Adventure In Borneo

April 2011 Event

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Pesta Keningau

Date : 04 - 05 April 2011

The name Keningau derives from the word ‘Koningau' which means cinnamon. The district was once the largest producer of cinnamon in Sabah. Join in the local community as they revive age-old traditions and enjoy performances by local artistes, fireworks displays and activities such as traditional sports and a singing competition.

Further Information
Organiser : District Office of Keningau
Contact Person : Mr. Amat Md. Yusof
Telephone : +6087 301504 / 301507
Fax : +6087 331535
Email Contact : pt.pd.kgu@sabah.gov.my

9th Pesta Kalimaran, Tenom

Date : 07 - 10 April 2011

Celebrate the rich Murut culture while observing cultural dance performances and the Ratu Kalimaran beauty pageant, partaking in traditional games and sports, plus browsing through the handicraft exhibitions and food stalls.

Further Information
Organiser : Sabah Cultural Board
Venue : Tenom Town Field
Contact Person : Mr. Mackey Apison, Manager Cultural Event Division
Telephone : +6088 250612
Fax : +6088 264235
Email Contact : Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my
Event Website : http://www.sabah.gov.my/lks/page.asp?v=kalimaran

Vasakhi Day

Date : 14 April 2011

Vasakhi celebrates the New Year in the Northern Indian calendar and marks the birth of Khalsa. During the celebration, all Gurdawars (Sikh Temple) conduct prayer services and vegetarian food is served.

Further Information
Email Contact : info@sabahtourism.com

International Property Exhibition (IPEX) 2011

Date : 21 - 24 April 2011

The 23rd edition of the International Property Exhibition will be held at the Sabah Trade Center in Likas from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Visitors can browse through more than 86 exhibition booths for a chance to gain more knowledge of the property, product and service industry. Numerous building material suppliers, designers and local artists will also be showcasing their portfolios and creative works. Seminars, a kids drawing and colouring competition, edible architecture contest, photography challenge and Ms. IPEX Personality Contest beauty pageant will also be held. Visitors can also participate in the lucky draw for a chance to win attractive prizes. Public admission is free of charge.

Further Information
Organiser : Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM Sabah Chapter) & Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu
Venue : Sabah Trade Center, Likas
Contact Person : PAM Sabah Secretariat
Telephone : +60 88 232524 / 261313
Email Contact : pamsabah@gmail.com
Event Website : http://www.pamsabah.com

Good Friday

Date : 22 April 2011

During this public holiday, all Christians commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in mass services and prayer.

Further Information
Email Contact : info@sabahtourism.com

18th Regatta Lepa, Semporna

Date : 22 - 24 April 2011

Semporna comes to life with the Bajau seafarers unique Regatta Lepa where a competition of the most beautiful traditional sailboats is held. Witness telematches such as the boat-tug-war, kayak race and boat rac. The town of Semporna is also home to fresh seafood and the gateway to the world's best dive sites.

Further Information
Organiser : District Office of Semporna
Contact Person : Mr. A.M Ibnu Hj. A.K Baba (District Officer)
Telephone : +60 89 781518
Fax : +60 89 781472 / +60 88 265540
Email Contact : AMIbnu.Baba@sabah.gov.my
Event Website : http://regattalepa.sabahtourism.com

12th Matanoi-Sabah Adventure Challenge 2011

Date : 22 - 24 April 2011

Watch gutsy contenders navigate through Kadazandusun villages in remote areas and around the famed Crocker Range as they compete against each other in exciting races such as mountain biking, bamboo rafting and trekking.

Further Information
Organiser : Sabah Adventure Challenge
Contact Person : Mr. Aman Avtar S. Sandhu, Race Director
Telephone : +6013 8811757
Fax : +6087 414199
Email Contact : info@sabahadventurechallenge.com

Atap and Bamboo Floor Making

Date : 24 April 2011

Handmade atap (roofs) and bamboo floors which are still used widely today are the trademark for Sabah's traditional houses. Visitors will have the chance to see these items being made the traditional way using natural materials.

