Be carried away by the sunset, the wonderful beauty of Malaysia‘s wonderful beaches, upon whose soft, smooth ground your foot may walk strongly. All the beaches glow in a mix of orange, pink, and purple colours when the sun goes below the horizon line. From crowded Batu Feringghi to secluded Rawa Island, a matchless sunset destination is to be found. The Most Romantic Beaches in Malaysia Malaysia, with its lovely beaches and lovely islands, is a honeymooners’ first holiday destination to spend their beach vacation. It’s a clean beach and a silver beach; it’s a beach that is renowned all over the world due to its beauty and tranquillity. A wonderful holiday or an adventure holiday, a flight to Penang from the UK can be your gateway to this island paradise. To make a perfect start for your Malaysian beach holiday, start with Penang. It’s a combination of sunny beaches and cultures. Langkawi: Jewel of Kedah Want to experience the sunny weather? Then visit Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah. It is heaven on earth. The breathtaking view of the sun displaying different colours is breathtaking. Have a quiet walk at Pantai Cenang. The soothing waves sound soul-fresh winds are indescribable. View the sunset with a glass of beverage and let the elegance of Langkawi reach deep into your soul. Pulau Perhentian: Tropical Paradise Walking on the sandy beaches is so satisfying. With the sea that shines like glitter. Snorkel over colourful coral reefs. The fish in the sea will create a circle around you which is beyond expectations. The white beaches give a breathtaking view. Enter into a haven in the sea of colours, which is teeming with life. Lounge on a coconut, pass the time, and indulge. Pulau Perhentian is not a place; it’s an experience provider. Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu Lovely scene on a share with cooling sea wind at sunset at Tanjung Aru beach of Kota Kinabalu. Where the horizon would be a colourful rainbow that invites one onto its beach shore. Must not miss: Royal sunset photo shoot. Delicious street food here. Sand beach sunset signing walk. Entertaining warm night beach volleyball match with locals. Ice-cold beverages at beach restaurants. This beach is best for life memories! Rawa Island: Jewel of Serenity This paradise world is known as Rawa Island. Where the relief reveals nature’s unspoiled beauty in white sand beaches and blue crystal water. Rawa Island is a quiet retreat, offering a white, silky sandy beach and a blue, glinting sea for a peaceful nature vacation. So good-sized island paradise is beautiful to witness a love sunset, colour play in the horizon while the sun sets below. Batu Feringghi: Penang Batu Feringghi, Penang, is a golden palm oasis that sweeps in every direction and is the quest for adventure and peace. Day merges into dusk with hues of rapt passion enveloping the horizon, claiming a kingly rule of your saunter along the shores of sand. Relish cold tropical cocktails in the beach bars at sunset. Relish the water sports splash or just relax as gently lapping waves sensually caress your toes. Each night here enfolds you with Batu Feringghi magic. Redang Island: Water as Crystal The instant you place your foot upon Redang Island’s ground, you embrace crystal clear water that glimmers like a diamond. You dive into it, bathing in its infinity as coral reefs and friendly fish greet you warmly with affectionate arms. Amenities of this paradise are: White cottony pearly beach Blinding blue and green sea Best destination to snorkel and swim Magic sunset Relaxing atmosphere Redang Island’s beauty will be addictive! Sipadan Island: Diving and Sunset Boat cruise along picturesque Redang Island. Diving from Sipadan Island is a lifetime experience. With morning and evening diving before and after sunrise,t of unblemished beauty. Swimming in water as clear as a gem, with a riot of colours, turquoise, sea coral, and rainbow-coloured fish. Twilight on the beach colours the horizon orange and sparkles off the waves. Sipadan is not diving, it’s looking at nature in wonder. Conclusion Malaysian sunset beaches never run out of minutes. Either basking in the clean sands of Langkawi or getting submerged in the wild, frantic landscape at Tanjung Aru Beach. With over 4,600 kilometres of coastline, Malaysia effectively has an infinite array of locations. Malaysia Airlines flight ought to be able to unwind and have a relaxing, soothing journey, closer to these sea gems in comfort and confidence. Every sunset is a masterpiece that frees your imagination and wings your soul. Hold onto the sun and venture out, enjoy breathtaking sights. Bask in the postcard-picture prettiness of Malaysia’s coastline!

