Travel guide – east malaysia
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Overview
Most visitors to Sabah are lured by the natural splendour of the state and the unique experience of its national parks. Evocatively named, 'Land below the wind', Sabah is situated at the northeast corner of Borneo, below the typhoon belt. Its spectacular ecosystem boasts one of the largest rainforests in the world and the highest mountain peak in the region, Mt Kinabalu stands at 13,500ft (4,101m). Sabah's diversity extends to the indigenous people of the area that comprise 31 different groups. Sabah is an expensive travel destination with the only real 'budget' accommodation located at Kinabalu National Park and Poring Hot Springs. Direct flights to Sabah are routed to the capital, Kota Kinabalu. www.sabahtourism.com
Things to do and see in or around Sabah
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Five pristine islands comprise this 4,929-hectare (12,100 acre) park. The islands are: Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. Each is an idyllic composition of white beaches and offshore coral reefs hugging inland forests teeming with animal life. Visitors are welcome to camp, trek, swim and snorkel around each of these.
Sipadan Island
This mushroom-shaped island is known amongst divers around the world for its unique seascape and exceptional beauty. A rich variety of marine life shimmers through the translucent waters surrounding this oceanic island.
Mt Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park at an impressive 13,500ft (4,101m), the highest mountain between the white peaks of the Himalayas and those of New Guinea. Despite its formidable height, it is a comparatively easy climb that has been enjoyed by tourists of varying ages and fitness levels and takes two to three days.
Telephone: (0)8 821 1585
Sepilok Forest Reserve and Orang-Utan Sanctuary
This vast equatorial rainforest is an enchanting excursion that is best explored through self-guided trails. The most interesting diversion from these trails is provided by a trip to the Orang-Utan sanctuary. Here Orang-Utans that have been rescued find temporary shelter before their release into the forest.
Telephone: (89) 531180 ; Feeding times are at 10am and 3pm
Sabah's neighbour Sarawak is equally celebrated for its natural beauty and diversity. This diversity extends to its rich cultural heritage and its preservation of traditional lifestyles. Sarawak's numerous Dayak tribes still live in longhouses - these are whole village populations living in one structure, with separate rooms opening on to a communal veranda. This communal spirit is extended to visitors who are invited to stay overnight. Kuching is Sarawak's capital, an interesting city and good base from which to explore the national parks. www.sarawaktourism.com
Things to do and see in or around Sarawak
Bako National Park
19 Miles (30km) of trails wind through this park of tropical rainforest, mangrove swamp and rocky headlands. Protected species of Hornbill and proboscis monkey are at home here and walkers can expect to see diverse plant and wildlife within its boundaries. Permits are required and can be obtained in advance from the Sarawak Tourist Association office.
Niah National Park and Niah Caves
The Great Cave of Niah is one of the largest limestone caves in the world, and an archaeological treasure house. It was here that archaeologists discovered the evidence of man’s existence dating back 40,000 years. A display of tools, rock paintings and human skulls tell the story of ancient civilisations. The rest of the park is dominated by limestone vegetation and the magnificent Gunung Sabis peak at 1,294ft (388m).
Telephone: (0)8 573 7450
Climate
Malaysia has a tropical, humid climate with temperatures averaging 86°F (30°C), though it is cooler in the highland areas. The major change in seasons is marked by the arrival of the monsoons that bring with it heavy downpours on the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, the northeastern part of Sabah and the western end of Sarawak (from November to February). Boat trips to the islands do not run during the height of the monsoon. The best time to visit Malaysia is between April and October.
Health
Some tropical illnesses are prevalent in Malaysia and travellers should seek medical advice regarding any recommended vaccinations before travelling. Hepatitis A and B are common, as is dengue fever, which has no vaccination or immunisation. There has been an increase in cases of dengue fever since January 2005. Malaria risks are isolated to the inland regions; the exception is Sabah, where there is an all-year risk. Since April 2005 there has been a severe outbreak of typhoid in Kelantan. Dysentery and travellers' diarrhoea afflict travellers in Malaysia; visitors should stick to bottled water and avoid uncooked meat, fish and vegetables, unpeeled fruit, ice and salads. A further health hazard in Malaysia is air pollution, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, which has the worst air quality in Asia with very high Benzene pollution levels. This could aggravate cardiac or respiratory problems. There were outbreaks of bird flu in 2004 in poultry in the Kelantan State, but no human infections have been reported. Although the risk is very low, travellers should avoid contact with domestic, caged or wild birds and ensure that poultry and egg dishes are well cooked. An outbreak of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in 2006 has spread across Sarawak and Sabah; children are particularly susceptible and several schools and day care centres have been closed. The hospitals in Kuala Lumpur and other cities are of a high standard. Medical insurance is recommended. Travellers older than one year coming from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
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