RM 1.00

INSIDE: Deep Sea Fishing, Kadaiku Gift Ideas, Eating Out, Listings and more!

December 2007 Volume 82December 2007 Volume 82

Season's Greetings fromSabah Malaysian Borneo!Season's Greetings from

Sabah Malaysian Borneo!Gaya Christmas CarnivalNational Level Christmas Open House

Gaya Christmas CarnivalNational Level Christmas Open House

At therecent‘Tis the season! The month

of December is a timefor celebration and

reflection, as we look forward tonew beginnings and reminiscethe last 12 months. This month’sFeature article (p.10) will giveyou an insight on Sabah’s exciting events and ideas on what todo and where to go throughout theyear. But for starters, check out what’sgoing on in Sabah for the month ofDecember (p.2-p. 5), as we celebratethe yuletide season. Restaurants,hotels and resorts have plenty ofactivities and special offers lined upfor Christmas and the New Year, sobe sure to check out the festivities withyour family and friends. Not to bemissed is the National LevelChristmas Day Open House onDecember 29th. The Open House is aMalaysian practice whereby relativesand friends visit each other duringvarious celebrations. The host warmlywelcomes guests and serves a mouthwatering line-up of goodies forall to enjoy. This month, everyone isinvited to the large-scale Open Houseright here in Kota Kinabalu whereyou will be entertained all night longby Christmas carols, lively dance performances and, of course, plentyof food for all to enjoy!

Looking for ‘makan’? Our EatingOut section (p.7) will give you some

ideas on where to tickle your taste-buds. If it’s great seafood in aunique atmosphere you want, wesuggest the Kampung NelayanFloating Seafood Restaurant. For ahearty meal in the heart of the city ofKota Kinabalu, swing by RainforestCafé. In the season of giving andreceiving, why not give your gift aSabahan touch? Drop by Kadaiku(p.14) for unique gift ideas, be it abasket of Sabah Tea or hand-paintedSabah batik. Whatever your holidayplans are, I hope the ‘SabahMalaysian Borneo’ will help youalong the way. To all our loyal readers, thank you for your continuous support and we hope tokeep you in-the-know and entertained for the next 12 months!Here’s wishing you a sunny and veryMerry Christmas in the Land BelowThe Wind.

Jumpa lagi!

Contents3 Happenings & Highlights

Jom Pigi Taman!7th Sabah Open 2007 Dancesport ChampionshipGaya Christmas CarnivalSolo Art Exhibition by Sabrina MajuakimAmazing Carols By CandlelightChristmas Open House National LevelTamu Besar dan Karnival Budaya TuaranQ School Golf Tournament Qualifying RoundPowerboat World Cup

7 Eating OutKampung NelayanRainforest Cafe

8 Spa EssentialsHair & Wellness - Detox Wrap

9 LeisureDeep Sea Fishing With Magic Moments

10 Feature12 Months of Sabah

12 Through The LensNatural Wonders of Sabah

14 CulturePapar Kadazan Costume

15 What’s New at KadaikuSabah Souvenirs & Handicrafts

16 Bahasa Malaysia Section

18 Chinese Section

20 Japanese Section

22 Korean Section

24 Directory Listings

25 Sabah Map & Listings

26 North Borneo Ink Tattoo and Bar

ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin

EDITOR Melissa Leong

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

What’s New At Kadaiku design by Charlieking Padasian

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board 51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu

TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese) Rie Harada (Japanese)Emzee Lee (Korean) Cover Pic © Sabah Tourism

DESIGNED & PRINTED BY

Inna Kinabalu Sdn Bhd(Publisher of The New Sabah Times)Jalan Pusat Pembangunan Masyarakat, Sembulan88100 Kota Kinabalu

Every ef for t has been made to ensure that the information is correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be heldresponsible for any inaccuracies, omissions and alterations whichmay occur as a result of last minute changes. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the writ ten permission of theSabah Tourism Board.

Melissa LeongEditor

Editorial

Jom Pigi Taman!1 – 2 December 2007Various activities will be held at the Sabah Agriculture Parkduring this event, held in conjunction with the Cuti-CutiMalaysia Promotions. Activities include fishing competitions,a mountain bike challenge, children’s colouring contest andmany more.Organiser:Sabah Agriculture ParkFor further info:Muhiddin Hj. Ismail / Puan Wan Masamah Wan AbidinTel: 087 737952, 737558, 088 258529Fax: 087 737571, 088 258529Email: agripark@sabah.net.my

2007 Sabah F2000 World Cup Powerboat Race1-2 DecemberDon’t miss the adrenaline pumping F2000 Powerboat Racewhich takes place at the Kota Kinabalu City Waterfront.Powerboat racers from around the world compete againsteach other to be crowned champion. There will also be aPowerboat Carnival for all to enjoy beginning at 9:00am onboth days.Organiser:Powersport EventsFor further info:Tel: 088 261 611Fax: 088 242 497Website: www.powersportevents.com.my

Kiulu 4M Challenge2 December 2007A traditional extreme sports competition, which incorporatesthe four “Ms” in Kadazan, Manangkus (running), Mamangkar(rafting), Manampatau (bamboo body rafting) andMamarampanau (walking on bamboo stilts). Held in thepicturesque district of Kiulu, the 4M Challenge promises a

wet and wild time for all.Organiser:Kiulu 4M Challenge Organising CommitteeFor further info:Ariffin Gadait (Organising Chairman)Tel: 088 225752, 019 8624585Fax: 088 262198Email: Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my

7th Sabah Open 2007 Dancesport Championship8 December 2007This is an annual event held to encourage ballroom dancingenthusiasts from around the region to take up the challenge.