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Are you craving calm, uncrowded beaches where you can relax and spend time with yourself? If so, keep Malaysia at the top of your list. Malaysia is known for its great beaches. But there’s a secret, it also has lots of peaceful, hidden beaches. These places are pretty and not crowded, perfect for a cool and calm holiday. If you’re looking for a relaxing trip, you are at the right place. In this blog post, I’ve mentioned some of the best hidden beaches in Malaysia to visit. Top Hidden Beaches in Malaysia Gem Island, Terengganu Ever dreamed of having a private island all to yourself? Well,  Gem Island (Pulau Gemilang) is a tiny, special island that someone owns. You can find it off the coast of Terengganu. And you can easily reach it with a 10-minute boat trip from Marang Jetty. Because there’s only one resort on the island, not many people visit. You can enjoy amazing snorkelling, and the interesting part is that the sea is full of active marine life. There’s no public transport or big shops,  so the beach remains peaceful all year. So, if you are booking flights to Malaysia from the UK, this place is perfect for a peaceful escape. Key facts: Entry point: Marang Jetty Accommodation: Gem Island Resort Best time to visit: March to October (dry season) Kampi Beach, Penang If you are looking for a very private beach in Penang, Kampi Beach is perfect for you. You can only reach it by hiking or by boat. There aren’t any buildings or facilities there, so it’s a completely natural place. All you have to do is walk about  2.5 to 3 hours through the forest, and you’ll find Kampi. It’s not easy to get there, so you won’t find many people. That’s why it’s one of the most natural and peaceful beaches on Penang Island. Key facts: Access: Jungle trail or boat from Teluk Bahang Facilities: None Visitor volume: Very low Teluk Dalam, Perhentian Besar Are you curious about a more peaceful spot on the bigger Perhentian Island? That’s Teluk Dalam Bay! You have to take a boat to reach it. Although it is not as famous as Long Beach and Coral Bay, Teluk Dalam Bay is a popular choice for visitors looking for affordable places to stay. It’s a peaceful place. The water here is smooth, and you won’t find many tourists here during the day.  Since there aren’t many restaurants or bars, it stays peaceful. It’s perfect for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape. Key facts: Island: Perhentian Besar Closest jetty: Kuala Besut Travel season: March to October Juara Beach, Tioman Island Want to visit a slice of paradise on earth?  Go to Juara Beach. It’s a peaceful spot on the east of Tioman Island. It’s not as easy to reach as other beaches. First, you take a boat (ferry) to Tekek, then a special four-wheel-drive car takes you over the island. Now close your eyes and imagine a place with a really big, peaceful sandy beach and a calm village life. That’s Jaura! And do you know the interesting part? They also have a turtle hatchery where you can either help or just visit and learn about the turtles.  Key facts: Travel time from Mersing: Around 2–3 hours, including ferry and drive Accommodation: Small family-run chalets Activities: Snorkelling, turtle conservation, surfing during monsoon months Sipadan Islands, Sabah Want to visit a special island in Malaysia? Go to Sipadan without having a second thought. It’s Malaysia’s only island in the open ocean. It is made of living corals on the top of an old volcano. Sipadan is famous worldwide for diving, but it’s very protected. Only 176 people can visit daily. You can’t stay overnight or just relax on the beach, so the shores stay perfectly clean and undeveloped. Key facts: Access: Via Semporna, then boat to Sipadan (permit required) Activities: Scuba diving, marine observation Restrictions: No accommodation on the island; diving-only permits Protected status: Marine conservation area since 2004 Pulau Tiga Park, Sabah  Did you know that Pulau Tiga is often known as “Survivor Island” because a TV show was filmed there in 2000. It’s about 10 km off Sabah‘s west coast and is a protected ocean area. Even though it’s famous, not many people visit, so it’s still quiet. It has clean beaches and special volcanic mud pools. Key facts: Entry point: Kuala Penyu (2 hours from Kota Kinabalu) Access: 20-minute speedboat ride from Kuala Penyu Jetty Facilities: Limited – one or two resorts and basic amenities Activities: Beach walks, snorkelling, mud bath Final Words If you think Malaysia only has famous beaches, you are wrong. Forget the crowded beaches. You can find peaceful, hidden beaches like Penang, Terengganu, and Sabah. They’re perfect if you want peace and nature away from big crowds. Thinking about your next beach trip? Instead of going where everyone else goes, why not try a quieter, less famous place? You’ll probably find fewer people, cleaner sand and water, and a more real, local feel. And you know, with multiple Malaysian Airlines, you can easily reach these peaceful, hidden beaches because they offer many regional and domestic flights.  

