RM 1.00

INSIDE: Kiulu 4M Bamboo Rafting Challenge, Weekend Getaways and more!

January 2009 Volume 95January 2009 Volume 95

HappyChinese

New Year!

Contents3 Happenings & Highlights

Chinese New Year CarnivalChinese New Year night marketNew Talent Paintings ExhibitionLion and Dragon Dance FestivalFallen Heroes of PetagasFood Exhibition9th City Day4M Kiulu Bamboo Rafting ChallengeNews

7 Eating OutSecret Garden - Korean BBQ streamboatLittle Italy Restaurant

8 Places of InterestBorneo Art Gallery

9 Places of InterestOrchid De Villa

10 FeatureWeekend Getaways

12 Through The LensEvents All Year Round

14 CultureThe Chinese Community of Sabah

15 Products of the Month 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 Fiddler Crabs at the Wetland Centre

ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin / Sitti B. Damsal

EDITOR Melissa Leong

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

Charlieking Padasian Faizal Jaini (Kadaiku Section)

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu

TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese) Rie Harada (Japanese) Emzee Lee (Korean) BM EDITOR Puan Hjh. Asmiah Ajamain, Dewan Bahasa Dan Pustaka

DESIGNED & PRINTED BY COVER Alric Goh - Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd.

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

Ever y ef for t has been made to ensure that the in format ion is correct at the time of publication. The publisher cannot be held responsible for anyinaccuracies, omissions and alterations which may occur as a result of last minutechanges. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the writ ten permission of the Sabah Tourism Board.

Melissa LeongEditor

Message from the Editor

January is undoubtedly one of themost exciting months and for obvi-ous reasons. The first month of the

new year brings many things: reflectionof the year gone by, enthusiasm forstarting new and the hope of betterthings to come. We at ‘SabahMalaysian Borneo’ are constantly striv-ing for improvement and your continu-ous support, encouragement and con-structive comments have helped guideus throughout the years. Keep ‘em com-ing!

This month, the Chinese communitywill also be celebrating the start of theirlunar calendar during the Chinese NewYear which falls on the 26th and 27th ofJanuary. In conjunction with (literally)painting the town red, a host of eventswill take place throughout the State.Check out the Chinese New YearCarnival along the famed Gaya Street

in Kota Kinabalu and join the frenzyduring the Chinese New Year’s EveNight Market – a flurry of sights, soundsand smells! Dancing dragons and leap-ing lions? Only at the Lion, Unicorn andDragon Dance Festival of course. Watchwith bated breath as the acrobatic lionand dragon dance troupe maneuvertheir way on poles and ladders withtheir fancy footwork. For more detailson these events and more, check out ourHappenings page.

For quick holiday ideas, our featurepage (p.10) brings you weekend get-away ideas for those tight on time. Somuch to do, so little time! Our ‘ThroughThe Lens’ pages (p.12-13) will also giveyou a glimpse of the events to comethroughout 2009 to help you plan yourholiday. Be it a cultural extravaganzaduring the Sabah Fest or the World’sToughest Mountain Race, there’s some-thing for everyone to enjoy. It’s going tobe another exciting year right here inSabah, Land Below the Wind!

So are you ready to take on 2009?

Chinese New Year Carnival19 – 23 January 2009Strong along the vibrantly lit Gaya Street withyour family and friends to witness colourful cultural performances and visit the abundanceof stalls selling Chinese New Year goodies during this lively carnival.Organiser:Kota Kinabalu City HallVenue: Lintasan DeasokaFor further info:Syron TunggolouTel: +60 88 521800 Fax: +60 88 316137Email: syron@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

New Talent Paintings Exhibition8th January 2009 – 2 February 2009Promosing local talents have the opportunity toshowcase their work at this annual exhibitionthat aims to encourage them towards excellence and creativity.Organiser:Sabah Art GalleryFor further info:Datuk Mohd. Yaman Hj. Ahmad MusTel: +60 88 268875 Fax: +60 88 210040Email: gallery_9@msn.com

Food ExhibitionEvery Thursday and Friday of the month ofJanuary 2009Try some of Sabah’s unusual traditional foodfrom the different districts in the state and findout how the recipes are linked to the lives of therespective ethnic tribes at this exhibition.Savour the delicious hinava (pickled fish), bambangan (pickled mango-like fruit) and nonsom (preserved food).Organiser:Monsopiad Cultural VillageTime: 9.30am – 5.00pmFor further info:Monsopiad Cultural VillageTel: +60 88 774337, 761336 Fax: +60 88761680Email: info@monsopiad.com

Lion and Dragon Dance Festival17 January 2009A spectacular event where over 50 lion anddragon dance troupes gather to perform and

spellbind you with their acrobatic skills. Thegrand affair will include performances fromworld champion lion and dragon dance troupes.An event not to be missed!Organiser:United Sabah Chinese CommunitiesAssociation of Kota KinabaluVenue: Padang MerdekaTime: 3pm – 7pmFor further info:Lim Shim MinTel: +60 88 221440, +60 19 8738263 Fax: +60 88 266113

‘Fallen Heroes’ of Petagas21 January 2009A memorial service will be held at the PetagasWar Memorial to commemorate those whofought and fell during World War II.Organiser:Kota Kinabalu City HallFor further info:Joannes SolidauTel: +60 88 521800 Fax: +60 88 316137Email: joannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