The event is also open to dance aficionados from around AsiaPacific.Organiser:Imperial Ballroom Dancing SchoolFor further info:Anthony KeungTel: 088 253090, 019 8213322Fax: 088 238785Email: ymmc7388@tm.net.my

Pameran Solo by Sabrina Majuakim13 December 2007 – 13 January 2008Sabah’s local talent, Sabrina Majuakim, will be showcasingher works at the Sabah Art Gallery during a solo exhibitionthat runs till January. Her oil paintings will feature a myriad ofthemes, inspired by her surroundings. Organiser:Sabah Art GalleryFor further info:Datuk Mohd. Yaman Hj. Ahmad MusTel: 088 268875Fax: 088 210040Email: gallery_9@msn.com

Amazing Carols by Candlelight8 December 2007This will be the 7th Consecutive year for the resort to organize this charity event in which all proceeds go to SabahThalassaemia Society. People of ages and nationalities arewelcome to come together and share in this festive season aswell as contributing by purchasing coupons.Organiser:Sutera Harbour ResortFor further info:Communications DepartmentTel: 088 318888Fax: 088 303338Email: communications@suteraharbour.com.my

Gaya Christmas Carnival19-21 DecemberCelebrate the Christmas season at Kota Kinabalu’s GayaStreet from the 19th to the 21st of December. With the themePeace, Love & Goodwill Towards All People, join the festivities through a variety of song and dance performances

and visit the many food, gift and charity stalls set up alongGaya Street. All are invited.Organiser:Sabah Council of ChurchesKota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Rev. John Yeo / Elizabeth BorubuiTel: 012 802 2948 / 088-521 800

Hari Raya Aidil Adha20 December 2007Muslims around the world celebrate this day in the Islamiccalendar. Muslims go for their Haji Pilgrimage prior to the dayof celebration.For further info:Email: info@sabahtourism.com

Christmas Carnival25 December 2007Celebrate the Christmas season at Gaya Street. A fun-filledevent featuring an evening of Christmas caroling and a variety of stalls to visit. Stroll along the brightly-lit street withfamily and friends as you enjoy the season’s festivities.Organiser: Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Elizabeth BorubuiTel: 088 521800Fax: 088 316137Email: elizabeth@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

Christmas Day25 December 2007Midnight services and prayers are held in churches to celebrate the birth of Christ on the eve of Christmas. TheChristians decorate their homes with Christmas trees andreceive carolers that visit from house to house. Malaysians ofall creeds and races come together to celebrate the joyousoccasion.For further info:Sabah Tourism BoardSri Pelancongan Sabah Tel: 088 212121, 232121Fax: 088 212075, 265540Email: info@sabahtourism.com

Tuaran Tamu Besar & Cultural Carnival29-30 DecemberVisit the quaint district of Tuaran this month and experiencethe Tamu Besar (Open Market) and Cultural Carnival at theTuaran Town Field. The tamu is a great place to mingle withthe local community while experiencing the hustle and bustleof a typical open-air market. Learn more about the local customs and traditions during the cultural carnival. The eventbegins at 8:00am.Organiser:Sabah Cultural Board / Tuaran District Office For further info:Mackey Apison / Awang Shamsi Hj. Jamih (District Officer)Tel: 088 268812 or 268884 / 088-788511 or 788518Fax: 088 264235 (Sabah Cultural Board)Email: Mackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my

3H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

Let’s go to the park! Or as they say in Malay, “Jom pigi taman!” Thismonth, explore the sprawling Sabah Agriculture Park in Tenom during

this 2-day event. Members of the public are invited to join a variety of fun-filled activities including a mountain bike challenge, fishing competitions,children’s colouring contests and many more. Sabah’s largest agriculturepark boasts a myriad of gardens such as the Bougainvillea Court,Hibiscus Garden and Lily Glades.

How to get there: Tenom is located some 3 hours by road fromKota Kinabalu city. Buses and hired taxis are available at the bus

terminal near KK’s Padang Merdeka. When in Tenom…. Be sure to visit the Yit Foh Coffee Powder Factory

(tel: 087-735657), famous for producing a local delight, Tenom coffee.Get to know the Murut culture and traditions at the Murut Cultural Centre(tel: 087-302421) and for the adventurous, white water rafting at PadasRiver (contact your tour operator for further details) is a must.For more information on the event, contact the Sabah AgriculturePark at tel. 088-258529 / 087-737952 (Puan Wan Masamah / MuhiddinHj. Ismail) or e-mail agripark@sabah.net.my. Visit the website athttp://www.sabah.net.my/agripark

Ballroom dancing aficionados compete to be crowned the bestin their league during the 7th Sabah Open Dancesport

Championship, held at the Magellan Grand Ballroom, KotaKinabalu. With participants from around Malaysia, Australia, HongKong, Taiwan, Brunei. China, Singapore, Thailand, New Zealandand the Philippines, the championship promises to be an excitingone. Dazzling costumes and mesmerizing moves will make this aspectacular evening for all.For more information or to purchase tickets, please contactthe Imperial Ballroom Dancing School at tel. 088-253090 or019-821 3322 (Anthony Keung), fax 088-238785. E-mailymmc7388@tm.net.my

Celebrate the Christmas season at Kota Kinabalu’s Gaya Street from19–21 December. The event will be launched on 19 December at 7:00

pm, featuring a combined interchurch choir performance and a specialpuppet show called ‘Christmas’, performed by the Puppeteers. For thenext two days, don’t miss a host of activities to get you into the Christmasmood, including a Children’s Nativity Play, Christmas carolling, a danceperformance by Dance Powerhouse and a fireworks display. Also per-forming on 21 December is Sabah’s own guitar maestro, Roger Wang. Allshows begin at 8:00 pm.

The event is jointly organized by the Sabah Council of Churches andKota Kinabalu City Hall. For more information, please contact Rev. John Yeo at 012 802 2948or Elizabeth Borubui (City Hall) at 088-521 800.