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Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, lies the charming town of Lawas. Tucked away in the northernmost tip of the state, Lawas may be small in size, but it boasts a wealth of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and adventure waiting to be explored. One of the most intriguing aspects of Lawas is its rich cultural tapestry. Home to various indigenous communities such as the Lun Bawang, Kelabit, and Lundayeh, the town offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the traditions and way of life of these vibrant ethnic groups. Visitors can witness traditional dances, sample authentic local cuisine, and even participate in homestays to gain a deeper understanding of the local customs and practices. For nature enthusiasts, Lawas is a paradise waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by pristine rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers, the town offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails wind through dense jungles, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems off the beaten path. One such highlight is Bukit Kuda, a scenic hill that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, perfect for sunrise or sunset photography sessions. The rivers of Lawas are also a playground for adventure seekers. Kayaking and rafting expeditions allow visitors to navigate through winding waterways, passing by lush vegetation and spotting wildlife along the banks. Fishing enthusiasts will also find ample opportunities to cast their lines in the hope of landing a prized catch, with the rivers teeming with various freshwater species. History buffs will find plenty to explore in Lawas as well. The town is home to several historical sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into its colonial past. The Lawas District Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the region’s history, from its early settlement to its role in the Brooke administration. Meanwhile, remnants of old forts and trading posts dot the landscape, serving as a reminder of Lawas’s importance as a trading hub in centuries past. Despite its relatively secluded location, Lawas is easily accessible by road and air. The Lawas Airport provides regular flights to major cities in Malaysia, making it convenient for travellers to reach this hidden gem. Additionally, the town is well-connected by road, with scenic drives offering stunning views of the countryside along the way. Lawas may be a small town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to offering memorable experiences for travellers. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, immersing yourself in local culture, or simply unwinding amidst serene natural beauty, Lawas has something to offer for everyone. So why not venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden charms of Lawas on your next trip to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo?

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In line with Hyatt’s World of Care objectives, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, committed to advance sustainability actions, joins the global effort to promote sustainable tourism, to ensure the resilience of their destination and local communities. The hotel has been awarded the Silver Certification by GreenRE, Malaysia’s leading green building certification body, for its commitment to green building excellence. Ruben Schrijver, General Manager of Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, says “We, at Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, are dedicated to fostering collective efforts towards sustainability by spreading awareness among our staff, guests and business associates. Despite being a young establishment of just seven months, we have the vision to emerge as one of Malaysia’s prominent eco-conscious hospitality providers. We have formulated concrete measures to uphold our hotel’s Environmental Policy and Management Plan, with a focus on a 20% reduction in food waste and the reduction of all single-use plastics.” Energy & Water Conservation Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu, the first hotel in Sabah to utilize air-cooled chillers with 300 tonnes of cooling capacity, eliminates the need for condenser pumps and saves up to 35% of energy consumption. It also runs a cutting-edge water condensation programme that recycles condensate water from air conditioning, which is then used in the hotel bamboo gardens, at ON22 restaurant and ON23 rooftop bar. All cooking appliances in the hotel use 100% green electricity, offering fast and sustainable cooking while reducing heat in the kitchen. The hotel employs LED light bulbs for all hotel lighting fixtures and utilizes a card-activation system for energy in guest rooms and suites, integrated with smart lighting and air conditioning features to enhance energy efficiency. Responsible Sourcing Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu prioritizes responsible sourcing of food and beverages and is actively seeking Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certifications to ensure sustainable seafood procurement. The hotel plans to collaborate with sister hotel, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu to work with local farmers to purchase Cage Free Eggs by 2025 as part of Hyatt Global goals. Sustainability is also considered when purchasing cleaning chemicals and detergents, with preference given to EcoVadis-certified products. Refillable drinking water is made available in the hotel through use of water jugs in the meeting rooms and water carafes at ON23. Eco-friendly room amenities with large-format soap and shampoo dispensers further support the hotel’s aim to eliminate plastic waste. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu has also implemented an environmental data tracking system, EcoTrack, to monitor the recycling of reusable materials like paper, carton boxes, glass, and metal. Raising awareness of the environment This first Hyatt Centric-branded hotel in Southeast Asia is committed to raising awareness about the environment and taking steps to protect it. They minimize pollution and support biodiversity through various measures. Wastewater is treated before being discharged, and they strictly prohibit any trade or promotion of illegal wildlife products. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu ensures that all staff members are aware of sustainability priorities through training during orientations. The hotel’s World of Care Committee leads initiatives and identifies best sustainability practices, to inform business partners about their latest environmental practices. In collaboration with local organizations like Arm of Hope Sabah, the hotel supports the community through projects such as food donations and cleaning services. They also work with partners like Happy Plastics and CarlsBot for recycling and upcycling initiatives. Currently, the hotel team is partnering with Jireh Home for the RiseHy initiative, a Hyatt global program that provides underprivileged youth with an opportunity to undergo job training and gain employment skills at Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu. For people, profit, and planet For transparency, regular measuring and reporting tools using Hyatt EcoTrack is important in monitoring environmental performance which allows the group and hotel to pursue reputable certifications. General Manager Ruben Schrijver continues, “Embracing sustainability isn’t just an option, it’s our collective responsibility. Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu is fully dedicated to leading the charge in caring for the planet, people, and responsible business. Let’s monitor, improve, and make a strategic environmental impact together”.

