Sabah Malaysian Borneo Buletin April 2007

RM 1.00

INSIDE: Spas in Kota Kinabalu, Island Escapes, Eating Out and more!

14th Regatta Lepa -Water Festival

April 2007 Volume 74April 2007 Volume 74

Climb and Build 2007April – July 2007This program encourages visitors, tourists andanyone visiting Sabah on holiday to contributetheir time in partnership with Habitat forHumanity to build homes for the needy.Interested participants are also welcome to par-ticipate in this good cause program during any-time of the year.Organiser: Habitat for Humanity Kota KinabaluFor further info:Jeannette Tong / Jessica RosiusTel: +60 88 264178, 264179, 016 8388718(Jeannette) Fax: +60 88 269089Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Good Friday6 April 2007A time when all Christians commemorate thecrucifixion of Jesus Christ in Mass services andprayer.For further info:Sabah Tourism BoardSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdTel: +60 88 212121, 232121Fax: +60 88 212075, 265540Email: [email protected]

Sabah Adventure Challenge 20076 – 8 April 2007This race remains as Malaysia’s oldest estab-lished adventure race and South East Asia’slongest running multi-day expedition adventurerace. Teams of two will navigate, mountain bike,trail run, hike and kayak of an estimated dis-tance of 200KM over three days in the lushCrocker Range of Borneo.Organiser: Dr. Claus PedersenAman Avtar S. SandhuFor further info:Avtar S. SandhuTel: +60 88 261770, 013 5419845 (Aman)Fax: +60 88 261070Email: [email protected]

Easter Sunday8 April 2007A meaningful celebration across the land asChristians mark the Resurrection of Christ.For further info:Sabah Tourism BoardSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdTel: +60 88 212121, 232121Fax: +60 88 212075, 265540

Email: [email protected]

Mulan – The Musical13-15 April 2007A musical favourite brought to you by the stu-dents of SRS Datuk Simon Fung. Come andwatch them bring the tale of Mulan to lifethrough song, dance and drama. The event willtake place at the Menara Tun MustaphaAuditorium. Shows on 13 and 14 April start at7:00 pm sharp and the afternoon matinee on 15April at begins at 2:00 pm. Tickets are pricedbetween RM20 and RM200.Organisers:SRS Datuk Simon FungFor further info:SRS Datuk Simon FungTel: +6088-431680

Pesta Kalimaran 200714 – 15 April 2007Join the folks of Tenom in this 2-day eventshowcasing the rich culture of the Murut people,one of Sabah’s unique indigenous groups asthey put up colourful and fascinating culturalperformances, handicraft demonstrations andsale booths plus many other exciting activities.Organiser:Sabah Cultural BoardFor further info:Mackey ApisonTel: +60 88 268812, 268884Fax: +60 88 264235Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Vasakhi Day14 April 2007Vasakhi celebrates the New Year in theNorthern Indian Calendar. It is also the birth ofKhalsa. During the celebration, all Gurdawars(Sikh Temple) conduct prayer services.Vegetarian food is served to all who visit theGurdawars.For further info: Sabah Tourism BoardSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdTel: +60 88 212121, 232121Fax: +60 88 212075, 265540Email: [email protected]

14th Regatta Lepa Semporna – Water Festival21 – 22 April 2007Semporna comes to life with the Bajau seafar-er’s unique festival of Regatta Lepa where acompetition of the most beautiful traditional sail-boats is held. Watch out also for other out of theordinary tele-matches like the boat tug-of-war,kayak race and boat racing. The town ofSemporna is also home to fresh seafood andgateway to the world’s best dive sites.Organisers:District Office of SempornaSri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn BhdFor further info:Jaafar Hj. IsmailZachary S. MobijohnTel: +60 89 781518, +60 88 232121Fax: +60 89 781472, +60 88 265540Email: [email protected]

Anzac Day25 April 2007An annual event to commemorate theAustralian and New Zealand Army servicemenwho fought during World War II in Sabah. Manyretired servicemen and family members fromAustralia and New Zealand make a pilgrimageto Sabah during this time of the year to remem-ber the fallen and the locals who risked their liveto help others.Organisers: Sandakan Municipal CouncilFor further info:Catherin ChuaTel: +60 89 224026, 275400Fax: +60 89 222964Email: [email protected]