Kiulu 4M Bamboo Rafting Challenge25 January 2008A traditional extreme sports competition, whichincorporates the four ‘M’s in Kadazan,Manangkus (running), Mamangkar (rafting),Manampatau (bamboo body rafting) andMamarampanau (walking on bamboo stilts).Held in the picturesque district of Kiulu, the 4MChallenge promises a wet and wild time for all.Organiser:Kiulu 4M Challenge Organising CommitteeFor further info:Ariffin Gadait (Organising Chairman)Tel: +6088 225752, +60198624585Fax: +6088 257091Email: Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my

Chinese New Year26 – 27 January 2009Chinese all over the world celebrate and wel-come the year of the OX with family reuniondinners and traditional house-to-house lion,dragon and unicorn dance performances.Children and unmarried individuals receivepackets of money known as ‘ang pows’ to wishthem luck and prosperity.For further info:Sabah Tourism BoardSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdTel: +60 88 212121 / 232121 Fax: +60 88212075 / 265540Email: info@sabahtourism.com

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

Fancy footwork and martial arts movements are the highlights during anydragon or lion dance festival. This year, some of the best lion and dragon

dance troupes will mesmerize audiences with their grace, style and dexterity,accompanied by the steady beating of drums and clashing of cymbals.According to Chinese belief, the lion and dragon dances are performed to wardoff evil as the New Year begins. The Lion Dance is performed by two individuals, namely the ‘Head’ and the ‘Body’, showcasing an intricate display ofco-operation and skill in order to make the movements as flawless as possible.The Dragon Dance requires a group of performers (depending on how long the‘body’ of the dragon is), with fascinating twists and turns while the ‘head’appears to be chasing a twirling ball of fire, handled by another performer.

Lion dances are believed to bring good luck to the households or business-es they visit. While the appearance of the dragon is frightening, it has a benevolent disposition, symbolising supernatural power, goodness, fertility, vigilance and dignity.This year, the United Sabah Chinese Communities Association of Kota Kinabaluwill be organizing the lion and dragon dance festival on the 17th of January atPadang Merdeka from 3:00pm to 7:00pm.For more information, contact Lim Shim Min at 088-221440 / 019 873 8263or fax 088-266113.

Chinese New Year Carnival19 – 23 JanuaryThis year, the Chinese community ushers in the lunar New Year

on the 26 and 27 January. A time for red packets of money (angpow), lion dances and family reunions! In Kota Kinabalu, join thegrand festivities during the Chinese New Year carnival that takesplace at Lintasan Deasoka (along Gaya Street). For five consecutive nights, visit the carnival to enjoy a host of activitiesincluding cultural shows and lion dance performances. More than170 stalls will be set up selling Chinese New Year goodies,decorations, cookies, cakes and the likes. Enjoy the vibrantly lit

lanterns along the streets of Kota Kinabalu and usher in the ChineseNew Year blessed with prosperity, health and joy! The Carnival runsfrom 6:00pm to 10:30pm.For more information, please contact Syron Tunggolou of theKota Kinabalu City Hall at tel. no 088-521800 or fax 088-316137.E-mail syron@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

New Talent Paintings Exhibition8 January – 2 February

The Sabah Art Gallery in Kota Kinabalu once again features thecreative talents of new faces in the local art scene this month

during the New Talent Paintings Exhibition. Come and discoverfresh approaches and a variety of techniques used to producebeautiful masterpieces. Themes include Sabah’s natural wonders,cultural patterns and abstract art. The gallery is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. For more information, please contact the Sabah Art Gallery attel. no 088-268875 or e-mail gallery_9@msn.com

Lion and DragonDance Festival17 January

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

The ‘Fallen Heroes’ of Sabah refer to the brave men who succumbedto the onslaught of the Japanese Imperial Army in January 1944.

Following the fall of Sabah (then North Borneo) in January 1942 to theJapanese Imperial Army, a patriotic youth named Albert Kwok organizedan underground guerrilla force to which more than 300 young men fromvarious communities in the State were recruited to fight against theJapanese military rule. Unfortunately, the Japanese army received reinforcements and within two months of the uprising in October 1943,most of Albert Kwok’s members were either captured or surrendered.

On 21 January 1944, many guerrilla members and detainees werekilled at the Batu Tiga Prison Camp in Jesselton. Soon after the war, aspecial committee, headed by the few surviving members of the guerrilla force and their families, re-buried those who had been killed,together with the remains of the guerrillas who had been imprisoned onLabuan, in this common burial ground. A memorial service is held on thesame day each year at the Petagas War Memorial. All are welcome tobe a part of this poignant ceremony.For more information, please contact Joannes Solidau at tel. 088-521800 or fax 088-316 137. E-mail joannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my.

Every Thursday and Friday throughout the month of January

It’s a gastronomical feast with a Sabahan twist at the MonsopiadCultural Village this month. Savour the delicious flavours brought to youby the many ethnic groups found in Sabah – although some dishes mightbe an acquired taste! Try the famed hinava (shredded fish in lime, gingerand onions), tuhau (preserved wild fern), bambangan (pickled mango-likefruit) and for the truly adventurous, butod (live sago worms). Dine with thelocals and you might even walk away with an ethnic recipe or two toimpress friends and family back home. Learn more about the age-oldmethods used to prepare these unique dishes, many of which are stillserved in local households today. For more information, please contact the Monsopiad Cultural Villageat telephone no. 088-761336 / 774 337, fax 088-761680 or e-mailinfo@monsopiad.com. The village is open daily (including publicholidays) from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. Visit the website at www.monsopiad.com.

