tinagat. The District Officer (Cole Adam) and his Assistant met the invaders at the wharf and was arrested immediately. Mr. Cole Adam, after forty-four months in Japanese prison camps, died in September 1945 on the very day of release by the Allied forces. For three and a half years, Tawau and the rest of the country remained under the Japanese occupation until final liberation by units of North Australian Division, who landed in Labuan on 10 June 1945. The British Military Administration of North Borneo found the Colony in a state of appalling devastation. Like all other major towns in the Colony, Tawau was destroyed or damaged by bombing and fire. Shervinton’s SHERVINTON • Complimentary 24-hour high speed • Banquet services - packaging designed variety tea break, refreshment, lunch, wireless internet access • 24-hour reception dinner & supper EXECUTIVE • Fully guestroom supplies, bath products, • 24-hour double security & security coffee & tea maker door for suite • Complimentary breakfast • Prayer room BOUTIQUE • Non-smoking floor • Wake-up call services • Fully air-conditioned • All major credit cards accepted • 1 Conference Room of flexible meeting • Handicap services HOTEL and function spaces for arrange of • Laundry services • Concierge services secretarial services & designs modern global communication facilities • Complimentary 24-hour shoe shiner Standard Check-In time: 2.00 pm at lobby reception Check Out time : 12.00 noon  • Sky Bar & Lounge Garden - Designed Breakfast Buffet : 7.00 am - 10.00 am 4)&37*/50/ top floor of the hotel. A La Carte designed •   continental menus, room service, •  & wifi internet facilities. •  &9&$65*7&  •  •  3 STAR HOTEL •  #065*26& 3 STAR HOTEL •     )05&- •   •     •     Save more Address: TB224-227, Lot 1-4, Jalan Bunga Fajar Complex, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia  •  •  money... Phone : 089-770000 Hotline : 010-2018000 Fax : 089-770009  •   Email : [email protected] / [email protected] •  •  www.shervintonhotel.com •  •  15           Standard Check In time : 2.00 pm  Check Out time : 12.00 noon    Breakfast Buffet : 7.00 am - 10.00 am

Tawau's Yearly Festival Tawau's Yearly Festival Kaamatan Festival Kaamatan is a Kadazan-Dusun term for ‘harvest’. The celebration of Kaamatan Festival is to signify the beginning of the harvesting season of paddy. There’s a myth behind the significance of the celebration; it all begins with their God, Kinoingan who took pity towards the people suffering from a great famine and severe drought many moons ago. In order to save the people, he sacrificed his daughter, Ponumpuan by cutting her into small pieces. After that, he showed her flesh over the land and paddy grew. It is believed that the spirit of Huminodun is embodied in the rice and therefore known as Bambarayon or Bambazon. The celebration of the harvest festival usually lasts for three days; and on the last day, there will be an Unduk Ngandau (beauty pageant) contest. Every May regatta lepa semporna The Regatta Lepa is an annual event that pays homage a traditional single-mast sailing boat of the Bajau people in Semporna. The boat, Lepa is a symbol of pride of Bajau people that is believed to be originated from the Bajau people who live in Bum Bum Island. The Regatta Lepa is not just a water festival where they will compete for the title of ‘Most Beautiful Lepa’, in fact, the whole town 16

St. Patrick’s Multipurpose Hall St. Patrick’s Anglican Church Masjid Al-Khauthar Jalan Persisiran APARTMENTS HOUSE AIRPORT ROUTE OFFICE BUILDING BSN SHOP TRAFFIC Lembaga Tabung Haji Tawau Jalan Persisiran MAIN ROAD HOTEL POST OFFICE RESTAURANT MOSQUE KFC MAYBANK Lorong Sabindo Square 1 Pejabat Pos Besar Tawau LEGEND Night Club Jalan Persatuan Jalan Dunlop Terminal Bas Jalan Tun Hamdan Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja Tawau Wisma Persekutuan Tawau Jalan Haji Karim Barcode Night club Mahkamah Majistret Tawau Jalan Hew Fook Tawau District Library Sabindo Plaza Jalan Dunlop Jalan Habib Sheikh Jalan Chan Fook Terminal Bas Jalan Persisiran P Jalan Mahkamah Jalan Dunlop Millmewa Supermarket Grace Plaza Basel Church Belmont Marco Polo Jalan Masjid Jalan Klinik Wisma Waqaf Jalan Kee Abdullah Jalan Chan Fook SABINDO FOOD COURT Jalan Persisiran Jalan Abaca Pasar Gantung Jalan Dunlop P Jalan Paya Jalan Ho Hwang Kim Esso Gas Station Jalan Habib Sheikh Jalan Seroja Tai Yang Supermarket Jalan Bunga Tanjung SJK Sin Hwa, Tawau Servay Hypermarket TAWAU Sekolah Rendah Sin Hwa Dewan Masyarakat Tawau Money Changer Central Market Money Changer Jalan Pasar Raya Kompleks Perikanan Tawau Jalan Wong Lok Hotel Tawau Sea Food Market Daniop Hotel Milimewa Superstore Port