7th Sabah Open 2007Dancesport Championship

8th December

Gaya Christmas Carnival19–21 December

Jom Pigi Taman, 1–2 DecemberJom Pigi Taman, 1–2 December

4 H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

Sabah’s local artist Sabrina Majuakim will be showcasing her works at the Sabah Art Gallery

during a solo exhibition that runs till January. Her oilpaintings will feature a myriad of themes, inspired byher surroundings. Don’t miss this exhibition!For more information, contact the Sabah ArtGallery at 088-268875, fax 088-210040 or emailgallery_9@msn.com. The gallery is open dailyfrom 9 am to 4 pm.

It is the time of the year for family and friends to gather round and enjoy anevening of Amazing Carols by Candlelight at Sutera Harbour, Kota Kinabalu.

Up to 1000 carollers will lead the crowd, singing timeless Christmas carols ascandles are lit to create a cosy ambience underneath the clear night sky. Theevening includes a short play especially for children. Food and beverage stallswill also be set up. All proceeds will go to the Sabah Thalassaemia Society.Come and join the season’s festivities at Sutera Harbour – an event not to bemissed!For more information, please contact the Sutera Harbour ResortCommunication Department at tel. no 088-318888 ext. 3341 or fax 088-303338.E-mail communications@suteraharbour.com.my

NewsLaunching of @ease Boutique Hotel,Sandakan Harbour SquareThe Minister of Tourism, Culture and EnvironmentSabah, Datuk Masidi Manjun, will be launching @easeBoutique Hotel located at Sandakan Harbour Squareon 23 December. The hotel has 138 rooms and offersstylish, comfortable affordable accommodation in theheart of Sandakan for business and leisure travellers.

Sutera HarbourAmazing Carols byCandlelight8 December 2006

Pameran Solo Sabrina Majuakim7 December – 8 January 2008

Join the festivities on a grand scale at this year’snational level Christmas Open House Celebration!

Young and old, regardless of creed and race, everyoneis invited to celebrate the season during a full day ofcolourful performances. Join local artistes belting outChristmas favourites, accompanied by lively dancers.Join the excitement this month! (Venue to be advised). This event is organized by the Department of Culture,Arts and Heritage, Sabah (KEKWA) For further information, please contact theDirector, Encik Salehuddin bin Mohd. Salleh at telephone no. 088-237051 / 237053.

National Level ChristmasOpen House, 29 December

5H a p p e n i n g s & H i g h l i g h t s

Q School FinalQualifying Stage12-15 DecemberSabah has the honour of playing

host to the Qualifying School (QSchool) Golf Tournament 2008 atthe Sutera Harbour Golf & CountryClub in Kota Kinabalu and theBorneo Golf & Country Club atBongawan. More than 500 playersfrom around the world will be competing in this year’s tournamentin their attempt to qualify for theprestigious Asian Tour 2008. In theFinal Qualifying Stage, the top 40will earn their ‘tour cards’ whichgives them playing rights to play invarious Asian Tour events next year.Come and watch these rising starsin action!For more information, pleasecontact Hezrina Ibrahim or DianaGaban of Sabah Tourism Boardat 088-212121 or email hezrina@sabahtourism.com or dlgaban@sabahtourism.com

Visit the quaint district of Tuaran this month and experiencethe Tamu Besar (Open Market) and Cultural Carnival at the

Tuaran Town Field. The tamu is a great place to mingle with thelocal community while experiencing the hustle and bustle of atypical open-air market. The Cultural Carnival highlights thecustoms and traditions of the ethnic groups residing in Tuaranthrough various song and dance presentations. Sample localdelicacies and purchase traditional handmade craft during this2-day event.

Getting thereTuaran is only 40 minutes' drive from KK City. Take a bus fromthe bus station in front of Wawasan Plaza for RM3.00 per per-son one way. Be sure to communicate with the bus driver toindicate your drop-off point — which is usually also the pick-uppoint for your return journey. Buses run from 7:30 am to 5:00pm.The event begins at 8:00 am. For more information, pleasecontact Mackey Apison of the Sabah Cultural Board at 088-268812 / 268884 or the District Officer of Tuaran, AwangShamsi Hj. Jamih at 088-788511 / 788518 . E-mailMackey.Apison@sabah.gov.my

Don’t miss the adrenaline pumping F2000Powerboat Race which takes place at the Kota

Kinabalu City Waterfront. The Powerboats will thrilland excite you, reaching speeds in excess of 250km per hour as the racers display their manoeuvring skills. Powerboat racers fromPortugal, England, Italy, France, United Kingdom,Hungary, Holland and Norway will be participating

in this world-class event right here on Sabahshores. See you there!

The Powerboat Street Carnival begins at 9:00am on both days. The main race takes place on 2December at 3:45 pm. For more information, please call 088-261611 orfax 088-242497. Visit the website at www.pow-ersportevents.com.my

2007 Sabah F2000 World Cup Powerboat Race1–2 December

Tuaran Tamu Besar & Cultural Carnival , 29-30 December

Tuaran Tamu Besar & Cultural Carnival , 29-30 December

E a t i n g O u t 7

Nestled in Taman Tun Fuad just 10 minutes from Kota Kinabalu cityis the Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Restaurant. Sinceopening its doors ten years ago, the restaurant has earned its

reputation as one of the most unique dining experiences in KotaKinabalu. The restaurant ‘floats’ on a pond and can comfortable seat upto 400 diners at a time. The restaurant is particularly known for its freshseafood, cooked to your preference. Among the favourites on the menuare the famous ‘kam heong’ crab (kam heong is a special paste, madeof various condiments) and fried garoupa with sliced mango (if you prefer, you can request any other fish to be prepared in this style).Simply mouthwatering is the shredded egg butter prawns – a deliciousdish of prawns cooked to perfection, topped with ‘egg floss’ and creamysauce. For dessert, you simply have to try the famed ‘coconut pudding’– best served chilled! The best part is you can enjoy a hearty dinner

every night while being entertained by a pulsating cultural performance.For a more private affair, Kampung Nelayan also offers VIP rooms, idealfor personal functions such as wedding anniversaries, birthdays,engagement and full moon parties. The service here is commendableand the staff are always willing to go out of their way to ensure your dining experience is as flawless as possible. Fantastic ambience with arustic touch, Kampung Nelayan offers the best of dining and entertainment under one floating roof!

