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com February
February 2007
2007 Volume
Volume 72
72

Chinese New Year

Kota Belud Cultural Carnival
Kota Kinabalu Tourism Treasure Hunt
Contents
Contents

4 3
3 Happenings
Kota Belud Cultural Carnival
Batik Show
Kota Kinabalu Tourism Treasure Hunt
Papar Cultural Carnival
City Day Regatta

6 6
Chinese New Year

Places of Interest
St. Michael’s & All Angels Church, Sandakan

8 Eating Out
The Mediterranean
Sri Selera Kampung Air

8 10 Feature
Taviu Hill - In The Footsteps of a Soldier

12 Leisure
Paragliding

13 Kadaiku

14 Culture

10
The Chinese Community of Sabah

15 Happenings in Bahasa Malaysia

17 Happenings in Chinese

19 Happenings in Japanese

21 Listings

12 22 Gaya Street Fair


ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin
EDITOR Melissa Leong
DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.
PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board
51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu
TRANSLATOR Chin Yen Sang (Chinese)
Seiko Mukojima-Ravindran (Japanese)
Cover pic by Julian Lee H’ng, Sti Pelancongan Sabah
DESIGNED & PRINTED BY
Inna Kinabalu Sdn Bhd
(Publisher of The New Sabah Times)
Jalan Pusat Pembangunan Masyarakat, Sembulan
88100 Kota Kinabalu
Ever y ef for t has been made to ensure that the
information is correct at the time of publication.
The publisher cannot be held responsible for any
inaccuracies, omissions and alterations which may
occur as a result of last minute changes. No par t of
this magazine may be reproduced without the
written permission of the Sabah Tourism Board.
Kota Kinabalu City’s Idol
February 2007
Calling all budding stars! Aspiring singers from cities
around Malaysia will compete to be crowned City Idol
in this exciting event.
Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City Hall
For further info: Joannes Solidau
Tel: +60 88 521800
Fax: +60 88 316137
Email: joannes@dbkk@sabah.gov.my
Batik Show
2-6 February 2007
Don’t miss this exciting event, celebrating the nation’s
famed batik. The Batik Show will be taking place at
Palm Square, 4th Floor of Centre Point Sabah, Kota
Kinabalu. Held in conjunction with Kota Kinabalu City’s
7th Anniversary, visitors can enjoy a myriad of activities
including batik painting and a batik fashion show. Visit
various stalls to order or purchase the latest in batik
designs. Batik industry players from around the nation
will show off their best work right here in Kota
Kinabalu!
Organisers:
Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK)
Tourism Malaysia
Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.
Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation
For further info:
Tel: +6088 521800 (DBKK), +6088-521800 (Tourism
Malaysia), +6088-232121 (Sri Pelancongan Sabah
Sdn. Bhd.)
City Day Celebration
2 February 2007
Join the City folks as they celebrate KK’s anniversary as
a city. The event will be celebrated with activities for all
ages. Have your family and friends participate in the
many activities held during the week to win exciting
prizes.
Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City Hall
For further info:
Faradillah Abdul Rani
Tel: +60 88 521800
Fax: +60 88 233815
Email: faradillah@dbkk.sabah.gov.my
Editorial
G
ong xi fa cai! It’s time to celebrate the
Chinese New Year – a time to paint the
town red, almost literally. The Chinese
believe red is the colour of prosperity and
during this time of the year, the colour is truly
dominant. Boutiques lure shoppers with
crimson hues and bright red festive
decorations are hung along walkways and
outside homes to usher in the New Year. In
Malaysia, this is another time for friends and
family to visit each other during the ‘open
house’.
As you enjoy the festivities, don’t miss out
on other exciting events this month. Check
out the Cultural Carnivals in the districts of
Papar and Kota Belud (p.3 & 4) – a great
holiday better and for detailed information,
opportunity to get a feel of Sabah’s many
our friendly tourist assistants at Sabah Tourism
ethnic cultures. The search is on in this year’s
Board and Sri Pelancongan Sabah are always
Kota Kinabalu Tourism Treasure Hunt (p.4). A
at hand. Enjoy your stay and jumpa lagi!
fun-filled event with twists and turns for all to
enjoy! But if you really need that adrenaline
rush, take to the skies and go paragliding.
Read all about this latest craze in our Leisure
section (p.12) and you might just find yourself
2,000 feet above the ground without a care in
the world.
Kota Belud Cultural Carnival 2007
10 – 11 February 2007
This event is held to showcase the rich culture of the
Bajau community in this district. Come and join the local
folks for a wonderful cultural insight of the Bajau com-
munity, who are also known as the Cowboys of the East.
Enjoy a display of kenduri adat (Traditional Feast),
colourful dance performances, crafts and traditional
games.
Organiser: Sabah Cultural Board
For further info:Mackey Apison
Tel: +60 88 268812 / 268884
Fax: +60 88 264235
Email: Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my
Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my
Chinese New Year
18 – 19 February 2007
Chinese all over the world celebrate and welcome the
year of the Boar with family reunion dinners and tradi-
tional lion, dragon and unicorn dances performed from
house to house. Children and single individuals receive
packets of money known as ‘ang pows’ wishing them
luck and prosperity.
For further info:
Sabah Tourism Board
Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd
Tel: +60 88 212121, 232121
Fax: +60 88 212075 / 265540
Tree Planting Day
22 February 2007
This event is part of the City Day’s celebration and held
in conjunction with the World Tree Planting Day,
encouraging city dwellers to plant more trees and
appreciate the importance of keeping the city green.
Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City Hall
For further info: Walter J. Kenson
Tel: +60 88 244000
Fax: +60 88 243501
Email: walter@dbkk.sabah.gov.my
Papar Cultural Carnival 2007
24 – 25 February 2007
This month, Papar comes to life during the Papar
Cultural Carnival. This two-day event will feature a
Retracing the steps of the
Sandakan Death March in Telupid
(p.10)
Our listings section will help you plan your
Melissa Leong
myriad of exciting activities. Witness the mesmerizing
Sumazau Papar, the traditional dance of the
Kadazandusun people who reside here, accompanied
by a gong ensemble. Experience a cultural feast, known
as the ‘kenduri adat’ and visit the many handicraft stalls
(look for the handwoven ‘siraung’, a conical hat tradi-
tionally worn by farmers working in the paddy field as
well as young maidens to complete their traditional
wear). It will be a weekend filled with song, dance and
traditional games for all to enjoy!
Organiser: Sabah Cultural Board
For further info: Mackey Apison
Tel: +60 88 268812 / 268884
Fax: +60 88 264235
Email: Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my
Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my
City Day Regatta 2007
24-25 February 2007
