kota kinabalu travel requirements

Updated COVID-19 SOP for Travellers

Updated COVID-19 Advisory as per 19 Jan 2023

SOP FOR INBOUND TRAVEL

The Sabah State Cabinet has decided on the following: All foreign tourists do not need to undergo a pre-entry COVID-19 screening test and will not need to present a vaccination certificate when entering Sabah.

No more Covid-19 travel requirements to enter Sabah, says Liew
Sabah scraps pre-departure testing, vaccine cert for travellers

For positive cases: https://covidprotocol.moh.gov.my/en/kes-positif/

Articles Travel Requirements - Malaysia

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01/01/2024 • FAQs

Information.

*Important Reminder : This page serves as your guidance AirAsia adheres to the highest standards of safety at all times. The list of travel requirements info stated here are a compilation of summarised regulations in the countries/destinations where our flights are operating. As the travel requirements worldwide continue to change from time to time, there are times when the information stated below might not be up-to-date and may be obsolete at the time you are viewing it. Therefore, for more reliable, latest, and verified information in your destinations, we strongly encourage all travelling guests to also check the travel restrictions with the respective government of your destination and arrival country / state directly prior travelling with us.

Entry to Malaysia

MALAYSIA DIGITAL ARRIVAL CARD (MDAC)

Effective 01 January 2024

All foreign citizens traveling to Malaysia must complete the MDAC, except :

1. Citizens of Singapore 2. Diplomatic and Official Passport holders 3. Malaysian Permanent Residents and Long Term-Pass holders 4. General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei holders 5. Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveller Facility holders 6. Thailand Border Pass holders 7. Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders

Complete and submit MDAC within 3 days before arrival in Malaysia: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main .
Show MDAC registration and verify your passport at the immigration counter.
The completion of this MDAC will be mandatory.

Effective 01st December 2023 until 31st December 2024 , Chinese and Indian nationalities will be given 30 days of Visa Exemption to enter Malaysia, provided they are :

Effective 28th September 2022, wearing masks on board is no longer mandatory but is optional, except for flights to destination countries where masks are compulsory. However, it is highly recommended for the following groups of individuals :

a. with symptoms such as fever, cough, and cold. b. at high risk such as the elderly, people with chronic diseases, with low immunity, and pregnant mothers. c. traveling with high-risk people such as the elderly and children.

Face Mask Policy

Passengers are not permitted to use the type of mask that is fitted with exhalation / breathing valves. This is in line with CDC, WHO and CAAC 6th Edition Safety Recommendations on Prevention and Control Measures During Flight. Please see our FAQ page on Prohibition of Mask with Exhalation/Breathing Valves Onboard for further information. Refer here for the usage of face masks on AirAsia flights.

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The Asian Traveller

Malaysia prepared to impose stricter border measures amid COVID-19 outbreak in China

Airline group IATA disappointed with 'knee-jerk' COVID-19 measures for travellers from China

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said that the Malaysian government’s decision to tighten border controls is not meant to discriminate against any country.

“We have taken the stance of not discriminating against any country… Whoever is coming in must be monitored and subject to the same conditions,” said Mr Anwar.

He also said that the health of the people is the government’s main concern and this will not be superseded by tourism or economic growth.

According to Mr Anwar, there were 336,000 visitors from China last year, with a majority of them being tourists. He said that in the month of December last year, there were 53,000 arrivals from China.

“There was no spike of infections that could be related to any country. This does not mean we relax rules for any country, including China. We have to monitor accordingly,” he said.

Malaysia had previously scrapped mandatory testing on all incoming vaccinated travellers on May 1. Earlier in September, mask-wearing became optional in most indoor places in the country.

BOOKMARK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and its developments

Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus pandemic: https://cna.asia/telegram

No more Covid-19 travel requirements to enter Sabah, says Liew

Sabah & Sarawak

Wednesday, 18 Jan 2023

Related News

Five Sabah groups stand up for the children

Sabah on track for sustainable palm oil production, council set up to safeguard children in sabah.

KOTA KINABALU: International and domestic travellers will be free to enter Sabah without the need for a pre-departure Covid-19 test, says state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew.

She said the state would follow the Federal Government's standard operating procedure (SOP) for travellers to enter the state without any Covid-19 requirements.

The state Cabinet made the decision to follow the Federal guidelines at its meeting on Wednesday (Jan 18), she added.

ALSO READ: Hajiji Noor: No additional Covid-19 SOP for arrivals from China

"Sabah will waive the requirement for travellers to show a Covid-19 certificate of vaccination.

"A negative Covid-19 test is also no longer required for travellers entering the state," she said, adding that this was effective immediately for both domestic and foreign travellers.

Since Aug 1, all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of Covid-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival Covid-19 test under the Federal Government SOP.

Liew also said the state Cabinet had approved the setting up of the Sabah Convention Bureau, a one-stop centre for information and assistance on organising conventions and business events in the state.

ALSO READ: Hajiji: Sabah to set up Convention Bureau to tap into tourism-based business events

The centre will also help with planning and advise event organisers on various aspects of the process.

"Our vision is to ensure Sabah is recognised nationally and internationally as one of the world's best cities for hosting business events.

"We hope to establish Sabah as a dynamic destination for business events where people, technology and ideas converge," said Liew, who was appointed minister on Jan 11 in a Cabinet reshuffle by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

Tags / Keywords: Sabah , Covid-19 , Requirements , Waived , Travellers , Domestic , Foreign , Immediate Effect , Christina Liew , Tourism Minister , One-Stop Centre , Sabah Convention Bureau , Business Events , International Destination

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Please ensure you have a valid passport and visa for any international travel. You may obtain the latest entry requirements via the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting or via the IATA Travel Centre . For domestic flights within Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah / Sarawak, all relevant documents must be original. Copies are not accepted.

Effective 4 July 2022, returning Malaysians to the country will no longer need to fill out and complete the Traveller’s Pass feature in their MySejahtera application.

However, non-Malaysian travellers are still required to complete the Traveler Pass displayed in the MySejahtera app before entering the country. (Source: link )

From 1 August 2022, all travellers are allowed to enter Malaysia regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status and do not require a pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 test. There are no quarantine orders related to COVID-19 enforced by the Malaysian Government upon arrival. country. (Source: link )

COVID-19 travel insurance is no longer required for all arriving travellers.

Supervised RTK-AG test for travellers

Travellers who are required to do a professionally administered RTK-Ag test upon arrival or before continuing their journey to the next destination may choose to perform the test at private screening facilities that are available at the airport. Otherwise, they may opt to do the test outside of the airport.

Please refer below for the available screening facilities at each international airport: Kuala Lumpur (KUL – KLIA & klia2) Kota Kinabalu (BKI) Kuching (KCH) Penang (PEN) Langkawi (LGK)

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Malaysia.

Malaysia (PDF 367.29 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on 321 159 999 or 322 662 222.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities.

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities, due to the high threat of kidnapping. The risk of kidnapping increases on the water and waterfront after nightfall and is highest in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau.

See Safety .

There's an ongoing high risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah. There have been a number of attempted and successful kidnappings. This includes islands, dive sites and tourist facilities. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. Obey all local governments' curfews.
Terrorism is a threat. Possible targets include businesses and public areas popular with foreigners. Take official warnings seriously.
Petty crime is common. Bag-snatching, including by thieves on motorbikes, happens often. When walking, hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic. Safeguard your belongings, especially in shopping centres, at the airport and on trains. Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your credit card in sight when paying for purchases.
Assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking can occur, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.
Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. If you intend to travel in the region by boat, check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports . Arrange personal security measures.

Full travel advice: Safety

Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia.
Dengue fever is common, including in major urban areas. Zika virus is also a risk. Malaria is a risk in rural areas. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, filariasis and Japanese encephalitis.
Rabies is present in Malaysia. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, tuberculosis, typhoid and cholera. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
Private hospitals in major cities are of an international standard. You'll need to pay up-front at all hospitals unless you have travel insurance, and your travel insurance policy covers your hospitalisation. Services are more limited in rural areas. Government hospitals require a deposit even if you have travel insurance.
Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah. Ensure you're immunised against pertussis and practice good personal hygiene.

Full travel advice: Health

If you're suspected of using drugs, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival in Malaysia. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. Penalties for drug offences are severe.
Don't use, carry or traffic illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty.
It's unclear if surrogacy is legal under Malaysian civil law and what conditions apply. Get legal advice before arranging a surrogacy.

Malaysian law requires that you carry identification, such as your passport or a Malaysian Immigration Issued Card (IKAD), with you at all times. If you are asked by police and are unable to provide it, you may be detained until you can present valid identification.

Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country. Many areas have conservative standards of dress and behaviour, including at religious sites and government offices. Get advice on local customs.
Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including visitors from Australia. Research laws that apply to you before you travel.
Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. If Malaysian authorities find out you're a dual citizen, you may need to renounce one of your citizenships immediately, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You must complete a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival in Malaysia. The MDAC must be submitted through the Malaysian Immigration website . See the Malaysian Immigration website for further information, including exemption details.

In most circumstances, you can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Malaysian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate for the latest details.
Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian travellers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arriving. The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card website.
Monitor the websites of the Malaysian Department of Immigration, My Safe Travel , the Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes to entry requirements. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur .
To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks could happen in Malaysia. Attacks could be random and may affect locations popular with Westerners or during major events or holidays that attract large crowds.

Malaysian authorities have arrested people for planning terror attacks. This includes attacks against entertainment venues in Kuala Lumpur.

Other possible targets include:

hotels, clubs and restaurants
places of worship or religious holidays
outdoor recreation events
tourist areas

To stay safe:

be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
be cautious around places known to be possible terrorist targets
report any suspicious activity or items to police
check the media for any new or emerging threats
take official warnings seriously
follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Terrorist threats

Overland travel through Thailand

Read our travel advice for Thailand if you're planning to go there overland.

Avoid travelling to or through the far southern provinces of Thailand.

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.

There's an ongoing high threat of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah, including islands, dive sites and other tourist facilities.

Extremists based in the southern Philippines are active in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau in eastern Sabah.

Foreigners have been kidnapped from the nearby islands of Sipadan and Mataking and surrounding waters.

Some attempted and successful kidnappings have happened in coastal areas of eastern Sabah in recent years.

In April 2024, two Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency personnel were injured in a shootout with a suspicious vessel while on patrol near Kunak.
In May 2021, Malaysian authorities arrested eight suspected Abu Sayyaf militants who they suspect may have been planning kidnappings in Malaysia.
In September 2019, 3 fishermen were abducted in the waters off Lahad Datu.
In June 2019, 10 fishermen were abducted in waters between Lahad Datu, Sabah and Sitangkai, Southern Philippines.
In December 2018, 3 fishermen were abducted from Pegasus Reef near Kinabatangan, Sabah.
In November 2016, militants based in the southern Philippines attacked a yacht in waters between eastern Sabah and the Sulu archipelago. One German national was killed and another kidnapped and later killed. Further in 2016, some commercial seamen were kidnapped from cargo vessels in the area.
In May 2015, gunmen entered a local seaside restaurant in Sandakan and abducted the manager and one customer.

Malaysian authorities increased security in the region in response to kidnapping incidents. The Sabah Government has restricted the use of waterways.

Security measures

There's a 6pm to 6am curfew on water travel in 6 coastal districts of eastern Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to 3 nautical miles (5.5km) from the coast.

All vessels travelling in the waters off Lahad Datu and Sandakan in daylight hours must get a permit or permission from police.

Vessels must travel only on designated routes.

There's a ban on resort-organised water activities at night. This includes diving and fishing.

Authorities established the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which includes the regions of:

Kinabatangan
Kota Marudu

There's an increased presence of security forces in the ESSZone.

Authorities may extend the water travel curfew each fortnight. If you travel by water during curfew hours without permission, authorities could fine you or jail you for up to 6 months.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited.

To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
avoid talking about your money or business affairs
use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

Civil unrest and political tension

You could encounter protests or demonstrations on the streets or at certain venues.

Protest activity could lead to violence and disrupt public services, including public transport, and cause traffic congestion. However, this is rare.

Police permission is needed for public gatherings and demonstrations. If you take part in a protest or demonstration, authorities could arrest and deport you.

Avoid protests and demonstrations.

During periods of unrest:

check the news and other sources for information on planned and possible unrest or strikes
plan your activities to avoid unrest on national or commemorative days
be ready to change your travel plans

If civil unrest disrupts your transport plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Petty crime is common.

Opportunistic pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab robberies happen often where thieves snatch handbags, shoulder bags, jewellery, mobile phones and other valuables from pedestrians.

Hotspots include busy pedestrian crossings near major shopping malls, including within the KLCC area.

Motorcyclists, and sometimes thieves in other moving vehicles, pull bags from victims. This often causes injuries.

Smash-and-grab attacks against slow-moving and parked vehicles also happen.

To avoid petty crime:

don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
walk on footpaths when you can and stay away from the curb
hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic
when driving or parking your car, keep valuables out of sight
always keep vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Handbags, expensive watches, jewellery, mobile phones and cameras are tempting targets for thieves.

Many travellers have lost passports and other valuables to thieves on trains and at airports.

Carry only what you need and leave other valuables, in a secure location.

Thieves sometimes work in groups at busy shopping centres. One or more may approach you with stories of distress or warnings for your safety. When you're distracted, others steal your belongings.

Watch your personal belongings, especially:

in crowded areas and during holiday periods
when travelling on trains from the airport
at airports

Be wary of approaches from strangers, especially in shopping centres.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is common.

Credit cards are often copied for illegal use. This can happen anywhere, from small shops to large department stores and hotels.

Always keep your credit card in sight.

Online scams

Online scams have increased in recent years. Scammers often pretend to be people in need of financial help.

They prey on people looking for companions on online dating websites.