Further Information
Organiser : Monsopiad Cultural Village
Venue : Monsopiad Cultural Village
Contact Person : Mr. Awad Bajerai
Telephone : +6088 - 774337/761336 / +60 16 8469141
Fax : +6088 761680
Email Contact : info@monsopiad.com
Event Website : http://www.monsopiad.com

Easter Extravaganza

Date : 24 April 2011

Celebrate the festivity with family and friends while enjoying a lavish spread of goodies at the Easter Buffet held at Circle Restaurant from 12pm to 3pm.

Further Information
Organiser : Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Contact Person : Ms. Jocelyn Banding, Marketing Communications Manager
Telephone : +60 88 322222
Fax : +60 88 322225
Email Contact : jocelyn.banding@lemeridien.com

Anzac Day

Date : 25 April 2011

This annual event commemorates servicemen from New Zealand and Australia who fought in Sabah during World War II, particularly prisoners-of-war (POW) who took part in the Death March from Sandakan to Ranau in 1945.

Further Information
Organiser : Sandakan Municipal Council / Office of Australian War Graves, Canberra
Contact Person : Mdm. Catherin Chua / Mdm. Charlotte Sarossy
Telephone : +60 89 273753
Fax : +60 89 272112
Email Contact : Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my / Charlotte.Sarossy@dva.gov.au

Sabah Fest 2011 – A Cultural Extravaganza

Date : 30 April - 01 May 2011

The prelude to the statewide Harvest Festival celebration is bound to bedazzle spectators with a cultural extravaganza that incorporates dance, music, fashion, food and more. It presents Sabah's magnificent cultural and natural heritage that are richly embedded in folklore.

Further Information
Organiser : Sabah Tourism Board Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd
Contact Person : Ms. Susan Shahira, Event Manager
Telephone : +6088 232121, 212121
Fax : +6088 265540, 212075
Email Contact : shahira@sabahtourism.com

March 2011 Event

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The 12th School Anniversary Dinner & Dance Party

Date : March 2011 Organised annually, this event will be held to showcase the talented students of the institution who will be performing and competing against each other.

Organiser : Imperial Ballroom Dancing School
Contact Person : Mr. Anthony Keung, School Principal
Telephone : +6088 238785
Fax : +6088 238785

VIP Golf Tournament

Date : March 2011 Tee off for the needy during the City Charity Golf Tournament, held in conjunction with the City Day Celebration.

Organiser : Kota Kinabalu City Hall
Contact Person : Mr. Alijus Sipil
Telephone : +60 88 521800
Fax : +60 88 244544
Email Contact : alijus@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

6th International Sabah Open Dart Tournament

Date : 04 - 06 March 2011
This annual event held in conjunction with the City Day Celebration is expected to attract local and international dart enthusiasts.

Organiser : Kota Kinabalu City Hall
Contact Person : Mr. Lifred Wong
Telephone : +60 88 521800
Fax : +60 88 316137
Email Contact : lifred@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

City Run

Date : 06 March 2011
Some 10,000 city folks are expected to participate in this year's run which aims to promote a healthy lifestyle. Register for the lucky draw and grab the chance to win attractive prizes!

Organiser : Kota Kinabalu City Hall
Venue : Merdeka Field
Contact Person : Ms. Jainab Saidi
Telephone : +60 88 521800
Fax : +60 88 316137
Email Contact : jainab.saidi@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

KFWDC Jamboree 2011

Date : 11 - 13 March 2011

KFWDC Jamboree 2011 at Ulu Membakut (80 km south Kota Kinabalu), Sabah

4 x 4 KFWDC Jamboree is an event organize by the club to foster family 4 X 4 off road outing activity among club members. These activity includes novice 4 x 4 challenge is for members that never compete in any club competition before. For the other family's members there is also children drawing competition, hash (jungle trekking) and camp fire tug of war.