The City Day Regatta is held over two 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.
Organiser: Kinabalu yacht Club
For further info:Johnny Tan (Vice Commodore)
Tel: +60 88 240070 / 243070
Fax: +60 88 243007
Email: kyctaru1@streamyx.com
Kota Kinabalu Tourism Treasure Hunt 2007
25 February 2007
An annual event held in conjunction with the City Day
celebration. Treasure hunters search the city high and
low while getting to know Kota Kinabalu better.
Everyone is welcome to join the hunt with attractive
prizes to be won. Categories are divided into Open and
Closed. There will be 10 winners for each category. The
Grand Prize for the Open category is RM3000 and
RM2000 for the Closed category.
Organisers: Kota Kinabalu City Hall
Tourism Malaysia Sabah
For further info:
Fauziahton Ag. Samad
Tel: +60 88 521800
Fax: +60 88 316137
Email: fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my
 H a p p e n i n g s
Kota Belud
Kota Belud Cultural
Cultural Carnival
Carnival
10–11 February
10–11 February
ind your way to Kota Belud, home of the Cowboys of the East, this
F February! Join the folks in their merry-making as they
celebrate the Kota Belud Cultural Carnival. For two days, this quaint
district comes alive with an exciting line-up of activities highlighting
the various ethnic cultures found here, including the Bajau,
Dusun Tindal, Iranun and Kimaragang. There will be lively dance
performances and cultural shows, a display of traditional games and a
‘kenduri adat’ (cultural feast). Visit the many handicraft stalls to learn
more about the intricate craftsmanship of the local villagers. Visitors
will also be entertained by performances by local artistes.
When in Kota Belud, take the opportunity to visit the
weekly ‘tamu’ (market) on Sunday. Also in Kota Belud is Kampung
3
Siasai, a parang-making centre. The parang—both a weapon and a
working tool—has been hand-made by the Bajau of Kota Belud for
generations. Another stop to consider is Kampung Kuala Abai, a
popular fishing village facing the South China Sea. This is also the
departure point for Mantanani Island, a famous spot for fishing,
snorkelling and scuba diving. Kuala Abai, which is about 20 km away
from Kota Belud, is home to the Bajau Laut (Sea Bajau).
Come join the cultural fiesta happening right here in Kota Belud!
For more information, please contact Haji Rusman Abdullah at
tel. 088-268818 or Mackey Apison at 088-268812.
E-mail Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my or
Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my
Batik Show, 2–6 February 2007
he Batik Show will be taking place at Palm Square, 4th Floor of
T Centre Point Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Held in conjunction with Kota
Kinabalu City’s 7th Anniversary, the event aims to promote the
beautiful craftsmanship of batik to both local residents and tourists
visiting the City during Visit Malaysia Year 2007. More than 25 batik
industry players from Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia are participat-
ing in this year’s Batik Show. Vist their stalls, which will feature not
only batik fabric, but a variety of batik-based products such as shoes,
handbags, bedding and decorative items for living spaces and see
creative uses of decorative batik products in the bedroom and living
room. Visitors will also be able to witness batik painting demonstra-
tions and try their skills at this fascinating craft. Come and check out
the latest in batik fashion as models parade your favourite designs
on the catwalk.
For more information, please contact Kota Kinabalu City Hall
(DBKK) at tel. 088-521800, Tourism Malaysia at 088-211732 or
Sri Pelancongan Sabah at 088-232121.
4 H a p p e n i n g s
Papar Cultural Carnival
24–25 February
ocated some 50 km south of Kota Kinabalu, Papar is known as the Rice
L Bowl of Sabah. The 45-minute drive to this district will take you through
scenic paddy fields and sprawling fruit orchards. This month, Papar comes to
life during the Papar Cultural Carnival. This two-day event will feature a
myriad of exciting activities. Witness the mesmerizing Sumazau Papar, the
traditional dance of the Kadazandusun people who reside here, accompanied
by a gong ensemble. Experience a cultural feast, known as the ‘kenduri adat’
and visit the many handicraft stalls (look for the handwoven ‘siraung’, a
conical hat traditionally worn by farmers working in the paddy field as well as
young maidens to complete their traditional wear). It will be a weekend filled
with song, dance and traditional games for all to enjoy!
For more information, please contact Haji Rusman Abdullah at tel.
088-268818 or Mackey Apison at 088-268812. E-mail
Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my or Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my
City Day Regatta, 24-25 February
ome and catch the excitement at the Tanjung Aru Beach in Kota Kinabalu where
C sailors will race against each during the annual City Day Regatta on 3 and 4
February.
In the first City Day Regatta held in 2000 when Kota Kinabalu was declared a city,
64 boats took to the water with sailors from around the region, including participants
from other states. Ages of participants ranged from 6 to 65 years of age.
The annual event is to celebrate the importance of the sea and its significant role
in the lives of Kota Kinabalu residents for leisure, sports and the economy. The
regatta has a reputation for attracting top sailors from around Borneo and many come
from the Peninsular states to compete as it is a benchmark regatta for sailing
performance standards. For Sabah sailors, it is a very important ranking race. Don’t
miss this exciting event!
For more information, contact Johnny Tan, Vice-Commodore of the Kinabalu Yacht
Club at 088-240070/243070, fax 088-243007 or email kyctaru@tm.net.my.
Kota Kinabalu Tourism
Treasure Hunt
25 February 2007
he Annual Treasure Hunt event, jointly organized
T by the Kota Kinabalu City Hall and Tourism
Malaysia, will be held this year on 25 February in
conjunction with the 7th KK City Day Celebration
2007. This special event will promote Kota
Kinabalu as a tourist destination. The participants
will driving their cars on the trail for answers and
complete several tasks at specific locations in and
around Kota Kinabalu City.
The hunt is divided into two categories: open
and closed. The open category is for Malaysian and
international participants. The closed category is
limited to the staff of the organizers and the
event’s main sponsors. Participants will be flagged
off at Kingfisher Park and follow a pre-determined
route mapped out by “rally tulips” which will take
them to places in and out of the city before ending
at the starting point. Entries will be limited to the
first 100 cars on a first come first served basis.
There will be 10 winners for each category. The
Grand Prize for the Open category is RM3000 and
RM2000 for the Closed category.
For more details and information, please
contact Fauziahton Ag. Samad of DBKK at
Tel: 521800/270326 or
email : fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my
or visit our website at www.dbkk.sabah.gov.my
H a p p e n i n g s 5

