Free East Malaysia Travel Guide & Mobile App

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East Malaysia
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Explore East Malaysia across Sabah and Sarawak for Borneo rainforest, mountain landscapes, wildlife rivers, island reefs and distinctive Indigenous cultures.

East Malaysia occupies the Malaysian portion of Borneo, comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island’s northern side. Separated from Peninsular Malaysia by the South China Sea, it is a vast, geographically varied region of rainforest, mangroves, limestone country, highlands, river systems and offshore islands. The two states are distinct in character: Sabah is often associated with Mount Kinabalu, island beaches and wildlife-rich rivers, while Sarawak is known for its long river valleys, limestone caves, historic Kuching and a particularly diverse range of Indigenous cultures.
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Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s coastal capital, is the main urban gateway to the northern part of Borneo and a practical base for island excursions, marine parks and journeys towards Mount Kinabalu. Inland, the Crocker Range and Kinabalu highlands bring cooler conditions, cloud forest and mountain scenery. Along the east coast, Sandakan, the Kinabatangan River and the wetlands around Semporna provide access to orangutan habitat, mangrove ecosystems, coral reefs and traditional maritime communities. These journeys involve substantial distances, and the character of Sabah changes noticeably between its developed west coast, forested interior and more remote eastern districts.
Sarawak stretches along the island’s north-western flank from the Indonesian border to Brunei. Kuching combines a walkable historic centre with museums, riverside views and a strong food culture, while towns such as Sibu, Bintulu and Miri reflect the importance of river trade, timber, energy and coastal commerce. National parks including Bako, Gunung Mulu and Niah protect contrasting landscapes: sandstone headlands, peat and mangrove habitats, immense cave systems and rugged limestone pinnacles. Access to some parks is by boat or small aircraft rather than by a straightforward road journey.
The region’s cultural life reflects centuries of movement and exchange. Malay, Chinese and Indigenous communities, including Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau and Murut peoples, have shaped local languages, architecture, festivals, crafts and foodways. Longhouses, where communities continue to live in parts of the interior, should be visited with local guidance and respect rather than treated as theatrical attractions. Markets and coffee shops offer laksa, mee kolok, hinava, smoked meats, jungle vegetables and tropical fruit, although recipes vary considerably between towns and communities.
East Malaysia rewards careful planning. Wildlife encounters depend on season, habitat and responsible operators; rainforest conditions are humid, heavy rain can disrupt roads and river travel, and many natural areas require advance permits or guided access. A trip centred on one state is often more practical than attempting to cover both, while a combination of an urban base, a wildlife or marine excursion and a protected landscape gives a more balanced understanding of Borneo’s Malaysian landscapes.

When is the best time to visit East Malaysia?

Best: January–February, August · 30–31°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)30250
February (best)30200
March31270
April31290
May31300
June31280
July31260
August (best)31250
September31260
October31270
November30280
December30290

Getting to and around East Malaysia

How to get there

Most international visitors reach East Malaysia by air, usually through Kuala Lumpur or other Malaysian hubs before connecting to Kota Kinabalu in Sabah or Kuching in Sarawak. Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Kuching International Airport are the principal gateways, while Miri, Sandakan, Tawau, Sibu and Bintulu airports serve important regional routes. Direct international services vary by season and airline. Brunei’s international airport can be a practical nearby gateway for parts of northern Sarawak, but it is outside East Malaysia and crossing the land border requires the relevant immigration formalities. Overland travel from Peninsular Malaysia is not possible because the South China Sea separates the two parts of the country.

Transportation

Major cities have taxis, ride-hailing services where available, local buses and car-hire options, but public transport becomes less frequent outside urban centres. Roads connect much of the coastal and major inland network, although mountain routes, construction, rain and rural conditions can make journeys slow. A car is useful for selected Sabah and Sarawak road itineraries, but remote parks and river settlements often require boats, local transfers, guided vehicles or small aircraft. Domestic flights can save considerable time between distant cities. Ferries and boats serve some islands, river corridors and park entrances; services are weather-dependent and should be arranged locally or through the relevant park operator.