Kampung Nelayan is located at Taman Tun Fuad, Bukit Padang,Kota Kinabalu. It is open daily from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm (lunch)and 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm (dinner). The cultural show takes placefrom 7:45 pm to 9:00 pm daily. Call 088-231003 / 231005 to makereservations. Visit www.kampungnelayan.com

Ajungle in the city? With good food to boot! The Rainforest Caféon Beach Street (Jalan Pantai) in Kota Kinabalu opened itsdoors in October, offering diners a wide array of local delights

and international favourites. As the name suggests, the restaurant carries a jungle theme, with ‘trees’ greeting you as you step into theeatery. There are several notable must-tries on the menu. For starters,try the Larb Gai, a Thai appetizer of minced chicken served in crispylettuce with Thai sauce. On the main course list, the Oxtail AsamPedas is one of the signature dishes of Rainforest Café. Want moreMalaysian favourites? We recommend the Tiger Prawn Curry servedwith rice or the Nasi Goreng Kampung (Fried Rice), which comes withsatay, a sunny-side-up egg and a chicken drumstick – how about thatfor a complete meal? If it’s something hearty you want, you cannot gowrong with the sirloin steak or the mouthwatering Chicken CordonBleu, a tender chicken breast stuffed with ham and cheese, servedwith potato and mushroom volute. The menu also offers a variety ofpastas, pizzas and sandwiches. You can even opt to create your ownsandwich; just ask the friendly waiter. For a fine finish, you’ll be spoiltfor choice. The chocolate brownie is every chocolate-lovers’ dream orfor something local, order the sago gula melaka. And the best part is,nothing on the dessert menu is priced above RM5.00! Perfect for aquick lunch or a romantic dinner, Rainforest Café adds to the list ofKota Kinabalu’s great dining venues. Call 088-218325. Open dailyfrom 10.00am to 12 midnight.

Rainforest Café

Kampung Nelayan FFllooaattiinngg SSeeaaffoooodd RReessttaauurraannttKampung Nelayan FFllooaattiinngg SSeeaaffoooodd RReessttaauurraanntt

8 S p a E s s e n t i a l s

Heavy meals, long hours at work and a vice or two can wreakhavoc on our bodies. The biggest misconception is that a slimfigure ensures a healthy body. Many of us battle with our weight

in the challenge to ‘look’ good but often we forget the importance ofwhat’s going on inside. The Detox Wrap at Hair + Wellness Secrets inWarisan Square, Kota Kinabalu is a holistic way to rid our bodies oftoxins. I had the pleasure of trying out the treatment and harbouredhopes of losing a kilo or two!

Before starting the wrap, Monica Chai, the Director of Hair +Wellness Secrets, took the time to explain the process step by stepand how it works. The wrap is based on a German-developed therapythat was initially used on athletes for pain management. During thetreatment, acids and toxins are pushed to the surface of the skin andfat molecules are broken down. The wrap also helps reduce bloated-ness. This treatment is combined with a German-developed practicecalled ‘Dorn Therapy’ and Chinese Tuina to align the spine, improveenergy flow around the joints and improve muscle tone. Sounds likequite a wrap! I was led to the treatment room and after undressing, acool ointment was rubbed all over the body; this helps stimulate theelectrons I was told by my attending therapist. A stretchable cloth iswrapped around the arms, legs and torso. The band is quite snug butyou can request for a light bind to your preference. After being somewhat ‘mummified’, several pad electrodes are placed on certainparts of the body, including the soles of the feet and on the chest. Forthe next hour, I only had to close my eyes and let the machine work itsmagic. There is a slight tingling sensation as the machine is turned onbut the whole process is rather pleasant and I soon found myself drifting off into slumber. The pad electrodes generate micro-energywhich helps rid the body of toxins. The session lasts for an hour anddrinking lots of water post-treatment is recommended. With regularsessions, many have reported having less water retention, better fooddigestion and feeling much healthier.

Hair + Wellness Secrets also offers head to toe treatments. Salonservices included hair styling, make-up, manicure and pedicures. Theyhave a wide range of facials including the detoxifying facial mask treatment, whitening facial mask and bio face lifting – a non-invasiveway to give you a fresh look using German-developed micro-energytechniques. Looking for stress relief? Try the traditional Chinese cupping therapy, which opens clogged pathways to improve circulation. Several cups are suctioned onto the back to stimulate thevital organs; if done on a regular basis, many swear by its therapeuticproperties.

So for an all-over feel good session, make an appointment withHair + Wellness Secrets at Warisan Square. Everyone deserves apampering now and then!Hair + Wellness Secrets is located at Unit 7, 2nd Floor, Block B,Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu. For more information or to makean appointment, please call 088-447 163.

at Hair +Wellness

Secrets

Detox Wrap

L e i s u r e 9

It’s time to head out to sea with yourhook, line and sinker! On a clear andsunny day in Sabah, why not hop on a

boat and try your hand at deep sea fishing? The Magic Moments catamarancan accommodate up to 12 passengersand 4 crew members. The day startsearly as you and your friends make yourway to the Sutera Harbour Marina,where your guide and ‘fishing experts’await you.