Chinese New
Chinese New Year,
Year, 18–19
18–19 February
February
o paint the town red has a whole new meaning to the Chinese much-awaited reunion dinner. Children and unmarried relatives and

T community come February! Red is the prevalent colour of the

season as the Chinese believe this is the colour of prosperity
and fortune. Hence, the decorations of many homes and shops often
use this fiery colour as a dominant theme during the New Year.
Chinese New Year, a time of reunion, celebration and
thanksgiving, falls on 18 and 19 February this year. Weeks before
the New Year, spring-cleaning of homes is in order as this is
believed to clear out bad luck from the previous year. However, no
sweeping or dusting should be done on the New Year itself for fear
that good fortune will be swept away.
On Chinese New Year Eve, families gather together for the
friends have something else to look forward to: Ang pows! These
little red packets contain money and are given to children and
single people by the married folk.
Lion and dragon dances are also a common sight during the
Chinese New Year. Watch skilled performers perform amazing stunts
with grace and agility, accompanied by beating drums and clashing
cymbals. And finally, in true Malaysian spirit, open houses are held
to welcome friends and family. Gong Xi Fa Cai!
For more information, please contact Sabah Tourism Board at
088-212121 or Sri Pelancongan Sabah at 088-232121.

Check out... Highlights

The Chinese New Year market National Recognition For Jari Jari Spa
which takes place a couple of days Jari Jari Spa did Sabah proud at the
before celebrations begin. Held recent Malaysia Spa & Wellness
along the streets of Segama Awards 2006 when they won an
(beside the Kota Kinabalu Post award for their Dusun Lotud Inan
Office), this is the best place to Massage. The signature massage was
experience the spirit of the awarded the Best Traditional
Chinese New Year. Experience the Treatment. The awards ceremony
hustle and bustle as people rush was held at the Sunway Pyramid
to buy New Year goodies. Convention Centre and attended by spa industry players from
around Malaysia.
6 P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t