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From high heels to outdoor shoes: WWF Venturing into the Heart of Borneo where development and conservation meet. WWF-Malaysia Communications Officer Amanda Nayra took part in a memorable five-day cross-visit to West Kalimantan, Indonesia, with stakeholders from Sarawak Government agencies and community leaders. During this trip, they saw how nature conservation co-exists with sustainable economic activities. 26 April 2017, KUCHING: Never in my life would I have thought that I would be packing high heels and outdoor shoes at the same time. I had a wedding to attend to in Sabah and a working trip in West Kalimantan – held back-to-back in the same week. From being dolled up on a Saturday night, I caught the first flight out of Kota Kinabalu to Kuching early the next morning, and hopped onto an express bus to explore West Kalimantan. West Kalimantan forms part of Heart of Borneo (HoB), an area earmarked for sustainable development. WWF-Malaysia and WWF-Indonesia are embarking on a new pilot transboundary corridor project that aims to drive HoB’s future towards a green economy that will benefit human and nature for posterity. The new pilot project, which began in 2016, is a two-million hectare area, spanning northern West Kalimantan to central Sarawak, and runs for four years. I was on the cross-visit organised by WWF-Malaysia and WWF-Indonesia to West Kalimantan from February 27 to March 3, 2017. The visit aimed at giving stakeholders in Sarawak, such as Forest Department Sarawak, State Planning Unit and community leaders, a first-hand experience of how people in Meliau and Empangau integrate nature conservation with economic development. Our first destination in West Kalimantan was Lanjak, a small town situated an hour away from Lubok Antu Immigration Post in Sarawak. After dinner and settling in a homestay in Lanjak, my colleagues gave briefings to stakeholders on objectives of the new pilot transboundary corridor project and cross-visit. On the second day, from Lanjak, we headed towards Meliau, a conservation area that WWF-Indonesia is working in. In a five-seater boat with the capacity of 40 horsepower, we cramped ourselves with our bags to venture through Sentarum Lake. Two hours in the boat may sound long, but the spectacular view of the lake made the trip feel short. We passed several villages on our way to Meliau and what captured my attention were egrets sitting on the village jetty waiting for an easy catch. Too bad it was drizzling; I could not take a decent photo from the boat. In Meliau, we received a warm welcome from the longhouse communities. WWF-Indonesia Environmental Services Coordinator Hermas Maring briefed us on the conservation works by local communities in the area, and how the organization helped in shaping the people’s mindset to be proactive in conservation. A tour around Meliau longhouse showed how the community has evolved throughout the years. For example, they no longer bathe in the river and now have communal areas in every room in the longhouse. Clean water comes directly from Peninjau Hill, which is located behind their village, filling up their pipeline. There are also a small library and communication towers located in the village. In the evening, we hopped onto a long boat and toured the many lakes surrounding Meliau. As we cruised into a lake, the brownish water slowly turned black. We turned into narrow streams to venture into Lake Merebung, protected by the villagers through customary laws. Generally, fishing is permitted in the lakes throughout the year, though the activity and equipment are strictly regulated. Fishermen can only use harsh mesh with the size of above four inches, thus allowing small fishes to pass through their nets. Fishermen are also prohibited from using crickets, cockroaches and frogs as baits as these will increase the chances of arowanas being caught. The Asian arowana is listed in Appendix 1 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and is a protected species in Indonesia. Those who break the rules will risk getting a fishing ban for up to three years. We spotted some old orangutan nests built high up on trees along the streams. The locals claimed that orangutan sightings are common in the area, but whenever tourists happen to be around, orangutans somehow disappear. Orangutans are known to be shy creatures and usually will avoid any contact, even with other animals. For me, the best part of this tour was witnessing a flock of hornbills flying freely in the sky. Previously my only encounter with hornbills was in a zoo.  I was so excited that in five seconds all I did was point ecstatically at the birds. I only remembered to take photos at the last minute when they were already flying away from us. At night, the villagers served us fish freshly caught from their backyard. There were so many choices of fish that I couldn’t help tasting them all. After dinner, Sodik Asmoro, the leader for a local ecotourism committee group called Kaban Mayas (loosely translated from Iban as Friends of Orangutan), gave a short presentation on how the development of ecotourism has changed things for the better in the area over the past few years. Communities are now more open to conservation after realising that they can capitalise on flora and fauna found in their surroundings. Through ecotourism, they are able to benefit from homestay, boat and canoe rental services. With the help from WWF-Indonesia, the villagers set up Kaban Mayas as the guardian to ensure sustainability of the ecosystem and orangutan habitat in the area. Besides arowana, Meliau is home to a number of other fish species such as toman, piang, kerandang and piyam. The area is also blessed with 28 species of mammals including orangutan, avifauna (201), amphibians (22), reptiles (18) and plants (353). We left Meliau for Empangau on the third day. It was a three-hour journey in the same five-seater boat we used earlier. We were informed by Empangau villagers that they would do a fish restocking activity to tie...