Church of Mary Immaculate, Kota Kinabalu

Contents2 Feature Personality

3 Happenings & Highlights14th Regatta Lepa Semporna Water Festival

Pesta Kalimaran

Sabah Adventure Challenge

Mulan - The Musical

Anzac Day

Climb and Build 2007

6 Eating OutRestoran Rasa Penang

Anjappar Chettinad

7 Places of InterestWeston Wetland

8 Spa EssentialsSpas in Kota Kinabalu

10 FeatureIsland Escapes

12 Through The Lens

14 CultureSea Bajau

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 Sabah Art Gallery

The month of Aprilbrings plenty of sun-shine. What better time

to bask in the sun andexplore Sabah’s manyisland wonders! Thismonth, we bring you someof Sabah’s best beachesand island retreats (p.10).Whether you’re an aviddiver or a certified beachbum like yours truly, there’ssomething for everyone.The East Coast town ofSemporna is not only thegateway to some of the top dive sites;it is also the venue for the annualRegatta Lepa Water Festival (p.3).Every year, the Sea Bajau communityhonours the use of the Lepa, a tradi-tional sailing boat which have beenintegral part of their lives over gener-ations. A rainbow of colourful sailsmarks the sea as they parade theirlepas, vying for the title of MostBeautiful Lepa. On the West Coast,head to Tenom for the annualKalimaran Festival or PestaKalimaran (p.3), celebrated by theMurut people. Learn more about theirfascinating cultures and traditionsduring this celebration. A must-seeduring this event is the Lansaran display; a traditional game which willsee young men ‘bouncing’ on a platform!

After all that sun-soaking and exciting events, why not treat yourselfto a spa experience? The spa industryin Sabah is on the rise and there areplenty of establishments to choosefrom. In Spa Essentials (p.7), we feature some of our recommendedwellness centres to cater to yourneeds.

As for dining delights, we invited youto have a taste of Penang or Indiaright here in Kota Kinabalu (p.6).

On another note, the Sabah TourismAwards is now open for nominations.The prestigious awards ceremony willbe held in July this year, honouringthe crème de la crème of the tourismindustry. Closing date for submissionof nominations is April 16, 2007.

It’s another exciting month right herein Sabah and we hope the bulletincan be of assistance as you plan yourholiday. Don’t forget to bring homewonderful souvenirs to remind you ofyour time in Sabah and be sure toshow off that glorious tan!

ADVISOR YBhg. Dato’ Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin

EDITOR Melissa Leong

DESIGNER Trevor Thomson Lam C.W.

PUBLISHER Sabah Tourism Board 51 Gaya Street, 88000 Kota Kinabalu

TRANSLATORS Chin Yen Sang (Chinese) Rie Harada (Japanese)Emzee Lee (Korean) Cover photo by Lim Sheng Haw, © Sabah Tourism Board

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 ofthe Sabah Tourism Board.

Editorial

Melissa LeongEditor

Mataking Resort by night

F e a t u r e P e r s o n a l i t y • 2

To the Italians, food is more than sustenance. It is an art form, to beperfected over time and indulgently savoured. No one knows thisbetter than Nikolay Rocco, the Head Chef of The Mediterranean

Bar & Restaurant in Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu. “Ever since I was young,I observed my mother and grandmother in the kitchen, the way they prepared and cooked each meal. Food is such an important part of mylife… It’s a very Italian thing,” he explains. Nikolay’s choice to dabble inthe art of cooking was a practical one. “I was never the type to sit downand study for hours on end. I love being kept busy and I enjoy studying(the culinary arts) because it is a very hands-on experience,” he says,adding that he particularly enjoys preparing pasta.

His training began in Italy and for the last 17 years, his love for cookinghas taken him all around the world. Nikolay has worked in kitchens inHolland, Singapore, Guangzhou and Shanghai in China. Less than a yearago, the opportunity to work in Sabah knocked on his door and he has beenhere ever since. “I love it here. It is a clean place, with no pollution and bestof all, I really appreciate the clear skies. Having worked in big cities whereyou hardly see blue skies, Sabah is a wonderful change for me,” saysNikolay, who hails from Turin, Italy. His stint in China allowed him to pick upMandarin. “It’s not very good, but better than my Malay. I’m still picking upsome words here and there,” he tells. Although his specialty is Italian fare,Nikolay is adventurous when it comes to sampling local delights and isquick to say that he loves every bite! “I’ll eat anything, from nasi campur(mixed rice) to dim sum and bak kut teh,” he said. Any exceptions? “I cantake spicy food but not sweet and sour dishes. It’s not exactly my taste,”he confesses.