Tawau 's Yearly Festival of Semporna has a colorful carnival atmosphere; there are various concerts staged and stalls are set up to promote or sell their tourism products. Q Regatta Lepa Square, Semporna, Sabah  Semporna District Office April Mabul World turtle day Started since 2000, Mabul World Turtle Day is celebrated to create public awareness while enhancing education, research and ignite the interest of marine conservation of the sea turtle population in the waters of Mabul Island in Semporna. It is a notable event to help these marine creatures to thrive and survive. During this event, volunteers are welcomed to join and get hands-on experiences with sea turtle research. As such, this event is to strive to make our environment a better place. Q Borneo Divers Mabul Resort, Semporna, Sabah Marine day Every June, the Marine Day is celebrated by the dive centre’s management and guest speaker to encourage the divers to learn about the coral reef environment. During the event, they provide hands-on lectures to guests on their latest research about the coral relocation and its environment. Every June Borneo Diver’s Celebration of Sea Turtle Q Borneo Divers Mabul Resort, Mabul Island  Nancy John € 06 88 222 226 Tawau International Cultural Festival Take this day to see the colorful side of Tawau! Be prepared to be awed in excitement as there will be a showcase of the indigenous ethnic of Sabah. Travelers will be educated with information such as cultural aspects of the ethnic groups, local equipment and materials used in daily life, costumes, delicacies as well as traditional musical instruments. The purpose of the event is to show the cultural wealth of Borneo and the rapid growth of the tourism sector in Borneo.  Majlis Perbandaran Tawau € +60 89 701 611 Q Dataran Majlis Perbandaran Tawau 18

Getting around tawau Getting around Tawau Located at the northern tip of Sabah, Tawau is the third biggest city in Sabah. Tawau is the gateway to the world - class diving paradise Sipadan Island and many nearby island resorts. Travelling around Tawau has never been difficult. Travelers are spoilt with choices of the mode of transportation – one has to do a proper schedule to avoid any hassle as well as saving your time during traveling. by air/ tawau airport Tawau Airport is the second largest airport in Sabah to have immigration facilities after Kota Kinabalu. Therefore, this airport can accept international flights. From Tawau Airport, there are numerous daily flights to as well as daily flights to Sandakan. The airport is 35 kilometers East of Tawau. The airport has flights linking the town mostly to domestic destinations; include Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Kuala Lumpur. by land / Car & motorcycle Most of the town’s roads are state roads constructed and maintained by the state’s Public Works Department. The only highway route from Tawau connects Tawau –Semporna – Kunak – Lahad Datu – Sandakan (part of the Pan Borneo Highway). While traveling to another nearby town, expect a smooth driving as the route that passes through is quite picturesque, mist- wreathed primary forest. Be warned that there is a very limited rest and relax temporary pit stops and petrol station along the way; so make sure that you fueled up your gas accordingly. by sea/ tawau ferry terminal This ferry terminal has daily departures to Tarakan (Kalimantan) to the town’s seaport and twice-daily departures to Nunukan (Kalimantan). Pulau Banggi SOUTH CHINA SEA SABAH Manlamani KUDAT Pulau Pulau Pulau Pulau Seilingan Langkayan KOTA BELUD Layang Layang TUARAN TRANSPORT Pulau KOTA KINABALU PARK SULU SEA RANAU Mengalum Pulau KINABALU KUNDASANG SANDAKAN Tiga PAPAR TAMBUNAN SUKAU ROUTE KUALA BEAUFORT KENINGAU PENYU LABUAN F.T. TENOM TABIN WILDLIFE DANNUM VALLEY LAHAD DATU LEGEND MALIAU BASIN CELEBES SEA LONG PA SIA PENSIANGAN TAWAU BY BUS BY HELICOPTER SEMPORNA BY BOAT BY AIRPLANE BY TRAIN AIRPLANE ROUTE Pulau Sebatik Pulau Sipadan