Top city travel guides in East Malaysia

The cities of East Malaysia, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in East Malaysia

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in East Malaysia

East Malaysia’s attractions are defined by ecosystems and journeys as much as by conventional monuments. In Sabah, visitors can explore the highland environment around Mount Kinabalu, seek primates and other wildlife along the Kinabatangan River, visit rainforest rehabilitation centres near Sandakan, or travel offshore to the reefs and islands around Semporna. The west coast also offers marine excursions from Kota Kinabalu and access to contrasting landscapes in the Crocker Range. Sarawak’s attractions range from the historic streets and museums of Kuching to Bako’s coastal forests, Niah’s archaeologically significant caves and Gunung Mulu’s immense chambers, pinnacles and karst scenery. River travel, longhouse visits and guided forest walks provide cultural and outdoor experiences, but should be arranged respectfully through local operators. Diving, snorkelling, birdwatching, caving, hiking and wildlife observation are major draws, with conditions, permits and access arrangements varying widely. The region is not a compact sightseeing circuit: some of its most important places are remote, and journey time is part of the experience.

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Best landmarks in East Malaysia

Mount Kinabalu is East Malaysia’s most recognisable natural landmark, rising above Sabah’s Crocker Range and carrying spiritual as well as geographical significance for local communities. In Sarawak, the limestone pinnacles and cave systems of Gunung Mulu form an equally distinctive landscape, while the Niah Caves are important for both their dramatic scale and archaeological record. Kuching’s historic core contains the Old Courthouse, Fort Margherita and riverside colonial-era buildings, reminders of the city’s role under the Brooke Rajahs. In Kota Kinabalu, the Atkinson Clock Tower is a surviving colonial-era structure within the modern city, while the Sabah State Mosque is a prominent contemporary religious building. Sandakan’s heritage is closely linked to its former port and wartime history, commemorated at the Sandakan Memorial Park outside the town. Traditional longhouses and river settlements are significant cultural landmarks, but they are living communities rather than static monuments and should be visited by invitation or through respectful local arrangements.

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Explore East Malaysia on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in East Malaysia

Dining in East Malaysia reflects river, coastal and rainforest environments alongside the influence of Malay, Chinese and Indigenous communities. Kuching is associated with Sarawak laksa, kolok mee and a broad coffee-shop culture, while Sabah offers dishes such as hinava, a fresh fish preparation, and seafood traditions shaped by its coasts; recipes and names vary between communities. Markets and food courts are useful places to try noodles, grilled seafood, tropical fruit, rice dishes, smoked meats and vegetables unfamiliar to many international visitors. In smaller towns, kopitiams and family-run eateries often provide the most characteristic meals, while Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Miri have a wider range of contemporary, international and higher-end restaurants. Inland and longhouse meals may feature locally available ingredients and should be approached with cultural sensitivity. Visitors with allergies should ask carefully about sauces, seafood, fermented ingredients and nuts, as cooking practices differ from one establishment to another.

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Best bars in East Malaysia

Nightlife is concentrated in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri and other larger towns rather than spread evenly across East Malaysia. Urban evenings may include waterfront restaurants, hotel bars, cocktail lounges, live-music venues, karaoke and a limited selection of clubs, while smaller settlements tend to centre on cafés, restaurants, neighbourhood pubs or quiet social gatherings. Kuching and Kota Kinabalu offer the broadest mixtures of contemporary bars and established evening venues; Miri has a nightlife tradition linked to its oil-town economy. Outside the cities, rainforest lodges, island resorts and rural communities usually offer early dinners, small bars or informal evening activities rather than late-night entertainment. Alcohol availability and acceptable conduct vary between venues and communities, particularly in predominantly Muslim areas, so visitors should observe local rules and drink moderately. Venues and operating arrangements change frequently, especially in resort districts.