His has a variety of signature dishes at the newly-establishedMediterranean restaurant but said that one can never go wrong withchocolate cake. “Everybody loves chocolate!” he says with a smile.Nikolay is very dedicated to his work and is always working on ways tocome up with something new. “Flavour and taste are everything.Above all, your food must taste good. Presentation is important aswell, but people will remember a good meal more than how prettytheir food looked!” he stresses. With his six-day week, Nikolay haslimited time to spend with his wife and two children, aged 4 years and3 months, but they make the effort to visit the many sights Sabah hasto offer. “I’ve been to Kinabalu Park, Sandakan and the nearbyislands. One of the places I must visit is Danum Valley,” he adds. Inthe meantime, Nikolay is very happy creating his masterpieces atThe Mediterranean, where he will be observing the best sunsetsand blue skies from his kitchen – an ‘office space’ only some of uscan dream of!

@ The Mediterranean@ The Mediterranean

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

The lepa, a traditional woodensailing boat, is an integral partof the life of the Sea Bajau’s

(Bajau Laut). During the annualRegatta Lepa, the residents ofSemporna commemorate the use ofthis single-mast sailing boat.Colourful and dazzling lepa line thewaterfront, decked with smilingfaces of dancers, musicians andtheir family members who sing andcheer on the dancers. The regatta isan opportunity for them to proudlyshow off their boats in the event’shighlight competition to choose themost beautiful lepa.

The lepa plays a significant rolein the lives of the Sea Bajau, whowere traditionally sea nomads,rarely setting food on land. The lepais usually made of ubar suluk (redseraya) wood, featuring intricatecarvings. Brightly coloured sails(sambulayang) and tapis (small triangular flags) further adorn theboats

Don’t miss an interesting varietyof local sports and games. Lumbadayung (rowing competition) seesexperienced boatmen paddle theirway to the finish line. You won’t findthe conventional tug-of-war here:

rivals tug at the ropes from theirfloating boats! Traditional dancersperform the catchy Daling Daling (anupbeat courting dance that derivesits name from the English word,‘Darling’) and will have your feet tapping to the beat.

There’s plenty to see and dowhen in Semporna. Check out theinteresting sights such as the floating Semporna Ocean TourismCentre, located at the famousDragon Inn.

Love seafood? You have come tothe right place as the local seafoodmarket boasts a wide variety.Semporna is also the gateway toSabah’s gorgeous east coastislands –Sipadan, Mataking, Mabuland Kapalai, perfect for divers andbeach lovers alike. Be prepared todiscover a whole new world underwater at these spectacular islands!

Only 45 minutes by road fromTawau Airport, Semporna is theplace to be this April. See you at theRegatta Lepa!For further details, please contact Zachary Mobijohn at SriPelancongan Sabah at tel.088-232121 or e-mail [email protected]

14th Regatta LepaSemporna – Water

Festival, 21–22 April

The Pesta Kalimaran, held in conjunction with the TenomCultural Carnival, is a 2-day cultural event at Tenom, celebrating and honouring the Murut people and their

traditions. The event will feature a myriad of activities includingtraditional games such as the Lansaran, sale and display of ethnic handicraft and a drawing competition for children. ThePesta Kalimaran is also the best opportunity to witness some ofthe Murut community’s lively and unique traditional dances,including Alang Ra Illau, Lumansar, Antitiopoh, Antabung,Saminali, Alang Ra Amol and the famous bamboo dance, theMagunatip. Visitors can make their way to the Murut CulturalCentre in Tenom as early as 7 am and festivities will run till latenight. Other highlights include the final round of the Murut BeautyPageant and an exhibition on Murut traditions and history. When in Tenom, swing by the sprawling Sabah Agriculture Park,a 1,500-acre establishment which houses beautifully landscapedgardens. For more information, please contact Mackey Apison of theSabah Cultural Board at 088-268884 or fax 088-264235. E-mail [email protected].

Tenom Cultural Carnival – Pesta Kalimaran, 14–15 April

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

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

Malaysia’s oldest establishedadventure race and SouthEast Asia’s longest running

multi-day expedition is set to takeplace on 6–8 April. The SabahAdventure Challenge will seeteams of two navigate, mountainbike, trail run, hike and kayak foran estimated distance of 200 kmover three days in the lush CrockerRange of Borneo. This year,participants will venture into new

areas along the west coast ofSabah. It will be three days of non-stop adventure and action, testingthe limits of mental and physicalendurance. Are you up for the challenge?For more information, pleasecontact Aman Avtar S. Sandhu at 088-26770 or 012 827 0757. [email protected] [email protected]

SabahAdventureChallenge,6–8 April

Featuring the young talents of SRS Datuk Simon Fung, Mulan – theMusical is a fun-filled production for all to enjoy. Also hailed as one ofDisney’s most successful animation, the tale of the spirited Mulan and

her wondrous adventures have captured the hearts of many time and timeagain. Don’t miss this heart-warming and feet-tapping performance!