To protect yourself from being scammed:

be wary of people asking for money
don't send money or provide your bank details to anyone you don't know
be careful when sharing personal information with people you haven't met in person

Scams involving gambling are also common.

Violent crime

You could experience violent crime in Malaysia. Australians have been victims of violent crime in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other areas of the country. You should exercise vigilance and take sensible precautions. If you're a victim of crime, inform the local police and get a police report.

Incidents of assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang have occured. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Stay with people you trust at parties, bars, nightclubs and taxis.

To stay safe while using taxis:

don't hail taxis on the street, especially after dark
book taxis by phone at a shopping centre taxi desk
check there's a licence with photo on the dashboard or seat back before getting into a taxi
check the driver matches the photo.

If you're alone in a taxi, sit in the back seat. Keep your belongings with you in the taxi.

If your taxi stops to pick up other passengers, get out of the taxi when it's safe to do so. Taxi drivers aren't allowed to pick up extra passengers, but it sometimes happens.

E-hailing services are available. Use the same precautions as taxis.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Climate and natural disasters

Malaysia experiences severe weather and natural disasters , including:

earthquakes
severe rainstorms

If there's a natural disaster:

secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
keep in contact with your friends and family
monitor local media and weather reports
check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes can happen in Malaysia.

In 2018, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit Sabah. No deaths or injuries were reported. The earthquake's tremors were felt and climbing activities were suspended.

Coastal regions of the world can experience tsunamis. Malaysia and its neighbours are vulnerable to earthquakes, which make destructive tsunamis more likely.

US Tsunami Warning Centre

Severe weather

Flooding and landslides are common during the wet season which is usually from October to February.

Severe rainstorms can result in deaths and extensively damaged infrastructure.

Essential services can be interrupted.

Tours and adventure activities

The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators aren't always met. This includes for adventure activities, such as diving.

Operators may not provide enough safety equipment. They also may not pay attention to maintenance standards and safety precautions.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

check your travel insurance covers you for it
ask and insist on minimum safety requirements
use available safety equipment, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem, especially in the:

Strait of Malacca
waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) issues weekly piracy reports.

Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. This includes waters between Sabah, Malaysia and Palawan in the Philippines.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

check IMB piracy reports
get local advice
arrange security measures

Travelling by boat

Going on a cruise

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations if, despite our advice, you're travelling to the coastal region of eastern Sabah.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. Contact the high commission or embassy of Malaysia to check what documentation local authorities may need you to have. Further information can be found on the Pharmaceuticals Services website.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medication is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use

More information:

Health risks

Smoke haze often happens from June to October, but it can happen at any time.

Check the haze situation and any health warnings the Malaysian Government issues.

When haze levels are high, authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. Get your own medical advice.

World Air Quality

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue is common, including in major urban areas. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

There's no vaccination or treatment available for dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

discuss any travel plans with your doctor
consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

The Zika virus bulletin includes advice on how to minimise Zika virus risks.

Malaria is a risk in rural areas. It's less common in urban and coastal areas. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can happen. This includes chikungunya and filariasis .

Reported cases of Japanese encephalitis have increased in recent years. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel

The risk of contracting insect-borne diseases increases during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
always use insect repellent
wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Rabies is a potentially fatal viral disease. It's found in dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

The most recent cases were reported in Sarawak. It was transmitted through feral dog and cat bites.

Rabies can also be contracted when a rabid animal's saliva gets directly into your eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin.

Avoid direct contact with dogs and other mammals.

If a dog, monkey or other mammal bites or scratches you, use soap and water straight away to wash the wound thoroughly.

Get urgent medical attention.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common.

These include:

tuberculosis
hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
avoid ice cubes
avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
wash your hands often and thoroughly

Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah since the beginning of 2023. If you're planning to travel to Sabah:

ensure you're immunised against pertussis
practice good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing, not sharing drinks or lip balm
keep your distance from people who appear sick
seek medical attention if you develop symptoms

Infectious diseases

Marine stings

Stings from jellyfish and other marine animals can be fatal.

Ask local authorities, your tour operator or hotel about:

swimming conditions
precautions to take
other dangers

Black henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos as they often contain a dye that can cause serious skin reactions.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

You can find private hospitals with international-standard facilities in major cities.

Public hospitals in major cities have a good range of medical services. However, access can be slow. Services are more limited in rural areas.

Most private hospitals need a cash deposit or a confirmation of insurance before they will admit you. They also expect immediate payment for services.

You need to pay up-front for treatment at government hospitals.

There are decompression chambers in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic surgery, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical facilities can be poor.

Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can result.

Before travelling for medical tourism:

research and choose medical service providers carefully
don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers
check your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery, as most don't

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're suspected of using drugs before you visit Malaysia, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal.

Penalties for drug offences are severe, including drug possession and the presence of drugs in your bloodstream. Malaysia still carries the death penalty for drug trafficking.

Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Malaysian civil law applies to everyone in Malaysia. Under this law, it's unclear if surrogacy is legal and what conditions apply.

Under sharia law, surrogacy is illegal. However, sharia law only applies to Muslims.

Surrogacy isn't practised openly in Malaysia. If you want to pursue surrogacy, it's mostly a private arrangement between you and the surrogate.

Get independent legal advice before entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

Going overseas for international surrogacy
Going overseas to adopt

Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including those from Australia.

Research laws that apply to you before you travel.

Serious crime

Crimes that may attract corporal punishment include:

certain drug offences
commercial crime

LGBTQIA+ law

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal.

Punishment can include whipping and up to 20 years in prison for same-sex acts involving either men or women.

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Drink driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offence, which can result in fines and/or a jail sentence. Authorities strictly enforce these laws.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many areas. This includes at religious sites and government offices.

Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.

Learn about customs at your destination. If in doubt, get advice from locals. Take care not to offend cultural or religious beliefs.

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Malaysia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Dual citizenship

Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

If Malaysian authorities find out you hold both Australian and Malaysian citizenship, you may need to renounce either your Australian or Malaysian citizenship straight away, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

In most circumstances, Australian passport holders can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival.

Arrange a visa before you travel if you're visiting for:

volunteer work

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate of Malaysia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

If you breach your visa conditions or overstay your visa, authorities may fine, detain or deport you.

Always check the correct dates are on the visa stamp placed in your passport.

Follow immigration rules, including your visa conditions.

Border measures

Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arriving.

The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card website.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Monitor the websites of the Malaysian Department of Immigration , My Safe Travel , the Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Staying in Malaysia

You should ensure you keep your visa up to date.

Other formalities

Foreigners need to provide biometric identification (fingerprints and/or face) on arrival.

Children aged younger than 12 years and visitors with finger disabilities don't have to do this.

Some countries including Malaysia won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for more than 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

LGBTQIA+ travellers

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

When you depart, declare any MYR over MYR30,000, $US10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can take larger amounts out of the country if you declare it when you arrive.

ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

If you travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, you need your passport. East Malaysia includes Sabah and Sarawak.

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for any related damage and injuries if you plan to hire:

a motorcycle
any other vehicle

Driving permit

To drive in Malaysia, you need both:

a valid Australian driver's licence
an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you don't have both, you need to apply for a Malaysian licence.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Motorcyclists are a common traffic hazard. They often:

weave through traffic
drive through red lights and pedestrian crossings
travel on the wrong side of the road

Motorcyclists have been increasingly confronting drivers who shout, gesture or toot their horn at them. They sometimes assault drivers.

You're more likely to die in a car accident in Malaysia than in Australia.

To stay safe, drive carefully and avoid road rage.

On a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Some taxi drivers, especially in tourist spots or when roads are jammed, don't use their meter. This is illegal.

Malaysia's taxi regulator has an English-language hotline for reporting problems. To make a report, call 1 800 88 7723 and provide the:

vehicle number
taxi company name
time, date and location of the incident
name of the driver if known

Always ask if the driver will use the meter, or agree the fare, before you get in a taxi.

At the start of your trip, take note of the vehicle number, the taxi company name and the name of the driver.

Public transport

There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses. This often happens at night or in bad weather.

If you plan to travel by bus, choose a company with a good reputation and avoid overnight travel.

Transport and getting around safely

In recent years, several passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and poor maintenance.

Before booking tickets on a passenger ferry, speedboat or other vessel, check there is appropriate safety equipment available.

Don't travel on any vessel that looks overloaded or in poor condition.

When you board, confirm there are enough life jackets for all passengers. Know where they are.

In bad weather, wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

There is a curfew on travel by water from 6pm to 6am in the coastal districts of eastern Sabah. See ( Safety) .

Airline safety

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Malaysia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

National parks

National parks are protected areas, and some are home to ethnic minority groups.

Be respectful of the law and customs in these areas. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Don't remove any wildlife or plants from the park.

Before entering a park, register your plans with park officials and let someone you trust know where you're going.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on +60321 159 999 or Royal Malaysia Headquarters (Bukit Aman) +603 22662 222.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.

Australian High Commission, Kuala Lumpur

6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Phone: (+60 3) 2146 5555/2146 5575 Fax: (+60 3) 2141 5773 Website: malaysia.highcommission.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Malaysia X: @AusHCMalaysia

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular help, including lodging Australian passport applications, at the following Australian consulates headed by honorary consuls:

Australian Consulate, Penang

Level 3 Jalan Macalister 10400 Penang Malaysia Phone: (+60 4) 226 8955 Fax: (+60 4) 228 3366 Email: [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Kota Kinabalu

Lot 01-05, 11th Floor Jubili Tower (Menara Jubili) 53, Jalan Gaya 88000 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia Phone: (+60 88) 267 151 Fax: (+60 88) 266 509 Email: [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Sarawak

E39 Level 2 Taman Sri Sarawak Mall Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia Phone: (+60 19) 898 9787 Email: [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Malaysia?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Exploring The Latest Travel Restrictions In Kota Kinabalu: What You Need To Know

Last updated Sep 21, 2023
Difficulty Intemediate

Category United States

Welcome to Kota Kinabalu, a tropical paradise located on the island of Borneo! Unfortunately, due to recent events, there are travel restrictions in place that you need to be aware of before planning your trip. In this guide, we'll explore the current regulations and restrictions in Kota Kinabalu, ensuring that you have all the information you need to navigate your way around this stunning destination during these challenging times. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply looking to relax on pristine beaches, Kota Kinabalu has something for everyone, and we're here to help you make the most of your visit, despite the restrictions in place. So let's dive in and uncover the wonders of Kota Kinabalu while keeping in mind the safety measures and travel limitations that are currently in effect.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions in place for kota kinabalu, are there any specific requirements or documents needed to enter kota kinabalu, are vaccinated travelers exempt from any travel restrictions in kota kinabalu, are there any quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in kota kinabalu, are there any specific covid-19 testing requirements for travelers heading to kota kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah in Malaysia, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. However, like many other places around the world, Kota Kinabalu has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to travel restrictions and safety measures being implemented to protect the public health and prevent the spread of the virus.

As of the time of writing, there are several travel restrictions in place for Kota Kinabalu. These restrictions are subject to change, so it is essential to stay updated with the latest information from reliable sources such as government health departments and official travel advisories.

Firstly, entry into Malaysia is currently restricted for most foreign nationals, including tourists. Only certain categories of individuals are allowed to enter the country, such as Malaysian citizens, permanent residents, and essential workers. Those who are eligible to enter Malaysia must obtain the necessary approvals and fulfill specific requirements, including undergoing COVID-19 testing and mandatory quarantine upon arrival.

Additionally, there may be specific travel restrictions within Malaysia, including travel bans or limitations on movement between certain states or districts. These restrictions aim to prevent the spread of the virus to areas with lower infection rates and to contain any potential clusters. Before planning any travel within Malaysia, it is essential to check the latest guidelines and regulations imposed by the relevant authorities.

Moreover, it is crucial to take note of the health and safety measures in place in Kota Kinabalu. These measures aim to protect both visitors and locals and may include mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, physical distancing, and enhanced hygiene practices. Visitors should comply with these measures and follow any additional guidelines or protocols set by accommodation providers, attractions, and public transportation operators.

It is also worth noting that the situation regarding travel restrictions can change rapidly due to the evolving nature of the pandemic. It is advisable to regularly monitor the official websites of government health departments and international travel advisories for the latest updates.

While travel restrictions may currently limit tourism activities in Kota Kinabalu, these measures are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. It is essential to prioritize public health and adhere to the guidelines and regulations in place. By doing so, we can collectively work towards controlling the spread of the virus and eventually enjoy the beauty and attractions that Kota Kinabalu has to offer once again.

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Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of the Malaysian state of Sabah, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and stunning natural landscapes. If you are planning to visit Kota Kinabalu, it is important to be aware of the specific requirements and documents needed for entry into the city.

As an international traveler, you will need a valid passport to enter Kota Kinabalu. The passport should have a validity of at least six months from the date of entry. Additionally, some nationalities may require a visa to enter Malaysia. It is recommended to check the visa requirements for your specific country of residence before planning your trip.

For certain nationalities, Malaysia offers a visa exemption called the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This allows citizens from eligible countries to enter Malaysia for tourism purposes without the need for a visa. The VWP typically allows travelers to stay for up to 90 days. However, it is important to note that the VWP is subject to specific conditions and may not be applicable to all nationalities.

In addition to a valid passport and visa (if required), travelers may also be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds for their stay in Kota Kinabalu. This can be in the form of bank statements or credit card statements. It is advisable to carry some cash with you for immediate expenses, as well as a credit or debit card for larger transactions.

It is worth mentioning that during the COVID-19 pandemic, additional entry requirements may be imposed by both Malaysia and your country of departure. These may include providing a negative COVID-19 test result, undergoing health screenings upon arrival, or observing mandatory quarantine periods. It is essential to stay updated with the latest travel advisories and regulations to ensure a smooth entry into Kota Kinabalu.

