KOTA KINABALU SABAH BORNEO
Kota
Kinabalu, a thriving capital of Sabah, grew out of a fishing village
at the very end of the 19th
century. Previously, Jesselton named after Sir Jessel, the
Vice-Chairman of British North Borneo Chartered Company, it became
known as Kota Kinabalu in 1968. The highest mountain in South East
Asia, Mt Kinabalu, towering over the city, inspired the new name.
The
builders of British Colonial Empire in Borneo suffered from malaria
and other tropical diseases. Atkinson Clock Tower has been built in
memory of one of the builders, who died in his twenties. History
mingles with new constantly expanding architecture. The past is well
documented and visible not only in the Sabah Museum. Interesting
photos and historical clippings from old papers are displayed in
restaurants and coffee shops.
There are many stories from the past. Wah-weh was
a lottery in which one needed to guess a number chosen from 36
numbered animals. A Chinese character selected as clue did not often
help to win. Original photo of a chief of horsemen Bajau tribe from
Kampung Mekabong is featured on a stamp for British North Borneo.
Tradition is represented in waterfront art markets
offering tribal crafts. Population of KK is a mixture of Malaysian,
Indian, Chinese and local tribes that contribute to fascinating
crafts and delicious cuisine. The harbor is a safe anchorage for
squid boats that rest during the day and fish at night with powerful
lights attracting squid.
Historical buildings mingle with numerous Mosques.
Signal Hill offers an excellent view of KK, the harbor and
surrounding islands. Kota Kinabalu is not just a starting point for
Mt Kinabalu climb. The climb to the Peak is one of the major
attractions and an exciting event for the fit. A walk in Kinabalu
Park however offers close contact with nature represented in amazing
flora and fauna, variety of orchids, rhododendrons and elusive
Rafflesia flowers.
Tanjung Aru is the most popular place to view
sunsets and has many restaurants and resorts along the beach.
KK is a city of thrilling tradition, history, and
adventure, not to be missed while visiting
Malaysia.
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