Mulan – the Musical will take place at the Menara Tun MustaphaAuditorium. Shows on 13 and 14 April start at 7:00 pm sharp. There is alsoan afternoon matinee on 15 April at 2:00 pm. Tickets are priced betweenRM20 and RM200.For more information or to purchase tickets, please call088-431680.

Mulan – The Musical, 13-15 April

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

Anzac Day celebrations, on 25 April each year, commemorate servicemen and women from Australiaand New Zealand who fought in Sabah during World War

II, particularly prisoners of war (POW) who took part in the‘Death March’ from Sandakan to Ranau. Family membersoften make a pilgrimage to Sabah to pay tribute to their fallenancestors at this time of the year. For more information, please contact Catherin Chua of theSandakan Municipal Council at tel. no 089-275400 or fax 089-222964. E-mail [email protected]

Anzac Day, 25 April

HighlightsDragonair brings daily flights from KKto Hong Kong

Dragonair will increase thenumber of flights betweenHong Kong and KotaKinabalu from four a weekto daily beginning April 2,2007 to meet growingdemand. Dragonair is aHong Kong-based airlineand part of the Cathay

Pacific Group. For more information, visit their website at www.dragonair.com.

The Kota Kinabalu InternationalAirport Terminal 2 was officiallyunveiled on February 14, 2007and launched by Prime MinisterDatuk Seri Abdullah AhmadBadawi. The RM60 million airportwas completed in record time andstarted operations on January 1this year to coincide with the startof Visit Malaysia Year 2007.

Prime Ministers Launches New KotaKinabalu International Airport Terminal 2

Visitors to Sabah can experi-ence a day or more at aHabitat for Humanity worksite

as volunteers to build a home forsomeone in need. Habitat for

Humanity welcomes visitors to spend time as volunteers; an experience that will provide you with a lasting impression as youjoin forces to build homes for the less fortunate. Volunteers canalso grab the opportunity to climb Mount Kinabalu as part of theirstint. Habitat for Humanity started its activities in Kota Kinabalu in2004. The organization builds homes with volunteer workers. Thehomes are not free. Home owners act in partnership with Habitatcontributing a minimum of 400 hours in ‘sweat equity’. The homesare built at cost, with no interest and profit. Repayment is normally over a period of 10 years, with the revolving fund rein-vested for future homes. Be part of this good cause while you visitthe Land Below the Wind!For more information, please contact Habitat for Humanity(Kota Kinabalu Affiliate) at telephone no. 088-264178/9, fax088-269089 and e-mail [email protected]

Sabah Tourism Awards 2007Open for Nominations

All relevant tourism players are invited to submit their nominations for the prestigious Sabah Tourism Awards,which will take place in July this year. Categories include

Best Restaurant, Best Entertainment Spot, Best Tour Guide, BestTour Operator, Best Tourism Article on Sabah and many more.For a complete list of the awards, nomination forms are availableat the Sabah Tourism Board or Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn.Bhd. information counters. Log on to www.sabahtourism.com formore details.

Announcement

Climb and Build 2007April-July 2007

©Sabah Tourism

E a t i n g O u t • 6

Looking for a taste of Penang? You’ll find it righthere at Rasa Penang Restaurant and Café.Located in the up-and-coming township of

Alamesra, Rasa Penang is truly a hidden gem inKota Kinabalu. The family-run business opened itsdoors in late January and has quickly gathered itsshare of fans. According to owner, Alan Oh (whohails from Penang), Rasa Penang serves an arrayof authentic hawker-type food. 'How authentic isthe food', you ask? The ‘chefs extraordinaire’ arenone other than Alan’s parents! Among its specialties include Penang Prawn Mee, NasiLemak and the famous Penang Fried Koay Teow.However, a definite must-try is the fragrant PenangAssam Laksa – a delicious bowl of noodles servedin a tangy fish-based soup. Simply mouthwatering!For a lighter meal, try the chicken lobak, prawn fritter and beancurd platter, served with sweetpotato flour and chilli with sesame sauces. Saveroom for dessert: the classic Ais Kacang (shavedice served with a mix of jelly, red beans and syrup)is heavenly and the Iced Cendol (green jelly

served with shaved ice, coconut milk,and Gula Melaka) will not disappoint!Rasa Penang is a great place forlunch or dinner, thanks to its quickservice, ample parking space and airy ambience.Rasa Penang is located atLot 124, Block N, LorongPlaza Permai 3, Alamesra,88400, Kota Kinabalu.Business hours are from9 am to 6 pm(Monday–Friday) and 9am to 9 pm (Saturday,Sunday and PublicHolidays). Closed onTuesdays. Catering serv-ices available. Does notserve pork. For moreinformation, please con-tact Alan Oh or AlbertOh at 088-447073.