This year 4 X 4 Jamboree is the 5th edition of the annual activity event for the Club and this year event will be held at Ulu Membakut Crocker Range sub-station, belong to Sabah Park. It about 80 km south of Kota Kinabalu with at least 30 km off Kota Kinabalu Sindumin highway and 15 km semi hard core road. The duration will be a 3 days 2 nights camping and it is anticipated that more than 150 vehicle and 350 participants are going to take part.

A minimum vehicle specification to enter the site must have at least 33 inches radial ground clearance Mud Terrain and have to be equipped with Four Wheel Drive. All members of Kinabalu Four Wheel Drive is invited to join however there will be also a membership drive on that day to those who are interested to join the club.

Sabah Park Crocker Range coverage is 430 km square and about 40 km square is under Ulu Membakut Sub Station which is 150m m.s.l.. It was open in 2002 however started operating only 2 years ago. The Sub Station headquarter main attraction is the white water river of Ulu Membakut fron the interior of Tenom and Keningau district. Other activity in the pipe line is a trekking trial to Melalap, Tenom which is about 8 - 10 km. There will be a joint expedition between Sabah Park and University Sabah Malaysia to open up this trial this year.

Wildlife in this area is mostly wild boar, wild deer, barking deer, monkey, and mouse deer. Hunting and fishing is highly prohibited including the felling or extraction of a highly valued GAHARU tree. Most part of the park is still a first class Forest reserve accept for some part which was destroyed by the big forest fire in 1997.

Organiser : Kinabalu Four Wheel Drive Club (KFWDC)
Contact Person : Thomson Teo
Telephone : +016 833 8077
Email Contact : thomson@tcisabah.com.my

Sabah Agriculture Park 10th Anniversary Carnival

Date : 12 - 13 March 2011
Don't have any plans for the weekend? Then tag along the entire family to celebrate the anniversary of the Sabah Agriculture Park! The fun-filled event will feature various competitions and exhibitions.

Organiser : Sabah Agriculture Park
Contact Person : Mr. Ismail Hj. Zakaria, Park Manager / Mdm. Wan Masamah Wan Abedin, Marketing Officer
Telephone : +6087 737952 / +6088 258529
Fax : +6087 737571
Email Contact : agripark@tm.net.my

“Costumes of the Islamic World”

Date : 13 March - 13 July 2011 Explore the Islamic world through the form of fashion ranging from the basic everyday wear to elaborate costumes worn during weddings and other significant social rites. The motives and designs of the displayed outfits depict the function and origins of the attire.

Organiser : Sabah Islamic Civilization Museum, Sabah Museum
Contact Person : Mr. Arif Abdul Hamid
Telephone : +6088 538234
Fax : +6088 240230
Email Contact : Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my

PADI CDTC (Course Director Training Course)

Date : 22 - 30 March 2011
The PADI Course Director is the highest teaching status a PADI Master Instructor can attain. For the 12th consecutive year, the PADI Organisation conducts its annual trainers Course (Course Directors) in Kota Kinabalu.

Organiser : Alan Jan, Supervisor Instructor Development, PADI Americas
Contact Person : Alan Jan
Telephone : +1 949 8587234 ext. 2551
Fax : +1 949 2671257
Email Contact : alan.jan@padi.com

Agelcares Mt. Kinabalu Climb 2011

Date : 31 March - 01 April 2011
Agel team members will climb Mount Kinabalu for the noble cause of raising agelcares foundation - touching lives around the world.