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The world’s third largest island of Borneo has an exotic and adventurous image with its impenetrable rainforests supporting a multitude of amazing plants and animals. Borneo is home to the two East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, Indonesian Kalimantan and the oil rich sultanate of Brunei. Sandakan, just two-hour’s flight from Kuala Lumpur or forty minutes flight from the state capital of Kota Kinabalu, appeals to travellers who want to get close to nature. Visitors can’t do this in Sandakan itself but the city is the base for regional wildlife excursions to various natural areas. Seeing Orang Utans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre on the outskirts of the city is the most accessible attraction while the dedicated will want to explore more remote areas. Sandakan’s city centre is worth visiting despite many of its historic buildings being destroyed by allied bombers near the end of World War II. After the war, Sandakan ceased to be the state capital and it moved to what was then called Jesselton but now Kota Kinabalu. Another grim reminder of the war is the Sandakan Memorial Park situated on the former Tamba Rimba Prisoner of War Camp on the outskirts of the city. The notorious camp is infamously known as the place where the ‘Death March’ commenced. This cruel exercise ended in Ranau with just six survivors from 2,434 prisoners who were forced by the Japanese through the jungle until few remained. Tucked away in the hills surrounding the port city is the home of one of the colony’s best known authors, Agnes Keith. It was here that she who wrote the book, Land below the Wind. Also located in the lofty heights of Trig Hill are several of the city’s leading tourist attractions. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple on the summit above Tanah Merah shines in the early morning light. Built in 1987, it’s a dazzling red and gold structure adorned with threatening dragons and swastikas. Sandakan Central Market is one of Malaysia’s most colourful markets due to the presence of many local ethnic groups as well as itinerant Filipino and Indonesian workers. Some of these people live in one of several water villages that extend into Sandakan Bay. The city’s main attraction is the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre located in virgin forest at Sepilok on the outskirts of Sandakan. It was established in 1964 to rehabilitate once captive or orphaned Orang Utans and viewing platforms provide an excellent location observe and photograph the animals in their natural setting. Visitors need to appreciate that Sepilok has been established to save and rehabilitate animals and that it is nota zoo. Three kilometres away, the Rainforest Discovery Centre is another area that is attracts visitors especially for its elevated rainforest canopy walkway high above the forest floor. Sighting animals is always difficult in the rainforest for many reasons but mostly be- cause many animals are small and camouflaged. Sepilok’s forests are home to many bird species and if the canopy signage is any indication, it is birds that you will mostly see here. However, you need to be very patient and, if possible, seek assistance through using binoculars. Many birds are most active at dawn and dusk so unless you can organize your visit at similar times, do not be too disappointed if you just see distant movement. Keen birdwatchers from around the globe flock to Borneo to get a glimpse of some 54 endemic species that call Borneo home. Further afield, it is possible to visit Turtle Island National Park and get close to turtles laying eggs. Back on land, the Kinabatangan River, centered on the village of Sukau, is two hours’ drive from Sandakan. The land adjoining the river sup- ports Malaysia’s largest forest-covered floodplain with most nature tours being focused on cruising along the Menanggol River. The brown waters of the Menanggol are only 30 meters wide and surrounded by a dense canopy of emergent trees and vines. Travelling up the river is like passing through a tunnel deep within the forest. Wildlife concentration here is probably one of the highest in Malaysia with the main attraction being Proboscis Monkeys who live in the riverine trees. From the comfort of small boats, visitors enter the monkeys’ habitat and, if lucky, observe them swinging from branch to branch. Found only on Borneo, the Proboscis Monkey is easily identifiable by its distinctive large red nose. The river is also a haven for monkeys, macaques, gibbons, crocodiles, civet cats, otters and an extensive bird list including hornbills. Eating Sandakan’s English Tea House and Restaurant could easily be the setting for a Somerset Maugham novel as diners can reminisce about the colonial past while dining on superb food and good wines in a magical setting. There are two dining options here – inside or under a garden gazebo overlooking a croquet green. Bermuda grass, the stuff you want to roll across, has been laid for the croquet green – yes, this is truly one of the last outposts of the Empire. Not surprisingly, English dishes dominate the house specialties – Shepherd’s pie, roast beef and, bangers and mash. For those who crave lo- cal cuisine, try the Borneo chicken curry and Tea House tandoori. The restaurant specializes in deliciously and unashamedly fresh scones, clotted cream and jam for morning or afternoon tea. Text & Images By David Bowden Published in Dreamcatcher Magazine, January/February edition 2017. Read online or download the pdf online for free HERE ! 