he historical city of Sandakan is home to many

T buildings and monuments, each witness to the
changing times and events over the years. One of the
oldest buildings is St. Michael’s and All Angels Church.
The construction of the first stone building in Sabah
began in 1893 and was only completed in 1906. Designed
by New Zealander Mr. B.W Mountfort, the building was
first constructed with belian wood, followed by brick and
finlly stone, which is said to have come from the nearby
Buli Sim Sim while the white stones that adorn the
windows and doors are from Hong Kong. The stone was
delivered from Buli Sim Sim by prison labour at RM1.25
per cubic yard. A cubic foot of stone weighs
approximately 140 lbs and the stone was painstakingly
laid, one block at a time. During the 1906 Michaelmas
Celebration, celebrated on 30 September, the nave and
transepts were finally dedicated. Three services were held
that day to celebrate the goodness of God and the faith of
His people. The western porch (the main entrance) of the
Church was not completed and dedicated until 1925—32
years after construction began. The Church avoided major
damage during World War II and remains one of the very
few stone buildings in the whole of Sabah.
A d v e r t o r i a l
8 E a t i n g O u t

H ave a Mediterranean experience right beside the South China Sea!

Located at First Beach Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu, The
Mediterranean Bar & Restaurant opened its doors on 1 November 2006.
The restaurant boasts beautiful timber finishing, illuminated by subtle
lights that seem to bounce off the walls, giving a romantic and glowing
ambience. Start the evening with a drink at the friendly bar, where you
can enjoy a cocktail or two. The menu is a delightful array of
Mediterranean flavours to satisfy the pickiest of palates. A must-try
appetizer is the carpaccio beef, served with fine salad and shaved
parmesan. If you prefer seafood, try the warm Spanish octopus salad on
a bed of steamed potatoes with rock salt and chilli flakes. Diners are
spoilt for choice when it comes to the main course. The Med, as many
call it, serves a variety of pasta including lobster penne and homemade
ravioli stuffed with red snapper and shitake mushrooms. Indulge in a
grilled or baked lobster topped with fresh Mediterranean herbs or a
hearty braised sirloin cooked with Barolo red wine. Vegetarians will
enjoy the assorted variety of sautéed Sabah greens. But the highlight of
any dining experience is sampling the dessert tray and at The Med, you
will be spoilt for choice. You cannot go wrong with a classic Tiramisu or
a mouthwatering serving of caramel poured over a custard dessert.
Chocolate lovers fret not: the Chocolate Chantilly is a warm chocolate
cake served with custard chantilly sauce. With its friendly service,
fantastic flavours and gorgeous surroundings, The Mediterranean Bar &
Restaurant promises a dining extravaganza like no other.
The Mediterranean Bar & Restaurant is located at First Beach
Tanjung Aru and is open daily from 3pm to midnight. For reserva-
tions, please call 088-246911, fax 088-233911 or e-mail
preshtl@streamyx.com

Sri Selera Kampung Air

D riving through Kota Kinabalu at night, it is hard to miss the
massive neon signboard which welcomes you to Sri Selera Kampung
Air. Formerly known as the famous Sedco Square open-air food court,
the establishment has a new look but retains it wide selection of great
fare and fresh seafood. Diners have as many as four seafood restaurants
to choose from under one roof—Suang Tain Seafood, Wa Heng Seafood,
Sri Mutiara and Kam Boh Seafood. A halal seafood restaurant,
Amansutra, is set to open in early 2007. Rows of aquariums line the
restaurants, giving diners a glimpse of their favourite seafood, from
shellfish to Groupers, all cooked to your liking. The sprawling al fresco
food court can seat up to 1,200 people at a time. Its high-tech roof
slides closed on a rainy day but on a fair-weather night, it can be left
open to allow guests to dine under a starry sky! The refurbishment,
which was completed in late October 2006, also sees heightened
security measures in which 16 CCTV cameras were installed and
security guards are constantly patrolling the area. Apart from seafood,
Sri Selera also has 21 food stalls—each one unique, featuring
favourites such as BBQ chicken wings, satay and ‘wo teh’ (pork
dumplings). Parking is also a breeze with their car valet service. Be sure
to check out Sabah’s food paradise: an old favourite with a brand new
look!
Sri Selera Kampung Air is located next to the Golden Screen Cinema
(GSC) movie theatre in Kota Kinabalu. Open daily from 7:00 am to
2:00 am.
1 0
By Melissa Leong
ny weekend trip that involves pack-
A ing a pair of leech socks is sure to be
a memorable trip for me. This was no
exception. My colleagues and I were off to
Telupid, a six-hour road trip from Kota
Kinabalu. We had signed up for Tham Yau
Kong’s Taviu Hill trek. This was no ordinary
hike in the jungle. Taviu Hill has historical
significance: It is reputedly the toughest
part of the route taken by the prisoners of
war (POWs) during the infamous
Sandakan–Ranau Death March in World War
II.
During this time, some 2400 allied
prisoners (mostly Australian and British
servicemen) were held in Sandakan, North
Borneo by the Japanese forces. Between
January and June 1945, groups of the
remaining prisoners were sent on three
separate torturous 160-mile marches from
Sandakan to Ranau, known today as the
infamous Death March. Only six men
survived.
Our journey began on a clear Saturday
morning, and our first stop was the
Kundasang War Memorial. The memorial is
a beautiful establishment with its many
gardens, most of which are reminiscent of
an English rose garden, with its pebbled
paths and creeping ivy. We viewed a brief
video to give us a better insight into the
Sandakan Death March and the trek we
were about to journey on. After spending
some time at the memorial, we were off to
visit more places on the POW route.
Paginatan was one of the stops made by
several POWs, and the home of the famous
‘Ring Lady’. The story goes that a young
village girl would sneak food to feed the
POWs passing by. As the soldiers had
nothing to offer in return, some of them
left their wedding bands in a can outside
her home as a sign of gratitude. Today, that
young girl is an old lady who still lives in
the same village, but meeting her is a rare
opportunity. Our next stop was the Tampias
River. This site has a bloody history as
many bodies were found afloat in this river
during the march. Our final stop was a
bird’s eye view of Taviu Hill. The dense
foliage that stood before us was
overwhelming. According to our guide
Tham Yau Kong, this has been hailed as the
toughest section of the Sandakan Death
March. We would soon find out why.
Dawn on Sunday was a wet affair. It
rained heavily and air was cool and crisp as
we got ready for the trip. However, not long
after sunrise, the sky cleared and we all
breathed a sigh of relief. Our journey
began from one of the nearby villages,
where our vans dropped us off. We walked
for some 30 minutes when Tham brought
us to a halt and said, “Ok, this is where we
start the walk.” Some 27 pairs of eyes
almost popped out. Did we not start the
walk half an hour ago? No matter. He gave
us a briefing on what to expect during the
walk. “Stay together and don’t worry, there
will always be a guide with you,” he said, a
promise that was kept throughout the
entire journey, much to our relief.

