KUDAT SABAH The TIP of BORNEO MALAYSIA

KUDAT, SABAH, The Tip of BORNEO

The history of Kudat dates well before 1880s and its original name was Tomborungus. Owned by the Sultans of Brunei and Sulu and inhabited by Rungus Tribe, the settlement became the first capital of Sabah appointed to that status by British North Borneo Company. This is when Kudat acquired its name due to misunderstanding and mispronunciation – Rungus thought the British were enquiring about the grass called Kutad growing in this area and Tomborungus was rather difficult name to pronounce.

Kudat is a conglomerate of races, original inhabitants Rungus, Chinese brought here from Southern China to clear the jungle and establish coconut plantations and Malay.

The glory of Kudat as a capital of Sabah was short lived due to water shortages but nevertheless it continued to grow and develop into one of the prettiest towns in Sabah.  

Kudat is only 20 kilometres away from the Tip of Borneo. A visit to Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, the Tip of Borneo is rewarding, the views are spectacular, cafes and restaurants offer attractive cuisine, the rungus long-houses are worth visiting.

A drive through local villages and jungle is exciting and quite an experience in itself.

Back in Kudat there is a Chinese New Year celebration in progress. There are Lion Dances and music spreading through town.

It is wonderful to see that all inhabitants of Kudat take part and not just the Chinese community. The dances require a fair amount of fitness and can be exhausting, still young boys from all ethnic groups participate eagerly. The performance is enjoyable.

Kudat is an attractive town on its own. It is also a stepping step to the magnificent Tip of Borneo and Rungus culture. Visiting Kudat is an enjoyable experience.