Rasa Penang Restaurant & Café

Fans of Indian cuisine can find delightin the newly opened Anjappar restaurant, located at Kota Kinabalu’s

Asia City Complex. Anjappar is a chain ofrestaurants that specializes in Chettinadcuisine, which finds its roots in the Chettiarcommunity of southern India. The Chettiarpeople are known for their traveling waysand this is reflected in their unique blend ofspices which combines flavours from Indiaas well as Southeast Asia. Although muchIndian food is vegetarian, Chettinad cuisine incorporates meat and seafood inmany of their dishes. The restaurant is acosy establishment which can seat up to60 people. A popular favorite is the LambSukka Varuval – tender cuts of lamb mari-nated in crushed peppercorns and friedwith onions and curry leaves. A word ofcaution: The spices kick in after a fewbites, so have some mango lassi on standby to cool your tongue! Also give theirsignature dish, Anjappar Chicken, a try.Imagine chicken cubes marinated in a special blend of spices and cashews – adelicious explosion of flavours you won’t

soon forget! You can enjoy it dry or servedwith gravy. Other must-tries include ButterChicken and Lollipop Chicken, bestenjoyed with a serving of briyani rice andpappadum (lentil crackers). For dessert,we highly recommend the Gulab Jamun –soft-milk based dumplings in spiced syrup.A warm dessert that simply melts in yourmouth! Don’t worry about the spicy dishes– diners can request their dishes to be prepared to their preference, be it mild orextra spicy. And the best part? Prices areextremely affordable! With restaurants inIndia, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Canada,Singapore and Sri Lanka, AnjapparChettinad is now in Sabah. For authenticChetinnad cuisine, Anjappar is the place togo.

Anjappar Chettinad is located at Lot G-49, Ground Floor, Asia City Complex.Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.For more information or to make reservations, please call 088-484969 or088-277969. Visit the website at www.anjapparborneo.com

Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

7P l a c e s o f I n t e r e s t

One of Sabah’s hidden treasures, Weston Wetland isa fantastic getaway for the nature-lover. Make yourway to the small town of Weston. Your boat ride to

the Weston Wetland Retreat begins from the 100-year oldjetty by the village. The lodge is an establishment built in theheart of Weston’s swamp area, offering plenty to see anddo. Lodging is basic and dormitory-style; a wooden ‘long-house’ with common bathrooms. Go on a river cruise insearch of the elusive Proboscis Monkey, cheeky macaquesand flying fox. Along the way, learn crab-catching the traditional way. A hike along the nature trail will lead you tomany exotic pitcher plants growing wild. In the evening,enjoy a home-cooked meal at the Kingfisher Lounge, builton stilts and offering a panoramic view of the wetlands.When the lights go off, it’s show time! Hundreds of fireflieslight up the trees, illuminating the stillness of the night.Another must-do activity? Star-gazing. The brilliant night skydazzling with stars will be a sight not soon forgotten righthere at the Weston Wetland.

Weston is a two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu and only 20minutes from the district of Beaufort. Transportationarrangements can be made with the operator of WestonWetland Retreat, Borneo Eco Stay. Contact Mr. Tay Wee Letat tel. no 088-239476 or 019 821 8038. E-mail [email protected] or visit the website atwww.westonwetland.com

WestonWetland

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

S p a E s s e n t i a l s • 8

After a long day of shopping and exploring KK City, nothing beats a relaxing session at the spa. Kota Kinabalu offerssome of the best wellness centres, from luxurious havens to cosy corners. Here are some of the recommended spasin Kota Kinabalu:

Jari Jari: Award-winning Jari Jari offers a Sabahan spa experiencelike no other. A must-try is the Dusun traditional massage, hailedthe Best Traditional Treatment at the Malaysia Spa & WellnessAwards 2006. Location: Lot 2.1, Block B, 2nd Floor, Tanjung AruPlaza. Tel.: 088-272606. Visit www.jarijari.com.my, [email protected]

Six Senses: A small cosy establishment, Six Senses is known forits hot stone massages and ‘lulur’ (body scrub). Also offers the traditional Chinese ‘Gua Sa’ treatment. Transportation servicesavailable. Location: Lot 2-1-2, Phase 2, Kolam Centre Hilltop. Tel.:088-213 163

