WHEN you think of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu might be the first image that comes to mind. However, the true treasures of this state are hidden along its east coast, a scenic six- to eight-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu.
If you're an intrepid traveller seeking awe-inspiring dive sites, virgin rainforests and unforgettable wildlife encounters, set your sights on the captivating region of Sandakan and Tawau.
Seeing the orangutans
For travellers yearning to see more than just postcard-worthy orangutans, Sandakan is the ultimate destination. Welcome to the heart of lush Sandakan, where nature and wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat.
Your journey begins at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, about 25km from Sandakan City. This sanctuary, founded in 1964, was the first of its kind, aimed at rehabilitating rescued and orphaned orangutans.
As you explore this 4,294-hectare sanctuary, you'll witness young orangutans preparing to fend for themselves and return to the wild. The main attraction is the orangutan feeding sessions at 10am and 3pm daily, a magical opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Nestled within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) has evolved from an educational hub for students and teachers to a gateway for exploring the wonders of the Bornean rainforest. Just 23km from the city and near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, RDC offers a vast complex.
There, you can explore the exhibit hall, which showcases educational displays, wander through the botanical garden featuring tropical plant samples, and embark on a 1km lakeside trail. Adventurous souls can ascend the eight canopy towers, connected by 363m-long wooden canopy walkways, for an exhilarating bird's-eye view of the rainforest.
RDC is a paradise for birdwatchers and hosts the annual Borneo Bird Festival, featuring endemic birds like the Blue-headed Pitta, Blue-banded Pitta, and the large Bornean Ground Cuckoo.
Meeting Bornean sun bears
The Malayan sun bear, the world's smallest bear, is a Southeast Asian gem. Sadly, these elusive creatures face the threat of poaching and the black market trade of their body parts, believed to hold medicinal properties.
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) offers hope for these bears, providing rescued sun bears with rehabilitation and a safe haven. Home to 44 rescued ex-captive sun bears, the BSBCC allows them to explore and adapt to a natural habitat before eventual release into the wild.
While the sun bears can be shy and elusive, a keen eye might catch glimpses of them feeding or napping.
Cruising along the Kinabatangan river
Each year, the Kinabatangan floodplain beckons adventurers to explore its diverse wonders. Renowned as one of Southeast Asia's most biodiverse regions, the Kinabatangan floodplain is home to iconic Bornean wildlife, including pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles and various bird species like hornbills, kingfishers and egrets.
River cruises, available in the morning, afternoon and night, offer opportunities to spot these incredible creatures.
Turtles at Selingan Island
About 40km north of Sandakan lies Selingan Turtle Island, one of the three islands comprising the Turtle Islands National Park. This island serves as an essential nesting ground for green and hawksbill turtles. Selingan Island is not a luxury destination but an educational conservation site managed by the Sabah Wildlife Department.
During certain times of the year, up to 30 mother turtles come ashore to lay their eggs each night. Visitors have the privilege of witnessing egg-laying, relocating the eggs to the hatchery for safety, and releasing baby turtles into the sea.
Purchase your admission ticket using Klook promo code to grab more discounts.