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Best nightclubs in East Malaysia

Nightlife is concentrated in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Miri and other larger towns rather than spread evenly across East Malaysia. Urban evenings may include waterfront restaurants, hotel bars, cocktail lounges, live-music venues, karaoke and a limited selection of clubs, while smaller settlements tend to centre on cafés, restaurants, neighbourhood pubs or quiet social gatherings. Kuching and Kota Kinabalu offer the broadest mixtures of contemporary bars and established evening venues; Miri has a nightlife tradition linked to its oil-town economy. Outside the cities, rainforest lodges, island resorts and rural communities usually offer early dinners, small bars or informal evening activities rather than late-night entertainment. Alcohol availability and acceptable conduct vary between venues and communities, particularly in predominantly Muslim areas, so visitors should observe local rules and drink moderately. Venues and operating arrangements change frequently, especially in resort districts.

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Best shops in East Malaysia

Shopping in East Malaysia ranges from urban malls and department stores to wet markets, craft outlets and small-town shophouses. Kota Kinabalu and Kuching provide the widest choice of contemporary retail, while local markets are better for fresh produce, snacks, textiles and everyday goods. Sabah is associated with items such as woven handicrafts, beadwork and regional food products, though quality and cultural provenance vary, so purchase from reputable makers and ask about materials. Sarawak offers distinctive pepper, layered cakes, textiles, beadwork, woodcraft and other products influenced by its many communities; the Sarawak Cultural Village area and specialist craft outlets can provide useful context, but products should not be assumed to represent every Indigenous group. Miri, Sibu, Sandakan and smaller towns have their own market traditions and practical shopping streets. Avoid buying coral, wildlife products, antiquities or plants, and check Malaysian customs and airline rules before transporting food, craft materials or biological products.