Just Relax: Located in the heart of the city, Just Relax is a placefor foot reflexology, body massages and ear candling – a uniquetechnique to remove toxins from the body. Location: Lot 47, BlockF, Asia City. Tel.: 088-246700 / 012 837 7000

Ka’andaman Spa: With A welcoming and relaxing ambience,Ka’andaman is famous for its herbal baths and has various packages to suit your preference. The spa also has a branch on Mabul Island. Location: KM8, Hongkod Koisaan, Jalan Penampang. Tel.: 088-721008. E-mail: [email protected]. Visit www.kaandamanspa.com.my

KK Herbal Spa Reflexology Therapy Centre: A no-frills centrefamous for its reflexology techniques and herbal massages. Offersdoor to door services. Location: Lot 4, 1st Floor, Wisma Damai,Jalan Damai Luyang. Tel.: 088-228252 / 013 553 0338 / 012 8331115 (Shelly).

Cres Moment: With branches around Malaysia, Cres Moment is aclassy establishment located at Warisan Square. Check out theirsignature treatments, the Shiatsu back massage andAromatherapy body massage. Location: Lot A-G-08, A-01-08 & A-01-09, Block A, Warisan Square. Tel.: 088-447833.

©Sabah Tourism

Some prefer the rugged terrain ofSabah’s many rainforests, whileothers rise to the challenge of

Mount Kinabalu. Sabah’s allures areaplenty, but if you really want to fall inlove with her, an island escape will haveyou swooning for more.

The combination of soft sand underyour feet, the tropical heat on your skinand blue green waters beckoning you isnothing short of romantic. Sabah ishome to many island escapes, somerenowned for their diving sites whileothers are the perfect getaway for doingabsolutely nothing at all. Whatever yourchoice, the perfect pulau (island) awaitsyou. Don’t forget the sunblock!

Tunku Abdul Rahman ParkThe nearest group of islands to Kota

Kinabalu city, the Tunku Abdul RahmanPark is the island hoppers’ haven. It ismade up of five islands – Manukan,Mamutik, Gaya, Sapi and Sulug. Manukan,Mamutik and Sapi are popular picks,famous for the variety of water sports. Sapiand Sulug are ideal for sunbathing and alazy day out while Gaya’s charm lies in itsresort. The best part is these islands are amere 20 minutes away from KK city.

Mabul IslandTravel to the east coast of Sabah to the

town of Semporna, the gateway to some ofthe best dive spots and breathtaking

beaches in the region. If you are an aviddiver, chances are that Mabul would be onyour to-dive list (right next to Sipadan, ofcourse). Great for muck diving, Mabulboasts of being one of the best macro divesites in the world. A seasoned scuba diverfrom the U.S once commented, “It was likebeing in an aquarium!” Mabul is also hometo some of the best island resorts. But non-divers fret not. There’s also a fantasticfloating spa with a glorious view of the sea!

Kapalai IslandIronically, Kapalai isn’t quite an island.

This floating marvel (also off the coast ofSemporna) is made up of stunning waterbungalows connected by an extensivewooden boardwalk. The water is so clearthat visitors can spend hours just staring atthe myriad of marine life swimming below,from beautiful lionfish to graceful squid.When the sun sets, go kayaking or simplyenjoy the view from your bathroom as youluxuriously soak yourself in your bathtub.

Mataking IslandMataking Island is located furthest from

the east coast of Sabah, but the one-hourjourney by speedboat is worth it. TheMataking Dive Resort (the sole operator onthe island) will welcome you like a king andensures you are treated like nothing lessthan royalty throughout your stay.Mataking, like all its neighbouring islands,offers great dive spots but the island also

wins the award of being Most RomanticIsland Escape, hands down. Maybe it’s thelong walks with a loved one along thesandbank during low tide or the constantbreeze caressing your face as you enjoy acocktail by the bar. Whatever it is,Mataking has that magical something thatkeeps honeymooners and love-struck twosomes falling in love over and overagain! Visit www.mataking.com

Lankayan IslandSandakan may be famous for its wildlife

and historical sites, but if you care to ven-ture further off the coast, Lankayan islandpromises a pleasant surprise. The firstthing you’ll notice is the soft white sandand sparkling waters. This postcard-perfect setting will make you wish younever have to leave! Apart from diving,Lankayan is great for sunset swims, after-noon siestas in a hammock outside yourcabin or marvelling at the black-tip babysharks that swim right up to the shore.Visit http://www.lankayan-island.com/

Without a doubt, Sabah will spoil you withits variety of island escapes, be it on thewest or east coast. For more information ora complete list of islands to visit, log on towww.sabahtourism.com or check with yourlocal dive operators.