There are several notable spots fordeep sea fishing in Sabah, but one of themore popular ones is the waters ofMengalum. The journey from SuteraHarbour will take approximately 2 hours,so this gives you ample time to enjoy theride and pay attention to the briefing(particularly for first-timers). All fishingequipment is provided and don’t worry:The friendly crew will assist you with justabout everything, from baiting the hookto reeling the big ones in! MagicMoments is truly ideal for a deep seafishing outing. The 40 x 12-foot catamaran can go as fast as 30 knotsand is equipped with navigational equipment and a Fish Finder. A 10-seater sofa ensures comfort throughoutyour journey. There is also a kitchen,toilet and store room. Although day tripsare popular, some serious anglers evenopt to spend a night or two out at sea.

Depending on sea and weather condition, the experienced boatman willdecide the ideal location for your session. As the boat stops, the excitement begins. If you’re lucky, youmight snag a grouper or two! Manyanglers agree that it takes a combinationof skill, determination and sheer luck fora successful outing, so don’t be disappointed if the fish aren’t biting. Thebest part of fishing with Magic Momentsis of course, lunch! With a kitchen athand, you can have your catch of theday cooked and served within hours.Talk about fresh from the sea! Whilelunch is being prepared, the boatmanwill take you to the nearby Tunku AbdulRahman islands, where you can jumpinto the clear waters for a quick swimand snorkelling session. After lunch, it’sback to the Marina to share exciting stories on the days’ event with envious

Deep Sea Fishingwith Magic Moments

friends. Be sure to pack your sunblock and, if you feelit necessary, pop a motion sickness pill half an hourbefore you start your journey. However, rest assuredonce you feel that tug on your line, the adrenaline rushwill override your nausea. Enjoy your ‘Magic Moments’on the South China Sea!For more information on deep sea fishing packagesby Magic Moments, please contact Inno Travel &Tour Services Sdn. Bhd. at tel. 088-222708, fax 088-223 131 or e-mail inno@sabahholidays.com. Visitthe website at www.sabahholidays.com

10

The 12 Months

• Feature

No doubt about it: Sabah is great all year around! Here are 12 fantastic reasons to pack your bags and head to the Land below theWind any time of the year:

JanuaryStart the year slow and steady by exploring Kota Kinabalu city. As theexcitement of ushering the New Year dies down, this is a great time tosee what Kota Kinabalu has to offer. For a quick walk down memorylane, sign up for the KK Heritage Walk and visit some of the city’s historical landmarks. When the sun goes down, stroll along theWaterfront, the city’s one-stop dining and entertainment spot. FromNorth Indian cuisine to everyone’s favourite happy hour joint, you’ll findit all at the Waterfront.

FebruaryIt’s time to paint the town red – literally! February is a significant monthfor the Chinese community as they welcome the Chinese New Year.2008 marks the Year of the Rat and festivities are marked with severalstreet festivals (check out the Gaya Street Angpow Festival on 16February 2008) and pulsating lion and dragon dance performances!February also marks the 8th City Day anniversary for Kota Kinabalu.

MarchTake advantage of the sunny skies and calm waters in March by heading out to sea! Seasoned anglers claim that March is one of the besttimes to try your hand at deep sea fishing thanks to the good weatherforecast. The waters surrounding the island of Mengalum are a favouredspot, while others head north to Kudat. Good weather also promises agreat outing to the nearby islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

AprilApril is a great time for visit the east coast district of Tawau. The SeaBajau community of Semporna celebrate the Regatta Lepa (which takesplace on 19 & 20 April 2008), which honours the traditional use of theirwooden sailing boat, known as the ‘lepa’. The colourful sails of the lepaline along the coast, making it an unforgettable spectacle. And whileyou’re in Semporna, why not make your way to the nearby islands ofSipadan, Mabul, Mataking and Kapalai for an amazing scuba divingexperience?

MayIt’s a cultural extravaganza in the month of May! Throughout the month,the Kadazandusun community celebrate the harvest festival, which culminates on 30 and 31 May. The Grand Finale of the Tadau Kaamatan(Harvest Festival) is held in Penampang district on these two days,which are also public holidays for the State. For a kaleidoscope of culture and traditions, don’t miss the Sabah Fest which takes place on 3and 4 May.

JuneThe dragons come alive each June as Sabah plays host to some of thetop Dragon Boat teams from around the world. The annual SabahDragon Boat Race is an exciting event that will take place on 15 June2008. Teams from as far away as Japan and Australia have participatedin this event over the years. Come and cheer for your favourite team!

©D. Kirkland, Sabah Tourism

of Sabah!JulyWith so much to see and do in July, you’ll wish there were more than 31days! The month kicks off with the Sago Fest in Kuala Penyu on 4–6 JulyA great opportunity to taste your first sago worm, yum! The Lok KawiWildlife Park celebrates its Open Day on 6 July, with free admission forall. Kids will love the elephant ride, and the lovable Orang Utan will charmyou. Want to do your part for the environment? Visit the town ofSemporna and the island of Mabul from 12–14 July and participate intheir annual clean-up efforts to raise awareness on the importance ofconserving the marine environment.

AugustAre you tough enough? On 23–24 August, the world’s top mountain runners race each other to the top of Mount Kinabalu and back during theTM 22nd Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon, some clocking less than3 hours. Take the opportunity to explore Malaysia’s first World HeritageSite, Kinabalu Park. August also marks Malaysia’s 51st anniversary.Don’t miss the Merdeka Day Parade on 31 August!

SeptemberOur Muslim friends observe fasting during the month of Ramadhan asthey prepare for Hari Raya Aidilfitri. This is a great chance to sample delicious local foods during ‘buka puasa’ (breaking of fast) come sundown. Visit any of the ‘ramadhan bazaars’ nearest to you and enjoy avariety of kuih muih (cakes), nasi campur (mixed rice) and dessertsgalore.

OctoberSelamat Hari Raya! October also brings you a variety of events, including the not-to-be-missed Kota Belud Tamu Besar (25–26 October),the Gong Festival of Matunggong, Kudat (24 October) and the 4X4Borneo Safari (26 October – 2 November) which takes adventure enthusiasts into the heart of Sabah to tackle challenging terrain.