Organiser : Wellness Sonata Sdn. Bhd
Contact Person : Mr. Sunny Ooi, Country Manager for Agel Malaysia
Telephone : +603 21712435
Fax : +603 21610505
Email Contact : mycustomerservice@agel.com

February Feature

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GUIDE TO SABAH PARKS

Located at the northern tip of Borneo, Sabah is abundant with eco-treasure from mountain high to ocean deep. Visitors can enjoy the natural wonders found in various state parks and national reserves that are gazetted under Sabah Parks

Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park is the first “World Heritage Site” in Malaysia which was designated by UNESCO in December 2000. It is located at 1,585m above sea level and expands larger than Singapore at 754sq.km. The Park is reputed to have the richest and most remarkable assemblage of plants that is unique to no place else between the Himalayas and New Guinea. This Centre of Plant Diversity for Southeast Asia has a remarkable collection of flora which includes more than half the species of all flowering plants. More than 5,000 vascular plant species, an estimated 1,000 orchid species, 621 fern species, nine Nepenthes species, 29 Rhododendron species and two Rafflesia species can be found within the vicinity. Other local residents include 90 lowland mammal species, 11 montane mammal species, 21 bat species, 326 bird species, 62 toad and frog species and a large population of the 850 butterfly species that occurs in Sabah. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of the surrounding area while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Mount Kinabalu which stands proudly at 4095.2m tall. Besides mountain climbing, there are nine other nature trails that are popular with naturalists and bird watchers alike. Another attraction that is not-to-be missed is the Mountain Garden, a two-hectare botanical garden that contains display houses which showcase rare orchids, plus a variety of fruiting and flowering plants.

Plan on activities here? See:

MOUNTAIN TOURS

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN PARK

Gazetted in 1974, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park was named after the first Prime Minister of Malaysia. The Park covers an area of 50sq.km and comprises of five islands namely Manukan, Mamutik, Gaya, Sapi and Sulug. Visitors wanting to soak up the sun can depart on a 20-minute speedboat ride from Jesselton Point located in Kota Kinabalu. Adventurous water babies can jump on a banana boat, parasail, snorkel or scuba dive while nature lovers can jungle trek and wildlife spot. Guests can also opt to seawalk on the Ocean floor surrounding Sapi Island for a chance to mingle with the colourful aquatic residents. This leisure sport is safe for everyone aged eight and above. Facilities such as changing rooms, toilets and picnic shelters are available on all islands. But visitors wanting to stay overnight can either choose to stay in modest chalets on Manukan Island, a minimalist rest house on Mamutik Island or the luxurious Gayana Eco-Resort or Bunga Raya Resort and Spa which are located on Gaya Island. Boat services to the Park operate from 8.30am to 4.00pm.

Plan on activities here? See:

ISLAND TOURS

PULAU TIGA PARK

The Pulau Tiga Park situated opposite the Klias Peninsula was gazetted in 1978. Covering a 158.64sq.km area, the Park originally comprised of three islands, namely Pulau Tiga, Kalampunian Damit and Pulau Kalampunian Besar, which is now merely an eroded sandbar. The Park was named after the largest island, Pulau Tiga, which has three undulating humps. Also known as Survivor Island (after being featured in the hit reality TV series, Survivor), the formation came to existence over 100 years ago after the eruption of several mud volcanoes. Visitors can bathe in mud, scuba dive, snorkel or trek along the Larai-larai and Pagong-pagong trails for a chance to spot wildlife such as the long-tailed macaque, monitor lizard, golden skink and flying fox. Birdwatchers will enjoy the large feathered population including the pied-hornbill, megapode, magpie-robin and sunbird. However, the showstoppers are the yellow-lipped sea kraits that inhabit Kalampunian Damit. These sea snakes that come ashore in their hundreds to mate are mostly found curled in rocky grottoes under fallen logs or tree holes. Guests are advised to be extra cautious as these slithering reptiles are extremely poisonous.

Plan on activities here? See:

ISLANDS TOURS

CROCKER RANGE PARK

Located 13km from Keningau town in the west cost of Sabah, this largest state terrestrial Park covers an area of 1399.19sq.km. The Park lies within eight districts with an elevation between 100m to 2,050m at the peak of Mount Alab. The Crocker Range was designated as a forest reserve in 1968 for the purpose of conserving the surrounding hill dipterocarp forest and water catchments which provided drinking supply to residents of the west coast and interior of Sabah. The upgraded facilities completed in 2004 are suitable for hosting meetings, camping trips, jungle trekking excursions and educational outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore the Rafflesia sites during the blooming season to spot the largest flower in the world.