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East Malaysia essentials

Currency and Payment
East Malaysia uses Malaysia’s national currency, the Malaysian ringgit (MYR). Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, shopping centres, established restaurants and urban businesses, particularly in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Cash remains useful for markets, small cafés, rural transport, park fees, village visits and some island or river excursions. ATMs are common in towns but much less dependable in remote districts, so carry a sensible reserve of ringgit before leaving a major centre. Foreign currency exchange is generally easier in cities than in smaller settlements.
Safety
Use ordinary precautions in busy markets, transport areas and hotel districts, and keep valuables secure. Outdoor risks are more significant than serious urban crime: heat, dehydration, leeches, slippery trails, strong currents, boat accidents and rapidly changing mountain or rainforest weather all require attention. Follow guides and park rules, do not swim where currents or wildlife make it unsafe, and use reputable boat operators with appropriate safety equipment. Eastern Sabah has areas subject to changing security advice, particularly around some coastal and island districts; check current official travel guidance before planning remote sea journeys and follow local authorities’ instructions.
Emergency Situations
Malaysia’s main emergency number is 999 for police, fire and ambulance services; 112 can generally be used from mobile phones. Explain your location clearly, especially when travelling in a national park, on a river or offshore, where response times may be longer. Coastguard, marine police, park authorities and local rescue teams may coordinate incidents in coastal areas, while mountain or jungle rescues normally depend on local authorities, guides and park management. Carry travel insurance covering medical treatment and evacuation, and tell someone your route before entering remote terrain.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress modestly when visiting mosques, temples, longhouses and villages, and remove shoes where requested. Ask permission before photographing people, ceremonies, religious objects or private homes. Use your right hand, or both hands, when giving or receiving items in situations where local etiquette matters, and avoid pointing the soles of your feet at people or sacred objects. Do not remove shells, coral, plants or archaeological material from protected areas. Tipping is not generally compulsory, though rounding up or offering a modest gratuity for genuinely helpful service is acceptable. Follow local alcohol restrictions and remember that practices differ between communities.
Local Tips
Kota Kinabalu and Kuching are useful orientation bases, but neither represents the whole of East Malaysia. In Sabah, combine the west-coast urban area with either mountain, wildlife or marine environments rather than attempting every major site. In Sarawak, check river and air connections before committing to remote parks such as Gunung Mulu. Markets and coffee shops are often better places to encounter everyday regional food than hotel dining rooms. Expect weak or absent mobile coverage in forests and on some islands, and keep offline maps, booking details and emergency contacts available.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHalo[ha-lo]
GoodbyeSelamat tinggal[se-la-mat ting-gal]
YesYa[ya]
NoTidak[ti-dak]
Please/You're welcomeSila/Sama-sama[si-la/sa-ma sa-ma]
Thank youTerima kasih[te-ri-ma ka-sih]
Excuse me/SorryMaaf[ma-af]
How are you?Apa khabar?[a-pa kha-bar]
Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?[ba-ik. dan ka-mu]
Do you speak English?Adakah kamu bercakap dalam bahasa Inggeris?[a-da-kah ka-mu ber-cha-kap da-lam ba-ha-sa in-ger-is]
I don't understandSaya tidak faham[sa-ya ti-dak fa-ham]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, sila[sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, si-la]
I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging[sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
Cheers!Selamat makan![se-la-mat ma-kan]
I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin bayar, sila[sa-ya in-gin ba-yar, si-la]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Tolong![to-long]
Go away!Pergi jauh![per-gi ja-uh]
Call the Police!Panggil polis![pang-gil po-lis]
Call a doctor!Panggil doktor![pang-gil dok-tor]
I'm lostSaya sesat[sa-ya se-sat]
I'm illSaya sakit[sa-ya sa-kit]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Saya ingin beli...[sa-ya in-gin be-li]
I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat[sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat]
How much is it?Berapa harganya?[be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal[i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
Can you lower the price?Bolehkah kamu turunkan harga?[bo-leh-kah ka-mu tu-run-kan har-ga]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?[jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
It's one o'clockJam satu[jam sa-tu]
Half past (10)Setengah (10)[se-ten-gah]
MorningPagi[pa-gi]
AfternoonPetang[pe-tang]
EveningMalam[ma-lam]
YesterdaySemalam[se-ma-lam]
TodayHari ini[ha-ri i-ni]
TomorrowEsok[e-sok]
1Satu[sa-tu]
2Dua[du-a]
3Tiga[ti-ga]
4Empat[em-pat]
5Lima[li-ma]
6Enam[e-nam]
7Tujuh[tu-juh]
8Lapan[la-pan]
9Sembilan[sem-bi-lan]
10Sepuluh[se-pu-luh]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Di mana ...?[di ma-na]
What's the address?Apa alamatnya?[a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
Can you show me (on the map)?Bolehkah kamu tunjukkan (peta)?[bo-leh-kah ka-mu tun-juk-kan (pe-ta)]
When's the next (bus)?Bila bas seterusnya?[bi-la bas se-te-rus-nya]
A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ...)[sa-tu ti-ket (ke)]

History of East Malaysia

Niah Caves and Early Human Settlement

The Niah Caves in Sarawak contain evidence of human activity extending back tens of thousands of years, making the limestone complex one of Borneo’s most important archaeological landscapes. Excavations have revealed occupation layers, stone tools, hearths and burial evidence, while the caves remain associated with the collection of edible bird’s nests. Elsewhere in East Malaysia, archaeological research and rock shelters add to evidence of long-standing movement through forests, river valleys and coastal zones. These discoveries place the region within the wider story of early human settlement in Southeast Asia rather than treating its history as beginning with colonial administration.

Brunei, River Kingdoms and Coastal Trade

Before modern borders, northern Borneo was connected by river, sea and trading networks linking coastal settlements with inland communities. The Brunei Sultanate exercised varying influence across parts of present-day Sabah and Sarawak, while local leaders, trading communities and Indigenous societies retained considerable authority in their own territories. Chinese ceramics, forest products, spices and maritime goods moved through coastal and riverine markets. This history helps explain the region’s cultural variety and the importance of waterways, which remained the principal routes into the interior long after European powers arrived.