By Melissa Leong

slandi

10

F e a t u r e • 1 1

EscapesMoonlight at Mabul

Lankayan Island

Mabul island

Mabul at sunset Fish feeding at Mataking

Parasailing at Manukan

Romantic Mataking

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

The Sea Bajau (Bajau Laut) of Sabah belong to a group ofsea peoples who, before international boundaries criss-crossed the Sulu Sea, spent their entire lives on their

traditional wooden sailing boats (lepa) in the area now boundedby the southern Philippines and the eastern coasts of Sabah andKalimantan. Given their surroundings, the Sea Bajau were fisher-men, often drying their catch to preserve it until reaching a mar-ket. Occasional brief landings allowed them to trade their catchfor other essential foodstuffs and to collect firewood and freshwater. They also buried their dead on land.

Now, most Sea Bajau have settled in the district of Sempornaand Tawau, primarily in water villages along the shore of themainland and the nearby islands and also on offshore reefs.Many Sea Bajau are still dependent on the sea for their livelihood,while others are engaged in the cultivation of seaweed. Their traditional dances are called the Igal Igal – a graceful dance withgentle hand movements – and the upbeat Daling Daling. Anothersignificant symbol of the Sea Bajau is the lepa. This traditionalboat provides both home and transport and is usually made ofhardwoods such as gagis, ubar suluk or seraya. Every April during the Regatta Lepa, the town of Semporna comes alive asthey commemorate beautiful lepa and its importance in the livesof the Sea Bajau over generations.

Reference: 'The Sea Bajau' by Henry Coleman, BorneoMagazine, Vol.2, No.5, 1996

Sea Bajau

8 C u l t u r e

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©Sabah Tourism

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

Lepa ialah sejenis perahu tradisionalyang diperbuat daripada kayu.Semasa Regatta Lepa yang diadakan

pada setiap tahun ini, penduduk Sempornamemperingati kegunaan perahu layar ini.Lepa yang berwarna-warni dan cantik tersusun di pesisir pantai. Para penari yangayu dan manis, pemain muzik sertaanggota keluarga mereka akan berada didalam lepa. Regatta ini merupakan peluang untuk mereka menunjukkan perahu mereka dengan penuh kebanggaan. Kemuncak acara ialah pertandingan memilih lepa tercantik.

Lepa memainkan peranan pentingdalam kehidupan Bajau Laut yang tradisinya berkelana di lautan. Merekajarang menjejakkan kaki ke daratan. Lepabiasanya diperbuat daripada kayu ubarsuluk (seraya merah), dihiasi dengan ukiran-ukiran menarik. Layar berwarnacerah, dikenali sebagai sambulayang dantapis (bendera segi tiga yang kecil), tambah mengindahkan perahu ini.

Jangan lepaskan peluang untukmenonton pelbagai sukan dan permainantempatan yang menarik. Dalam LumbaDayung kita akan menyaksikan pesertaberkayuh pantas menuju ke garisan penamat. Anda tidak akan melihat tarik tali

yang biasa di sini. Lawan menarik tali dari perahu yang terapung! Penari-penari tradisional mempersembahkan DalingDaling (tarian menggoda yang rancak yangmendapat namanya daripada perkataanInggeris, ‘Darling’) yang membuatkan kakianda bergoyang mengikut irama.

Banyak yang boleh dilihat dandilakukan apabila berada di Semporna.Saksikan pemandangan indah sepertiPusat Pelancongan Laut Semporna yangterapung, terletak di Dragon Inn yangterkenal.

Gemar makanan laut? Anda datang ketempat yang betul. Di sini, kedai makananlaut tempatan menawarkan hidangan yangpelbagai. Semporna juga merupakan pintugerbang ke pulau-pulau pantai timur Sabah- Sipadan, Mataking, Mabul dan Kapalai;sesuai untuk penyelam dan pencinta laut.Bersedialah untuk melihat dunia baharubawah air di pulau-pulau indah ini!

Hanya 45 minit melalui jalan raya dariLapangan Terbang Tawau, Semporna ialahtempat untuk dituju April ini. Jumpa anda diRegatta Lepa!Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungiZachary Mobijohn di Sri PelanconganSabah menerusi talian 088-232121 ataue-mel [email protected]

Pesta Kalimaran - diadakan bersempena dengan Karnival KebudayaanTenom - ialah acara kebudayaan selama dua hari di Tenom, meraikandan memberi penghormatan kepada kaum Murut dan tradisi mereka.