Dive Sites City & Town Parks & Forest Reserves Main Roads Air Route Road Route LEGEND Tabin Wildlife Reserve SEMPORNA Kapalai Island P. LIBARAN Turtle Islands LAHAD DATU Mabul Island P. SILINGAN SANDAKAN Kunak Kg. Gading P. GULISAN Kinabatangan River Kinabatangan Pulau Kanawi TAWAU Jambongan Island Labuk & Sugut Danum Valley Conservation Area 7.5+ hours P. Banggi Sungai Sungai Pamol Beluran Beluran 55 Mins Golong P. Balambangan Kudat Longhouse Kota Marudu Ranau Maliau Basin Conservation Area (Sabah’s List World) Matunggong Langkon Mount Kinabalu Kundasang Penampang TAMBUNAN Matiku MAP Mantanani Island KOTA BELUD Tuaran Tamparuli Telipok Tg. Aru Donggonan Kinarut Crocker Range National Park Bingkor KENINGAU Beaufort Tenom Nabawan Sapulut Pensiangan Journey Kota Kinabalu to Tawau KOTA KINABALU Papar Kimanis Klias River Menumbok Sipitang Lawas



Ethnic Group

The Indigenous people of Tawau Located on the East Coast of the state that shares a border with North Kalimantan, Indonesia, Tawau is a cultural pot for several ethnics. As Tawau’s population is growing bigger and bigger by now, travelers can expect to be enchanted by their unique traditions and customs. Not only that travelers can be captivated by their eccentric traditional costumes, travelers can also experience and learn that every ethnic tribe have their own unique dance, music instruments and handicrafts (this can be seen clearly on their traditional costumes) that differentiate them from one another.

Ethnic Group SEA BAJAU Sea Bajau is the only remaining \"sea gypsies\" in Sabah, they have been wandering the sea since 1800, taking the sea as their home and spend almost all their lives at the sea. They live in the \"Coral Golden Triangle\" of Southeast Asia and are the only sea nomads in the world. Most of the Sea Bajau are friendly, calm and peaceful, their current life has no different from their ancestors, fishing are still their main activities. They are independent ethnic group with own unique living style, but they will also go ashore with the purpose of collecting fresh water and sell the fishes for the daily necessities. 23

Ethnic Group MURUT Literally, Murut gives the meaning of ‘hill people’. The Muruts are found deep inland in Northern Borneo and southeastern parts of Sabah. They renowned for their hunting skills using spears, blow pipes and poisoned darts. They used to practice head-hunting but have renounced it for a life of agriculture. Today, many of Murut people cultivate hill paddy and tapioca, with some fishing and hunting in between. Those of Murut origin speak 15 languages and 21 dialects. The language commonly used and understood by the large majority is Tanggal; it is also related to the Kadazandusun languages. 24

Ethnic Group BUGINESE PEOPLE (BUGIS) Bugis is one of the ethnic tribe that can be found in Tawau. The Bugis have a rich history and culture. They are a dynamic highly mobile people originated from the province of South Sulawesi (The Celebes Sea). For many, they are known for their skills of sailor navigators, fighters and traders. In the late 17th century, many of Bugis people left their homes to seek success and wealth to start searching for their perfect settlements. Over time, the Bugis migrants adopted Malay-Muslim customs and merged with Malay through intermarriage, to secure the Bugis bloodline. 25

Ethnic Group IDA’AN The Ida’an people are an ethnic group that can be found residing primarily in Lahad Datu districts. Their main economy is collecting the bird’s nest to be exported. For centuries, the Ida’an has owned exclusive rights to the collection of edible bird's nests in the limestone caves of the region, notably the Madai Caves. Most Ida'an is Muslim, but a small but some of them remain animist. COCOS MALAY Cocos Malays are a community that forms the predominant group of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which is now part of Australia. Despite that they all have assimilated into the ethnic Malay culture, they are named in reference to the Malay race. The Cocos Malays in Malaysia primarily resides in several villages known as Kampung Cocos near Lahad Datu. They are originally from the Cocos Island, they settled on this area in the 1950s after been brought by the British. The number of those who participated in the first emigration is thought to be around twenty, but it increased when they expanded their settlement in Lahad Datu. They are accorded bumiputra status by the Malaysian government and also a part of the Malaysian Malays ethnic group found in the state of Sabah. Most of the Cocos Malays follow the Sunni branch of Islam. 26