The first hour and a half took us along
slightly muddy but flat terrain and through
a plantation. Some of the fitter ones were
already leading the pack, while others
followed not far behind. The rest decided to
walk at a leisurely pace to enjoy the
surroundings. We finally came to a stream,
which marked the beginning of the second
leg of the trek. Some of us decided to switch
to our sandals, while others braved the
stream in their trainers. The cool refreshing
water was much welcomed after the first
leg. The foliage provided the shade we
needed from the mid-morning sun. However,
this proved to be a more challenging walk as
we had to make our way through the river
(which thankfully was only up to the knees
at its deepest). Slippery rocks meant we
were significantly slowed down. We
imagined how it must have been for the
starving and exhausted POWs, many of
whom were even barefoot. We were already
exhausted and had hardly completed half of
the route! We trekked in silence, many of us
contemplating through our huffs and puffs.
We finally came to a clearing—time for a
break! As we eased our aching bodies, once
again we embraced the nature around us. It
was hard to imagine this beautiful spot was
the site of unimaginable war crimes over 60
years ago.
The stream brought us to what seemed
like the foot of a small hill. Our guides
advised us to use walking sticks and strap
on our leech socks. I feared the worst as I
doused myself with insect repellant. And so
it began: Our arduous march up the
infamous Taviu Hill. And what a trek it
proved to be. For ages, it seemed the only
way was up. And up. And up. To make things
worse, some parts of the hill were so steep
and slippery that we had to take turns to be
hoisted or pushed up! I stopped several
times to catch my breath. Each time the
guide would assure us, “Almost there,
almost there….” The hill punished us well
with its leeches, thorny vines (watch out for
these), winding trails and fallen trees. At
• F e a t u r e
one point, the guide showed us the spot
where the POWs who were too weak or
injured to continue the trail were shot and
their bodies rolled down the hill. We paid
silent respect as we passed the area. Almost
two hours later, we reached the peak of
Taviu Hill. It led us to the open road where
our vans were waiting. As we peeled off the
leeches and quenched our thirst, we were
lost for words at what we had just
experienced. Retracing the route was more
than a physical challenge: it was a lesson on
perseverance, the strength of the human
spirit and an insight on the atrocities that
occurred here more than 60 years ago. Our
bodies may have paid dearly but the rewards
were far greater than any of us expected.
For more information, please contact Tham
Yau Kong of TYK Adventure Tours at tel. 019
8214388 or e-mail tykadto@tm.net.my.
Visit the websites at www.thamyaukong.com
or www.sandakantrack.com
1 2 L e i s u r e