To summarize, to enter Kota Kinabalu, you will typically need a valid passport, possibly a visa depending on your nationality, and proof of sufficient funds. It is crucial to check the specific requirements for your country of residence and to stay informed about any additional entry requirements due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By meeting these requirements and being prepared, you can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free visit to Kota Kinabalu.

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As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions have become commonplace in many countries. Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah in Malaysia, is no exception. However, there have been some changes to travel restrictions for vaccinated travelers in recent months.

Vaccination has been recognized as a crucial tool in the fight against COVID-19, with many countries offering exemptions or relaxed restrictions for vaccinated individuals. In Kota Kinabalu, vaccinated travelers do enjoy certain exemptions from travel restrictions.

One of the main exemptions for vaccinated travelers in Kota Kinabalu is the quarantine requirement. Previously, all travelers entering the city were required to undergo a mandatory quarantine period. However, vaccinated individuals are now exempt from this requirement. This means that vaccinated travelers can enter Kota Kinabalu without the need to quarantine upon arrival.

It is important to note that to be considered fully vaccinated in Malaysia, individuals must have received both doses of a two-dose vaccine or the single dose of a one-dose vaccine. Additionally, the vaccination must be approved by the national regulatory authority, such as the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

While vaccinated travelers are exempt from quarantine requirements, they still need to adhere to other travel restrictions and guidelines. This includes providing a negative COVID-19 test result before traveling and following all local health protocols, such as mask-wearing and practicing social distancing.

It is also important to check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements before planning a trip to Kota Kinabalu. The situation surrounding travel restrictions can change rapidly, so staying informed is crucial.

In conclusion, vaccinated travelers in Kota Kinabalu are exempt from the mandatory quarantine requirement. This is a positive development for those who have received the COVID-19 vaccine and wish to travel to the city. However, it is important to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and guidelines to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

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Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah, Malaysia, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. If you are planning to visit Kota Kinabalu, you may be wondering about the quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in the city.

As of now, there are specific quarantine requirements in place for travelers arriving in Kota Kinabalu due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The exact requirements may vary based on the country of origin and the current situation. It is always recommended to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the Malaysian government and the local health authorities before your travel.

At the time of writing this article, Malaysia has implemented several measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory quarantine for international travelers. The quarantine requirement may apply to both Malaysians and foreign nationals entering the country.

For international travelers arriving in Kota Kinabalu, the current guidelines state that they must undergo a mandatory quarantine period of 14 days. During this period, travelers will be required to stay in a designated quarantine facility, such as a hotel or government-approved accommodation. The cost of the quarantine facility will need to be borne by the traveler.

It is important to note that the quarantine requirement may change based on the evolving situation and the latest advice from the health authorities. Additionally, travelers may be required to undergo COVID-19 testing before and during their quarantine period. These tests will be conducted to ensure the safety of both the travelers and the local community.

Before traveling to Kota Kinabalu, it is advisable to check the official website of the Malaysian government or contact the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information regarding quarantine requirements. They will provide you with the latest guidelines, travel restrictions, and quarantine protocols that you need to adhere to as a traveler.

It is also essential to keep yourself updated on any changes or updates in travel advisories and guidelines. Regularly check the official websites of the Malaysian Ministry of Health, the Sabah State Government, and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) for the latest information.

In conclusion, there are currently quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in Kota Kinabalu due to the COVID-19 pandemic. International travelers will need to undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine at a designated facility at their own expense. It is crucial to keep yourself informed about the latest travel advisories and guidelines to ensure a safe and hassle-free trip to Kota Kinabalu.

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As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries have implemented travel restrictions and testing requirements to prevent the spread of the virus. If you are planning to travel to Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah in Malaysia, it is important to be aware of the specific COVID-19 testing requirements in place.

Currently, all travelers entering Malaysia, including Kota Kinabalu, are required to undergo COVID-19 testing as part of the country's entry protocols. These testing requirements aim to ensure the safety of both travelers and the local population.

Before you travel to Kota Kinabalu, make sure to check the latest guidelines and requirements set by the Malaysian government. These guidelines may change from time to time, so it is essential to stay updated with the latest information.

At the time of writing, the general COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers arriving in Malaysia is a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test. The PCR test is considered the gold standard in COVID-19 testing as it can detect the presence of the virus accurately. It involves taking a swab sample from the respiratory tract, including the nose and throat.

The PCR test must be conducted within 72 hours before departure to Malaysia. It is important to note that the test must be conducted at an accredited laboratory recognized by the Malaysian authorities. The test result should be negative for COVID-19.

Upon arrival in Malaysia, travelers will undergo health screenings, including temperature checks and health questionnaires. In some cases, a COVID-19 test may be conducted upon arrival at the airport. The authorities will determine whether a test is necessary based on various factors, such as the traveler's country of origin and recent travel history.

If you test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival in Malaysia, you will be required to undergo isolation and follow the country's health protocols. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses related to COVID-19.

It is important to follow all COVID-19 safety measures while traveling to and within Kota Kinabalu. This includes wearing a mask, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance, and following any additional guidelines set by the local health authorities.

It is also recommended to check with your airline and accommodation provider for any additional requirements or guidelines they may have in place for travelers. These could include specific COVID-19 testing requirements or documentation that you may need to present upon arrival in Kota Kinabalu.

In conclusion, if you are planning to travel to Kota Kinabalu, it is crucial to be aware of the specific COVID-19 testing requirements in place. At present, all travelers entering Malaysia are required to undergo a PCR test within 72 hours prior to departure. It is essential to check the latest guidelines and requirements set by the Malaysian government and follow all COVID-19 safety measures while traveling. Stay safe and have a pleasant journey to Kota Kinabalu!

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Frequently asked questions.

Yes, there are currently travel restrictions in place for Kota Kinabalu. The Malaysian government has implemented various measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including travel restrictions and entry requirements.

Only Malaysian citizens, permanent residents, and individuals with special permission are currently allowed to travel to Kota Kinabalu. Non-Malaysian citizens are generally not permitted to enter the country, unless they fall under certain exceptional categories.

To enter Kota Kinabalu, travelers must undergo health screenings, including COVID-19 testing, before and upon arrival. They must also provide relevant documents, such as a completed health declaration form and proof of a negative PCR test result.

Yes, travelers to Kota Kinabalu are required to undergo mandatory quarantine for a specified period, typically 14 days. The quarantine can take place at designated facilities or at home, depending on the individual's circumstances and the prevailing guidelines.

Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

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Food & Travel Blog

2024 Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide with Itinerary and Budget

Since we traveled with our parents, this Kota Kinabalu Travel guide is a chill trip with packed activities with downtime to unwind.

What's Included?

About Kota Kinabalu

Dive into the vibrant heart of Borneo at Kota Kinabalu, fondly nicknamed “KK” which is strategically located on the west coast of Sabah.

Explore Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak. Unwind on islands with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Immerse yourself in KK’s rich culture. Explore museums and art galleries, and witness breathtaking sunsets and lively cultural villages.

Indulge your taste buds in a culinary adventure. Enjoy regional Asian flavors, from seafood to noodles and street food!

Whether you’re seeking historical landmarks, local markets, or mosques, KK offers something for everyone.

Flight Details and Accommodation

Finding the cheapest flights.

I always use Skyscanner to scout for the most affordable flights. We were able to score our round-trip tickets at just around Php 6,000 each on AirAsia which was the cheapest flight at the time we were booking.

Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

We were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of budget-friendly hotels right in the heart of the city. After comparing, we opted for the Hyatt Regency Kinabalu through booking.com. While known for its luxurious accommodations, we managed to get a great deal that fit our budget. Plus, the hotel’s central location is within walking distance of Suria Sabbah Shopping Mall, Gaya Street, and a lot of restaurants and cafes.

Additionally, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu offers rooms with and without breakfast. To strike a balance between enjoying hotel amenities and experiencing the local food scene, we opted for selective breakfast inclusions for three guests only. This freed us up to discover local supermarkets, bakeries, and cafes.

Travel Requirements

Kota Kinabalu does not require many documents if you’re from the Philippines.

Essential Travel Requirements

Valid passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your arrival date.
Roundtrip plane tickets: Proof of onward travel is necessary for immigration purposes.
Travel Itinerary: The Philippine Immigration Officer usually requests this. This helps them understand your travel plans and ensure you have a place to stay during your visit.
Hotel Booking: Having this readily available demonstrates your confirmed accommodation and strengthens your immigration application.
Visa (if applicable): If required, have your visa documents handy. Filipino citizens can enter Kota Kinabalu visa-free for up to 90 days . You can check if your country is on the visa-free list on the official Malaysian Immigration Department website .

Additional Travel Documents To Prepare

Travel insurance documents (optional): While travel insurance is optional, having your policy details readily available can save you time and stress in case of unexpected events during your trip. I always get my travel insurance at Pacific Cross. You can explore and compare plans from other insurers to find the perfect fit for your travel needs.
Certificate of Employment: While not always required, some immigration officers may request proof of employment. Sometimes they also ask for sufficient funds for your trip. This can help demonstrate your financial stability and travel purpose.

Stay Connected in Kota Kinabalu

There are a few ways to stay connected in Kota Kinabalu:

Portable WiFi : pre-order your portable WiFi on Klook and pick it up before your flight. Get this for as low as Php 490 per day on Klook.
eSIM : save yourself the hassle of removing and inserting sim cards on your phone by getting an eSIM. Got ours via Klook for as low as Php 394 for 1GB of data.
Sim Card: you can buy this at the airport once you arrive in Kota Kinabalu. We bought the Digi SIM card for RM 20 only.
Globe One Promo: avail of promos by accessing their app for flexible options starting at Php 399 valid for 1 day. While pricier than the previously mentioned alternatives, they offer convenience without needing an eSIM, additional SIM swapping, or carrying a portable Wi-Fi device.

Solo travelers seeking the most affordable option can snag a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport. Groups of up to 4 might find a portable WiFi device more cost-effective, offering shared data and convenience.

Storytime: I forgot to pick up our portable wifi (booked through Klook) before boarding the plane to Kota Kinabalu. Unfortunately, there are no portable wifis you can rent at Kota Kinabalu airport so your only option would be buying a SIM card. Luckily, I was able to refund my Klook payment (thank you Klook!).

Best Time to Visit Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is a year-round destination but the city has two sets of rainy seasons.

Peak season is from August to September where you can enjoy more sunshine as these months offer minimal rain and perfect beach weather. Shoulder season is from June to July where you can enjoy tropical warmth with occasional rain. You can also enjoy fewer crowds compared to peak season.

Their off-season or rainy season is from November to April. This was the time we went. Luckily, were able to enjoy the sunny weather at the beach with a few rain showers in the afternoon. Expect rainy and cold temperatures when going to highlands like Mt. Kinabalu and Kundasang. There are places that you cannot enjoy if it’s raining. The Alpaca Farm does not allow visitors if it’s raining. You can’t take photos at the Happy Garden if it’s raining. So, make sure to check the weather forecast before and during your trip so you can plan accordingly.

Going Around Kota Kinabalu

Exploring Kota Kinabalu’s vibrant downtown is easy! Booking through Grab is affordable and easy. Many hotels are located at the center and offer convenient walking access to key attractions.

There are also other public transportation such as buses and trains. But if convenience is what you are looking for, just book through Grab.

Another way to enjoy attractions in Kota Kinabalu beyond the city limits like Mt. Kinabalu and Mari-Mari Village is by booking a private car via Klook . They have available cars for 1-3 passengers or a van for up to 9 passengers. Please note that Mari-Mari Village may seem near the city center but it would be a bit hard to book a Grab from that location. Renting a private car or joining a group tour would be your best bet.

Traveling with the whole family can be a handful, so we opted for convenience: Hiring a tour guide and private car through Klook was the best thing I did! It took the stress out of navigation and looking up locations allowing me to truly relax, enjoy the sights, and do my thing — take photos and videos! Our tour guide was also helpful with our questions especially about what and where to eat like a local.

Exchanging Currency

The local currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR/RM). To avoid hassles, consider exchanging some cash (USD or your country’s currency) before your arrival. You can also withdraw cash at ATMs in Kota Kinabalu airport. Just make sure that your ATM card is Visa-enabled for international transactions.

Besides ATMs, you can also get Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) easily at nearby currency exchangers. We found it super convenient to exchange ours at the mall located right beside the Kota Kinabalu Regency Hotel, near the entrance. Super time-saving!

Applications and Websites to Use

Skyscanner: scans airlines worldwide to bring you the most affordable flights.
Booking.com or Agoda: to book the right hotel for you.
Klook : they offer unbeatable discounts on tours, activities, SIM cards, and even hotels. Use my code TEYBOLFORWAN5OFF for an extra 5% off hotels and 3% off activities (valid twice!).
Google Maps: to navigate your way through Kota Kinabalu.

Buying Souvenirs

Whenever I travel, I love diving into local supermarkets to discover what everyday products locals use.

Sabah Tea: Sip on the local blend and taste the Sabah’s unique flavors.
Tenom Coffee: Our tour guide emphasized that we should look for Tenom Coffee which is a Sabah’s specialty.
Malaysian Delicacies: Explore exotic snacks, sauces, and spices to bring home a taste of Malaysia.
Handicrafts, keychains, t-shirts, and other souvenirs: Hunt for unique souvenirs like artwork, textiles, and wood carvings at Gaya Street Market (Sunday market) or Nabalu Market. The Filipino market is also famous in Kota Kinabalu but our tour guide told us to be cautious if we are planning to go there. Always make sure to be mindful, and practice safe shopping habits if you are planning to go to any markets.
Chocolates: Head to Cocoa Kingdom for a Willy Wonka-esque haven of unique chocolate flavors. We especially love their Cheese Tiramisu and Strawberry Yogurt. DON’T MISS THIS OUT!
Beryl’s Chocolates: Although Beryl’s Chocolates are available in the Philippines and are originally from Kuala Lumpur, we were able to snag (great deals) on unique flavors. We especially love their Tiramisu Almond Greent Tea Chocolate and Sea Salt Dark Chocolate.