Sightseeing

Sightseeing TECK GUAN COCOA VILLAGE Experience the wonders of the nature in Teck Guan Cocoa Village located in Quoin Hill, Tawau. Plan a short escape here which would take your breath away with its exotic scenery: tree houses, cocoa house, mesmerizing 75 feet high waterfall and the unique 27,000-years-old basaltic columnar jointing at the end of the creek at Cocoa Culture Spring. Interested to know the beauty of tropical Asia and cocoa planting? Do not hesitate, come and visit Teck Guan Cocoa Village for an amazing experience! 德源可可庄园 让我们来体验位于斗湖可茵山德源可可庄园的自然美景︒在可可庄园︐ 您可以深入了解可可的制作 过程︐参观可可房子︐以及一个75尺高的瀑布和拥有27000年历史的柱状玄武岩︒ 踏在可可庄园的 土地上会让您暂且忘记生活上的烦恼︒ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Interested to find out how cocoa pods being turned into cocoa products? Here in Teck Guan Cocoa Museum we will take you for a tour to know more about the process of cocoa in details. The highlight of this tour is the chance to indulge in our fresh handmade chocolate and desserts made from Teck Guan's very own HOKO products, and of course shopping for HOKO delicacies! Don't miss out visiting Teck Guan Cocoa Museum that is perhaps the one and only in the world that exhibits cocoa and chocolate just in one place. 德源可可博物馆 德源可可博物馆给巧克力粉丝带来好消息︕巧克力粉丝可到可可博物馆观看视频︐海报和展览模型 以了解可可的生长和制作过程︒除此之外︐游客可以享用我们的新鲜手工制作巧克力和甜点︐巧克 力和甜点皆由德源集团的品牌HOKO所提供︒当然少不了最后环节就是购买HOKO巧克力产品︒欢迎 到德源可可博物馆来个轻松教育之旅︒ 28

Sightseeing TECK GUAN GROUP TECK GUAN COCOA VILLAGE Experience the wonders of the nature in Teck Guan Cocoa Village located in Quoin Hill, Tawau. Plan a short escape here which would take your breath away with its exotic scenery: tree houses, cocoa house, mesmerizing 75 feet high waterfall and the unique 27,000-years-old basaltic columnar jointing at the end of the creek at Cocoa Culture Spring. Interested to know the beauty of tropical Asia and cocoa planting? Do not hesitate, come and visit Teck Guan Cocoa Village for an amazing experience! 德源可可庄园 让我们来体验位于斗湖可茵山德源可可庄园的自然美景︒在可可庄园︐ 您可以深入了解可可的制作 过程︐参观可可房子︐以及一个75尺高的瀑布和拥有27000年历史的柱状玄武岩︒ 踏在可可庄园的 土地上会让您暂且忘记生活上的烦恼︒ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Teck Guan Cocoa Museum Interested to find out how cocoa pods being turned into cocoa products? Here in Teck Guan Cocoa Museum we will take you for a tour to know more about the process of cocoa in details. The highlight of this tour is the chance to indulge in our fresh handmade chocolate and desserts made from Teck Guan's very own HOKO products, and of course shopping for HOKO delicacies! Don't miss out visiting Teck Guan Cocoa Museum that is perhaps the one and only in the world that exhibits cocoa and chocolate just in one place. 德源可可博物馆 德源可可博物馆给巧克力粉丝带来好消息︕巧克力粉丝可到可可博物馆观看视频︐海报和展览模型 以了解可可的生长和制作过程︒除此之外︐游客可以享用我们的新鲜手工制作巧克力和甜点︐巧克 力和甜点皆由德源集团的品牌HOKO所提供︒当然少不了最后环节就是购买HOKO巧克力产品︒欢迎 到德源可可博物馆来个轻松教育之旅︒ Connect us at +6016-826 9579 or +6089-77 2277 [email protected] facebook.com/teckguancocoavillage/ 29

Sightseeing Street art in Tawau Street art exists worldwide. No matter where you are, we may find street art- on the corner of the street, back lane of a coffee shop, and everywhere in between. For those who are new to this term, street art is visual art created in public locations, perhaps to enhance the local culture and lifestyle. These past few years, street art has been popping up and coloring cities around the world, Tawau is no different. We’ve gathered together a few of street art that can be found while exploring Tawau. Be sure to take a lot of pictures with these street art; the key is to be creative! “Welcome to Tawau” One of the noticeable things while wandering around in Tawau is probably the ‘welcome to Tawau’ street art that can be found near the Tawau Council. This colorful street art is on top on to do list when in Tawau. After all, what a better way to tell the world that you has reached here? P opposite HSBC Bank, Jalan Persatuan, 91000 Tawau, Sabah “Light house” The next street art that you can find while exploring Tawau is the lighthouse. Due to Tawau’s strategic location, this town is a catalyst for the port business. P Beside the post office, near the Bell Tower of Tawau Town “Gendang Perpaduan Masyarakat” P Haji Karim “Malaysia 2020” P Tawau Teacher Training College Walking around Tawau trying to find the street art is such an amazing experience to kill your time; it also showed a very different kind of street in Tawau. One thing for sure – this street art in fact successfully transformed what used to be normal streets into more unusual, lively and engaging ones. 30

