Situated in the West Coast Division of Sabah, Malaysia, Kota Belud enchants with its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage.
This bustling town, renowned as the "Rice Bowl of Sabah," offers a captivating blend of traditional village life, natural wonders, and unique cultural experiences.
Nestled between the majestic Mount Kinabalu and the azure South China Sea, Kota Belud boasts a fascinating topography. Its sprawling verdant paddy fields, where farmers toil under the sun, are testament to the region's agricultural significance. Besides rice, the region also yields an array of other crops such as vegetables, fruits, and coconut, painting a beautiful agricultural mosaic.
"Tamu" - The Vibrant Sunday Market
A visit to Kota Belud is incomplete without a trip to the town's vibrant Sunday Market, locally known as "Tamu." The largest open-air market in Sabah, the Tamu attracts locals and tourists alike with a wide range of goods including fresh produce, traditional food, livestock, handicrafts, and even pearl jewellery. Here, the intricate beaded crafts and the traditional knife, 'parang', made by the Bajau and Dusun tribes, make for wonderful souvenirs.
The "Cowboys of the East"
Kota Belud's cultural richness is drawn from its diverse ethnic groups, notably the Bajau, Dusun, and Kadazan peoples. The Bajau people, often known as the 'Cowboys of the East,' exhibit exceptional horsemanship, which is proudly displayed during the annual Bajau Horsemen event. The traditional costume of the Bajau horsemen, the brilliant colors of their 'Baju Sampit,' and the exhilarating horse races make this event a truly remarkable spectacle.
Equally captivating is the region's natural beauty. Just off Kota Belud's coast are the tranquil Mantanani Islands, where white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life make it an underwater paradise for divers and snorkelers.
For adventure enthusiasts, Kota Belud offers the challenging trek up Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia's highest peaks. Meanwhile, bird watchers will find the nearby wetlands of Sungai Padas a haven for various bird species.
Despite its rural charm, Kota Belud doesn't lag in contemporary conveniences. It offers a range of accommodations, from homestays that provide a glimpse into traditional village life to modern resorts with luxurious amenities. Local eateries serve a variety of delicious regional cuisine, where the freshness of locally sourced ingredients truly shines.
Kota Belud embodies the soul of Sabah with its natural splendor, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, an adventurer, or a food enthusiast, Kota Belud offers a tapestry of experiences that celebrate the essence of Malaysian Borneo.
So take a detour from the well-trodden tourist paths and discover the rustic charm of Kota Belud, an unpolished gem in the heart of Sabah.