NovemberIn November, we invite you to venture to the east of Sabah, namelySandakan. A wildlife paradise, this is the best place to see Sabah’s ‘wild’residents in their natural habitat. The riverbanks of Kinabatangan areteeming with wildlife, from leaping Proboscis Monkeys to the elusiveBorneo Pygmy Elephant. Also a boat ride away from Sandakan are theSelingan Turtle Islands, a sanctuary for sea turtles who lay eggs here ona daily basis. This conservation effort aims to protect the seat turtles whileeducating visitors on sea turtle protection.

December‘Tis the season to be jolly and adventurous! The Kiulu 4M Challengetakes place on 7 December. This is a unique traditional extreme sportsevent, which incorporates four Kadazandusun activities — running, rafting, paddle-swimming with a bamboo pole and bamboo stilt walking.

Sounds interesting? Come and check it out for yourself in the picturesquedistrict of Kiulu. Of course, who could forget the Christmas season? Jointhe festivities during the ‘open house’, a time for friends and family to visiteach other in the spirit of goodwill. Wishing you a tropical Christmas inSabah Malaysian Borneo!

TM Mt. Kinabalu International Climbathon Kota Belud Tamu Besar

Sabah Fest

Kiulu 4M Bamboo Rafting Challenge

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T h r o u g h t h e L e n s

14 C u l t u r e

The Kadazandusun community is widelyspread throughout Sabah. Their costumesidentify the home district of the wearer. For

example, the Kadazan costume most commonlyworn by women is the Penampang version: a longvelvet skirt and sleeveless blouse with gold trimmings.

The Papar Kadazan costume is slightly different; it has a knee-length skirt (gonob) with ahorizontal and a vertical cross-stitched panel linedwith gold thread, and a short jacket (sia) with brassbuttons, worn over a white blouse. The costume iscomplemented by a conical hat (siung) made of finebamboo strips. Coloured feather-down or artificialflowers at the top of the hat show the wearerís mar-ital statusófeather-down for unmarried women andflowers for married women. Widows, grandmothersand other elderly woman wear neither feather-downnor flowers on their hats. A scarf (soundung) is usually worn under the siung. The outfit is furtheradorned with silver ëdollarí (British trade dollar)belts, called rupia or lupia. Unmarried women wearfour rupia, whilst married women wear only two.The arms are adorned with bolilit, flat silverbracelets shaped like a spiral.

The menís costume is fairly simple. It consistsof a long-sleeved jacket (sia) similar to the womenís, worn with a pair of velvet trousers withgold trimmings (souva). A dastar cloth is folded intoa headdress known as the sigal.

TThhee PPaappaarr KKaaddaazzaann CCoossttuummee

©Sabah Tourism

16 B a h a s a M a l a y s i a

Raikan musim Krismas di Jalan Gaya Kota Kinabalu bermula dari19hingga 21 Disember ini. Acara ini akan dilancarkan pada 19

Disember pukul 7:00 malam, mengetengahkan persembahan gabungan koir pelbagai gereja dan persembahan khas boneka bertajuk ‘Krismas’, dipersembahkan oleh pemain-pemain boneka.Untuk dua hari seterusnya, jangan lepaskan pelbagai aktiviti sempenaHari Krismas, seperti Drama Kelahiran Nabi Isa dipersembahkan olehkanak-kanak, persembahan lagu-lagu Krismas, tarian oleh DancePowerhouse serta pertunjukan bunga api. Anda juga boleh menikmatipersembahan oleh pemain gitar terkemuka Sabah, Roger Wang pada21 Disember. Semua persembahan bermula pukul 8:00 malam.Acara ini dianjurkan bersama oleh Majlis Gereja-Gereja Sabahdan Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu. Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Rev. John Yeo di talian 012-8022948 atau ElizabethBorubui (Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu) di talian 088-521800.

Jom pigi taman! Bulan ini, jelajahilah Taman Pertanian Sabah diTenom pada acara dua hari ini. Orang ramai dipelawa untuk

menyertai pelbagai aktiviti menyeronokkan termasuk cabaranberbasikal, pertandingan memancing, peraduan mewarna untuk kanak-kanak dan banyak lagi. Taman pertanian terbesar di Sabah ini terdiridaripada pelbagai taman seperti Bougainvillea Court, Taman BungaRaya dan Lily Glades. Jumpa di sana!

Bagaimana ke sana: Tenom terletak lebih kurang 3 jam memandudari Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu. Bas dan teksi boleh didapati di terminalbas berdekatan Padang Merdeka Kota Kinabalu.

Apabila berada di Tenom…. kunjungi Kilang Serbuk Kopi Yit Foh (tel:087-736657), terkenal menghasilkan minuman tempatan, kopi Tenom.Kenali kebudayaan dan tradisi masyarakat Murut di Pusat KebudayaanMurut (tel: 087-302421) dan untuk mereka yang ingin mengembara,nikmati berakit di Sungai Padas (hubungi operator perjalanan andauntuk maklumat lanjut).Untuk maklumat lanjut mengenai acara ini, hubungi TamanPertanian Sabah di talian 088-258529/087-737952 (Puan WanMasamah/Muhiddin Hj.Ismail). E-mel agripark@sabah.net.my.Layari laman web http://www.sabah.net.my/agripark

Karnival Krismas Gaya19-21 Disember

Kunjungi

Kolam Air Panas PoringNikmati kebaikan terapi mandian air panas di Kolam Air Panas Poring.

Terletak 43 kilometer dari ibu pejabat Taman Negara Kinabalu, tanahrendah panas di Poring menawarkan pelbagai tarikan.

Perjalanan menuju ke Poring melintasi pasar sayur dan buah-buahan terkenal di Kundasang. Di sini anda boleh menemuibermacam-macam jenis sayuran segar, buah-buahan tempatan, pokok-pokok dan madu yang dibotolkan.