Historical Places 31

Historical Places Tawau Bell Tower/Tawau Monument Located at the Tawau Town Padang, Tawau Bell Tower is the only historical building in Tawau to survive World War II. It is also known as the Belfry and it was constructed by the Japanese to commemorate the signing of armistice agreement following World War I when Japan was an ally of Great Britain. The six-sided structure with a cone-shaped roof looks unmistakably oriental and was constructed in 1921 using prison labor and funds contributed by Japanese businessmen in Tawau. There is a bench mark under the foundation that shows Tawau’s elevation above the sea level, besides being the mark for starting point of the distance to every place. The East Direction lead its way to Dunlop Street, Kuhara Road, Sin On Road and Apas Road; South direction faces the Celebes Sea; West direction to Tanjung Batu Road; while North direction to North Road and Merotai Road. P Jalan Pos Lama, Bandar Tawau, 91000 Tawau Sabah 32

Historical Places Tawau Japanese War Memorial Following the Anglo-Japanese Treaty of 1902, many Japanese businessmen began to settle in the surrounding area of Tawau. On 19 January 1916, a Japanese Nippon Industrial Company bought 240 acres for rubber plantation and another 607 hectares of adjacent land. The plantation known as “Kuhara Estate of Rubber and Manila Hemp” was established under the name of the owner, Fanosuke Kuhara. Another Japanese plantation known as “Kubota Estate” belonged to Kubota Umeme, specialises in coconut and has operated since 1916. According to statistics from 1921, 191 Japanese resided in Tawau, while before the outbreak of the Second World War there were 1,175. Due to the growing number of the Japanese, the cemetery was built before the Second World War and used by the Japanese community as a burial site. The vast majority of the people buried here died before the Second World War. P Tanjung Batu Street, 91000 Tawau Sabah 33

Historical Places Confrontation Memorial Other historical attraction that travelers should visit in Tawau is Confrontation Memorial. This memorial commemorates the fallen heroes who perished during the ‘Konfrontasi’, or Indonesian-Malaysian Conflict, which lasted from 1963 to 1966. This undeclared war also involved troops from Australia, New Zealand and Britain. The conflict was the result of Indonesian President Sukarno’s at that time belief that the British were trying to maintain colonial rule in South-East Asia. P Confrontation Memorial, Bandar Tawau, 91000 Tawau, Sabah 34

Historical Places Eco-Tourism 35

Eco-Tourism Tawau Hills Park Tawau Hills Park is a protected lowland rainforest gazette as a park in 1979 and located merely 24 kilometers away from Tawau town. There are at least 7 major rivers originate here. The Tawau River flows through the middle of the 27, 972 ha park and forms many natural deepwater pools and waterfalls. Not only that, it is a home to the tallest tropical trees in the world! To get to the giant tree that is the pride of the Sabah people, travelers can follow the man-made trail leading up to the tree - which usually requires about 30 minutes of jungle trekking. Thermal pools - there are man-made trails leading up to the waterfall and hot springs areas, which are located about an hour’s walk from the main entrance. A canopy was build in 2012 to give the chance for travelers to experience and see by themselves and observe the movements of wildlife at different canopy levels. The Tawau River flows through the middle of the park to create many natural deepwater pools and waterfalls. The most popular waterfall among visitors is Table Waterfall, the Glass Waterfall and the Lucia Waterfall. As a state park, it also has a research facility and a botanical garden built in 1999 that acts as a plant conservatory. Interestingly, the gallery at the park featured not only information about the flora or fauna at the park, but items confiscated from trespassers. These items included axes, spears, traps, chainsaws, fireworks and arrows. P Tawau Hills Park, P.O. Box 62103, 91031 Tawau, Sabah Q Going to Tawau Hills Park is difficult if you do not have your own transport pre-arranged. The journey takes about 30 minutes drive; you can opt to hail a taxi that can be easily found along the Pasar Tanjung or Pasar Gantung. Alternatively, you can also use GRAB that is much cheaper than taxi. $ Malaysian - RM 3 (adult), RM 1 (kids) Non-Malaysian – RM 10 (adult), RM 6 (kids) € 089 768 719 36

