Sabah
Often referred to as the 'Land below the wind' because it lies below the typhoon belt, Sabah occupies the eastern part of North Borneo and is East Malaysia's second largest state with an area of 74,500 sq km. Sabah has the South China Sea on the west and the Sulu and Celebes Seas on the east.
Mountainous and largely carpeted by lush tropical rainforests, its population of nearly two million is made up of 32 colourful ethnic communities.
Kota Kinabalu, the capital, lies in a fertile lowland plain where most commercial and administrative activities are concentrated. However, the 'real' Sabah can best be found in its countryside.
Kinabalu Park has been listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site, due to the diversity of plant life and wildlife. It provides a challenging climb amidst a lush virgin rainforest, where one can find hidden hot springs in cool altitudes.
Sipadan Island off the south eastern coast of Sabah, has been one of the top five dive sites in the world for years. This is attributed to its unique underwater geography that encourages proliferation of wildlife. Leatherback turtles, barracuda and white tipped sharks are a common sight while diving in Sipadan.
For more information on Malaysia, please log on these websites:
www.virtualmalaysia.com
www.tourism.gov.my
www.motour.gov.my