Pro tip: When buying at local markets, bargaining is a common practice. So, don’t forget to bargain with a smile!

5 Days and 4 Nights Kota Kinabalu Itinerary

This itinerary will be your guide, but remember, it’s just a starting point! Feel free to adapt it to your own interests and energy levels. We travelled with our parents so ease and convenience are our top priorities here. We also have different interests so I made sure that there’s something for everyone to look forward to every day.

Pro tip: We always bring snacks and drinks so no one gets hungry!

Day 1: Arrival, Dinner & Rest

6:30 PM – Arrival at Kota Kinabalu
8:00 PM – Arrival at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
8:15 PM – Dinner at KFC near the hotel and buy snacks at 7/11
9:30 PM – Rest at hotel

Day 2: Island Hopping

8:00 AM – Travel to Sutera Harbour Marina Jetty
8:45 AM – Manukan Island (lunch)
12:00 NN – Mamutik Island
1:15 PM – Sapi Island
3:00 PM – Back to Hotel (rest)
5:00 PM – Suria Sabah Shopping Mall
5:30 PM – Early Dinner at Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant
6:30 PM – Grocery Shopping
7:30 PM – Back to Hotel

Day 3: Kundasang and Mt. Kinabalu Farm Day

6:30 AM – Hotel Breakfast
7:00 AM – Hotel Pick up
8:30 AM – Nabalu Town (buy souvenirs)
10:15 AM – Desa Dairy Farm
11:20 AM – Hooga Cafe
1:00 PM – Alpaca Club
2:00 PM – Happy Garden (but skipped since it was raining)
2:30 PM – Mt. Kinabalu Park (took photos only)
3:40 PM – Cocoa Kingdom (buy pasalubong!)
4:40 PM – Yee Fung Laksa
5:30 PM – Gaya Street Night Market (foodtrip)
6:50 PM – Chill at the hotel

Day 4: City Tour

8:15 AM – Breakfast at Nook Cafe
9:40 AM – Mari-Mari Village (with lunch buffet)
1:30 PM – City Mosque (Floating Mosque)
1:45 PM – Sabah State Mosque
2:00 PM – Sabah State Museum and Heritage Village
3:40 PM – Imago Shopping Mall
4:00 PM – Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken
5:50 PM – Tanjung Aru Beach (picture only)
7:00 PM – Chill at the hotel’s bar and rest

Day 5: Food Trip and Departure

7:30 AM – Hotel Breakfast
9:00 AM – Sunday Mass
10:20 AM – Back to Hotel
12:00 NN – Hotel Checkout
12:15 PM – Lunch at Sin Kee Bah Kut Teh
1:00 PM – Old Town Coffee
2:00 PM – Travel to airport
6:55 PM – Flight back to Manila
10:00 PM – Arrival in Manila

Kota Kinabalu Budget

Pre-travel expenses.

Round trip ticket from Airasia – Php 5,725.48/person
Additional baggage allowance – Php 2,640 (two 20kg baggage)
Pacific Cross Travel Insurance – Php 513/person
Travel Tax – Php 1,620/person
Private Van with Tour Guide (booked via Klook ) – Php 10,036 for 7 pax (for Kundasang and Mt. Kinabalu Tour)
Island Tour (booked via Klook ) – Php 1,011 /person for 3 islands (boat transfers only)
Private Van with Tour Guide (booked via Klook ) – Php 9,417 for 7 pax (for City Tour)
eSim – Php 665
Mari-Mari Village with Lunch Buffet (booked via Klook ) – Php 1,186/pax
Desa Dairy Farm entrance fee (booked via their website ) – RM 5/pax

Don’t forget to use my code TEYBOLFORWAN5OFF on your Klook activities!

5 Days Expenses

SIM Card – RM 20
Food & Transpo – approx. RM 100 per person
Entrance Fees – RM 42 per person
Pasalubong – approx. RM 100 per person

Estimated Total Expenses

Overall, we spent approximately Php 16,000 per person excluding hotel accommodation.

Ready to embark on your own Kota Kinabalu adventure? Use this Kota Kinabalu travel guide to start your planning today! Lastly, on’t forget to share your experiences, ask questions, and inspire others to experience the beauty of Kota Kinabalu.

Disclaimer: Information on this Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide may change over time so, make sure to double-check requirements before flying to Kota Kinabalu. P.S. This blog contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them.

Also, don’t forget to check more travel guides here !

UPDATED Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide 2024: Itinerary, Places to Stay, and More

Guide to visiting kota kinabalu, malaysia.

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The Complete Travel Guide to Kota Kinabalu for 2024

Table of Contents

Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia — Formerly called Jesselton, Kota Kinabalu is the capital and the biggest city in the state of Sabah. Kota Kinabalu is recognized as an island paradise by nature-lovers. Kota Kinabalu houses some of the most inspiring natural ecosystems in the world. People love to visit this place with its picturesque coastal beaches, verdant plants, swarming wildlife, virgin coral reefs, and rainforests.

Kota Kinabalu is an incredible location situated on the tropical island of Borneo. It is easily accessible from the airport by a short ride. The main attractions of this place include championship golf courses, sailing marina, supreme holiday resorts, and good hotels. Kota Kinabalu is also a great destination for scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, water rafting, and snorkeling. There is a lot to explore in and around Kota Kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu on a Budget Travel Guide Blog

In this Travel Guide to Kota Kinabalu Blog, we listed some tips on how you can do your own DIY Day trip to Kota Kinabalu. We also included Kota Kinabalu Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more travel updates.

Best time to visit Kota Kinabalu

January to March are the best months to visit Kota Kinabalu due to a relatively colder climate. This is the perfect time to do island hopping, city tour, and other adventure activities.

April to May are considered the peak of the summer season and the weather is hot and humid making it a bit uncomfortable to do various activities.

How to Get There

Kota Kinabalu is the busiest airport after Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It is the main link to Sabah. Kota Kinabalu International Airport has flights arriving from Kuala Lumpur and international destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Bangkok, Manila, Brunei, and Taipei. To and from domestic flights are also available to other Sabah cities such as Tawau, Lahad Datu, and Sandakan.

There are direct international flights from these cities to Kota Kinabalu:

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei on Royal Brunei Airlines
Fuzhou, China on XiamenAir
Hangzhou, China on AirAsia
Hong Kong on AirAsia
Manila, Philippines on AirAsia Zest and Cebu Pacific airlines
Perth, Australia on Malaysia Airlines
Seoul, Korea on Air Seoul, Eastar Jet Eastar Jet, Jeju Air, and Jin Air
Shanghai, China on Malaysia Airlines and China Eastern Airlines
Shenzhen, China on AirAsia
Singapore on AirAsia and Silkair
Taipei, Taiwan (Taoyuan International Airport) on AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines
Tokyo, Japan on Malaysia Airlines
Wuhan, China on AirAsia

Getting out from Kota Kinabalu Airport

The airport is 7 km away from the city.

Shuttle bus – leaves approximately every hour and drops passengers off at the Wawasan Center south of downtown Kota Kinabalu.

By minibus – Bus 16c stops at terminal 2 (the Low-Cost Carrier Terminal), right outside the north-most entrance into the terminal where all cars drop passengers off (there is no bus sign or anything though). The bus cost RM1.50 and goes to the Kota Kinabalu bus terminal, Terminal Wawasan. The bus only goes once an hour or so and the schedule is highly irregular. The last bus leaves at about 5:30-6 PM.

For terminal 1, Minibus No. 17, Kota Kinabalu-Putatan buses, will bring you to the city. Minibusses are available along the main road away from the airport and the bus stop is next to the footbridge. Cost RM1.50 each way will stop you at the south end of the City Centre, at Terminal Wawasan. It is around 1 km from the center. From Terminal Wawasan, you can take City Bus into the city center for RM0.50.

By Taxi – These are hired by buying a ticket from the window on the Arrivals level, then presenting the ticket to the driver. The standard rate from the airport to the city is RM30.

Kota Kinabalu is a beautiful treasure-trove of islands and a scenic place one should never miss.

Things to do and see in Kota Kinabalu

Hike mount kinabalu.

The most exclusive thing for adventurers at Kota Kinabalu is to climb Mount Kinabalu. 4,000 meters above the horizon of sea level, the mountain is the center for passionate climbers.

Island Hopping in Kota Kinabalu

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park with marvelous tropical islands is only a few minutes away from the city. The Park comprises five islands: Gaya Island, Manukan Island, Sapi Island, Sulug Island and Mamutik Island. These islands present you with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, coral gardens, lowland rain forests, and pleasant walking paths.

Visit Tun Mustapha Tower

Tun Mustapha Tower is yet another sight one shouldn’t miss. It is a 30-story and 122-meters high tower. This splendid building with a glass façade has a hanging structure, which is a feature it shares with only three other buildings in the world. It has an exclusive 72-sided polygon, column-free floors, and is the tallest building in Borneo. The Sabah state mosque is a magnum opus with dove-grey walls and sparkling majestic arches with gold enameling. It is capable of accommodating 5000 worshippers at a time.

Visit Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is the second main mosque situated at Likas Bay over the north coastal highway. The City Mosque is erected on a man-made lagoon, which generates a sense that the mosque is floating above the water. This amazing architecture brings to mind the design of the Prophet´s Mosque in Medina, in Saudi Arabia.

Visit Signal Hill Observatory

The Signal Hill Observatory gives an excellent picturesque view of all the islands in Kota Kinabalu, and the South Chinese Sea. The Sabah State Museum is a major museum in Kota Kinabalu, situated at old Palace Hill. It is an exclusive complex constructed in 1985 with a museum, a zoological garden, an ethno-botanic garden, and a heritage village.

The island is blessed with beautiful flora and fauna. Kota Kinabalu also has a lot of Museums to visit. If you love scuba diving, snorkeling, or simply island hopping, there’s definitely a place for you to visit in KK. Check out my post about Things to do in Kota Kinabalu .

Places to stay in Kota Kinabalu

Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa Resorts in Kota Kinabalu

Check out our list of the Best Hotels and Resorts in Kota Kinabalu , Malaysia

Also read: Horizon Hotel Kota Kinabalu Review

Eat and Dine at Kota Kinabalu

There is an extensive range of cuisine varying from Thai to Indian, Filipino to Italian, among Kota Kinabalu restaurants. Kedai kopi and Sedco Square are some of the places to dine at. Kota Kinabalu is famous for its seafood which is a cheap, and tasty dish based on clams, crab, or prawns.

Have you been to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia? Help us improve this 2022 Travel Guide to Kota Kinabalu by sharing your personal Kota Kinabalu travel tips and recommendations.

Internet in Kota Kinabalu

WiFi is available in most hotels. There are also internet cafes (aka cyber cafes) in most places.

Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , Pinterest , and YouTube for more tourist attractions in Asia.

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Eastern Sabah coastal islands

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to all islands and dive sites off the coast of eastern Sabah from Sandakan to Tawau, including Lankayan Island, due to the threat of kidnapping. This does not apply to the mainland of Sabah.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

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Updated malaysia travel requirements for tourists.

MALAYSIA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for Tourists Cebu Pacific

Planning a trip to Malaysia? What are the travel requirements to enter Malaysia?

Step-by-step procedures when traveling to Malaysia

Upon arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) terminal 3, proceed to the Cebu Pacific check-in counter.
Present your passport to the check-in counter staff. Drop your baggage if you have check-in baggage. If travel tax was already paid, the staff will give you your boading pass.
If travel tax not yet included in your ticket, pay the travel tax (PHP 1,620) at the travel tax counter. Then go back to the check-in counter to get your boarding pass.
Get a departure card and fill out the form with the required information.
Pass through immigration. Just give your passport and departure card.
After immigration, pass through security check.
Proceed to your flight's boarding gate. Be sure to be at the boading gate one hour before the estimated time of departure.
Wait for the Cebu Pacific staff to call the passengers for flight departure.
At the boarding gate, you just need to present your passport and boarding pass.
Board the plane and enjoy your flight.
Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), proceed to the immigration and present your passport.
After immigration, pass through customs check.
Welcome to Kota Kinabalu, in Sabah Malaysia!

Travel Requirements when Traveling Back to the Philippines

Important note: use etravel portal starting december 2, 2022.

How to get to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia from Manila, Philippines?

Cebu Pacific Air flies from Manila to Kota Kinabalu twice a week! Flights from Manila depart Ninoy Aquino International Aiport (NAIA) Terminal 3 every Friday and Monday at 11:25 PM and arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) at 01:50 AM the following day. Flights from Kota Kinabalu depart every Saturday and Tuesday at 02:35 AM and arrive in Manila at 04:40 AM. Book your flight via www.cebupacificair.com and #LetsFlyJuansMore to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia!

Where to stay hotels & resorts in kota kinabalu.

Pantai Inn - See room rates & availability
Tune Hotel 1Borneo - See room rates & availability
Kinabalu Daya Hotel - See room rates & availability
Horizon Hotel Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
Mercure Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Kota Kinabalu - See room rates & availability
The Jesselton Hotel - See room rates & availability
Mandarin Hotel - See room rates & availability
Hotel 7 Suria - See room rates & availability
Promenade Hotel - See room rates & availability
Hotel Dreamtel - See room rates & availability
The Pacific Sutera Hotel - See room rates & availability

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41 comments :.

good day. can i ask if the immigration here in Philippines still super strict to tourist? do they ask a lot of questions or still looking for some bank statements,show money or whatsoever. thank you.

No. They just asked me 2 questions. 1. When is my last trip. 2. When is my return flight. Then the IO put a stamp on my passport.

Hi. Ano po mga kay langan pag po punta malaysia firtimer.