News

‘Fallen Heroes’ of Petagas21 January

Food ExhibitionFood Exhibition

SEAIR Brings Direct Flights from KK toPuerto PrincesaSEAIR (South East Asian Airlines) held itsinaugural flight to Kota Kinabalu from PuertoPrincesa on 28th November 2008. Thememorable event was attended by SEAIR

President Mr. Avelino Zapanta (left) seen herewith Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board Dato’Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin, and Managing Director of Malaysia AirportHoldings Berhad (MAHB) Dato’ Sri Bashir Ahmad. SEAIR flies direct to KotaKinabalu from Puerto Princesa every Friday. For more information, visitwww.flyseair.com.

More Direct Flights From Singapore to KKThanks to JETSTARTravelers can now fly direct from Singapore toKK on a daily basis thanks to JETSTAR. Theinaugural flight took place on the 2nd ofDecember at Kota Kinabalu InternationalAirport’s Terminal 1 and was attended by several dignitaries including the Minister ofTourism, Culture and Environment Sabah,Datuk Masidi Manjun, JETSTAR CEO, Ms. Chong Phit Lian and Chairmanof Sabah Tourism Board, Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin. For more information or to make bookings, visit www.jetstar.com

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

News

With valleys, mountains, rivers and hills, Sabah is every adventure-enthusiast’s dream. It’s all thrills and spills this month during the

annual 4M Kiulu Bamboo Rafting Challenge. The event was initially sched-uled to take place in December but due to unfavourable weather conditions,the event had to be postponed to January. Severe floods swept away thebamboo rafts and affected the race course. Organisers had no choice but topostpone the event to a later date.

This exciting Quad-event consists of four popular race-events ofKadazandusun people: Manang’kus (a 6-km run), Mamang’kar (bamboorafting for 5 km along the rapids), Manam’Patau (paddle-swim for 1.3 kmwith a bamboo pole) and Mama-ram-panau (bamboo stilt-walking for 0.2km).

Since its debut in 1996, the race has become a much-anticipated annual event, attracting adventure-enthusiasts from all over. The competi-tion has several categories, including the X-treme 5M, the Mixed Open andJunior Open. Over the years, it has received rave reviews from both localand international participants due to its unique race elements – a trulySabahan race! Come and cheer for your favourite team and be part of theexcitement during the Challenge!For more information or to register, please contact Ariffin Gadait(organising chairman) at 088-225752 or 019 862 4585. E-mailAriffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my

Sabah Hailed Malaysia’s No. 1 DestinationSabah was awarded the prestigious Celcom ‘FavouriteTourism Destination’ Gold Award during the recentDiplomacy In Tourism Dinner held in Kuala Lumpur.Sabah was voted as winner by ambassadors and seniordiplomats in a unique judging system, beating top con-tenders Melaka, Penang and Langkawi. Receiving theaward was Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture &Environment Datuk Masidi Manjun. “Finally, we can saythat we have the most beautiful state in Malaysia and I think what puts us above everyone else is the natural friendliness of the people of Sabah and the fact that our racialmake-up is second to none in the whole country,” he said.

Kids Scuba Adventure Camp 2008Tunku Abdul Rahman Park’s Mamutik Island was theselected venue for the Kids Scuba Adventure Camp2008. Some 15 families from Peninsular Malaysia con-sisting of 19 scuba ‘rangers’ (aged 8 to 12) and 12 junioropen water divers (aged 13-17) spent their days explor-ing Sabah’s underwater world. Kids Scuba Director,Syed Abdul Rahman, said this was their first time toSabah and objective of the camp was to give the childrenan opportunity to further develop their interest in scubadiving and to cultivate awareness for underwater conservation. With the full support ofBorneo Divers, the camp lasted for 4 days and 3 nights and was held during the schoolholidays. For more information on Kids Scuba, visit www.kidsscuba.com.

Albert Teo Launches Tenth Book, ‘A Souvenirof Sabah’Renowned personality in Sabah’s tourism industry, Albert Teo,recently launched ‘A Souvenir of Sabah’, his tenth publicationto date. The 36-page photographic book is a joint effortbetween Teo and Dr. Dale Straughan – a colourful compilationof Sabah’s major towns, attractions and landmarks. Seen hereis Teo presenting a signed copy to Chairman of Sabah TourismBoard, Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin. ‘A Souvenir of Sabah’ isideal as a memento of your trip to Sabah or as gift for friendsand family. At only RM19.90, you can grab a copy at Kadaiku,located at the Sri Pelancongan Sabah office in Sinsuran, KotaKinabalu.

4M Kiulu Bamboo Rafting Challenge25 January

Kota Kinabalu enters its 9th year as a city this February. Join thecity folk as they celebrate at Padang Merdeka on the eve of City

Day. Witness a symbolic flag-raising ceremony, poetry recital and agrand fireworks display. Various activities and competitions will beheld throughout the week in conjunction with the City Day celebration.Contact the City Hall for more details on these events.For more information, please contact Faradillah Abdul Rani at tel. no088-521800 or fax 088-233815. E-mailfaradillah@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