Tarikan utama Poring pastinya kolam air panas yang dipercayaimempunyai unsur-unsur terapi yang baik untuk kesihatan. Berendamdalam air panas juga pasti menyegarkan selepas pendakian GunungKinabalu yang meletihkan. Di sini terdapat lima kolam air panas dengansuhu sekitar 49-60 darjah celsius. Kompleks Ibu Pejabat Poring terletak di sempadan taman bersebelahanSungai Mamut (550 meter di atas paras laut) dan menawarkan pelbagaikemudahan. Ini termasuk chalet dan asrama, pusat rama-rama, pusatpemuliharaan orkid, Taman Tropika seluas lima ekar dengan ladangpemeliharaan binatang, kolam-kolam air panas dan laluan kanopi.

Jom Pigi Taman!1-2 DisemberJom Pigi Taman!1-2 Disember

17B a h a s a M a l a y s i a

Kunjungi

Jesselton PointHanya lima minit dari pusat Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu letaknya

Jesselton Point yang indah dan bersejarah. Sebelum ini dikenalisebagai Terminal Feri Kota Kinabalu, tempat menghadap laut ini memiliki wajah baharu dengan tarikan kolonial yang penuh nostalgia.Tempat ini bermula sebagai kawasan pendaratan untuk kapal-kapal danpedatang selama bertahun-tahun. Ia juga menjadi terminal untukperkhidmatan kereta api. Laluannya masih boleh dilihat apabila andaberjalan di laluan konkrit.Hari ini, Jesselton Point disasarkan untuk menjadi kawasan dermagabertaraf dunia, mengetengahkan kemudahan yang pelbagai untuk perniagaan, tempat tinggal, hiburan, dan keperluan persidangan. Projek15 tahun ini dijangka siap dalam tiga peringkat meliputi kawasan 23 ekar.Sekarang, ia turut menjadi terminal feri dan bot untuk penumpang yangingin ke Wilayah Persekutuan Labuan atau menikmati pengalamanbersiar-siar sehari di pulau-pulau Taman Marin Tunku Abdul Rahman.Sepanjang laluan Jesselton Point terdapat pelbagai jenis kedai dan tempat makan. Nikmatilah hidangan tempatan seperti ais kacang dannasi lemak. Turut menjadi tarikan di sini ialah padang futsal, yang pertama seumpamanya di Bandar raya ini menggunakan permukaanlantai padang berkualiti tinggi yang diimport dari Eropah. Imej hitam danputih mengabadikan saat-saat bersejarah di Sabah (ketika itu dikenalisebagai Jesselton) dan menghiasi dinding yang mengelilingi JesseltonPoint. Kembali selangkah ke masa lalu sambil menikmati keselesaanhari ini di Jesselton Point.

Terletak hanya 10 minit dari Bandar Raya Kota Kinabalu ialahRestoran Makanan Laut Terapung Kampung Nelayan di Taman Tun

Fuad. Sejak membuka pintunya 10 tahun lalu, restoran tersebutmendapat reputasi sebagai salah satu tempat menjamu selera paling

unik di Kota Kinabalu. Restoran tersebut ‘terapung’ di atas sebuah kolamdan boleh memuatkan 400 orang pada satu masa. Restoran ini palingdikenali kerana makanan lautnya yang segar, dimasak mengikut kehendak anda. Antara menu kegemaran termasuklah ketam ‘kamheong’ yang terkenal (kam heong adalah adunan khas, dibuat daripadapelbagai rempah) dan ikan kerapu goreng dengan hirisan mangga (jikamahu, anda boleh meminta sebarang jenis ikan untuk disediakan dengancara ini). Cukup menyelerakan ialah udang mentega telur – hidanganlazat iaitu udang dimasak dengan sempurna, dilengkapi dengan serunding telur dan kuah yang berkrim. Sebagai pencuci mulut, andaboleh mencuba ‘puding kelapa’ yang terkenal – paling lazat dimakansejuk! Anda boleh juga menikmati makan malam selesa setiap malam

sambil dihiburkan oleh persembahan kebudayaan. Untuk suasana yanglebih intim, Kampung Nelayan turut menawarkan bilik-bilik VIP, sesuaiuntuk majlis persendirian seperti ulang tahun perkahwinan, hari jadi danpertunangan. Perkhidmatan di sini memang dipuji dan kakitangannyasentiasa berusaha untuk memastikan pengalaman makan malam andasebaik mungkin. Suasana hebat dengan sentuhan kampung, KampungNelayan menawarkan hidangan makanan dan hiburan di bawah satubumbung terapung!

Kampung Nelayan terletak di Taman Tun Fuad, Bukit Padang, KotaKinabalu. Ia dibuka setiap hari bermula 11:30 pagi hingga 2:00 petang(makan tengah hari) dan 6:30 petang sehingga 11:00 malam (makanmalam). Persembahan kebudayaan berlangsung dari 7:45 malam hingga 9:00 malam setiap hari. Hubungi 088-231003/231005 atau untuktempahan. Kunjungi www.kampungnelayan.com Kampung Nelayanadalah premis dengan sijil halal.