How about firstimer po iba po ba mga, tanong nila.. And need po bah my invite from relative in malysia??

No need na po. Visa-free naman tayo sa Malaysia. Just answer their questions. Be honest lang po always sa mga sagot natin.

Hello, is it possible to fly from manila to malaysia then travel to singapore then go back to manila?

Yes, I don't see any problem with that at all.

In Malaysian immigration do they require a hotel booking upon arrival? Thanks

No. They did not ask for it.

Hi po. Do we still need to present negative antigen or rtpcr test?

Pwede po ba magtravel sa malaysia kahit wala pang booster ? First and second dose palang po vaccine ko .. Thanks in advance po sa sagot

Yes, pwede po. Walang requirements papasok ng Malaysia.

Hi po, hindi po ba nagrequire ng travel insurance going to malaysia?

Hindi naman po. we arrived here last Dec 16.

Do Philippines Immigration impose strict guidelines for ladies when traveling alone as a tourist to Malaysia?

Just be honest in answering the questions of the IO. They will let you travel if you you're traveling for tourism.

did you quarantine in malaysia when you got there? or no need anymore?

No quarantine needed. They didn't even ask for vaccination certificate.

Hi, required po ba dapat may hotel booking na sa malaysia bago ang flight?

Not required, but recommended. It's better to have a hotel booking so that when the IO asks where you will be staying, you have a hotel booking to show.

Will there be a problem if you would tell them that you will be staying at you relative's house? Thanks po

hello sir , ano po hinhnap na mga requirements po sa inyo when you travel to malaysia po ?

I was in Malaysia last November 9-13 for Convention..if I want to go back there? How many months before I can visit Malaysia? Thank you

Need po ba agad ng return ticket when visiting malaysia?

yes. for tourists, need ng return or onward tickets.

If wala po kau return ticket? But tourist kalang po? Ok lang po ba

Hi po..need po ba ng show money to enter Malaysia.

hindi po kailangan.

Bakit ako 2 times naoofload.. first october 2022,had 25k in bnk acc, return tcket, hotel booking,travel insurance bt still offloaded, 2nd december2022,my cousin was the sponsor in evrything kya lng wala maipakitang proof doc n mgpinsan kmi ayun oflod uli

Hello po. Planning to go there for two weeks po, andun po yung kamag anak ko. Dun po ako plano mag stay. Kailangan ko pa rin ba mag book ng hotel para in case tatanungin ako ng IO? Salamat po.

Hello po! Need pa ba ng BOQ Yellow Card or parang yung yellow passport when entering Malaysia? And may requirements po ba for kids?

How about sa immigration di na ba sila naghahanap ng bank statement?

hello po,,baka po pwidi nyo akong tulungan about for travel in Malaysia,,first timer ko po kc,,iniwasan ko mahold ako sa immigration,ano po ba ang dapat gawin?by April 13 po sana balak ko puntA don for vacation ng 10 days

I'm afraid baka po mahold ako sa immigration,, first time ko sana mag bakasyon don,, binigyan kc ako ng kapatid ko ng pera pra mka bakasyon sa Malaysia,,,baka po kc ma questions ako kung bakit kaya Kong mg bakasyon eh wala nman akong work dito sa pinas,,pa help po

You need to have proof na magkapatid kayo, like both of your birth certificates na naka indicate na parehas ang tatay at nanay nyo both, you also need to ask your kapatid to provide you an affidavit of support stating na siya ang gagasto sayo sa Malaysia.. you also need to explain bakit wala kapang trabaho if ever. Also, ask for a copy of your sibling's bank statement and COE nya, as well as her complete address kung san sya nakatira.

Greetings! I am travelling alone with complete hotel bookings etc. Is it okay to declare to IO that I am meeting with my gf. Hindi po ba questionable na I am visiting her? Do you have suggestions po? thank you in advance

same question waiting sa sagot

Hello. Mey training kasi ako sa SG. Medyo mahal mga hotels nila including AirBnB. Pwede ba sa malaysia ako magstay then travel to SG na lang? wala bang hassle like mga border pass and etc na need e present?

hello po ask ko lng po if pwedi ba pumunta ng malaysia na one way ticket lng po o need talaga round trip? hinahanap ba sa interview or sa imigration ang ound trip ticket? pakisagot nmn pls

We will be bound for Malaysia this coming month. Any recommended resort, beach or tourist spot so we could book a hotel nearby. Thanks.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Dive Into Malaysia

Perfect Kota Kinabalu Itinerary For 2 – 5 Days [2024]

Heading to Sabah and looking for the best Kota Kinabalu travel itinerary? Perfect! We can help in this Kota Kinabalu itinerary blog.

The gateway to Sabah (the ultimate destination for nature lovers), Kota Kinabalu, or KK as it’s affectionately known, is well worth hanging around for more than a few nights. It’s a surprisingly charming city with seaside views, friendly locals and colourful markets.

Brimming with culture and history, the city is overlooked by Mount Kinabalu on one side and surrounded by the azure South China Sea coastline on the other.

Relax at modern shopping malls, hotels, resorts and restaurants then enjoy epic excursions with island hopping adventures, scenic train journeys, bubbling hot springs, rainforest jungle treks, mangrove and swamp cruises and unique wildlife encounters… All of this is possible on day trips from the city!

Whether you wish to explore the city centre or further afield, there is plenty to keep you and your family occupied, whatever your budget

Below, you will find the ultimate itinerary: Kota Kinabalu! We walk you through options whether you have just 2 days in Kota Kinabalu or are looking for Kota Kinabalu 5d4n itinerary blog information.

You can simply stop following our Kota Kinabalu trip itinerary if your trip finishes in less than 5 days when you hit the number of days you have. You can also pick the days that sound best from the Kota Kinabalu itinerary 5d4n below.

We also have a complete list of the top things to do in Kota Kinabalu so you can decide if the stops in our Kota Kinabalu itinerary 5 days are perfect for you. You will find all the options for what to do in Kota Kinabalu.

Finally, we also recommend some top places to stay in Kota Kinabalu depending on your budget and some tips for visiting Kota Kinabalu with kids.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Kota Kinabalu Itinerary 2024

Remember, this is a full 5 day itinerary for Kota Kinabalu. If you have less days, simply pick the days that most appeal.

You can find more details for any of the activities mentioned in this itinerary in the section below.

If you’d like to do a Kota Kinabalu tour, find our best options here.

Day 1: Explore The Things To Do In Kota Kinabalu City Centre

Comfortable walking shoes, hat and sunglasses at the ready, let’s explore all the best things to do in the coastal town of Kota Kinabalu. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the leafy streets, appreciate the architectural heritage, and be ready for a great view point across the city and outlying islands.

Discover the region with a couple of hours at the Sabah State Museum
Taxi to the Central Market (Pasar Besar), explore and snack on cheap local street-food
Check-out the Handicraft (Filipino) Market in search of souvenirs
Taxi to the Po Toh Si Temple to marvel at the reclining Buddha
Walk 20 minutes to the stunning Floating Mosque, taking a pedal boat around the lake
Drop by the 1902 Atkinson Clock Tower before heading up the hill behind it to the Signal Observatory Hill for panoramic sunset views
Return to the seafront for a freshly cooked seafood dinner at the eclectic Night Market

Day 2: Experience The Best Kota Kinabalu Attractions By Sea

If you’re looking for sun, sand, snorkelling and fun in Kota Kinabalu, this will be your favourite day! Ensure to pack swimwear, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and towels. It’s advisable to carry some snacks and water.

Arrive early morning at the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal
Buy your tickets and pay the Sabah Parks Conservation Fee. You can find boat schedules and prices here
Catch a boat to Gaya. Check out the hiking trails and local wildlife then take a swim at Police Beach. You can cross at low tide at the sandbar to Sapi or get a boat to take you across
From Sapi, take a boat to Manukan for a BBQ lunch. Relaxing at any one of the splendid beaches or try some water sports
Take the last boat back to Jesselton, around 4pm
Enjoy sunset cocktails at Rooftop @ Le Méridien

Day 3: Explore Mt Kinabalu Attractions

A possible highlight of your Kota Kinabalu 3 day itinerary is this day exploring the splendid UNESCO World Heritage Mt. Kinabalu National Park. Wear your walking shoes and have your warmer clothes at the ready. You’ll see astounding flora and fauna, natural hot springs, cows, memorials and more…

After an early start, travel 1.5 hours to Nabalu Market and stock up with snacks, fruits and drinks
Enter the UNESCO World Heritage National Park, paying a fee that includes Poring Hot Springs
Experience some amazing scenery in the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu
Take a jungle trek – selecting from any of the well marked trails
Admire the exotic flora and fauna along the Botanical Garden Walk
Look out for Rafflesia flowers in bloom – you’ll smell them first!
Pay respects at the Kundasang War Memorial
Catch the afternoon cattle feed at Desa Dairy Farm
Feed the fish and enjoy a foot-fish-spa in Ranau
End your day at Poring Hot Springs for soothing sulphur-pools and an epic canopy-walk

A tour is by far the easiest way to do today’s itinerary. Find one here or click here for our best Mt Kota Kinabalu tours.

Day 4: View Borneo’s Famous Flora And Fauna

Borneo, the world’s third largest island, holds 6% of the world’s species of plants and animals. Our Kota Kinabalu 4 days itinerary takes you on a wonderful day discovering the local flora and fauna including some endangered and endemic species.

Travel 25 kilometres to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park which is open from 9.30 am
Explore the zoological side of the park with Borneo pygmy elephants and Sumatran rhinoceros, proboscis monkeys and the famous orangutans
Walk the 1.4 kilometre botanical jungle trail admiring the exotic plants
Check-out the aviary with hornbills, pigeons and eagles
Head back towards the city, stopping for a late lunch at the Monkey Cafe & Bar
Travel to the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Park for an afternoon mangrove discovery and excellent birding opportunities, with beautiful sunset views

Day 5: Relax And Enjoy Kota Kinabalu

Today, watch the local people at play in the State Park, admire local and international art, drop by another stunning mosque and end your day at the beach ready to catch a glimpse of a world-class sunset!

Drop by the Sabah Art Gallery
Head over to Padang Merdeka, the State Park, for a lazy picnic lunch
admire the Sabah State Mosque
Head to Tanjung Aru. Enjoy the beaches, the park and wait for the epic sunset
Dine on freshly grilled seafood at First Beach, enjoying the buzzy evening atmosphere

Complete List Of Best Things To Do In Kota Kinabalu

If the above 5 day itinerary doesn’t sound like you, below we have listed everything there is to do in Kota Kinabalu so you can plan out your own itinerary.

Signal Hill Observatory Platform

Looking for an awesome view of Kota Kinabalu? Head to Signal Hill, the highest point in the city. Here, you’ll find an impressive observation platform.

Open daily from 8am to midnight, admire the sweeping unobstructed city views which, on clear days, extend out to the beaches of Tanjung Aru and Likas Bay, and even to the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

Widely considered a “must do” on any tourist list of Kota Kinabalu things to do, travel by taxi just 2 minutes from Padang Merdeka. Or walk from the Atkinson Clock Tower 30 minutes uphill via a winding road and 250 steep steps.

The best time to visit is late afternoon. Grab a coffee at the on-site cafe and sit back to watch an epic sunset across the city and distant islands.

Address: 78, Jalan Asrama, Signal Hills, Kota Kinabalu

Central Market

Exploring markets is a delightful way to discover native handicrafts, food culture and interact with local people. Kota Kinabalu’s Central Market, found on the busy waterfront a few steps from the Handicraft Market, is a riot of colour and smells.

Here you’ll find the juicy but prickly rambutan, the awfully smelly “King of the Fruits” durian and many varieties of bananas, alongside rice, grains and locally made hot sauces. Follow your nose to the adjacent Wet Market which sells all manner of ocean creatures – mostly still swimming!

Add on a visit to the Handicraft Market (formerly known as the Filipino Market). Here, you’ll find tailors working on old pedal-powered sewing machines. There’s a treasure trove of clothing, local crafts and jewellery.

The Central Market is open 6am – 6pm daily.

Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Pusat Bandar, Kota Kinabalu

Night Market

If you visit in the evening, be sure to go hungry! The Waterfront Seafood Night Market (Pasar Malam Makanan Laut), a paradise for seafood enthusiasts, operates at the parking lot in front of the Central Market daily from around 4.30 pm.

Our top pick of things to do in Kota Kinabalu at night, immerse yourself in the local community as you select seafood from the Wet Market, haggle over the price, and decide on the cooking method… Freshly grilled, steamed or boiled! Enjoy fresh, delicious seafood such as squid skewers, grilled snapper or latok (sea grapes).

There’s also a wide range of Southeast Asian foods available – Malaysian, Filipino and Indonesian dishes – along with local Bornean cuisine. Order Ikan Bakar, a popular dish of fish or stingray, seasoned with a mixture of turmeric, lemongrass and chilli, wrapped in a banana leaf and grilled over the charcoal. Or try Udgan Butter, battered fried prawns with a crunchy fried egg!

Wash it all down with bright pink bandung – an iced beverage of condensed milk sweetened with rose cordial – and soak up the buzzing market’s atmosphere. This is really a must-do in Kota Kinabalu!

Address: 4 01, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, Pusat Bandar, Kota Kinabalu

Sabah State Museum

A time machine to Borneo history, the Sabah State Museum is one of the most interesting places in Kota Kinabalu. Learn about Sabah’s people, their rich diverse culture and traditions, alongside the history from colonial times through to modern Malaysia. And, of course, discover some of the unique wildlife that Borneo is renowned for.

You’ll find the largest whale skeleton exhibit in Malaysia with a huge 18.6 metre specimen.

Galleries include ceramics – with colourful tall jars passed down through generations – and Headhunting. Here, you’ll learn tales of the fearsome headhunters that roamed the land of Borneo armed with swords and blowpipes!