9th City Day Celebration 2 February

©Kan Yaw Chong/Daily Express

Secret Garden Korean BBQ Restaurant

6 E a t i n g O u t

Hankering for a slice of pizza or a plateof pasta al dente? On the top of your

list should be Little Italy, Kota Kinabalu’smost established Italian eateries. Nowlocated on the Ground Floor of CapitalHotel (opposite Wisma Merdeka), LittleItaly’s humble beginning began in theyear 2000 and has since grown into oneof the most popular restaurants in Sabah.Their popular following is testament totheir unwavering commitment to qualityfood and stellar service. Emiliano Ceresa,owner of Little Italy, says that their policyis to ensure no customer leaves unhappyand quality is everything. “Our flavoursare very ‘home-style’ and the recipes arepassed on from generation to generationon my mother’s side,” he adds. Therestaurant has both indoor and outdoordining options and can cater up to 140diners at a time. There’s plenty to pamperthe palate here, including a selection ofpasta served with a variety of cream,tomato-based or mixed sauces, deliciousappetizers, pizza and an array of mainmeals. Highly recommended is theFettucine Boscaiola, a fantastic combina-tion of chicken and fresh mushroom flam-

bé in white wine and salsa rosa. Lookingfor something light? Try any selection ofpasta with the Gamberi cause, a lightcombination of fresh prawns sautéed inolive oil and garlic. Emiliano’s favourite isthe Crespelle al Forno, an oven-bakeddelight similar to lasagna, and comes in achoice of spinach, ham and cheese ormushroom. Pizza your thing? You will bespoilt for choice but we suggest you givethe Pizza Bianca a try – a lovely mix ofcream cheese and turkey ham. Be sure tocheck out the popular set lunches from10:30am to 5:00pm on weekdays. LittleItaly is also a great place to grab anespresso or a round of drinks with friends.From a range of Italian wine to Limoncellonightcaps, they have it all to keep theparty going! So be it a special occasion ora quick hearty lunch, you simply cannotgo wrong with KK’s favourite, Little Italy.

Little Italy is located on the GroundFloor of Hotel Capital, Jalan HajiSaman, Kota Kinabalu (opposite theWisma Merdeka shopping centre).Open daily from 10:30am to 11:00pm.For reservations, please call 088-232231.

Tucked away in the residential area of Tanah Emas, Jalan Penampangis the aptly named Korean restaurant, Secret Garden. This family-run

business serves a variety of Korean favourites but is well-known for itsset dinner and lunch menu. Surrounded by a quaint garden, diners canenjoy their meals outdoors while groups of 10 to 15 can opt to utilize thefunction rooms for more privacy (the restaurants has 2 function rooms).Diners flock to Secret Garden to enjoy their set menu which comprisesof 4 to 5 side dishes, a choice of 1 main meal and the popularsangchusam, a choice of sliced barbecued pork (samgubsal) or beefwrapped in a lettuce leaf, topped with slices of garlic and bean and chillipaste. Side dishes include an interesting variety of steamed vegetables,mini-yam pancakes and of course, kimchi, a staple in every Koreanmeal! You can opt to have the chef grill your meat to perfection or for themore adventurous; a hot plate can be placed on your table, allowing youto play ‘chef’. Quite the dining experience! There’s plenty noteworthydishes on the menu including the Dolsot Bibimbab, a hot-pot of riceserved with vegetables, fried eggs and chilli paste, the mouthwateringYuk Gea Jang, beef served in a spicy vegetable soup and the Sam GeaTang, a special Korean ginseng chicken soup which takes hours to pre-pare, so advanced ordering is required. Wash all of this down with cool-ing tea or a bottle of Soju, which is believed to neutralize the acidity ofthe food. Secret Garden can cater up to 200 people at a time and is idealfor weddings, birthday parties or anniversaries. So enjoy your Koreanfare in the lush green surroundings of Secret Garden.

Secret Garden is located in Taman Emas (also known as Tanah

Emas), Mile 3, Jalan Penampang (a signboard will direct you to therestaurant as you enter the junction to Taman Emas). Free transporta-tion services available upon request (within KK city). Call to check appli-cable rates for requests from outside the city area. Open daily from11:00am to 2:30pm (lunch) and 5:00pm to 10:30pm (dinner). For reservations or enquiries, please call 088-260606 or fax 088-234779. E-mail jeffrey_lee@hanmail.net

Little Italy

L e i s u r e 7

As you cruise along the Kinabatangan River, chancesare you might come across a strange-looking but fascinating creature known as the proboscis monkey.

With its pot- bellies, long tails and outrageously bulbousnose, they are quite hard to miss!

The proboscis monkeys (nasalis larvatus) are found only inBorneo, making it unique to this part of the world. They areforest-dwellers and are limited mainly to coastal swampforests. Although they are typically found along the banks ofthe Kinabatangan river, villagers who live in the area say thatthe monkeys can often be seen at a particular tributarywhere the creatures will appear without fail every morning.

The tributary, known as Sungai Menanggul, is a 10-minuteboat ride upstream from the township of Sukau. To viewthese amazing creatures, travel 3km upstream, preferablywith as little noise as possible as they are easily disturbed bythe sound of boat engines and loud human chatter.

The best time to view the proboscis monkey is between4pm to 6pm, which is when they head to the tree branchesalong the river bank to settle down after a day of searchingfor food in the jungle. For the early birds, you can opt to seethem between 7am and 8am, before they move off in searchof breakfast.

The proboscis monkeys live in harems, which are groupscontaining one male, one to eight females and their offspring. These harems are almost always together, especially by the riversides in the evenings. This is why largehordes of proboscis monkeys are sometimes spotted.

The lower Kinabatangan area of Sabah is not only home tothe proboscis monkeys but to other spectacular wildlife,namely the elephants, orang-utans, gibbons, long-tailed andpig-tailed macaques, bearded pigs and eagles to name afew!

Interesting facts:The proboscis monkeys are proficient swimmers! They

have partly webbed back feet, which help them to swim andwalk on mangrove mud without sinking in.

Generally, proboscis monkeys do not fare well in captivity.They become depressed, stop eating and soon die.

