Borneo Sabah

Sabah is a state in Malaysia. Together with Sarawak to the southwest, the two states form the Malaysian portion of Borneo.

Sabah is one of the most culturally diverse states in Malaysia. Its population of about 2.5 million is a mix of native groups (who are usually divided into Muslim and non-Muslim groups), Chinese, and other smaller ethnic groups such as Indians and Eurasians. The main native groups are the Kadazandusun, Murut, Bajau, Suluk, Bisaya and Orang Sungai. Most of the Chinese who migrated to the state during the British era, belong to the Hakka dialect group although there are also large numbers of Cantonese especially in Sandakan. There are also many Filipinos and Indonesians, many of whom entered Sabah illegally and later became naturalised under a controversial state policy.

The most important festival among the non-Muslim native groups of Sabah is Kaamatan or Harvest Festival. This usually takes place in May and the last two days of the month are public holidays in the state. The most popular event is the unduk ngadau or Harvest Queen in Kadazan, where girls throughout the state compete for the crown. A lot of drinking and general merry-making accompanies the festival.

Sabah can be said to be one of the best states in Malaysia when it comes to things to see and do. Its attractions range from the breath-taking natural wonders such as mountains, jungles, islands and flora and fauna, to the colourful cultures of its multi-ethnic inhabitants.

Sabah is notorious for being a difficult region to get round independently, in terms of cost, reliable transport and obtaining permits for the various national parks. It is best to find yourself a guide. You can do this through various tour operators such as Borneo Eco Tours, Borneo Wildlife Adventure, Malaysia Travel Plan, and Wildlife Expeditions If however you're on a backpackers budget you can find good reliable freelance guides at Sabah's Tourism Board, whose price can be considerably lower than a fixed package.