Jom Makan di Luar

Restoran Makanan Laut Terapung Kampung Nelayan

1 8 C h i n e s e

Jesselton Point

C h i n e s e 1 9

20 J a p a n e s e

J a p a n e s e 21

22 K o r e a n

K o r e a n 23

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

Ambulance/Police -999

Police HotlineHQ SABAH – 088-253555 KK – 088-221191

Airport - 088-238555

Queen Elizabeth Hospital088-218166

Damai Specialist Centre088-222922

Information Services 088-280600/ 280631/ 280641

Us

efu

l N

um

be

rs

Yayasan Sabah Ambulance088-326655

International Telephone Directory Assistance -108Sabah Medical Centre

088-211333

Fire Department - 994SANDAKAN (089)

!Hospital 212111

!Airport 660405

!Immigrations 668308

TAWAU (089)

!Hospital 773533

!Airport 950013

!Immigrations 773343

LABUAN (087)

!Hospital 413333

!Airport 415015

!Immigrations 412298

Sabah Tourism Board No.51, Jalan Gaya, 88000, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-212121 Fax: 088-212075Email: info@sabahtourism.comWebsite: www.sabahtourism.comOpen: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

9:00am to 4:00pm (Weekend & PH)

Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdLot 4, Ground Floor, Block L, Sinsuran Complex,88000, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-232121 Fax: 088-265540Email: info@sabahtourism.comWebsite: www.sabahtourism.comOpen: 8:00amto 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

8:00am-4:00pm (Weekend & PH)

Tourism Malaysia (Sabah)Lot 1-0-7, Ground Floor, Block 1, Lorong Api-Api1, Api Api Centre, 88000, Kota KinabaluTel:088-248698/ 211732E-mail: enquiries@tourism.gov.myWebsite: www.tourism.gov.myOpen: 8:00am to 5:00pm (Mon-Fri)

Closed on weekends

Kota KinabaluGaya Street Fair - SundayKampung Air - Sunday

Penampang DonggongonThursday & Friday

PaparLok Kawi Sabindo - Saturday

SandakanSandakan Town - SundayGua Mantong Jaya - Sunday

TawauBandar Tawau - Sunday

Ranau Pekan Kundasang - Friday

KudatMatunggong Lama - SaturdayMatunggong Baru - Thursday

Kota MaruduPekan Kota Marudu -Saturday & Sunday

TuaranBingkor - Thursday

TambunanPekan Tuaran - SundayKiulu - Tuesday

Kota BeludPekan Kota Belud - Sunday

SipitangSindumin - Saturday

* most tamus operate as early as 6am and close by 2pm.KOTA KINABALUSabah State MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmJln. Bukit Istana Lama, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-253199/263551

Sabah Islamic Civilisation MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmJalan Menteri, off Jalan Tunku AbdulRahman, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-538227/538228

Sabah Ethnobotanical Heritage MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmBukit Istana Lama, Kota KinabaluTel: 088-253199/263551

Second World War Memorial PetagasOpen dailyTel:088-253199

Kinarut Mansion Ruins MuseumMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199/263551

SANDAKANAgnes Keith House, SandakanMon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pmTel: 089-222679

Sandakan Memorial ParkMon - Sun: 9am-5pmSibuga Forest ReserveMile 7, Jalan Labuk, SandakanTel: 016 8221616 (Doris)

Sandakan Heritage MuseumMon - Sun: 9am-5pmWisma Warisan, SandakanTel: 089-222679

Batu Tulug Archaeological Site Museum, KinabatanganMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199

TAWAUTeck Guan Cocoa Museum Mon-Fri: 8am -11:30am

1:30pm-4:30pmSat: 8am-12pm Sun: ClosedMile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, Teck Guan Factory, TawauTel:089-775566 ext 2601

Bukit Tengkorak ArchaelogicalSite Museum, SempornaMon – Sun: 9.00am – 5.00pmTel: 088-253199

OTHER DISTRICTSMurut Museum (Sabah Murut Cultural Centre , Tenom)Mon – Sun: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm Lembaga Kebudayaan Negeri Sabah (Tenom Branch) W.D.T 72, 89909Tenom.Tel: 087-734506

Mat Salleh Memorial, TambunanOpen DailyKg. Tibabar, TambunanTel :088-253199/ 263551

Kundasang War Memorial, Open daily including Public HolidaysTel: 019 899 2041 (Mr. SeveeCharuruks)

MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

TAMU MARKETS

© Sabah Travel Guide

Tattoos are symbolic art forms which holdgreat significance for certain ethnic groupsin Borneo. In Sabah, the Murut people are

known for their intricate motifs often seen adorning their walls, longhouses and even theirbodies. Today, body art is very much alive; somepreferring contemporary designs while othersopt for a more traditional look. Whatever yourchoice, the North Borneo Ink Tattoos and Bar,which opened its doors in April 2007, can caterto your requests. The establishment carries aunique concept whereby guests can get theirtattoos done while waiting friends can enjoy a

pint or two at the bar or play a round of pool.North Borneo Ink currently has three residenttattoo artists who can help create almost any

tattoo you desire. Check out the variety ofBorneo-inspired ethnic designs or if you prefer,you can also body piercings done here. Talentfor the art of tattoos? North Borneo Ink alsooffers apprenticeship to aspiring tattoo artists.

The bar offers a wide range of beverages, beit your favourite beer or a refreshing cocktail. Besure to try their creative array of house cocktails,such as the NBI Special – a sweet concoctionthat actually packs quite a punch! The cozy barhas a good view of Kota Kinabalu’s Gaya Streetand can cater up to 100 people at a time, idealfor private functions. Need a bite to go with thatdrink? The kitchen can whip up a variety of finger food, such as fish and chips, sausagebites and chicken wings. Pool sharks will be gladto know Tuesdays offer free pool games all nightlong and ladies can enjoy a free tattoo (from aselected range) on Wednesdays. For professionally-done tattoos in a hip and happening ambience, look no further than theNorth Borneo Ink Tattoos and Bar. Even if youdon’t walk away with a tattoo, you are guaranteed a great night out!North Borneo Ink Tattoos & Bar is located atLot 80, 1st Floor, Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu(next to Alliance Bank). Open weekdays from11:00am to 1:00am and until 2:00am onweekends. Bar opens at 5:00pm. To get a tat-too done, appointments are recommended toavoid disappointment. Contact Genn Lai at0138647898 or Mazlan at 014 652 5526.

North Borneo Ink Tattoos and Bar