The male leaders of the pack are usually found on thehighest part of the tree.Proboscis monkeys can make a bizarre range of noises,

including roars, grunts, nasal honks and squeals!

Spot the Proboscis Monkey at the Kinabatangan River

8 • P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t

If paintings are your passion, a trip to the Borneo Art Gallery in Asia CityComplex, Kota Kinabalu cannot be denied! The cozy art gallery showcases a variety of artwork produced by local artists, as well those

from the Philippines and Indonesia, in various mediums. The galleryopened its doors in August 2008 and has since attracted art collectorsfrom near and far. Visitors can enjoy a myriad of masterpieces rangingfrom abstract swirls to beautiful batik paintings. Most of the paintingsdepict scenes from Sabah, such as a bustling tamu atmosphere or abreathtaking vista of Mount Kinabalu at dawn. You can purchase thesepaintings to adorn your living space or as a memento of your visit to

Sabah. Every now and then, the Borneo Art Gallery will also feature aselected artist and showcase his or her works for art lovers to enjoy andpurchase. You can also buy the paintings online at www.artborneo.com(price shown does not include framing and delivery charges). The Galleryis open from 9:00am to 9:00pm from Mondays to Saturdays and from9:00am to 3:00pm on Sundays and Public Holidays.

The Borneo Art Gallery is located at Suite 2.22, 2nd Floor, Asia Citycomplex, Kota Kinabalu. For more information, call or fax 088-280707. E-mail info@artborneo.com

Borneo Art Gallery

P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t • 9

Welcome to Orchid De Villa, a haven of lush greenery and bloomingorchids. Located 20 km from the Kota Kinabalu city centre (a mere 20minutes’ drive), the journey to Orchid De Villa will treat visitors to scenic

sights of traditional kampung (village) houses, green padi fields and rolling hills.The orchid garden is situated in the heart of Kampung Kawakaan in Kiansom,

Inanam. This 12-acre farm is home to some 400 species of orchids, ranging fromwild to beautiful hybrid species. The orchids come from various parts of Sabahincluding Tenom, Lahad Datu, Tawau, Keningau, and Ranau. Visitors can purchase cut flowers; this is usually the main attraction. Four acres of the establishment are dedicated to a lovely fishpond, where schools of fish swim upto meet you as you walk across the bridge. If a day trip does not suffice, visitorscan opt to stay a night or two at the lodges.

Orchids are not the only spectacular flora found here. More than 150 herbsgrow naturally within the grounds and since July 2003, an additional 180 specieshave been planted. Visitors can opt for an educational tour of these herbs andtheir uses. There are more than 13,000 herbs with medicinal value around theworld, but only about 3,500 are commonly used for medicinal purposes.Malaysians commonly use 800 types of herbs to treat nine major groups of ailments: cancer, semi-paralysis, respiratory ailments, skin problems, hypertension, internal organs, bone/ tendons/ ligaments, mental ailments andfemale disorders.

Enjoy a stroll in Orchid De Villa and indulge in the natural beauty it has to offer.Relaxing, scenic and educational, Orchid De Villa is perfect for a weekend family outing or simply to get away from the city hustle and bustle.For more information, please contact Orchid De Villa at Tel: 088-434997/380611, 380612 or email: orchiddevilla@yahoo.com. Open daily, 8am – 5 pm.

Orchid De Villa

Feature10

Weekend Getaway!

Only 48 hours to spare? Make the best of your brief break and checkout the best of Sabah for an unforgettable weekend:

If you are in Kota Kinabalu…Kinabalu ParkTo do: Spend a weekend in any of the cosy cabins in the park andenjoy the cool mountain air. Visitors literally stop and smell the roseswhen visiting Kinabalu Park, a perfect change from the hustle and bus-tle of the city. The park, heralded as Malaysia’s first World HeritageSite, has excellent facilities including restaurants, a multi-purpose hall,information centre and several nature hiking trails for the adventureenthusiast.Special attraction: This is where your journey up Mount Kinabalubegins. Sabah’s unmistakable landmark attracts visitors from aroundthe world all year round. Just a short drive from Kinabalu Park is theKundasang Memorial Park; home to beautiful gardens commemoratingthe fallen Australian and British soldiers of World War II.

Tunku Abdul Rahman ParkTo do: Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is made up of five islands –Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, Gaya and Sulug just off the coast of KotaKinabalu city. A speedboat-ride takes an average of 20 minutes to anyone of these islands where you can enjoy a multitude of water sports,go diving, snorkelling or just laze on the beach. You can opt to spenda night or two on Manukan Island in the lovely seaside chalets. Checkout www.suterasanctuarylodges.com for more information. Special attraction: Go seawalking at Sapi Island! Imagine traipsingthe seabed without getting a single strand of hair wet while surrounded by a myriad of marine life. Call 088-249115 or visit www.borneoseawalking.com for more information.

KudatTo do: Head north of Sabah and visit the town of Kudat. Home to thenative Rungus people, Kudat boasts several must-see places includingthe Gombizau honey farm, the gong-making village of Matunggongand the famous Bavanggazo longhouse. Special attraction: Kudat is most famous as the location of the Tip ofBorneo, Tanjung Simpang Mengayau. A mere 40-minute drive fromKudat town, its breathtaking view alone is well worth the visit.

©CV Chong

©David Kirkland

If you are in Tawau…

The IslandsTo do: The islands located off the coast of Semporna are deemed some ofthe best scuba diving sites in the world. Visit the romantic Mataking Islandfor a wonderful pampering experience or the floating chalets of Kapalai. Special attraction: Sipadan Island needs little introduction, having beenhailed one of the top three diving sites in the world. Mabul is known as amacro-diving haven. Also worth checking out is the unique Seaventures –an oil-rig turned dive resort just a stone’s throw away from Mabul.

