Local Culture Experience and Activities in Sabah for Travellers

Sabah is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, offering rich traditions, festivals, and unique local markets that give travelers an authentic cultural experience. From indigenous rituals to bustling night markets, here’s a guide to the best cultural experiences in Sabah’s major towns. Each event and location listed will provide insight into Sabah’s diverse communities, including the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, Murut, and Chinese.

1. Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is the heart of Sabah, offering a blend of modernity and traditional culture.

• Tamu Gaya Street Market
  Every Sunday morning, the Gaya Street Market is packed with stalls selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional food. This is the best place to experience local culture while enjoying street performances and mingling with local traders.
  Location: Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu
  Time: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Sundays)
  Social Media: Facebook

• Mari Mari Cultural Village
  This cultural village provides an immersive experience of Sabah’s five main indigenous groups, showcasing traditional houses, food, dances, and cultural practices. Visitors can participate in various activities such as rice wine tasting and fire-starting techniques.
  Location: Inanam, Kota Kinabalu
  Social Media: Instagram
  Website: Mari Mari

• Sabah International Folklore Festival
  A unique cultural festival where international and local folklore performers showcase their traditional dances and music. Held annually in KK, this is a must-see for travelers interested in folk culture.
  Location: Sabah Cultural Centre
  Date: Typically held in July
  Social Media: Facebook

2. Sandakan

Sandakan is rich in history and culture, offering experiences that connect travelers with the town’s heritage.

• Sandakan Heritage Trail
  A self-guided walking trail that takes you through key historical sites in Sandakan, including the Agnes Keith House, St. Michael’s Church, and the Chinese temple. The trail offers a deeper understanding of Sandakan’s diverse culture and its role in Sabah’s history.
  Location: Sandakan Town
  Website: Sandakan Heritage Trail

• Tamu Sandakan
  The local market in Sandakan is held weekly and offers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. It’s a wonderful way to experience the everyday life of the locals.
  Location: Bandar Sandakan
  Time: Saturday Mornings

• Pesta Tadau Kaamatan Sandakan
  This is a celebration of the Kadazan-Dusun people’s harvest festival. Visitors can experience traditional dance, food, and the Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant.
  Date: May (Annual)
  Location: Sandakan Town

3. Tawau

Tawau is known for its vibrant mix of cultures, offering a blend of activities for travelers.

• Tawau Tamu Market
  Tawau’s tamu (open market) is a popular spot for buying fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional snacks. It’s the perfect place to experience local life and get a taste of Tawau’s multi-ethnic culture.
  Location: Tanjung Market, Tawau
  Time: Saturday and Sunday Mornings
  Contact: tawau_market@tawau.gov.my

• Sabah Fest
  Tawau hosts its own version of Sabah Fest, showcasing local dance and music performances. The festival is a colorful display of culture, making it one of the best times to visit Tawau.
  Date: Annually in May
  Location: Tawau Town Centre

• Teck Guan Cocoa Museum
  Learn about the history of cocoa production in Tawau, the largest cocoa-producing area in Malaysia. The museum gives an insightful tour into how cocoa is produced, its cultural importance, and offers chocolate-tasting sessions.
  Location: Tanjung Batu Laut, Tawau
  Social Media: Teck Guan Museum

4. Lahad Datu

Known for its eco-tourism and indigenous culture, Lahad Datu is ideal for cultural explorers.

• Tamu Lahad Datu
  Held every weekend, the local tamu offers various goods including traditional handicrafts, fresh seafood, and agricultural products from surrounding villages. It is a bustling market that allows visitors to mingle with locals and learn about traditional trade.
  Location: Lahad Datu Town
  Time: Saturdays & Sundays

• Borneo Rainforest Lodge
  Visitors can enjoy night walks in Danum Valley to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. The guides share the cultural and ecological significance of the area, which is important to local indigenous communities.
  Location: Danum Valley, Lahad Datu
  Website: Borneo Nature Tours

5. Semporna

Semporna is the gateway to the famous islands but is also rich in local Bajau culture.

• Regatta Lepa Festival
  This is an annual festival in Semporna celebrating the seafaring Bajau community. Traditional Lepa boats are beautifully decorated, and the festival includes music, dance, and cultural competitions.
  Date: April (Annual)
  Location: Semporna Waterfront
  Social Media: Facebook

• Tamu Semporna
  Visit the tamu for fresh seafood, handicrafts, and traditional Bajau snacks. The market offers a lively atmosphere, perfect for experiencing local culture.
  Location: Semporna Town
  Time: Weekends

• Kapalai Island Cultural Homestays
  Experience traditional Bajau Laut (Sea Gypsies) culture by staying at a homestay on Kapalai Island. This gives travelers a unique insight into the life of this maritime community.
  Location: Kapalai Island, Semporna
  Contact: kapalai_homestay@semporna.org