W ant to enjoy a spectacular view of rolling hills and valleys with

the wind in your hair, caressing your face? Strap on a pair of
‘wings’ and go paragliding right here in Sabah! Under the joint efforts
of the Malaysian Paragliding and Hang Gliding Association and
Outdoor Numerous Experience (ONE) Project, paragliding is fast
becoming a popular sport among thrillseekers here.
Located at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, Kampung Kiau in Kota
Belud has been identified as one of the most ideal spots for paraglid-
ing. The hilly area and constant winds from the west coast ensure that
the sport can be conducted all year round. Safety is paramount, which
is why the organizers adhere to international safety standards at all
times. A professional trainer will guide you through the basics, intro-
ducing you to various safety measures and the use of all the equip-
ment. Beginners can opt to fly with their instructor and eventually—
with practice and newly-gained confidence—spread their own ‘wings’!
The adrenaline rush you feel as your feet leave the ground is quickly
replaced by a feeling of awe as you soak in the fantastic view before
you: rolling green hills and valleys, perhaps even a glimpse of Mt.
Kinabalu.
But the experience isn’t merely 2000 feet above ground. Be sure to
take some time to participate in unique ‘kampung’ activities during
your time here, giving you a better insight into the daily grind of vil-
lage life at Kg. Kiau, Kiau Nulu, Kg. Gahui, Lobong-Lobong or Kaung.
Try rubber tapping or working in the paddy fields. If you wish to
explore the surrounding sights, go mountain biking and at the end of
a long day, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the nearby Kadamaian
River.

Are you ready to fly?

For more information, please contact Captain (B) Ikhwan Azillah

at tel. 019 373 4858 or Orkid Jamilah at 014 852 4165.
1 3
1 4
T he Chinese community make up the second largest group in Sabah
and form the largest non-indigenous group in the State. While the
Chinese have been visiting the shores of Borneo for over 1,000 years
(mainly for trade) and Chinese settlements are believed to have been
established at a few places—including along the Kinabatangan River
and the Brunei Bay area—mass Chinese migration to Sabah only
started in the 1880s after the formation of the British North Borneo
Chartered Company.
The early Chinese migrants were mainly farmers brought in to open
up the land, although artisans and miners also came. The early Chinese
settlers in Sabah were mainly Hakka Christian farmers. Today, the
C u l t u r e
Chinese make a large contribute to Sabah’s economic development and
brighten the year with colourful events such as the Dragon Boat Race,
Mooncake Festival and the Chinese New Year. The largest single Chinese
group in Sabah are the Hakka; other groups include the Cantonese,
Hokkien, Teochew, Hainanese and Henghua, each distinguished by their
own dialect.
Many Chinese have intermarried with the local population, mainly
the Kadazandusun. This has created a unique sub-culture of Sino
Kadazans, who practise both Kadazandusun and Chinese customs and
traditions.
B a h a s a M a l a y s i a 1 5

Pencarian Harta
Pencarian Harta Karun
Karun
Pelancongan Kota
Pelancongan Kota Kinabalu
Kinabalu
25 Februari
25 Februari 2007
2007
A cara tahunan Pencarian Harta Karun yang dianjurkan bersama oleh
Dewan Badaraya Kota Kinabalu dan Pelancongan Malaysia akan
diadakan tahun ini pada 25 Februari bersempena dengan Perayaan
Hari Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu ke-7. Acara istimewa ini akan
memperkenalkan Kota Kinabalu sebagai sebuah destinasi
pelancongan. Peserta perlu memandu kereta mereka mengikut laluan
untuk mencari jawapan dan menyudahkan beberapa tugasan di
lokasi-lokasi tertentu dalam dan di sekitar Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu.
Pencarian ini dibahagikan kepada dua kategori: terbuka dan
tertutup. Katergori terbuka adalah untuk rakyat Malaysia dan peserta
antarabangsa. Kategori tertutup pula terhad kepada kakitangan
penganjur dan penaja-penaja utama acara ini. Peserta akan
dilepaskan di Taman Kingfisher dan menyusuli peta laluan yang telah
ditetapkan oleh ‘rally tulips’ yang akan membawa mereka dari satu
tempat ke satu tempat dalam dan luar Bandar raya sebelum berakhir
di pusat permulaan. Penyertaan dihadkan kepada 100 kereta pertama
dan mereka yang datang dulu akan diutamakan.
Ada 10 pemenang bagi setiap kategori. Hadiah utama untuk
kategori Terbuka ialah RM3,000, manakala RM2,000 untuk kategori
Tertutup.

Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Fauziahton Ag. Samad di

DBKK menerusi talian 521800/270326 atau emel
fauziahton@dbkk.sabah.gov.my atau kunjungi laman web kami
di www.dbkk.sabah.gov.my

Regatta Hari Bandarraya

24-25 Februari
D atang dan nikmati keseronokan di Pantai Tanjung Aru , Kota
Kinabalu. Pelayar akan berlumba untuk bersaing sesama sendiri
semasa Regatta Hari Bandar raya pada 3 dan 4 Februari.
Ketika Regatta Hari Bandar raya pertama yang diadakan pada
tahun 2000 iaitu ketika Kota Kinabalu ditabalkan sebagai Bandar
raya, 64 buah perahu mengambil bahagian dengan pelayar datang
dari seluruh negeri sabah, termasuk dari negeri-negeri lain. Usia
peserta adalah dari semuda 6 hingga 65 tahun.
Acara tahunan ini adalah bagi memperingati kepentingan laut
dan peranan besarnya dalam kehidupan penduduk Kota Kinabalu
sebagai tempat bersantai, bersukan dan ekonomi. Regatta ini
memiliki reputasi dalam menarik pelayar-pelayar terkemuka di
sekitar Borneo. Banyak juga pelayar yang datang dari negeri-negeri
Semenanjung untuk bertanding kerana regatta merupakan pengukur
untuk standard persembahan pelayaran. Bagi pelayar-pelayar
Sabah, Regatta merupakan perlumbaan ranking yang amat penting.
Jangan lepaskan acara menarik ini.

Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Johnny Tan, Naib Komodor

Kelab Perahu Layar Kinabalu di talian 088-240070/243070,
faks 088-243007 atau emel kyctaru@tm.net.my.
1 6 B a h a s a M a l a y s i a

Karnival Kebudayaan
Karnival Kebudayaan Kota
Kota Belud
Belud
10–11 Februari
10–11 Februari
D atanglah ke Kota Belud, tempat asal ‘Koboi Timur’ Februari ini!
Sertai penduduk tempatan dalam kemeriahan mereka meraikan
Karnival Kebudayaan Kota Belud. Selama dua hari, daerah menarik ini
Siasai, pusat pembuatan parang. Parang - digunakan sebagai senjata
dan peralatan bekerja - merupakan buatan tangan orang Bajau Kota
Belud sejak turun-temurun. Satu lagi persinggahan untuk
menjadi hidup dengan barisan aktiviti menarik mengetengahkan budaya dipertimbangkan ialah Kampung Kuala Abai, sebuah perkampungan
etnik yang pelbagai yang ditemui di sini, termasuklah daripada suku memancing menghadap Laut China Selatan. Ia juga merupakan pusat
kaum Bajau, Dusun Tindal, Iranun dan Kimaragang. Ada persembahan berlepas ke Pulau Mantanani, yang juga terkenal untuk memancing,
tarian rancak dan persembahan kebudayaan, persembahan permainan snorkeling dan menyelam. Kuala Abai, lebih kurang 20km dari Kota
tradisional dan ‘kenduri adat’. Kunjungi gerai-gerai kraftangan untuk Belud, adalah tempat untuk Bajau Laut.
belajari lebih banyak kemahiran berkraf penduduk tempatan. Datang dan sertai kemeriahan pesta kebudayaan di Kota Belud!
Pengunjung juga akan dihiburkan oleh persembahan artis-artis Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Haji Rusman Abdullah di
tempatan. talian 088-268818 atau Mackey Apison di talian 088-268812.
Apabila berada di Kota Belud, ambillah peluang untuk melawat tamu E-mel Rusman.Abdullah@sabah.gov.my atau
mingguan pada hari Ahad. Turut terdapat di Kota Belud ialah Kampung Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my

Pameran Batik, 2–6 Februari 2007

P ameran Batik akan diadakan di Tingkat 4, Palm Square di Centre
Point Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Diadakan bersempena dengan Hari
Ulang Tahun ke-7 Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu. Acara ini bertujuan untuk
memperkenalkan seni pembuatan batik yang cantik kepada penduduk
tempatan dan pelancong yang mengunjungi Bandar raya ini ketika
Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2007. Lebih 25 pengusaha industri batik dari
Sabah dan Semenanjung Malaysia mengambil bahagian dalam Pameran
Batik pada tahun ini. Kunjungi gerai mereka yang akan
mengetengahkan bukan saja kain batik, tetapi pelbagai keluaran
berasaskan batik seperti kasut, beg tangan, alas tilam dan barangan
hiasan untuk ruang tamu dan saksikan penggunaan kreatif keluaran
hiasan batik di bilik tidur dan bilik tamu. Pengunjung juga dapat
menyaksikan demonstrasi melukis batik dan mencuba kemahiran
mereka dalam kraf menarik ini. Saksikanlah fesyen batik terkini dengan
peragawati meragakan rekaan-rekaan kegemaran anda.
Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Dewan Bandaraya Kota
Kinabalu (DBKK di talian 088-521800, Pelancongan Malaysia di
talian 088-211732 atau Sri Pelancongan Sabah 088-232121.
1 7 C h i n e s e
1 8 C h i n e s e
J a p a n e s e 1 9
2 0 J a p a n e s e
 Listings: 2 1