The Natural History gallery is a favourite with its overview of Borneo’s unique ecology. Specimens of flora and fauna from marine, rainforest, cave and swamp ecosystems make for interesting viewing.

Discover the 32 indigenous groups of Sabah, which have around 100 spoken languages, at the Ethnology Gallery. Admire examples of handicrafts, musical instruments and costumes.

Next to the main building is the Locomotive Gallery. Here, you’ll find several displays of old trains and memorabilia of the railway system of Kota Kinabalu and Northern Borneo. The adjoining Heritage Village has traditional tribal dwellings. This includes Kadazan bamboo houses and a Chinese farmhouse, beautifully set on a lily-pad lake.

Located 2 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu city centre at the Bukit Istana Lama (Old Palace Hill), the Museum opens daily 9am-5pm. Plan about two hours for your visit. If you really love stories of Borneo, you could easily spend half a day here, making this one of the standout cheap things to do in Kota Kinabalu.

Find more information here .

Address: Sabah Museum Complex, Jalan Muzium

Sabah Art Gallery

A feast for art lovers, the Sabah Art Gallery is located at the 1.7 hectare Sabah Art Gallery Conservation Centre. A great place to visit in Kota Kinabalu on a rainy day, the museum collects local as well as international works of art.

The building itself is an objet-d’art! Designed as an octagonal “basket-shaped” building, the museum exhibits the decorative cultural motif panels of the indigenous people of Sabah. Using renewable energy and rainwater for automatic lighting and air conditioning, it was the first green building in Borneo.

Two gallery spaces showcase over 3000 paintings, carvings, sculptures, installations and so on. They host special monthly and yearly exhibitions. Check here for the latest programmes .

Located in the Layang district, it’s a short 15 minute taxi/Grab ride from Kota Kinabalu city centre. Open daily 9am-5pm, except for public holidays.

Address: 14, Jalan Shantung, Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

By far the largest mosque in Kota Kinabalu, the white and blue City Mosque is possibly Malaysia’s most beautiful. Located at Likas Bay, the Mosque is partially surrounded by a man-made lagoon giving it a dramatic, serene look, especially under moonlight.

Nicknamed “The Floating Mosque”, it presents a classic example of contemporary Islamic architecture wonderfully reflected in the surrounding lake and complemented by the sky-blue backdrop.

Accommodating up to 12,000 worshippers at a time, the majestic mosque has a prayer hall housing three madrasahs. Take a paddleboat ride in the lagoon for some fabulous photos of the Mosque or visit late afternoon for iconic sunset photos.

This is a popular attraction and one of the unique places to visit in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. It’s open to the public at various times throughout the day outside of prayer time except for Fridays. Visitors must dress appropriately (special clothing is provided).

Address: Jalan Pasir, Jalan Teluk Likas, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre

Formerly known as the Kota Kinabalu City Bird Sanctuary, this 24 hectares of mangrove forest makes for a pleasant hour’s stroll and is one of my favourite attractions in Kota Kinabalu centre.

Upon arrival, register at the main building and pick up a mangrove forest map, fact sheet, flora and fauna checklist, rent binoculars and grab a drink before setting out!

Walk along the 1.5 kilometre boardwalk that guides you around a one hour walk deep into the mangrove. Enjoy fresh air and tranquillity at this unique ecosystem where land meets the sea. It is home to many interesting birds, plants and wildlife.

Spot them from the boardwalk or from resting huts dotted along the route. There is also an observation tower towards the end of the walk.

Almost 80 species of birds (best viewed in the early morning) have been identified including purple heron and many types of egrets. Other mangrove wildlife includes monitor lizards, fiddler crabs, mud lobsters and turtles.

Enjoy guided or self-discovery walks, environmental education programmes and bird sessions at the on-site bird-hide. The centre is open Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-6pm. It’s closed on Mondays.

Address: Off, Jalan Bukit Bendera Upper, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu

Sabah Islamic Civilisation Museum

Part of the Sabah State Museum, this 2-storey building is the best place in Kota Kinabalu to learn about Muslim culture, its history and heritage.

In the Islamic World Gallery, you can see an 18th-century Persian Quran stand, Indonesian wooden caskets engraved with Quranic verses, old Qurans and miniature mosques. Ancient artefacts from Middle East countries showcase the history of the spread of the Islamic religion throughout Southeast Asia including the roots of its arrival into Sabah and Malaysia.

The Borneo Gallery features Islamic antiques from Sabah, neighbouring Sarawak and Brunei, with some noteworthy curved Sulu swords and weapons.

You receive free entry with a valid Sabah State Museum ticket. The museum is open 9am-5pm, Saturday to Thursday.

Address: Jalan Menteri, Karamunsing, Kota Kinabalu

Puh Toh Tze Buddhist Temple

With its traditional Chinese roofing and design, the Puh Toh Tze Buddhist Temple stands out, making this one of the more stunning Kota Kinabalu attraction places to visit.

Ten large statues of deities adorn the temple with the Goddess of Mercy, Kwan Yin, standing tall at the main entrance and a Chinese-style reclining Buddha inside.

The Temple is set on a small hill, approximately 9 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu city centre. It’s easily reachable by taxi or Grab.

Address: 88450 Kota Kinabalu

Rooftop @ Le Méridien

Sunset drinks at Rooftop Bar at Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu

Whether you keep to this Kota Kinabalu itinerary or not, make sure one evening you go to Rooftop @ Le Méridien.

This bar on the 15th floor of the Le Méridien Hotel is open to everyone and serves great drinks and some snacks in the perfect surrounds for the perfect sunset.

It’s a great way to end a day of exploring in Kota Kinabalu and is across the road from the Night Market if you want something to eat after.

Le Méridien is also a great hotel to stay. Click here to read my full review.

Tanjung Aru

As much a part of the local lore as Bondi Beach is to Sydney or Copacabana is to Rio de Janeiro, Tanjung Aru is 1.3 kilometres of silky golden beach that is world famous for its epic sunsets!

The most popular of all places to visit near Kota Kinabalu airport, Tanjung Aru is Malay for “Casuarina Beach”, taking its name from the casuarinas or aru trees that surround the sandy beach. Split into three sections, the beach is simply named – First Beach, Second Beach and Third Beach.

First Beach, and the most popular, is home to adrenaline-pumping water sports activities, such as parasailing, paragliding and windsurfing. At the end, you’ll find the busy picnic spot of Tanjung Aru Beach Park, home to beautiful birds such as oriental pied hornbills and blue naped parrots.

Following on from the Park are Second and Third Beach which extend down to the airport. Not so popular with tourists, the beaches are less crowded except for the odd fisherman.

Locals adore First Beach at Tanjung Aru, settling in mid-afternoon to view the iconic sunset which is said to be in the world’s top ten. Get ready to pose for innumerable sunset-selfies!

Tranquil and relaxing, Tanjung Aru is nature at its best which is why it’s one of the top things to do Kota Kinabalu.

Hawker stalls and seafood restaurants sell lip-smacking Malaysian food late into the night. You can find simple meals such as coconut and sugarcane juice with chicken or beef satays. Or have a full-course dinner of freshly-caught lobster, fish, stingray and a variety of shellfish.

Fancy a splurge? Dine at any one of the luxury resorts dotted around the area including the stunning Shangri-La Tanjung Aru and The Magellan Sutera Resort. You’ll find alfresco sunset-facing restaurant, with international fine-dining.

Tanjung Aru is approximately six kilometres from Kota Kinabalu city. Hire a taxi or take the bus direct from Kota Kinabalu City Hall marked “Tanjung Aru Beach”.

Best Places To Visit In Kota Kinabalu Surrounds

The following things to do around Kota Kinabalu are easy to visit on a half or full day trip.

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Experience Sabah as it once was. From rice-wine making to blow-pipe shooting to fire-starting… Soak up the culture and sharpen your survival skills at the Mari Mari Cultural Village, a major Kota Kinabalu tourist attraction.

Glimpse how the tribes of Sabah lived in long-houses and learn their pagan rituals. Gain an insight into the mystical belief systems of each group.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is located in a remote forest setting in Kionsom, Inanam, about 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city. The village operates as a museum that preserves Borneo ethnic culture. It’s definitely a little “touristy”, but it is also super fun, especially for families.

You’ll meet Sabah’s five major ethnic communities – the Bajau (sea gypsies), Lundayeh (hunters and fishermen), Murut (headhunters), Rungus (longhouse residents) and Dusun (rice farmers). Traditional huts sprout along the village, with each tribe house offering a unique display of culture, folklore and lifestyle practices through interactive demonstrations for the whole family to participate in.

You can sample traditional treats, learn how to cut tree bark and make traditional warrior vests. Or jump for a prize on a built-in ‘Lansaran’ (traditional trampoline-like floor). End your visit with a live ethnic dance performance, the ancient ‘Magunatip’ bamboo-dance by the Murut Tribe. You can then have a buffet spread of exotic cuisines that are synonymous with Sabah’s cultural identity.

Before returning to the city, take a cool swim at the nearby Kiansom Waterfall, only 400 metres from the Village.

Address: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, Kota Kinabalu

You can buy discounted tickets for this attraction by clicking here .

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park – Manukan, Mamutik, Gaya, Sulug and Sapi Islands

Searching for some exciting Kota Kinabalu activities? Spend a day discovering the beautiful islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Marine Park with its diverse ecosystems and abundant marine life. Relax in the sun over a lazy beach picnic or enjoy an action-packed day boating between islands, snorkelling, diving, zip-lining and trekking island trails.

Made up of five small Bornean islands, the national park is a 25 minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. It is a firm favourite with both tourists and locals. In fact, this is certainly the best place to visit in Kota Kinabalu for a full day excursion.

On the islands, you’ll find untouched tropical forests and a surprising amount of wildlife including some particularly large (but harmless!) monitor lizards. The largest island, Gaya, has 3,700 acres of forests and around 20 kilometres of trails with rare wildlife such as the proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs and hornbills. Also, check out Gaya’s popular scenic white sandy Police Beach at Police Bay. It’s surrounded by crystal clear water.

Manukan is the second largest island. It has spectacular beaches and is the most developed in terms of facilities with various chalets, restaurants and watersport outlets as part of the resort. It’s said to have what is the best beach amongst all the islands. Manukan also has swimming pools, dive centres, a Club House, volleyball courts and a football field!

Read about a trip to Manukan here .

Mamutik Island is the smallest in the marine park with some good diving spots and, again, excellent beaches but some can be a little rocky. Watch out for sea urchins here.

Sapi Island – known as Cow Island – is probably the most popular island with its beautiful beaches, stunning snorkelling and diving spots. Linked to Gaya at low tide by a lovely sand bar, it’s covered in thick forests.

Sulug is the most remote – thus the least untouched of them all – with tranquil beaches loved by tourists looking for a back-to-nature experience. It’s a small rocky island which is surrounded by excellent reefs. It’s fabulous for snorkelling.

You’ll be blown away by the variety of fish species in the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. At the last count, it’s over 360 species! Look out for favourites such as the blue-ringed octopus or search out blacktip sharks amongst the colourful corals. Turtles, morays, nudibranchs, sponges, scorpionfish, parrotfish, batfish, lionfish and giant clams can all be easily spotted.

From March to October, water visibility is awesome at 10-15 metres. Snorkellers can rent equipment and swim directly from most island’s beaches – with Manukan and Sapi perhaps the best. Or you can register with scuba operators at each island to join boat trips. Each island has a handful of key dive sites that will keep scuba-fanatics happy for well over a week!

Water sports, include kayaking and sailing, beach sports, picnic and bbq facilities can be found on many islands.

The Coral Flyer is a thrilling zipline that spans between Gaya and Sapi Island, letting you fly across the blue ocean! Smaller children can ride tandem with parents and there’s a dual line so you can ride alongside your friends. This is currently closed at the time of updating this article, but click here to see if it’s back .

Some of the best accommodation places in Kota Kinabalu can be found on the islands, including the luxury Manukan Island Resort and both the Gayana Eco Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort on Gaya. Budget accommodation, chalets and campsites are available on most of the islands.

With diverse forests and wildlife as well as unique coral and marinelife, a day’s island hopping at the marine park should come high on your list of things to do in Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Visit during the week to avoid the overly crowded weekends.

It’s best to book a day trip to visit the islands – click here for a range of options ., otherwise you can read our full guide on island hopping in Kota Kinabalu here .

You can buy boat transfers and find schedules here .

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

High on lists of Kota Kinabalu places to visit, spend half day at the exotic Lok Kawi Wildlife Park. This family-oriented park covers 280 acres of land and is split into zoological and botanical sections.

The zoological side features exotic and endangered species, such as Sumatran rhinoceros, proboscis monkeys, Malayan tigers, orangutans, Borneo pygmy elephants and colourful hornbill birds. For younger children, check out the ponies and goats at the Kids Zoo area.

At the botanical site, trek a 1.4 kilometre trail to the Herbal and Ginger Garden while you spot plants such as the carnivorous pitcher-plants and other rare specimens. The nearby noisy aviary will definitely catch your attentio, with a myriad of sounds from mynahs and parrots.

This is the Kota Kinabalu best place for a quick fix of wildlife viewing. Visit here if you’re on limited time while in Borneo and unable to make it out to the National Parks.

It’s located 25 kilometres outside of Kota Kinabalu. The Park is open 7 days a week, 9.30am-5.30pm. The venue hosts a twice daily Wild Borneo Animal Show and Animal Feeding Sessions (except on Friday and public holidays).

Address: Lok kawi Putata, Kota Kinabalu

Kinabalu Park And Poring Hot Springs

Spend a day witnessing the wonders of Mt. Kinabalu Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – followed by a dip in warm sulphur springs and a thrilling canopy walk!