Balung Eco ResortTo do: Balung Eco Resort offers visitors a unique plantation experience.The eco-resort is built amidst a sprawling 1400-hectare plantation, its fer-tile soil home to a myriad of fruits, flowers and other crops.Special attraction: Join a guided tour to discover little-known facts about theplantation and the crops grown there. Give freshwater fishing a try andenjoy freshly harvested garden produce at the resort’s restaurant. Also,check out the Tower Deck to get a panoramic view.

If you are in Sandakan…

The Rainforest Discovery CentreTo do: Located in the famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve (which is alsothe location of the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre) the RDC is acentre for environmental education. Take a walk on the 150-metre longsteel canopy in the heart of the jungle and spot some of the most uniqueflora and fauna found in this part of the world. At the Visitor’s Building, walkthrough the exhibition hall to learn more about nature’s gifts.Special attraction: The Night Walk is a great opportunity to bump into elu-sive nocturnal creatures. The 800-m Rainforest Discovery trail also allowsvisitors to walk among gigantic Dipterocarp trees while looking out for dart-ing animals such as civets and flying squirrels.

Sandakan’s Historical SitesTo do: One of the best ways to spend 48 hours in Sandakan is to soak upthe rich historical sites of the city. The ideal way to see the best ofSandakan’s places of interest is to follow the Sandakan Heritage Trail. A rel-atively easy walk around the city, the trail takes visitors to more than 10 his-torical spots, including the William Pryer Memorial, St. Michael’s and AllAngels Church and the Sam Sing Kung Chinese Temple. Special attraction: The home of famed Agnes Keith, the American writerwho coined the term ‘Land below the Wind’, has been converted into amuseum containing various memorabilia that chronicle the writer’s life dur-ing her time in Sabah. Right next to Agnes Keith’s House is the quaintEnglish Tea House. Perfect for a quick cup of tea and oven-fresh scones!

©David Kirkland

12

Events All Year

6th Malaysia NationHarley Owners Grou18-25 May

Pesta Kalimaran 200928-29 March

F200

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

r Round

nal up (HOG) Rally 2009

16th Regatta Lepa Semporna18-19 April

Sandakan Memorial Day15 August

1st Borneo BirdFestival 2009

13 - 15 October ©Cede Prudente

00 World Cup Powerboat Race 2009December

C u l t u r e 1 4

The Chinese community make up the second largest group inSabah and form the largest non-indigenous group in the State.While the Chinese have been visiting the shores of Borneo for

over 1,000 years (mainly for trade) and Chinese settlements arebelieved to have been established at a few places—including alongthe Kinabatangan River and the Brunei Bay area—mass Chinesemigration to Sabah only started in the 1880s after the formation ofthe British North Borneo Chartered Company.

The early Chinese migrants were mainly farmers brought in to openup the land, although artisans and miners also came. The earlyChinese settlers in Sabah were mainly Hakka Christian farmers.Today, the Chinese make a large contribute to Sabah’s economicdevelopment and brighten the year with colourful events such as theDragon Boat Race, Mooncake Festival and the Chinese New Year.The largest single Chinese group in Sabah are the Hakka; othergroups include the Cantonese, Hokkien, Teochew, Hainanese andHenghua, each distinguished by their own dialect.

Many Chinese have intermarried with the local population, mainlythe Kadazandusun. This has created a unique sub-culture of SinoKadazans, who practise both Kadazandusun and Chinese customsand traditions.

The ChineseCommunity of Sabah

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

Pameran MakananSetiap Khamis dan Jumaat sepanjangbulan Januari

Perkampungan Budaya Monsopiad akan mengadakan pesta pelbagaimakanan rakyat Sabah. Nikmati sendiri juadah lazat pelbagai

kumpulan etnik yang terdapat di Sabah – sesetengah hidangan wajibdicuba! Cubalah hinava yang sememangnya terkenal (hirisan ikan dengan limau nipis dan bawang), tuhau (paku pakis yang diperam), bambangan jeruk (buah seakan mangga) dan kepada yang lebih berani,butod (ulat sagu yang hidup). Makanlah bersama-sama masyarakat empatan dan anda mungkin boleh membawa pulang satu atau dua resipisesuatu kaum untuk ditunjukkan kepada kawan-kawan atau keluarga ditempat anda. Pelajari lebih cara lama yang digunakan untuk menyediakan makanan-makanan unik ini yang kebanyakannya masihdihidangkan dalam kalangan rumah-rumah masyarakat tempatan hari ini.Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Kampung Budaya Monsopiad di talian 088-761336/774337, faks 088-761680 atau e-mel: info@monsopiad.com. Perkampungan tersebut dibuka setiap hari(termasuk cuti umum) dari 9.30 pagi hingga 5.00 petang. Layarilaman jaringnya di www.monsopiad.com.

Cabaran Berakit Bambu 4M Kiulu

Dengan lembah, gunung-ganang, sungai dan bukit-bukaunya, Sabahadalah impian setiap peminat cabaran kembara. Cabaran Berakit

Bambu 4M Kiulu bulan ini menjanjikan debaran dan keseronokan. Acaraini pada awalnya dijadualkan berlangsung pada Disember tetapi disebabkan keadaan cuaca yang tidak mengizinkan, acara ini ditang-guhkan ke Januari 2009. Banjir besar menghanyutkan rakit-rakit bambudan menjejaskan laluan perlumbaan. Penganjur tidak ada pilihan selainmenangguhkan cabaran ini.