TAMU MARKETS MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

* most tamus operate as early as

6am and close by 2pm. KOTA KINABALU Batu Tulug Archaeological Site
Museum, Kinabatangan
Kota Kinabalu Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Gaya Street Fair Sabah State Museum
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 088-253199
Sunday
Jln. Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu
Penampang
Donggongon
Tel: 088-253199/263551 TAWAU
Thursday and Friday Sabah Islamic Teck Guan Cocoa Museum
Civilisation Museum Mon-Fri: 8am -11:30am
Lahad Datu Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Pekan Lahad Datu 1:30pm-4:30pm
Sunday
Jalan Menteri, off Jalan Tunku Sat: 8am-12pm
Abdul Rahman, Sun: Closed
Sandakan Kota Kinabalu Mile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, Teck Guan
Sandakan Town - Sunday Tel: 088-538227/538228 Factory, Tawau
Gua Mantong Jaya - Sunday Tel:089-775566 ext 2601
Sabah Ethnobotanical
Semporna Heritage Museum
Pekan Semporna - Sunday Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Bukit Tengkorak Archaelogical
Bukit Istana Lama, Kota Kinabalu Site Museum, Semporna
Papar Tel: 088-253199/263551
Lok Kawi Sabindo - Saturday Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm
Taman OKK Mahali Papar - Saturday & Sunday Tel: 088-253199
Second World War
Kudat Memorial Petagas
Pekan Tomburungus Open daily
Tuesday and Wednesday Tel:088-253199 OTHER DISTRICTS
Kota Marudu Kinarut Mansion Ruins Museum Murut Museum (Sabah Murut
Pekan Kota Marudu
Saturday and Sunday
Mon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pm Cultural Centre , Tenom)
Tel: 088-253199/263551 Mon – Sun: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
Keningau Lembaga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah
(Tenom Branch) W.D.T 72, 89909
Pekan Keningau - Sunday
Bingkor - Thursday SANDAKAN Tenom.
Tel: 087-734506
Kota Belud Agnes Keith House,
Pekan Kota Belud Sandakan
Sunday Mon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pm Mat Salleh Memorial,
Tel: 089-222679 Tambunan
Open Daily
Sandakan Memorial Park Kg. Tibabar, Tambunan
Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Tel :088-253199/ 263551
Sibuga Forest Reserve
USEFUL PHRASES Mile 7, Jalan Labuk, Sandakan
Tel: 016 8221616 (Doris) Kundasang War Memorial,
Apa khabar? - How are you? Open daily including Public Holidays
Sandakan Heritage Museum Tel: 019 899 2041 (Mr. Sevee
Mon - Sun: 9am-5pm Charuruks)
Wisma Warisan, Sandakan
Khabar baik. - I’m fine. Tel: 089-222679

Terima kasih - Thank you.

TO
OURIST INFORMATIION CENTR
RES
Berapa harga ini? - How much is
Sabah Tourism Board Email: info@sabahtourism.com
this? No.51, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Website: www.sabahtourism.com
Email: info@sabahtourism.com
Website: www.sabahtourism.com
Pukul berapa…? -What time…? Tel: 088-212121 Fax: 088-212075

Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)

Lot 4, Ground Floor, Block L, Sinsuran Lot 1-0-7, Ground Floor, Block 1, Lorong Api-
Di mana…? – Where is…? Complex, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Api 1, Api Api Centre, 88000, Kota Kinabalu
Tel: 088-232121 Fax: 088-265540 Tel:088-248698/ 211732

SANDAKAN (089) LABUAN (087)

Useful Numbers

Fire Department - 994 Yayasan Sabah Ambulance

088-326655 !Hospital 212111 !Hospital 413333
Ambulance
/Police -999 !Airport 660405 !Airport 415015
Queen Elizabeth Hospital Information Services !Immigrations 668308 !Immigrations 412298
Police Hotline 088-218166 088-280600/ 280631/ 280641
HQ SABAH – 088-253555
TAWAU (089)
KK – 088-221191 Damai Specialist Centre
International !Hospital 773533
088-222922
Telephone Directory
Airport - 088-238555 !Airport 950013
Sabah Medical Centre Assistance -108
088-211333 !Immigrations 773343
 very Sunday, Gaya Street comes alive with its week-

E ly fair. As the sun rises above the city, brightly

coloured tents are set up and traders begin their
day. As early as 6:30 am, people begin to crowd Gaya
Street (the road is closed every Sunday to cater to the
fair) to browse, bargain and buy.
The Gaya Street Fair is a flurry of activity, vibrant with
colour and accompanied by a combination of sounds and
smells, which makes browsing through the fair an
experience by itself. The fair is famous for its amazing
selection of goods. Here you will find snacks galore, from
aromatic nasi lemak (rice cooked in coconut milk served
with anchovies and sambal) to local kuih (cakes), perfect
for breakfast! This is also the best place to find local fruits,
sold at affordable prices.
As you wend your way along the fair, check out the local
handicrafts and antiques, including rattan baskets, hats,
purses, t-shirts, trinket boxes and jewellery. Make sure
you get a good bargain! Keep your eyes peeled for unique
items—you never know what interesting souvenirs you
may walk away with. The Gaya Street Fair is also every
green fingers’ dream. Plush green ferns and budding
potted plants are a must-buy, as are exotic orchids.
Children will love the amusing toys sold by animated
peddlers as well as the adorable puppies, kittens,
rabbits and hamsters with eyes that plead ‘Take me
home!’.
The fair is also often a site for various events including
charity drives, fund-raisers and free medical services
for the public. The fair is open by 6:30 am and most
stalls close by 1 pm. Have fun discovering and
uncovering Gaya Street Fair’s many treasures. We
guarantee there’s something for everyone. After your
shopping spree, why not head to one of the many
coffee shops found along Gaya Street for a hearty
breakfast? A great way to spend Sunday with family
and friends!

For more information, please contact Sabah Tourism

Board at 088-212121 or Sri Pelancongan Sabah at
088-232121.