This genus of parasitic flowering plants can weigh up to 10kg and span up to 97cm in diameter. Business hours are from 8:00am to 5:00pm daily and entrance fee apply.

February 2011 Event

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Invitational Artists Exhibition

Date : February 2011

Established and renowned artistes showcase their latest masterpieces at this annual exhibition that acknowledges their creative contribution to the developing local art scene.

Further Information
Organiser : Sabah Art Gallery
Contact Person : Ms. Jennifer P. Linggi, Curator
Telephone : +6088 268806
Fax : +6088 210040
Email Contact : jplinggi@yahoo.co.uk / art.gallery.sabah@gmail.com

Traditional Games Exhibition

Date : February 2011

Sabah has a wide range of traditional games played in small villages that many people know very little about. Throughout this month, relive the joys of childhood by having a go at these simple pastimes.

The exhibition is only on every Saturday and Sunday only for the month of February

Further Information
Organiser : Monsopiad Cultural Village
Venue : Monsopiad Cultural Village
Contact Person : Mr Awad Bajerai
Telephone : +60 88 774337 / 761336
Fax : +60 88 761680
Email Contact : info@monsopiad.com
Event Website : http://www.monsopiad.com

North Borneo Sacred Legacy Photographic Exhibition III

Date : 02 - 27 February 2011

The establishment and founding of the Sabah Museum was based on this special and exclusive collection, which was bequeathed by George Catchart Wooley, a Senior British Administrator to the then North Borneo Government. This collection is a great legacy of Sabah's pre-colonial era that helped mold and shape the current socio-cultural landscape.

Further Information
Organiser : Sabah Museum
Contact Person : Datuk Joseph Pounis Guntavid
Telephone : +6088 253199
Fax : +6088 240230
Email Contact : Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my

Wellness Journey

Date : 26 - 27 February 2011

Wellness Journey (WJ) is a prestigious platform where prominent players in the wellness and lifestyle industry come together to showcase the best of their products and services.

Aimed at becoming an exhibition calendar highlight within the region, this 2-day premium event consists of an Exhibition Gallery, a Wellness Conference, a series of Enriching Workshops, and a Career Corner.

Further Information
Organiser : SWEPA (Sabah Women Entrepreneur & Professional Association)
Venue : The Pacific Sutera, Sutera Harbour Resort
Contact Person : Elso Kho
Telephone : +60 88 719787
Fax : +60 88 728387
Email Contact : info@wellnessjourney.com.my
Event Website : http://www.wellnessjourney.com.my/

City Day Open Regatta

Date : 26 - 27 February 2011

The City Day Open Regatta is held over 2 days, comprising of several races to determine the champions in various classes of boats. The event is held as part of the KK City Day celebrations.

Further Information
Organiser : Kinabalu Yacht Club
Venue : Tanjung Aru Beach
Contact Person : Bobby Willie - Vice Commodore
Telephone : +60 88 240070 / 243070
Fax : +60 88 243007
Email Contact : kyctaru@tm.net.my

Kota Kinabalu City Tourism Treasure Hunt 2011

Date : 27 February 2011

The challenge is on for the participants for this annual event that is held in conjunction with the City Day Celebration! Participants will have to scour the city for clues and answers to walk away with attractive prizes.

Registration
Date : 26 Feb 2011 (Saturday)
Time : 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Venue : Dewan Besar, Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka

Briefing
Date : 26 Feb 2011 (Saturday)
Time : 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Venue : Dewan Besar, Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka

Flag Off Programme
Date : 27 Feb 2011 (Sunday)
Time : 7:30 am
Venue : Dewan Besar, Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka

Prize Presentation Programme
Date : 27 Feb 2011 (Sunday)
Time : 3:00 pm
Venue : Dewan Besar, Dewan Bahasa & Pustaka

NOTE: Please be punctual for all programmes mentioned above.