Cabaran menarik ini terbahagi kepada empat perlumbaan populardalam kalangan masyarakat Kadazandusun: Manang’kus (berlari sejauh6km), Mamang’kar (berakit bamboo sepanjang 5km) Manam’Patau (berenang sejauh 1.3km dengan batang bambu sebagai pelampung)dan Mama-ram-panau (berjalan bertongkatkan bambu sejauh 0.2km).

Sejak kali pertama diadakan pada tahun 1996, perlumbaan ini menjadi acara tahunan yang dinanti-nantikan, menarik peminat cabarankembara dari pelbagai tempat. Pertandingan ini mengetengahkanbeberapa kategori termasuk X-treme 5km, Terbuka Campuran danTerbuka Remaja. Selama beberapa tahun, pertandingan ini mendapatpujian daripada ramai peserta tempatan dan antarabangsa kerana elemen perlumbaannya yang unik – perlumbaan rakyat Sabah sebenar!Datang dan sokonglah pasukan kegemaran anda dan nikmatilahkeseronokan melalui Cabaran ini!Untuk maklumat lanjut atau pendaftaran, sila hubungi Ariffin Gadait(Pengerusi Penganjur) melalui talian 088-225752 atau 019-8624585. E-mel Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov.my

Pameran Lukisan Bakat-Bakat Baharu8 Januari – 2 Februari

Galeri Lukisan Sabah di Kota Kinabalu sekali lagi mengetengahkanbakat-bakat baharu dalam arena seni lukis tempatan bulan ini

sempena Pameran Lukisan Bakat-Bakat Baharu. Datang dan saksikanpendekatan baharu dan kepelbagaian teknik yang digunakan untukmenghasilkan karya yang cantik. Temanya termasuklah keindahan semula jadi Sabah, corak budaya dan seni abstrak.Galeri ini dibuka setiap hari dari 9:00 pagi hingga 5:00 petang. Untukmaklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Galeri Lukisan Sabah melalui talian088-268875 atau e-mel gallery_9@msn.com

Mahukan sepotong piza atau sepinggan pasta al dente? Yang teratassenarai anda sepatutnya ialah Little Italy, restoran Itali paling mapan

di Kota Kinabalu. Kini terletak di tingkat bawah Hotel Capital (bertentangan dengan Wisma Merdeka); Little Italy mula dibuka padatahun 2000 dan menjadi salah satu restoran paling popular di Sabah.Restoran ini semakin dikenali hidangan berkualiti dan perkhidmatanmemuaskan. Emiliano Ceresa, pemilik Little Italy, berkata dasar merekaadalah untuk memastikan tidak ada pelanggan yang pergi dengan rasatidak puas hati dan kualiti adalah segala-galanya. “Cita rasa kami sangat‘home-style’ dan resipi yang disediakan telah diturunkan dari satu generasi ke satu generasi daripada sebelah ibu saya,” tambahnya.Restoran ini menyediakan ruang terbuka dan di dalam dan bolehmenampung hingga 140 pelanggan pada satu-satu masa. Banyakmakanan yang boleh dinikmati di sini, termasuklah beberapa pilihan

pasta yang dihidangkan dengan pelbagai krim, sos berasaskan tomatoatau campuran, pembuka selera yang lazat, piza dan bermacam jenishidangan utama. Hidangan yang paling disyorkan ialah FettucineBoscaiola; gabungan menarik ayam dan cendawan segar dalam wainputih dan salsa rosa. Mahukan sesuatu yang ringan? Pilihlah mana-mana pilihan pasta ala Gamberi, kombinasi ringan udang segar diadundengan minyak zaitun dan bawang putih. Kegemaran Emiliano ialahCrespelle al Forno, hidangan lebih masak sama seperti lasagna, dandidatangkan dengan pilihan bayam, ham ayam belanda dan keju ataucendawan. Mencari piza? Terlalu banyak pilihan ditawarkan namun kamisyorkan anda mencuba Pizza Bianca – gabungan enak krim keju danham ayam belanda. Pastikan anda menikmati set makan tengah hariyang terkenal dari pukul 10:30 pagi hingga 5:00 petang. Little Italy jugaialah pilihan untuk minum bersama-sama rakan-rakan. Daripada wainItali hinggalah Limoncello, mereka ada segala-galanya untuk memastikan pesta berterusan! Sama ada suasana khas atau sekadaringin makan tengah hari, segalanya sempurna dengan pilihan ramai KK,Little Italy.Little Italy terletak di Tingkat Bawah, Hotel Capital, Jalan HajiSaman, Kota Kinabalu (bertentangan pusat membeli belah WismaMerdeka). Dibuka setiap hari dari 10:30 pagi hingga 11:00 malam.Untuk tempahan, hubungi 088-232231.

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

Tempat-tempat Menarik

Orchid De VillaSelamat datang ke Orchid De

Villa, syurga orkid yangsubur dan menghijau. Terletak20km dari pusat banda rayaKota Kinabalu (hanya 20 minitmemandu). Pengunjung akandapat melihat pemandanganmenarik rumah kampung tradisional, sawah padi danbukit bukau yang menghijausepanjang perjalanan ke OrchidDe Villa.