Eco-Tourism Maliau Basin Conservation Area Touted as ‘Sabah’s lost world’, Maliau Basin is a remote and isolated area containing a rare assemblage of 12 types of forests; comprising mainly of lower mundane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland. If you’re adventure seeker, then this place is perfect for you! Maliau Basin Conservation Area is an excellent site for jungle- trekking and wildlife watching, and the highlight of tour would be trekking to the seven tiered Maliau Falls that is located further in the thick jungle. You will get the experience to watch the most astounding sights here. Maliau Basin Conservation Area was designated as a conservation area by the Sabah Foundation in 1981. Later in 1997, the Sabah State Assembly gazettes the Basin as a Protection Forest Reserve (Class 1) with a total area of 588 square kilometers. To get here, it is recommended to do tour in groups. The destination is only suited for serious naturalists due to the limited communication facilities and amenities. Prior permission must be obtained from Yayasan Sabah and visitors must be accompanied by guides or rangers. The nearest towns to Maliau Basin are Tawau. From Tawau town, Maliau Basin is accessible via four-wheel drives and the journey to its security gate take about five hours. Alternatively, helicopter rides are available. For further details, please contact: Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd P Block D, Lot 10, Ground Floor, Sadong Jaya Complex, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah € 088 267 637 % borneonaturetours.com 37

Eco-Tourism Ulu Kalumpang Forest Reserve Ulu Kalumpang Forest Reserve is a refuge for the endangered iconic animals of Borneo and serves to protect the headwaters and water catchment areas that are a source of water for the inhabitants of the Tawau Peninsula. The reserve is 35km from bustling Tawau, Sabah’s third largest town. Ulu Kalumpang was first announced as a forest reserve in 1956 as a block of land about 862 square km. From 1959- 1979 the land was de-reserved by 335 square km. It was reclassified as a Class Two Forest Reserve in 1984, and eventually in 1992 it progressed into a Class One Forest Reserve with a final area of 511 square km. Ulu Kalumpang is linked to other forest reserves - in the south it links with Tawau Hills Park and Mount Wullersdorf Forest Reserve as well as linking to the Ulu Segama Forest Reserve. These reserves have been linked in the hope of reuniting wildlife that have become isolated due to human activity and to provide sound management for securing wildlife long term survival. Ulu Kalumpang is in an area called the Tawau Highlands and is very mountainous. It is covered in five main forest types, 70% of which is lowland mixed dipterocarp forest, the rest is made up of upland mixed dipterocarp forest, lowland mixed & kerangas forest and a small portion consists of lower montane forest. There are several rivers running through the reserve, the main one is Kalumpang River; its tributaries being the Mantri and Malati Rivers. Others include Binuang River which flows into Tingkayu and finally the Merutai Kanan which flows southwards from the reserve. 38

Eco-Tourism Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve is one of the popular places in Tawau. It is located about 10 kilometers from Tawau town; it’s great for a day visit as the jungle is filled with chattering monkeys and popular among locals. Along the way there is so much to marvel at, such as the giant trees that seem to stretch endlessly to the sky and the elusive creatures that scurry about. There are seven huts along the way for walkers to rest and relax. After hiking for about an hour (depending on your fitness level), you will arrive at the Titian Selara canopy walkway. At 231 metres long, it is deemed one of the longest canopy walkways in Sabah. The stunning scenery spans the town centre, the picturesque coastline and its surrounding areas. The trek down Bukit Gemok should take a shorter time, but be warned that the trail becomes muddy and slippery during the rainy season, so exercise extra caution. The forest reserve was developed in the early 1990s and is now equipped with basic facilities such as washrooms and rest huts along the trail. Any land vehicle can be used to get to Bukit Gemok. Just be sure to dress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids and get ready to soak in the majesty of the lush greenery along the trails of Bukit Gemok. P Jalan Merotai – Tawau, 91000 Tawau, Sabah Q A taxi ride from Tawau town will cost around RM30.00 (one way). It is recommended that you make returns arrangement with your taxi driver. Public transport is not readily available in this area. € 089 761 833 $ RM 1  Daily (8 am – 5 pm) 39

Eco-Tourism Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Heritage Site One of the interesting places that travelers should visit is Bukit Tengkorak Archaeological Heritage Site that’s located about 15-20 minutes drive from Semporna town. It is suitable for light trekking and exploration activity as the site has been identified as one of the largest pottery manufacturing sites in Southeast Asia in the Neolithic era that is about 3,000 years ago. The local people called this hill as 'Bukit Tengkorak' that gives the meaning of 'skull hill' because there are a lot of human skulls and bones on the peak below the big black rock. Actually, the rock is a cave with 'A' letter peaky roof shape that acts as a shelter. It also reveals evidence of people traveling between New Britain, Melanesia near Papua New Guinea and Borneo Island. Archaeological research done between 1994 and 1995 by Universiti Sains Malaysia in co-operation with the Sabah Museum, uncovered pottery shards in layers of ash, which are probably remnants of open kilns used for firing pottery. Excavations also found clay for making pottery which may have originated from large deposits of the material at the foothills. Archaeologists believe long-distance sea trade and migration between Southeast Asia and the Pacific left behind what is known as the Lapita culture of pottery, tools and ornaments. It was one of the longest trade routes in the world during the Neolithic period. Besides seeing valuable historical treasures, travelers can also enjoy the majestic view of Sipadan Island and its surrounding at an altitude of about 152 meters (500 feet) above sea level. Depending on one’s stamina, the trek to the viewing platform takes about 30 minutes. The best time to climb is during the morning or evening. Tengkorak Hills is suitable for a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, fitness enthusiasts and photographers. P Jalan Tampi – tampi, Tampi-tampi Village, 91308 Semporna, Sabah  Daily (9 am – 5 pm) € 089 222 679 40