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Accommodations is always the major issue when planning to travel or having a vacation. You can chose from hotel, apartment, chalet, hostel or home-stay, whatever decision you made, I’m pretty sure it will not be only about the cost alone, but it will also involve facilities and location. Any traveller likes having a clean place, equipped with basic facilities together with great view and a good deal. The choice was not easy for us when we planned our visit to Kundasang. In the end, Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping was my choice. Usually, when I plan a holiday, I do a bit of research about the place to stay. It has to be nice, comfortable and worth my penny. Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping, opened to public in 2012, was a great choice I did not regret, both because the place fulfilled all accommodation requirement stated above, but also because it gave me a chance to experience first hand a night stay in one of the coolest areas of Sabah: Kundasang. I discovered Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping thanks to a tip from my university friend who hails from Sabah. The pictures were enough to convince me the place as beautiful and out of the ordinary, so I discussed it with my team and we all agreed. I called the resort to do the booking, told them I needed a room that could accommodate 7 people, and ended up booking 2 rooms: a standard quad room and a standard double room. The traveling day came; we reached Kundasang, spent the day exploring and sightseeing, and drove to the area where Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping is located. The road was not in the best condition, and it was quite downhill, so the drive was a bit rough. On top of that, the car GPS was not working so we had to stop a few times to ask local villagers direction to the hotel. Thanks mainly to them, we managed to get to Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping before night fall. My first impression was more than positive: the place looked much better and more pleasant in reality than in the pictures. The surrounding area is vast and gave us excellent views of the whole of Kundasang and of the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the background. We were so exhausted, yet we were excited to be there, and I started to understand why most people endure the uncomfortable journey to get here. We checked in fast and walked around the area to feel the cool breeze, take pictures and breathe the clean air. And while walking, I realised that Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping is also a great place to escape for those who work in an office or are overloaded with work and need some rest and peace and relaxation. But, you may ask, what does Hounon mean? According to the manager, the name Hounon in local language means ‘covered by mist’. And the name really suits the area, as during every morning and every evening I was there, the place was filled with a mist so thick you cannot even see the highest mountain in South East Asia. There were more things that make Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping special: it is nestled in a tropical rainforest ecosystem, it boasts a tropical lush green environment, and in the night it has a sky literally covered in glittering stars. FACILITIES Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping has different types of room: family room, standard room, dormitory, camping site; accommodation prices depends on time of booking and day of booking. Rates are lower on weekdays. Dormitory goes for RM 35 per person, while the Standard Quad Room we stayed in cost us RM 210 and the Standard Double Room RM 110. An extra mattress in the room costs you RM 25. Facilities include a kitchen for cooking, BBQ site and also conference room. Check in is from 2 pm and check out is 11 am. HOW TO GET THERE Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping is located at Kampung Himbaan, Bundu Tuhan, Ranau. The farm-stay is 9 kilometres from Puncak Borneo Resort, 11 kilometres from Kinabalu Park, 16 kilometres from Kundasang and 100 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu. To get to there you have to turn at the junction to Bundu Tuhan on the way to Kundasang. The road will take you to Kampung Bundu Tuhan, passing by Don Bosco Children Home, Kampung Himbaan and St. Valentine Chapel. From there, you can ask the villagers for directions. The easiest way is to have a working GPS ! If you rent a car and drive yourself, make sure the car in good condition, and since you will be going downhill a lot, do use low gear in order to prevent the brakes to overheat. BOOKINGS For more information on packages, contact Mr. John at +60 138506463 or log in to their Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hounonridge/ Mr. John is a very friendly man and he will be available for information and booking from 8 am to 8 pm. Bring with you mosquito repellent, socks and warm clothes, food to eat (no food available there), shower kit and, not to forget, your camera!