Ladang orkid ini terletak ditengah-tengah KampungKawakaan di Kiansom, Inanam.Ladang seluas 12 ekar iniditanam dengan lebih kurang400 spesis orkid dan kacukanyang cantik. Orkid dari pelbagaitempat di Sabah termasuklahTenom, Lahad Datu, Tawau,Keningau dan Ranau. Pengunjung boleh membeli jambangan bunga,biasanya ini menjadi tarikan utamanya. Empat ekar kawasan inidikhaskan untuk kolam ikan , lazimnya sekumpulan ikan timbul untuk‘bertemu’ anda sebaik anda berjalan di jambatan. Sekiranya bersiar-siarsehari tidak cukup, pengunjung boleh memilih untuk tinggal semalamatau dua malam di rumah tumpangan.

Orkid bukan sahaja satu-satunya tumbuhan menarik di sini. Lebih 150herba tumbuh secara semula jadi di sini dan sejak 2003, terdapat tambahan 180 spesis telah ditanam. Pengunjung boleh memilih untukmelawat sambil belajar mengenai herba-herba ini dan khasiatnya. Adalebih 13,000 herba dengan nilai perubatan di seluruh dunia, tetapi hanyalebih kurang 3,500 yang biasa digunakan untuk tujuan perubatan. RakyatMalaysia secara amnya menggunakan 800 jenis herba untuk merawatsembilan penyakit utama: barah, lumpuh sebahagian badan, masalahpernafasan, masalah kulit, organ-organ dalaman seperti tulang, urat danligamen, penyakit mental dan masalah wanita.

Bersiar-siarlah di Orchid De Villa dan nikmatilah keindahan semula jadidisini. Menenangkan, cantik dan memberikan pengetahuan, Orchid DeVilla sesuai untuk hujung minggu sekeluarga atau sekadar melarikan diridari hiruk-pikuk kota raya.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Orchid De Villa melalui talian 088-434997/380612 atau e-mel: orchiddevilla@yahoo.com. Dibuka setiaphari dari 8 pagi hingga 5 petang.

Little ItalyLittle Italy

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C h i n e s e 1 9

little Italy

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K o r e a n22

Bambangan (pickled mango-like fruit)

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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 - SundayTelipok - Thursday

Penampang DonggongonThursday & Friday

PaparKinarut - Saturday

SandakanSandakan Town - SundayGua Mantong Jaya - Sunday

TawauBandar Tawau - SundayBatu 15 Jalan Apas - Sunday

Ranau PekanRanau - SundayPekan Kundasang - Friday

Kota MaruduPekan Kota Marudu - Saturday &Sunday

TuaranPekan Tuaran - SundayKiulu - Tuesday

TamparuliPekan Tamparuli - Wednesday

Kuala PenyuPekan Kuala Penyu -Tuesday

Kota BeludPekan Kota Belud - Sunday

KeningauPekan Keningau - Sunday

Lahad DatuLahad Datu Township - Sunday

* 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

Tun Mustapha GalleryMon - Sat: 8.00am to 5.00pmAras Podium, Yayasan SabahTel: 088-321153 / 326683

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)

Quailey HillOpen daily including Public Holidays8.00am to 5.00pmSabah Tea Garden, KM 17 JalanRanau-Sandakan, Kg Nalapak, Ranau.

MUSEUMS & MEMORIALS

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

TAMU MARKETS

Tucked away in a quiet little corner and a stone’s throw away from the city centreis an ideal place where you can blend in with nature. It is also a place where youwill meet face to face with the many resident fiddlers – the fiddler crabs, that is.

These are small but very colourful crabs, living among the mangroves and mudflats ofthe inter-tidal zone right here at the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre (formerly known asthe Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary). To observe them, you need to be very quiet andmove very slowly so as not to frighten them scrambling into their burrows. The best timeto see these inter-tidal animals is just as the tide is going out and before the next hightide comes in.

Ever wondered why they are called ‘fiddler crabs’? For starters, the male fiddler crabexhibits one of the most extreme examples of body asymmetry in the animal kingdom.It has one large major claw, which probably weighs as much as a third to half of the ani-mal’s body mass. This major claw is used to attract a mate by waving it and tapping onthe ground. Male fiddler crabs often fight with each other using this large claw. Somehave been known to lose this stately male symbol in a fierce combat, but not all is lost.In its next moulting, a large claw will develop from the small one opposite the claw thatwas lost, and a new smaller claw will regenerate to replace the one that was lost in bat-tle. The smaller claw is used to grab food. Therefore, the movement of the smaller clawmoving from mud to mouth during feeding time appears as if it is playing the larger clawlike a fiddle! Female fiddler crabs, however, have two small feeding claws.

The Kota Kinabalu City Wetland Centre is not only for the birds and bird watchers butalso for those who are looking for the smaller and less conspicuous inhabitants of themangrove and the mudflats. Fiddler crabs are extremely interesting inhabitants and theyplay a very important role in the ecology of the mangrove wetlands. When they feed,they shift through the sand for algae, fungi, detritus and microbes. In so doing, they helpaerate the mud and substrate, thereby keeping the mudflats ‘well-aired’. Although thisbird sanctuary is only 24 hectares in size, its function and ecology are vital to both res-ident and migratory birds who find food and refuge here. These colourful fiddler crabsunfortunately form a part of the diet of these wading birds, but they are part of the foodchain that supports life in the mangrove wetlands. Each component of this food chainmust be maintained to ensure that the delicate balance of nature is preserved. Why nothead for the Kota Kinabalu City Wetland not just for the birds, but to get to know the tinyfiddlers ‘playing’ for you out there on the mudflats!

For more information, please call 088-246955 or e-mail kkcbs@tm.net.my

Come Meet the Fiddlersat the Kota Kinabalu City Wetland

Text and photos by William W.W. Wong