Eco-Tourism Tawau Hot Springs Park Nestled 6 kilometers away from Tawau International Airport, lay the most popular hot spring named Tawau Hot Springs Park. Tawau Hot Springs Park is suitable for nature lover as it also offers accommodation with access to a hot spring bath. P Jalan Hot Sping Extension Tawau Hot Spring, 91000 Tawau, Sabah Balung River Eco Resort Balung Eco Resort is the first eco - resort of its kind to offer visitors a total and supremely comfortable experience in a serene plantation environment. The chalets are built with river stones and local timber, giving it a rustic feel. The resort is conveniently located 30 minutes from Tawau airport, and 40 minutes from the bustling town of Tawau. The clear Balung River, which flows over smooth stones, has been partially diverted to form a swimming pool, while there is also a recreational lake. Visitors can indulge themselves with a myriad of activities during their stay. Apart from swimming, travelers can also go fishing, badminton, jungle trekking, bird watching, indoor games, camping in tranquil surroundings, enjoying a campfire, karaoke and picnicking beside the refreshing river. Also found here are an abundance of fruits, from the local favorites to more exotic species, such as the dragon fruit and abiu. Other activities include a round at the putting green, mountain biking, bird watching or simply hiking along the many trails found here. Whether you wish to relax or explore the fascinating world of agriculture, Balung River Eco Resort promises an unforgettable experience. P No 30, Jalan Dr Yamamoto, 91009 Tawau, Sabah € 012 538 4833 41

Eco-Tourism bird-watching Sabah has also been enticing birdwatchers from near and far to have a unique birding experience in Borneo. It’s a playground for birders to watch, observe and photograph the array of beautiful and colorful enigmatic species that the state has to offer. Just to name a few, some of the best hotspots in Sabah for bird-watching are up in the cool environments of Kinabalu Park, in the floodplains of Kinabatangan and deep in the rainforest of Danum Valley. From the latest record, 664 resident and migratory species of birds have been spotted in Sabah, with 51 of these species which are endemic to this region. With these records of bird species found here, no wonder Sabah is fast becoming the number one bird watching destination in South-east Asia. These destinations are characterized by its unique habitat and bird specialties. Have a good birding! Equip yourself with a good camera and a tripod, a decent pair of binoculars and a good field guide and you are good to go. Birding or bird watching is an activity where you could explore more of these unique feathered friends of ours. We see birds every day, but can you distinguish one bird song to another? Take up birding and you may just be able to! Places to spend your time for birding activity: Danum Valley Conservation Area Danum Valley Conservation Area with a land mass of 483 square kilometers is the largest undisturbed virgin rainforest in Malaysia. Located near the upper reaches of Sabah’s second longest river, the Segama, Danum Valley is recognized as one of the most complex ecosystem in the world. Some of the rare and endangered species in Danum Valley include the Borneo Rhinoceros, Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Clouded Leopard and the beloved Orangutan. The Great Argus Pheasant, which is high on the list of endangered species of Sabah’s wildlife Department, is seen at the Danum Valley from time to time. The striking Crested Fireback Pheasant is often sighted near the Borneo Rainforest Lodge. The endemic Bornean Bristlehead and the Chestnut-necklaced Partridge are also seen at Danum. Other atrractions here include the Black-throated Babbler, Bornean Babbler, Bornean Flycatcher, Diard’s and Scarlet-rumped Trogons. The hornbill and pitta families are also spotted here, and at night watch out for the Buffy Fish Owl, and Brown Wood-Owl. Tabin Wildlife Reserve Located on the south eastern part of Sabah, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is an important birding area. The reserve covers an area of 120,500 hectares of mostly lowland dipterocarp rainforest. It is also the largest wildlife reserve in 42