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Nestled in the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, 100 kilometers away from Kota Kinabalu, in Sabah – Malaysian Borneo, Desa Cattle Dairy Farm boasts one of the most magnificent scenery in Kundasang.  It is often described as the “little New Zealand of Sabah” thanks to its similarity to the southwestern Pacific Ocean country: the green fields, the distinctive black-and-white patched coat of the dairy cows and the cool breezes the place enjoys. Visitors both local and foreigner enjoy so much taking pictures at the site that I have heard that the farm has become a popular destination for couples to take their wedding photos. The farm covers an area of 199 hectares and produces about 900,00 litres of milk annually. Most of the milking cows are Holstein-Friesian, the highest milk producers of all cattle breeds. During our visit to Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, we tried some of their products, namely the boxed milk, the ice cream – of which we tried every single flavour available – and the chocolate milk, all delicious! Other products available are sausages and cheese. Prices are a bit higher than your average product, but they are so fresh and taste so great that they are worth the money they ask for them. Plus you can be guaranteed they are fresh fro the farm! And you can purchase the DESA products and take them back home with you. Visitors are welcome to see cows being milked and milk processing and packing activities. Milking takes place at 3 pm, and milk processing happens on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. This uphill area with its chilled climate is of course such a change from the lowland heat. As a bonus, you can bottle-fee calves and young dairy goats, and you can walk around and enjoy the small gardens with flowers in bloom and the spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu. For the best views, try to arrive before 11am when you may have a clear view of Malaysia’s highest peak. Clouds usually cover it by the afternoon. The farm is at an altitude that also allows views of Kundasang. Highly recommended. Desa Cattle Dairy Farm is located at Mesilou Road about 5km from Kundasang town. There is no public transport to the farm, so you need to make your own way there. Special care should be taken during the drive since the road is unfinished and bumpy. No Public transport to this farm and more prefer drive the 4 wheel car or any higher car as the road are bump…. The farm opens daily from 8 am to 5 pm, the admission fee is Rm 4 for adults and RM 3 for children. Price for setting up a wedding photo-shooting is Rm100. For further information visit their website at www.desaplus.com READ ASIAN ITINERARY ARTICLE ON KUNDASANG HERE !

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Kundasang War Memorial – called “Tugu Peringatan Perang Kundasang” in Malay language – is dedicated to the 2,428 British and Australian soldiers who died as Prisoners Of War camp during the infamous death marches from Sandakan to Ranau at the hands of the Japanese. To be noted that only 6 Australian (and no British) survived the horror to tell their tales. The memorial also stands to recognize the suffering and sacrifice of the native population of Sabah, several of whom risked their lives to help the prisoners of war. Kundasang War Memorial was found by Major G.S. Carter DSO, a New Zealand World War II veteran and employee of the Shell Oil Co in Borneo, who after lobbying and fund-raising as well as support from pressure exerted on the British and Australian governments, initiated the building in 1962, to coincide with the launching of Kinabalu Park. The fort-like design is by J.C. Robinson, a local architect. Kundasang War Memorial was built on a small, pine-tree-clad hill. The place is divided into four interlocking but separate gardens areas that are over four levels connected by small trails: the Australian garden, the English Rose Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden, with its reflecting pool and its pagoda. Each garden has a different choice of plants and landscapes; for instance the Australian garden contains green fields, while the English Rose Garden contains pink roses in every corner, hence the name, and the Borneo Garden boasts wild flowers of Kinabalu. These gardens represent the homelands of those who died, and the magnificent war memorial welcomes all visitors, both those who come to see the gardens and those who come to remember those who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of others. In the years, Kundasang War Memorial suffered years of neglect exacerbated by acts of vandalism and, despite funds injections by the Sabah government in 1995, by 2003 it had been reduced to a virtual ruin. It was in 2005, in occasion of the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II, that a Mr Sevee Charuruks of Kota Kinabalu made his own personal funds available for a major restoration project, that he considered a private retirement project, going as far as mounting a full Roll of Honour with the names of all those who died at Sandakan, which shows details including age, date and place of death, and original place of burial inscribed in gold on highly polished, black granite slabs. Mr. Sevee Chararuks, a native Thai pensioner, was awarded an MBE, an Imperial Award, by the British government and an honorary award (AM) under the Order of Australia by the Australian government in recognition of his efforts. Kundasang War Memorial is located in Kundasang, on a hill on the slopes of Mount Kinabalu, immediately behind the vegetable wholesale stalls. It is a 10 minutes drive away from Kinabalu National Park and about a two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu. It is open daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm, with admission fees at RM 2 for Malaysians and RM 10 for foreigners. Further information, click on http://www.sabahtourism.com/destination/kundasang-war-memorial READ ASIAN ITINERARY ARTICLE ON KUNDASANG HERE !

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Rested at the foothill of Mount Kinabalu, Kinabalu National Park is the main tourist destination in Sabah. Located at Ranau, this place is the second attraction we found along the way to Kundasang. Kinabalu National Park covers an area of 754 square kilometer and it was gazetted as a park in 1964. According to its history, the establishment of a protected area in Kinabalu was possible after a report from the Royal Society Kinabalu Scientific expedition in 1962-1964 led by Prof. Corner. Kinabalu National Park was Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, approved in the year 2000. UNESCO chose this site thanks to the more than 5000 vascular plant species and 90 lowland mammal species that can be found there. The most famous plant in Kinabalu National Park is the Rafflesia, a parasitic flowering plant that produces the largest flower in the world. One of Kinabalu National Park main attractions is the majestic Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia and South East Asia with its height of 4,905.2 meters above sea level. This park has become in recent years a popular spot for mountaineers and jungle trekkers. Kinabalu National Park is surrounded by bountiful natural attractions and enjoyable activities such as mountain biking, canopy walking, farm tours and not to forget photography. Kinabalu National Park headquarters is 88 kilometres away from the city of Kota Kinabalu; there are sealed roads leading towards the park headquarters from other parts of Sabah, and you need to cross the park to get to Mount Kinabalu summit. You can reach Kinabalu National Park by car, van, bus or taxi from Kota Kinabalu or from Kundasang. There is a variety of accommodations available within the park, as well as hostels and chalets in its vicinities. For more information on the park, visit their website at http://www.sabahparks.org.my/index.php/the-parks/kinabalu-park BOOK DISCOUNTED ACCOMMODATION AT KINABALU NATIONAL PARK HERE !