Journey approximately two hours into one of the world’s oldest rainforests with green fields, mountain ranges left and right, and quaint little villages. Stop off at Nabalu Market near the Crocker Range, known as the Backbone of Borneo. Make sure you enjoy refreshing drinks and fresh fruits, and check out the handicrafts sold by the local Dusun tribe that lives at the foothills of the sacred mountain.

As you drive on through the National Park, cool and refreshing mountain air is a welcome relief. Soak in the amazing views across the rainforest to the majestic +4000ft Mt. Kinabalu. It’s an iconic image of things to see in Kota Kinabalu.

With an estimated 6000 vascular plant species, including 1500 species of orchids, Kinabalu Park is a mecca for nature lovers. Join a park naturalist for a guided walk at the Botanical Gardens along marked nature trails that buzz with birds and butterflies. Marvel at the cornucopia of flowers and plants, while learning about this biological treasure trove.

Visit the Agro Flower Nursery or the Mountain Garden where you’ll discover pitcher plants, more orchids and ferns. You’ll also find a Butterfly Farm and Orchid Conservation Centre.

For those who are more adventurous at this Kota Kinabalu famous place, you’ll find many Mt. Kinabalu mountain activities, such as Alpine Rock Climbing, Paragliding and mountain expeditions.

Travel on to Poring Hot Springs, named after the tall bamboo plant found in abundance around this natural hot spring.

Therapeutic and healing, the springs are said to work their magic on your body and soul. There are outdoor and open-air hot tubs or private indoor sulphur tubs for two. It’s a popular stop for climbers on their return from summiting Mt. Kinabalu.

Alternatively, walk twenty minutes uphill through the Borneo tropical rainforest to a 41 metres high tree-top Canopy Walkway. You’re immersed in chirping birds and humming insects. Cross the approximately 100 metres of the forest canopy on this well-maintained rope bridge. It provides breathtaking views.

Possibly less strenuous, explore waterfalls within hiking distance of the hot spring entrance. Kipungit Waterfall is only 15 minutes walk and drops from 10 metres. Slightly more challenging is the two hour hike to Langanan Waterfall. It drops a spectacular 120 metres. There’s a dramatic bat cave along the route.

For more serious trekking, there are plenty of marked jungle trails within the National Park. This includes the 2-3 hour Liwagu Trail that covers 5,620 meters and crosses small streams, narrow ridges and enters the lush canopy of trees making for an excellent adventure!

Address: 89300 Ranau, Sabah

The best way to visit the attractions in Kinabalu Park is on a day tour. Find a great option here.

Desa Cattle Dairy Farm

Another of the unique places of interest Kota Kinabalu offers up is the Desa Cattle Dairy Farm. It has some of the most amazing scenery you can imagine!

At the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu, almost 200 hectares of beautiful green pastures are dotted with roaming Holstein Friesian cows. This gives rise to the region’s nickname, the Little New Zealand of Sabah.

Check out the Friesians, the highest milk producers of all cattle breeds which produces almost a million litres annually. Assist with bottle-feeding calves, hand-feed goats and watch the milking process. Discover how milk is processed ready for sale.

Pick up some souvenirs – popular dairy products such as Desa Cattle’s milk-in-a-box – or enjoy freshly made frozen yoghurt and delicious ice-cream.

Educational and fun, this is a popular Kota Kinabalu attraction place, especially for families looking for things to do at Kota Kinabalu.

Located at Kundasang, Ranau, a visit here can easily be tagged onto your day at Mt. Kinabalu National Park or with a visit to Poring Hot Springs. Open daily 8 am-5 pm, it’s best to bring a sweater!

Address: 89308 Kundasang, Sabah

The easiest way to visit here is on a day tour combined with Kinabalu Park. Find a great option here.

Kota Kinabalu Attraction Map

Find all the things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on the map below.

Best Places To Stay In Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is flourishing and in recent years we’ve seen every level of accommodation up their game. Many new backpacker-hostels and five-star resorts have popped up, with older more established hotels undergoing renovations.

Luxury resorts are mainly a little out of town or over on the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Budget hotels can be found in the Bandaran Berjaya area close to most of the attractions. Gaya Street and Australia Place remain the chief backpacker haunts.

No matter what your budget, your holiday style or who you are travelling with, you’ll easily find a great place to stay. Rates are reasonable and customer service usually defies star rating! Kota Kinabalu is definitely one of the best value destinations of anywhere in the world.

Below we’ve listed a few different places to consider, including a budget, mid-range and a more expensive option.

BEST – Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa Review

Possibly the most luxurious resort in Kota Kinabalu thanks to its private beach, massive swimming pool, splendid spa and excellent Kid’s Club, the Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa also has a front row seat for one of the world’s best sunsets!

Built on its own little peninsula, the resort feels secluded but remains handy for the city – with the airport and centre only 10 minutes away. Following Shangri-La’s famed artistic design of white marble, heavy wooden furniture and contemporary art, the hotel has a sumptuous and fresh feel.

490 rooms are divided into two sections – the Kinabalu Wing with sea or mountain views, and the Tanjung Wing with slightly larger, more expensive options. They are all sea-facing. Shangri-La luxuries such as balconies, king-size beds and ensuite bathrooms come as standard.

A complimentary Kids Club has daily activities including treasure hunts and water play areas with slides galore. Activities for older guests include sunrise yoga, coconut bowling and kayak lessons, and the concierge desk will help arrange tours to the best places to go in Kota Kinabalu or help you experience unique wildlife activities in Kota Kinabalu.

Tennis courts, ping pong table, petanque pitch and the wonderful CHI Spa (on its own tiny island!) will also keep you occupied.

The resort’s breakfast buffet is enormous and all freshly prepared. At 6pm, the Sunset Bar is without a doubt the city’s hottest watering hole. Pre-booking is essential! And for dinner, four restaurants to tempt you with Chinese or Italian cuisine, lively cooking stations or formal alfresco dining. You won’t go hungry here!

Click here for the latest prices .

If you want a hotel in the middle of the city, read our review of Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu here . It’s a fantastic option in a prime location.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Sixty3 Review

Location, location, location! In the city centre, Hotel Sixty3 is superb for all the things to see in Kota Kinabalu. It’s just a 15 minute stroll from Jesselton Point, 5 minutes from Gaya Street Sunday Market and the Suria Shopping Mall, and only 2 minutes from the Signal Hill Observatory Tower.

Rooms range from standard, superior, family or executive deluxe to suite and super-standard, all with king or twin bedding. TV with digital channels feature in all 100 of the rooms, along with free bottled water, coffee/tea makers, and guests can enjoy free WiFi in the public areas. Ensuite bathrooms come with a shower and complimentary toiletries, while the larger rooms have separate dining and seating areas.

Other services include a 24-hour front desk, dry cleaning/laundry and a helpful Concierge Desk for arranging city and wildlife tours. Alternatively, you’ll find the State’s Tourism Information Office directly opposite the hotel.

There is no restaurant on site, but there are numerous food outlets in the nearby vicinity – restaurants, cafes and street-hawkers, selling both local and international cuisine.

Clean, quiet and with great family-deluxe rooms, this is a super midrange Kota Kinabalu accommodation option.

Click here for the latest prices

BUDGET – Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu Review

A cozy, welcoming option, the Mandarin Hotel Kota Kinabalu is in a central spot on Gaya Street so you are in a prime location for the Gaya Street Sunday Market. It’s surrounded by a diverse selection of restaurants and shops and walking distance to many of the city’s attractions.

Friendly Reception staff, available 24-hours, welcome you to this 2-star hotel. There are 81 rooms which include double, junior suite and family rooms. Rooms are air-conditioned, with flat screen TV, sofa and ensuite bathrooms with either a bath or walk-in rain shower.

Guests have complimentary WiFi and housekeeping, while a chargeable laundry service is offered. Parking and airport shuttle service available.

Click here to see all our recommendations for exactly where to stay in Kota Kinabalu.

Visiting Kota Kinabalu With Kids

It’s surprising to some parents just how many things there are to do in Kota Kinabalu with kids, and we feel it should be on all family holiday-to-do-lists as there are so many reasons to visit.

Extraordinary wildlife, tropical climate, on the doorstep of an incredible biodiverse part of the world, friendly Malaysians who adore children… And a myriad of activities that will keep all ages entertained!

Things to do in Kota Kinabalu with family include snorkelling off the coast at the world-class Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. A quick 25 minute speedboat ride from the mainland, you’ll enjoy lazy beach picnics, discover the Park’s five islands and marvel at the colourful tropical fish and stunning corals.

Children love learning about orangutans and other Borneo wildlife at the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, spotting proboscis monkeys from Kawa Kawa river cruises ( click here for more information ) or spending a day at Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, botanical gardens, a butterfly farm and jungle nature treks keep all age groups happy.

A visit to the nearby Poring Hot Springs National Park is both relaxing and thrilling with their sulphur pools and the highest canopy walk in Sabah.

For older kids, they’ll thrill at the zip line between islands (yes!) – the Coral Flyer Zipline – at Gaya Island, and the plethora of water sports on offer including parasailing, banana boat rides, wakeboarding and waterskiing. And for your true adrenaline junkies, dare them to ride the rapids with white water rafting at the scenic Kiulu River ( click here for more information ).

Of course, don’t forget to stop at the best of all family-favourite Kota Kinabalu tourist attractions, the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where younger children explore traditional houses and learn about the tribes, while older children make rice wine and help start fires using bamboo. A terrific family fun Sabah Kota Kinabalu attraction!

Finally, head to the beach at Tanjung Aru where all the family can capture awesome selfies for those essential social media updates. Don’t forget to end the day with the magic of a Borneo sunset!

Luxury hotels cater to all ages, many offering swimming pools, private beaches, baby-sitting services, kids clubs and activities. You’ll need another holiday to recover!

How To Get To Kota Kinabalu

It’s easy to get to Kota Kinabalu by flight, bus, taxi or car – assuming you are already in Sabah or Brunei for the overland options. We have a range of detailed guides for reaching Kota Kinabalu from places such as Labuan , Brunei , Sandakan , KL and Kuching .

To see all the latest flights and prices, click here .

If you need to take a bus, click here for the latest timetables and bus prices .

You can also hire a car to get you there by clicking here .

Final Words

Kota Kinabalu is a treasure trove of adventure, wildlife and culture, and we hope that our ideas and rundown of Kota Kinabalu famous places have piqued your interest enough to visit! You will surely never run out of things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia.

Discover more information on Sabah in our full Sabah travel guide here . You can also find our full travel guide to Kota Kinabalu here .

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

Planning The Perfect Kota Kinabalu Travel Itinerary

Kota Kinabalu isn’t most travellers’ final destination – but it totally should be. Here’s how to plan the perfect Kota Kinabalu travel itinerary, however long you have.

The capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu – or KK, as the locals call it – is one of the main entry points for visitors to Borneo.

If you find yourself in Kota Kinabalu, there’s a good chance that – just like Kuala Lumpur – it’s a stopping point. But, just like the Malaysian capital, it’s well worth spending at least 48 hours in Kota Kinabalu.

Whether you’re heading out to the Borneo jungle or tagging your Kota Kinabalu trip on to a longer tour of Malaysia , don’t just treat it as a necessary connection.

Yes, there are lots of exciting things to do in Sabah. With orangutans, jungles and famously tasty food, Kota Kinabalu might not be high on your agenda.

But whatever your reason for visiting, it’s like you’ll leave feeling like you didn’t have enough time in KK.

Kota Kinabalu is one of those cities that grows on you more the longer you stay. The city is much bigger than it first seems, and it would take months to explore every corner.

Whether you have 24 hours, 3 days or longer in Kota Kinabalu, here’s how to enjoy the city and plan your KK itinerary.

Just to let you know… This post (probably) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission if you click one. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Using this Kota Kinabalu travel itinerary

If you only have one day in kk… , if you have 2 days in kota kinabalu…, if you have 3 days in kota kinabalu (or more), where to stay in kota kinabalu.

I’ve broken the KK itinerary below down day by day.

I’ve ordered it to make it as simple to follow as possible, no matter how much time you have in Kota Kinabalu.

If you only have one day, the day one itinerary is what I recommend.

If you have two days in KK, day one and day two are what I recommend.

And if you have three days or more, feel free to take your pick from the other activities I’ve mentioned!

If you only have one day in Kota Kinabalu (eek!) it can be tempting to cram in as much as possible.

The city’s chilled out vibe is one of its biggest charms, though. This is one city I’d recommend taking at a slower pace.

7:30AM – Start with breakfast at Toojou.

Whether you decide to stay there or not, pop into the social café space for a breakfast that will keep you full.

The Tamaha Café is open to both guests and the public and serves up a tasty mix of local dishes and fusion options.

They also make really good coffee and fresh juices, all for very reasonable prices.

Nasi Lemak breakfast at Toojou in Kota Kinabalu

9:00AM – Take a walking tour.

The Sabah tourism boards runs a free Kota Kinabalu city tour every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The city tour covers all the famous spots, as well as plenty of local favourites.

You’ll learn all about KK’s eventful past , as well as the ongoing projects you don’t normally see as a tourist.

Tip: The website says the KK walking tour takes around two hours, but expect it to take at least three. You won’t get bored – but you will want to budget extra time if you’re planning any afternoon activities!

If your trip to Kota Kinabalu doesn’t coincide with one of the tour days, it’s well worth booking a paid tour such as this one or this half day tour , both of which combine culture, history and local knowledge.

1PM – Lunch at Yee Fung.

Gaya Street is one of the hubs of activity in Kota Kinabalu. On this street, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, hotels, cafés, shops and everything else you could possibly want.

Nestled among the many outlets is Yee Fung .

This casual spot in the heart of KK is known for what it does best: laksa.

It’s popular with both locals and visitors, which means you may have to wait for seat – but it will totally be worth it.

Location: 127 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu

The house laksa with shrimp and chicken at Fee Yung

2PM – Head to the beach!

Kota Kinabalu is a coastal city, which means it’s surrounded by beaches. And since those beaches are in Borneo, you can be sure they’re beautiful!

