Lahad Datu

Known as the capital of the Lahad Datu District in the Tawau Division of Sabah, the town is surrounded with cocoa and palm oil plantations. Besides that, it is also a valuable timber exporting port and the city even has its own airport for domestic flights.

Back in the 15th century, a settlement is believed to have existed here as excavations have unearthed Ming dynasty Chinese ceramics. Located east of Lahad Datu is the village of Tunku, a notorious base for pirates and slave traders in the 19th century.

It is believed to be the first site in northern Borneo where Islam was first introduced, based on a Jawi manuscript in the Ida’an language dated 1408 A.D. The Jawi manuscript gives an account of an Ida’an man named Abdullah in Darvel Bay who embraced Islam.

WHAT TO DO IN LAHAD DATU

TALIWAS FORESTRY & RECREATION AREA (TALIWAS PARK)

Taliwas park is the best camping site in Sabah and it is managed by Yayasan Sabah. So, a check-in at the Reception and Information Building is required before entering the campsite.

Getting There
Approximately 55 minutes from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu by flight and about 39km from Lahad Datu which will take another 45 minutes drive on well maintained gravel road to reach Danum Valley Conservation Centre.

BANGGI

Part of the northwest corner of the island is the Banggi forest reserve, home to the Bunga Waterfalls and Mount Senambung. The reserve can be reached through a scenic route that weaves through the picturesque Ubian, Banggi, Balabac, and Molboc villages of Padang, Maliyu, Damaran, Kalangkaman, Nusa-Nusa, and Kapitangan.

For a spectacular view of Banggi and Balambangan islands, Enthusiastic visitors can then proceed to the summit. On a picture clear day, visitors can enjoy the scenic view of the Philippine islands of Balabac and mangsee from afar. Those who are less adventurous can enjoy their day and rest on the sandy beaches of the west coast. To the southwest of Banggi, the crystal clear aquamarine waters of the Maliangin islands beckon, with a tantalising glimpse of pristine coral reefs.

GETTING THERE
Part of the northwest corner of the island is the Banggi forest reserve, home to the Bunga Waterfalls and Mount Senambung. The reserve can be reached through a scenic route that weaves through the picturesque Ubian, Banggi, Balabac, and Molboc villages of Padang, Maliyu, Damaran, Kalangkaman, Nusa-Nusa, and Kapitangan. For a spectacular view of Banggi and Balambangan islands, Enthusiastic visitors can then proceed to the summit. On a picture clear day, visitors can enjoy the scenic view of the Philippine islands of Balabac and mangsee from afar. Those who are less adventurous can enjoy their day and rest on the sandy beaches of the west coast. To the southwest of Banggi, the crystal clear aquamarine waters of the Maliangin islands beckon, with a tantalising glimpse of pristine coral reefs.