Eco-Tourism Malaysia. The forest of Tabin attracts extraordinary diversity of birds, including many rare and endemic species, largely due to its rich abundance food source, the fruit plants. The forests here with its low canopy allow sufficient sun light to penetrate, making bird watching and photography a delightful experience. About 42 indigenous families representing more than 260 species of birds have been recorded here, including the eight species of Sabah’s Hornbill. Apart from birds, Tabin is also home to the rare and much endangered Bornean Rhinoceros, Borneo Pygmy Elephant, Tembadau (wild ox) and Orang-Utan. A special geological feature at Tabin is the intriguing mud volcano that provides mineral salts for the wild animals. Good places to watch birds at Tabin Wildlife Reserve are the Lipad mud volcano, the road to the core area, and around the resort. Rarely seen species at this reserve are the Jambu Fruit Dove, Large Green Pigeon, White-fronted Falconet, Great-billed Heron, Giant Pitta, and the Strom’s Stock. The more common birds here include the Black & Crimson Pitta, Blue-headed Pitta, Everett’s White-eye, Malaysian Blue Flycatcher, Temminck’s Sunbird and the Yellow-rumped Flowerpecker. Other bird families found here are the boardbill, eagle, falconet, kingfisher, munia, parrot and woodpecker. The eight species of Hornbill in Sabah are Black Hornbill, Bushy-Crested Hornbill, Helmeted Hornbill, Pied Hornbill, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, White-crowned Hornbill and Wrinkled Hornbill. Birds have excellent eyesight and we are being watched instead, so a few common sense rules would help: • While birding, it is crucial to keep quiet and move slowly as this will scare the birds away. • Wear clothing with colors and patterns that can blend well into the environment. Wearing bird costumes is not necessary. • Hide yourself well and make use of the surrounding to hide such as behind grasses and shrub. • Do take note that birds can also smell – so do not wear perfume. Alternatively, you can also wear odor-less insect repellent. • Be patient. Stop for a while for every few minutes and scan the surrounding. • Do bring along your notepad and pencil to record what you see and hear for identification later. Best time for bird watching: Generally, early morning and late afternoon are the best times for bird watching, except for nocturnal bird species. Between October and April, the winter season of Northern Atmosphere, you will have a good chance to see migratory birds, mostly water birds such as sandpipers and plovers, from North-East Asia and Siberia feeding in our wetlands. 43

Sports & Recreation

Sports & Recreation It is important to stay healthy while traveling, and Tawau has a lot of sports and recreation centre for travelers to stay fit and lead a positive lifestyle through various sporting and fitness activities. Tawau also famed among golfers as it also offer the best golf course with a great deal. Shan-Shui Golf & Country Club P Mile9, Apas Road, 91008 Tawau, Sabah € 089 916 999 Tawau Golf Club P Tawau Golf Club, Jalan Kukusan, 91000 Tawau, Sabah € 089 762 904 Perdana Sports Recreation Club P Bandar Tawau, 91000 Tawau € 089 757 188 Star Gym € Jalan Chong Thien Vun, 91000 Tawau, Sabah Tawau Fuji Park Recreation Club P Tb 3399, Jalan Sin Onn, 91000 Tawau, Sabah € 089 778 979 FitZone Tawau P Kubota Square, Jalan Kubota, 91000 Tawau, Sabah € 016 826 7177 V. Fit Studio Centre P Kabota Square, 91000 Tawau €016 826 1104 Tawau Muscle Gym & fitness Centre P Kuhara Square, 91000 Tawau Sabah € 013 888 5597 PlayGround Fitness P TB 133, Jalan St Patrick, Lorong Bengkok 1, 91000 Tawau, Sabah € 089 777 750 L.A Fitness Studio P 3rd Floor, Fajar Complex, Jalan Mahkamah, 91000 Tawau, Sabah Tawau Futsal Centre P CL 105366621, Mile 3.5, Jalan Apas, 91000 Tawau, Sabah Jumbo Fitness PSecond Floor, Lot F6, Kubota Sentral, Jalan Chong Thien Vun, 91000 Tawau, Sabah € 016 660 7038 45

Places of Worship 46

Places of Worship Masjid Bandar Tawau (lama) P Jalan Masjid, Tawau, Sabah Masjid Bandar Tawau P Peti Surat 765, Bandar Tawau, 91008 Tawau, Sabah Masjid Taman Mulia P Jalan Bunga Raya, Tawau, Sabah Al-Kauthar Mosque P Jalan Persisiran, Sabindo Square, 91000 Tawau, Sabah An-nur Pasir Putih Mosque P Kampung Pasir Putih, 910007 Tawau, Sabah Sungai Imam Mosque P Kampung Sungai Imam, 910007 Tawau, Sabah Az-Zaemah Mosque P 13725, Lot Sri Indah 10, 91000 Tawau, Sabah 47