The most famous beach in Kota Kinabalu is Tanjung Aru , and no KK trip would be complete without a visit.

It’s famous for its postcard-worthy sunset, so stick around until the early evening to see it.

And if you have any space left after lunch, try some local street food from the stalls just off the main beach area.

7:30PM – Dinner at Welcome Seafood.

Welcome Seafood is one of the most famous restaurants in Kota Kinabalu – and for good reason!

This sprawling dining spot started as a one-room shop but now takes up an entire street. Even the street lamps that line the street have neon seafood signs on them now!

Welcome Restaurant has anything you could want and the prices are incredibly reasonable to. If you love lobster or crab, now is the time to treat yourself.

Location : Lot G18, Komplek Jalan Asia City Phase 2A.

Fresh crab at Welcome seafood restaurant in Kota Kinabalu

Now you’ve seen some of the city, it’s time to get out of it!

Just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu lie the kind of paradisaical islands you thought only existed on postcards.

They’re pretty much on par with Philippines islands like Siargao and Palawan: dreamy, idyllic and a must-visit if you’re in the area.

Even if you’re not usually a beach or water sports person, you won’t want to miss a day trip to one (or more) of KK’s islands.

The easiest way to see the islands is on an organised day trip from Kota Kinabalu. In fact, most of them are only accessible with a tour operator – so sit back and enjoy it, even if it’s not your usual style of travel!

Mantani Island is one of the best islands to visit if you want to spend as much time on the white sand beaches as possible. This full day tour includes hotel pick-up, a beach lunch and the chance to snorkel in Sabah’s beautiful waters.

If you don’t mind travelling a little further afield, it’s hard to beat Dinawan Island . Dinawan is a privately owned island, meaning you get the added bonus of being someone completely remote.

The jetty is about an hour’s drive from downtown Kota Kinabalu and hotel pick-up is available.

If you want to see as much as possible (or just don’t like chilling on the beach!), book an island hopping tour that covers several islands. This one will take you to Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Gaya.

If you have three or more days in Kota Kinabalu, you definitely won’t be bored!

Here are some of the best things to do in KK if you have the time to spare:

Shop at the markets

Every Sunday, hoards of locals descend on Gaya Street for the weekly market.

If you happen to find yourself in KK on a Sunday, it’s something you definitely won’t want to miss!

You can find pretty much everything at the Gaya Street Sunday market . And when I say everything, I mean everything .

From handmade sarongs and locally grown coffee beans, to Sabahan instruments and everyday household items, you won’t believe how much there is.

If you’re not in Kota Kinabalu on a Sunday, the local handicraft markets are a great place to shop for fruit, jewellery and souvenirs.

Allow plenty of time to browse the stalls near the coast on Jalan Sinsuran.

Fruit for sale at a Kota Kinabalu market

Take a trip out to Mari Mari cultural village.

“Mari Mari” means “come here” or “let’s go” in Malay and it’s a phrase you’ll hear lots if you visit the village.

Mari Mari cultural village showcases and celebrates the cultures of Sabah five main ethnic groups.

You’ll spend a couple of hours learning about the groups, exploring the types of houses they live in a getting to experience the quirks they’re known for.

Expect a truly immersive travel experience where you can try plenty of food (and rice wine!) along the way, as well as taking part in traditional rituals.

After the tour, you’ll be treated to traditional dances and a high tea buffet. Because your meal is included and served at a set time, you will need to book your trip to Mari Mari in advance.

Rice wine at Mari Mari Cultural Village near Kota Kinabalu

Kinabalu National Park

If you have more than 3 days in Kota Kinabalu, spend a day at Kota Kinabalu National Park. Climbing Mount Kinabalu takes 2-3 full days but you don’t need to make the full hike to enjoy it.

If you do, it’s possible to book a 3D2N camping under the stars trip for a truly unique experience.

If you only have one day, there’s still plenty to see in Kinabalu National Park. The botanical are worth a wander and there are plenty of day hikes and shorter trails to enjoy too.

If you want to make the most your time and see the main attractions nearby, you can book a Kinabalu day trip for a very reasonable price.

Whatever your Kota Kinabalu has in store, Toojou is the perfect central resting point.

A combination of hostel, coworking space and social café space, Toojou feels more like a boutique hotel you want to hang out in than a hostel.

It’s newly opened, great for all ages and incredible value for money.

If you enjoy a little more independence, Robusta Suites is a newly opened serviced apartment just out of the centre.

With in-room swings (yes, really!) and coffee scrubs available, it’s the perfect retreat after a busy day exploring the city.

Heading to Kuala Lumpur, too? Here’s where to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

The one thing you should never travel without

Even though you hope you’ll never need to use it, travelling with insurance will make sure you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

I use Heymondo because it’s the most comprehensive cover I’ve found – they even cover the more adventurous activities that other insurers won’t.

As a partner of Alajode, they’re offering an exclusive 5% discount for my readers. Click here to find out more, get an instant quote and save even more!

Enjoyed this post? Why not pin it for later or share it with a travel buddy:

About Jodie Marie Dewberry

Jodie has been travelling the world full time since 2017, sharing the most unique places in the world along with tips for living as a digital nomad. She is a passionate wildlife photographer and has worked with a number of prominent travel brands, including airlines, tourism boards, hotels and tour operators.

1 thought on “Planning The Perfect Kota Kinabalu Travel Itinerary”

Being a member of Mari Mari cultural village for a moment feels great from the bottom of my heart. I would rate the village as one of a genuinely enjoyable place of Sabah.

Malaysia Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Malaysia. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

Updated Global Measles April 26, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste (East Timor), Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia
Dengue in Asia and the Pacific Islands April 18, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

Chickenpox (Varicella)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
Flu (influenza)
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Malaysia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Malaysia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Malaysia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Japanese Encephalitis

Recommended for travelers who

Are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live
Spend long periods of time, such as a month or more, in areas with Japanese encephalitis
Frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis

Consider vaccination for travelers

Spending less than a month in areas with Japanese encephalitis but will be doing activities that increase risk of infection, such as visiting rural areas, hiking or camping, or staying in places without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets
Going to areas with Japanese encephalitis who are uncertain of their activities or how long they will be there

Not recommended for travelers planning short-term travel to urban areas or travel to areas with no clear Japanese encephalitis season.

Japanese encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for US Children

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Malaysia take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find country-specific information about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Malaysia.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Malaysia. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Malaysia, rabies treatment is often available.

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Malaysia.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

Mosquito bite
Avoid Bug Bites
Mosquito bite
An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
Bite from an infected rodent
Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
Avoid rodents and areas where they live
Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Malaysia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Malaysia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
2-undecanone
Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Malaysia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

Use latex condoms correctly.
Do not inject drugs.
Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Malaysia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Malaysia. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Malaysia may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Malaysia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Malaysia.

Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
Follow all local laws and social customs.
Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Malaysia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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IMAGES

Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide
5-Day Kota Kinabalu Itinerary
KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA TRIP! Travel Requirements, Immigration Process, Tips and Reminders
Kota Kinabalu 2021 : Les 10 meilleures visites et activités (avec
KOTA KINABALU
2021 Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide

VIDEO

Kota Kinabalu Travel Lounge
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia PLACES TO VISIT WITHIN THE CITY
코타키나발루여행. Kota Kinabalu travel
MALAYSIA
Kota Kinabalu-December 2023! Part Two of our Trip Around South East Asia!
Masjid Universiti Malaysia Sabah #foryou #kotakinabalu

COMMENTS

How to travel to Kota Kinabalu as Sabah reopens to international tourists
International flights return to Kota Kinabalu International Airport as Sabah reopens: The first international flight to resume will be operated by AirAsia flying in from Singapore on April 16, while a second flight touches down later in the month on April 29, also from Singapore on Scoot. Furthermore, Royal Brunei Airlines is returning to Sabah ...
Checklist Prior To Travel To Sabah Especially During ...
To-Do Lists Before Travel To Sabah. 1. The Best Time To Visit Sabah. The best time to visit Sabah is from March to September which is during the dry season but you can also plan for your trip from October to February, just that it will be wetter compared to the other months. Furthermore, Sabah is usually spared from the region's extreme ...
Reopening Advisory
Disclaimer: While every care has been taken in compiling the contents of this website, Sabah Tourism Board (Sabah Tourism) shall not be held responsible for any inaccuracy, omission or alteration that may occur, this includes the pages which has been translated into foreign languages.
Sabah updates entry guidelines for international travellers
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has released an updated entry guideline for international travellers which will take immediate effect. State Covid-19 spokesman Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said travellers, whether by air, land or sea, are given the option to undergo a Covid-19 rapid test kit-antigen test done by trained healthcare personnel ...
Updated COVID-19 SOP for Travellers
SOP FOR INBOUND TRAVEL. The Sabah State Cabinet has decided on the following: All foreign tourists do not need to undergo a pre-entry COVID-19 screening test and will not need to present a vaccination certificate when entering Sabah. Reference: No more Covid-19 travel requirements to enter Sabah, says Liew
Border reopening: Sabah announces guidelines for ...
KOTA KINABALU: An updated guideline for entry into Sabah for international travellers in line with the country's border reopening effective April 1, has been released by the state government.
Travel Requirements
Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB) holders. Step 1: Before Arriving Malaysia. Complete and submit MDAC within 3 days before arrival in Malaysia: https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main . Step 2: When Arriving Malaysia. Show MDAC registration and verify your passport at the immigration counter.
Malaysia's Sabah state announces stricter entry rules for ...
KOTA KINABALU, Sabah: All travellers from China are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and produce a negative test result taken within 48 hours of departure, before they are allowed ...
No more Covid-19 travel requirements to enter Sabah, says Liew
7:32 PM MYT. KOTA KINABALU: International and domestic travellers will be free to enter Sabah without the need for a pre-departure Covid-19 test, says state Tourism, Culture and Environment ...
Getting to Malaysia
Please ensure you have a valid passport and visa for any international travel. You may obtain the latest entry requirements via the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting or via the IATA Travel Centre. For domestic flights within Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah / Sarawak, all relevant documents must be original. Copies are not accepted.
Malaysia Travel Advice & Safety
Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the ... Australian Consulate, Kota Kinabalu. Lot 01-05, 11th Floor Jubili Tower (Menara Jubili) 53, Jalan Gaya 88000 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia Phone: (+60 88) 267 151 Fax: (+60 88) 266 509
Exploring The Latest Travel Restrictions In Kota Kinabalu: What You
If you are planning to travel to Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah in Malaysia, it is important to be aware of the specific COVID-19 testing requirements in place. Currently, all travelers entering Malaysia, including Kota Kinabalu, are required to undergo COVID-19 testing as part of the country's entry protocols.
2024 KOTA KINABALU TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG with DIY Itinerary, Things to Do
This includes visa and travel requirements, what to bring and travel essentials, how to get there, where to stay (hotels and hostels), things to do in Kota Kinabaly, tourist spots and attractions, best places to visit, sample Kota Kinabalu DIY itinerary, budget, expenses and so much more!
Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide
The state capital, Kota Kinabalu, is a surprisingly charming city with seaside views, friendly locals and colourful markets. Brimming with culture and history, the city is overlooked by Mount Kinabalu on one side and surrounded by the azure South China Sea coastline on the other. Relax at modern shopping malls, hotels, resorts and restaurants ...
Best Things to do in Kota Kinabalu, Tourist Spots & Sample Itinerary
MUST-READ: Updated MALAYSIA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for Tourists. DAY 1 - Arrival, Island Hopping & Night Market 01:30 AM - Arrival in Kota Kinabalu ... check out my previous post Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide Blog with Sample DIY Itinerary. SUMMARY OF EXPENSES Here's a summary of our expenses for 3 full days in Kota Kinabalu. DAY 1: Per Person (MYR ...
2024 Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide with Itinerary and Budget
Use this Kota Kinabalu travel guide to start your planning today! Lastly, on't forget to share your experiences, ask questions, and inspire others to experience the beauty of Kota Kinabalu. Disclaimer: Information on this Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide may change over time so, make sure to double-check requirements before flying to Kota Kinabalu ...
UPDATED Kota Kinabalu Travel Guide 2024: Itinerary, Places to Stay, and
The bus cost RM1.50 and goes to the Kota Kinabalu bus terminal, Terminal Wawasan. The bus only goes once an hour or so and the schedule is highly irregular. The last bus leaves at about 5:30-6 PM. For terminal 1, Minibus No. 17, Kota Kinabalu-Putatan buses, will bring you to the city.
Malaysia travel advice
Information on filling in the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card to enter Malaysia ('Entry requirements' page). The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO) provides advice about risks of ...
Updated MALAYSIA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS for Tourists
Travel Requirements when Traveling Back to the Philippines Traveling back to the Philippines, you need to have a proof of full vaccination and eARRIVAL card.When checking-in for our flight from Kota Kinabalu to the Philippines, the Cebu Pacific staff asked us to present our vaccination certificate and eARRIVAL QR code from Bureau of Quarantine's One Health Pass website.
Perfect Kota Kinabalu Itinerary For 2
Contents. Kota Kinabalu Itinerary 2024. Day 1: Explore The Things To Do In Kota Kinabalu City Centre. Day 2: Experience The Best Kota Kinabalu Attractions By Sea. Day 3: Explore Mt Kinabalu Attractions. Day 4: View Borneo's Famous Flora And Fauna. Day 5: Relax And Enjoy Kota Kinabalu.
An Adaptable Kota Kinabalu Itinerary
9:00AM - Take a walking tour. The Sabah tourism boards runs a free Kota Kinabalu city tour every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The city tour covers all the famous spots, as well as plenty of local favourites. You'll learn all about KK's eventful past, as well as the ongoing projects you don't normally see as a tourist.
Malaysia
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas. If you choose to drive a vehicle in Malaysia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork. Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.

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