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Known as the upside down house of Borneo, Rumah Terbalik is the first ever house of this kind built in Malaysia, and claims to be one of the 5 best upside down house in the world, being also in Malaysia Guinness Book of Records. Rumah Terbalik started operations in 2012 and an amazing design for a house that is almost impossible to build. The simple yet nice architecture was taken from a traditional Sabah house,  with 140 square meters that include a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, a bedroom, toilets, a veranda and a garden, all built within the same perspective. The trip inside the house should take 15 minutes; they have used vintage stuff like 1970’s TV, a sawing machine, a lamp and an old telephone. No pictures are allowed inside, but you are able to photograph the outdoor, with upside down gardening tools, toilet and a car. The new 3D Wonders Museum adjacent to Rumah Terbalik is amazing. Thanks to a special art technique which transforms two-dimensional images into immersive 3D environments, you can now experience Sabah’s beloved customs, traditions, and landscapes in reality-bending ways! Rub shoulders with indigenous tribal headhunters, scale Mount Kinabalu, and observe myriad wildlife in their natural habitats in the safety and comfort of the museum. The 3D Wonders Museum is not only the largest 3D art exhibition in East Malaysia, but also one dedicated to educating the public about the importance of protecting biodiversity, ecosystems, and natural resources. As parts of your visit to Rumah Terbalik, you can also browse the Tuaran Craft Village and their well stocked gift shop filled with handicrafts and shirts and souvenirs. You can taste Kopi Tenom, the locally brewed coffee, and gourmet ice-cream in their cafe and experience authentic traditional Sabahan cuisine at Mango Garden Restaurant. Rumah Terbalik opens 7 am to 7 pm daily.  Entrance fee for Malaysian adults is RM 10.60 and the 3D Museum costs RM 24.40 – foreigner are charged RM 19.10 and RM 35 respectively, a bit steep for what you get, if you ask me, but still worth a visit. Rumah Terbalik is located at Jalan Telibong, Tamparuli, along the way to Kundasang, 33 kilometer away from Kota Kinabalu. For further information visit their website at http://www.upsidedownhouse.com.my/

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Have you, by chance, ever heard of Kundasang? Kundasang is a little town located along the banks of Kundasang Valley in the Ranau Valley, Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. The area around Kundasang is mainly populated by a small population of Chinese people, and mainly by native Dusun, the collective name of the largest ethnic group in Sabah. Last February my cousins, friends and I traveled to Kota Kinabalu for 4 days, 2 of which we spent in Kundasang. We chose to go there not only to witness the beautiful nature but also to feel chilled as Kundasan is a relatively humid area, one where clouds and rain are often present. Of course the most significant feature of the town is that it is the closest to Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak, and it offers stunning and breathtaking panoramic view of the mountain. Kundasang, at only 6 kilometers away from the park, is in fact the window to Mount Kinabalu. Bear in mind that the view of the peak is only available before dusk and at dawn; the rest of the time, the peak is covered by a thick mist. The town has an exciting atmosphere, with several shophouses operated by locals and a vegetable market open seven days a week for which Kundasang is renowned. Added to the above is the wide range of activities and attractions. Follow me on a unique journey to this windy land and visit with me: – Rumah Terbalik – Kinabalu National Park – Kundasang War Memorial – Desa Cattle Dairy Farm – Strawberry and Rose Garden – Sinalau Bakas These are not the only attractions in Kundasang, there are more amazing places we did not manage to visit due to our limited time. For those with a few more days, I suggest a visit to Mesilau National Park, Poring Hot Spring and Nature Reserve, Crystal Hill and not to forget the famous climb to the peak of Mount Kinabalu. Kundasang has a great climate, great views and clean air. It was the perfect place for us to escape the hot tropical sun we are accustomed to, as well as a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Kundasang is located 90 kilometers from Sabah capital Kota Kinabalu; the roads are good and not snaky at all, hence the drive there should lasts a relaxed 2 hours. You need a car to fully enjoy Kundasang attractions. Renting a car in Kota Kinabalu is cheap, at about RM100 per day. Asian Itinerary stayed at Hounon Ridge Farmstay and Camping

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