Acara ini akan mengetengahkan aktiviti yang pelbagai termasuklah permainan tradisional seperti Lansaran, jualan dan pameran kraftanganetnik serta peraduan melukis untuk kanak-kanak. Pesta Kalimaran jugaadalah peluang terbaik untuk menyaksikan tarian-tarian tradisional unik danrancak masyarakat Murut, termasuklah Alang Ra Illau, Lumansar,Antitiopoh, Antabung, Saminali, Alang Ra Amol dan tarian buluh yang terkenal, Magunatip. Pelawat boleh berkunjung ke Pusat KebudayaanMurut di Tenom seawal 7:00 pagi dan perayaan akan diteruskan sehinggalewat malam. Acara kemuncak lain termasuklah pusingan akhir Ratu CantikMurut dan pameran tradisi serta sejarah Murut.

Apabila berada di Tenom, bersiar-siarlah di Taman Pertanian Sabah,kawasan seluas 1,500 ekar yang dihiasi taman-taman berlandskap indah.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Mackey Apison dari LembagaKebudayaan Sabah di talian 088-268884 atau faks 088-264235. [email protected].

Karnival Kebudayaan Tenom- Pesta Kalimaran, 14-15 April

Regatta Lepa Semporna ke-14 - Pesta Air 21-22 April

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©Sabah Tourism

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

Ingin tahu sedikit tentangPulau Pinang? Anda akanmenemuinya di Rasa

Penang Restaurant and Cafe.Terletak di kawasan yangsemakin meningkat iaituAlamesra, Rasa Penangsememangnya permatatersembunyi di Kota Kinabalu.Perniagaan yang diuruskankeluarga ini membuka pintunya pada lewat Januaridan dengan cepat mengumpulramai peminat. Menurut pemiliknya, Alan Oh (berasaldari Pulau Pinang), RasaPenang menghidangkanmakanan asli pelbagai jenis.Seasli mana makanan yanganda minta? ‘Tukang masakluar biasanya’ tidak lain tidakbukan ibu bapa Alan sendiri!Antara hidangan istimewa ter-masuklah Mee Udang Penang,Nasi Lemak dan Koay TeowGoreng Penang yang terkenal.Bagaimanapun, hidanganyang mesti dicuba ialah AssamLaksa Penang yang menyelerakan - semangkukmee dicampur dengan kuahikan. Memang menyelerakan!untuk hidangan lebih ringan,cubalah ayam lobak, udang

goreng dan tauhu goreng, dihidang dengan tepung ubimanis dan lada serta sos.Sediakan ruang untuk pencucimulut: Ais Kacang yang klasik(ais kisar dicampur beberapajenis agar-agar, kacang merahdan sirap) memang sedap danCendol Ais (agar-agar hijaudicampur ais kisar dan GulaMelaka) pasti tidak akanmengecewakan! Rasa Penangadalah tempat sesuai untukmakan tenga hari atau makanmalam kerana perkhidmatan-nya yang cepat, ruang letakkenderaan mencukupi sertapersekitarannya yang sejuk.Rasa Penang terletak di Lot124, Block N, Lorong PlazaPermai 3, Alamesra, 88400,Kota Kinabalu. Waktu perni-agaan 9:00 pagi hingga 6:00petang (Isnin-Jumaat) dan9:00 pagi hingga 9:00 malam(Sabtu, Ahad dan CutiUmum). Ditutup padaSelasa. Perkhidmatan kater-ing disediakan. Tidakmenghidangkan dagingkhinzir. Untuk maklumat lan-jut, sila hubungi Alan Ohatau Albert Oh di talian 088-447073.

Hari Anzac diadakan pada 25 April setiap tahun untuk memperingati petugas lelaki dan wanita dari New Zealanddan Australia yang berjuang ketika Perang Dunia Kedua di

Sabah, khususnya tahanan-tahanan perang (POW) yangmengambil bahagian dalam ‘Perarakan Maut’ dari Sandakan keRanau. Anggota keluarga selalunya datang ke Sabah untuk memberi penghormatan kepada moyang mereka pada bulan inisetiap tahun.Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila hubungi Catherin Chua dariMajlis Perbandaran Sandakan di talian 089-275400 atau faks089-222964. E-mel [email protected]

Hari Anzac, 25 April

Mari Makan!Rasa Penang Restaurant and Café

©Sabah Tourism

©Sabah Tourism

Sabah Malaysian Borneo Buletin April 2007

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Transcript of Sabah Malaysian Borneo Buletin April 2007