The Brooke Raj and Sarawak

In 1841, James Brooke became Rajah of Sarawak with the support of the Brunei Sultanate, beginning the rule of the Brooke family. The Brooke Rajahs expanded Sarawak’s territory through a mixture of treaties, military campaigns and administrative control, while also developing Kuching as a governmental and commercial centre. Their legacy is visible in historic buildings, museums and forts, but the period also involved conflict, unequal power and the incorporation of Indigenous communities into a colonial-style state. Sarawak became a British Crown Colony in 1946 after the Second World War.

The North Borneo Chartered Company

The British North Borneo Chartered Company administered much of present-day Sabah from 1881 until the Japanese invasion in 1942. It established administrative centres, expanded port activity and promoted plantations, timber extraction and other commercial enterprises, bringing new migrant communities and labour systems to the territory. Sandakan became an important trading port and administrative capital during this era. Company rule did not erase existing Indigenous authority or social structures, and its economic legacy was closely tied to the exploitation of land and resources. North Borneo became a British Crown Colony in 1946.

Japanese Occupation and the Second World War

Japanese forces occupied Sabah and Sarawak from 1942 to 1945, disrupting trade, administration and everyday life. The Sandakan Death Marches, during which Australian and British prisoners of war were forced towards Ranau, remain one of Sabah’s most sobering wartime histories; the Sandakan Memorial Park and Kundasang War Memorial commemorate aspects of this past. In Sarawak, occupation brought shortages, coercion and violence, while Allied operations later affected coastal and inland areas. Wartime remembrance is an important part of the region’s modern historical landscape.

Formation of Malaysia in 1963

Sabah and Sarawak joined the Federation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963, alongside Malaya and Singapore, following negotiations and the Cobbold Commission process. The Malaysia Agreement and related constitutional arrangements recognised particular safeguards and responsibilities for the two Borneo states, including matters concerning immigration and religion. Singapore left the federation in 1965, but Sabah and Sarawak remained integral parts of Malaysia. The political history of the agreement continues to influence public discussion about state rights, development, autonomy and the relationship between East and West Malaysia.

Resource Development and Conservation

During the late twentieth century, logging, plantations, petroleum, natural gas, ports and urban growth reshaped East Malaysia’s economy and landscapes. Miri became closely associated with the early oil industry, while timber and plantation production transformed many lowland areas in both states. At the same time, national parks and protected areas such as Kinabalu, Gunung Mulu, Bako and Niah established major conservation frameworks. Contemporary East Malaysia therefore contains both heavily developed resource corridors and internationally important forests, reefs, wetlands and caves, creating an ongoing debate about livelihoods, Indigenous rights and environmental protection.

East Malaysia in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Neighbouring regions of East Malaysia

The closest regions to East Malaysia, if you have time for more than one.

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to East Malaysia

Discover the wonders of East Malaysia with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering all you need to know about attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more.

  • Comprehensive information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • High-quality images, detailed descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Plan your perfect trip to East Malaysia with Evendo. From famous landmarks and attractions to the best restaurants and activities, our free app has it all.

  • Historical insights and travel essentials for East Malaysia
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature to discover nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips to experience East Malaysia like a local
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  • Coverage of 7,000+ destinations worldwide

Planning a trip to East Malaysia? Look no further than Evendo, your ultimate travel companion. Our app is designed to help you explore the best of East Malaysia, whether you're visiting the bustling city of Kuching, the wildlife-rich Bako National Park, or the cultural hub of Kota Kinabalu. With detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences, Evendo makes it easy for you to discover and enjoy everything East Malaysia has to offer.

Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of Kuching, with its charming mix of colonial and modern architecture. Evendo guides you to must-see landmarks like the Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak Cultural Village, and the Cat Museum. Love nature? Bako National Park and Mount Kinabalu are just a tap away, with detailed maps, local tips, and booking options for tours and experiences.

Foodies will revel in the rich culinary scene of East Malaysia. From the mouth-watering laksa at Choon Hui Cafe in Kuching to fresh seafood at Welcome Seafood Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, Evendo provides you with all the info you need to dine like a local. Plus, our 'Near me' feature ensures you never miss out on hidden gems, no matter where you are.

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