Further Information
Organiser : Kota Kinabalu City Hall & Tourism Malaysia Sabah
Contact Person : Ms. Fauziahton Ag.Samad
Telephone : +60 88 521800
Fax : +60 88 316137
Email Contact : fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

You Need to Know about...

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Climate

Equatorial/Tropical—the climate is generally hot and sunny all year round; visitors need to wear comfortable clothing to avoid heatstroke. We also have scattered unpredictable rains, therefore, it’s advisable to always bring an umbrella in case it rains.

Average Temperature

Lowlands (Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, Sandakan, Tawau) – 32 degrees Centigrade
Highlands (Ranau, Kundasang, Tambunan) – 21 degrees Centigrade
Bear in mind though, that Mount Kinabalu has its own climate. Temperatures can drop to freezing level above 3500 meters.

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (RM)

Travelers’ cheques and foreign currencies can be changed for Malaysian Ringgit at banks and hotels. However, there are also money changer kiosks available at major shopping complexes and airport. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion.

Major Credit and Charge Cards

VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club - credit and charge cards are accepted in almost all departmental stores , supermarkets, petrol stations and restaurants.

Local Time

Standard Malaysian Time is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8)

Banking Hours

Monday through Friday from 9.30am to 3pm

         Usual Office Hours

Monday to Friday from 8am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm;
Saturday from 8am – 1pm

Shopping

Shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants and mini markets are generally open daily from 10am to 10pm.
As for tipping; food and beverages in exclusive restaurants, cafes and clubs, as well as accommodations normally include 5 per cent service charges.
Tipping is not obligatory in most places.

Electricity & Water Facilities

Electricity is on the 240 Volts AC/ 50-Cycle system; treated pipe water is available in most urban and sub-urban areas.

Communications

Mobile telecommunications cover many parts of Sabah with the exception of some remote areas. Public phones are scarcely available in most places.

         Medical

Government hospitals, clinics and dispensaries are available in all towns. The list of private medical practitioners and pharmacies are available in the local phone directory. However, those with specific medical needs are advised to have a good supply of medications.

Discover the world of Sabah, Borneo

2011-02-12T00:41:00.000+08:00

Welcome to Adventure In Borneo..........

2011-02-12T00:17:00.000+08:00

Your Journey To The Warm Heart of Borneo Starts HERE...

Sabah's population is heterogeneous and culturally diverse, with more than 30 different ethnic races and over 80 local dialects spoken. Traditions and customs have long been part of our daily lives. Most of it has survived for eons; others have barely endured, touched by other influences that have led others yet to be forgotten altogether.

Well known as the Land Below The Wind and also Land Of The Sacred Mountain , Sabah is a land of varied landscapes and natural wonders. One will normally ask what kinds of people live in this land of eco-treasures? Often by further understanding our spectrum of cultures, you will find the answer as all types, colours and creeds. All these ethnic groups live together harmoniously while at the same time preserving their own culture, traditions, festivals and customs to make Sabah a multiculturally exotic experience unlike any other that you might have already experienced.

Like the rest of the Southeast Asian archipelago, Sabah has been culturally affected by the powerful external, continental influences from mainland Asia. However the heterogeneous population often dramatically reveals its well-preserved wonderful customs and practices. Though the country modernizes, and certain rituals and special ceremonial occasions are less frequently performed, one can still experience and observe Sabah's rich tapestry of custom in the local population's daily life as well as their special local festivals.

This segment will take you through a virtual experience in getting to know Sabah through the understanding of our traditional musical instruments, costume and ethnic lifestyle. The interactive on-line video streaming featuring Sabah - Malaysian Borneo in general will give you an insight of our unique customs and a special section on the wonderful sounds of Borneo will captivate your heart and soul.

Come to Sabah and let us show you the way to indulge yourself in our most precious custom and shower you with endless affection in our very own unique Sabahan way.