FEATURED DESTINATION

	"The North Borneo Railway features a British Vulcan steam locomotive, designed and built by the Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows, England in 1954 as part of the last order before the factory converted to diesel and electric locomotive construction"
The North Borneo Railway features a British Vulcan steam locomotive, designed and built by the Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows, England in 1954 as part of the last order before the factory converted to diesel and electric locomotive construction. The Vulcan 6-015, a 2-6-2 carrying a green livery with polished boiler bands and red edging to the running plate and tender frame, was de-commissioned for general use in the early 1970’s by the Sabah State Railway Department. It was proudly re-launched on January 22, 2000, in honour of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital, achieving City-Status. Not only does this steam engine represent the last of a fleet of steam engines that have plied the tracks through Borneo since the late 1800’s, it is also one of the only functional wood-burners left in the world. The North Borneo Railway also features six carriages that have been meticulously restored and renovated to reflect the era of the steam train. The exterior utilizes the traditional deep green and cream of the original North Borneo Railway, with carved brass logos featuring the original British seal. The interior, highlighting the natural woods of Sabah, has comfortable seating and dining facilities. Every carriage provides the amenity of a modern washroom onboard. Seating accommodates 36 passengers per carriage, with a total train capacity of 180 passengers. An exotic bar car and observation deck accompanies the train, providing a comfortable lounge area to heighten the overall journey experience. Windows remain open throughout the journey, and high-powered fans line the ceilings to ensure maximum comfort along the route. A provision has been made for air-conditioning, though the open windows enhance the entire heritage experience, as passengers are able to lean out the windows and doors to interact with the countryside, rather than merely be observers. The North Borneo Railway is built and operated to the highest of international standards and is fully compliant with modern safety standards. The railway remained the only means of transportation into the interior until only half a century ago, playing a vital part in the economic development of Sabah. It helped open up the country and the emergence of towns like Bukau, Weston and Jesselton. It now continues to run through six main stations, namely Tanjung Aru, Papar, Bongawan, Beaufort and Tenom. The smaller stations are Putatan, Kinarut, Kawang, Kimanis, Lumat, Saliwangan, Halogilat, Rayoh and Pangi.

Located about 112km south-east of Alor Setar, deep in the forest of Gunung Inas in the Baling district is Peranginan Bukit Hijau, a great retreat for the locals. Also known as Lata Bukit Hijau Recreational Forest, it is famed for its amazing seven-level cascading waterfalls that create seven pools of cool, crystal clear water.

Although picnickers come here during weekends and public holidays, its large camping ground with basic toilet facilities along the Sungai Mempelam (Mempelam River) is more than adequate for all. Activities available there include nature walks along the bridle path that leads to the forest reserve where one can see nature at its best.

MORE DESTINATIONS

1. Sukau Rainforest Located on the lower Kinabatangan River, the Sukau rainforest teems with wildlife, the star attraction being the proboscis monkey.

2. Batu Punggul Cave Batu Punggul, located on the banks of Sepulot River deep in Sabah's interior near the Kalimantan border, is a limestone massif complete with caves.

3. Kiulu River Offering gentler Grade 2 rapids, the Kiulu River is popular among rafters seeking less frightening thrills. The river passes through scenic countryside and forests, providing a pleasant rafting experience.

4. Centre Point Most branded goods such as Calvin Klien, Dockers, Guess, British India, Timberland, U2 and etc are all located at Centre Point Mall. It is best to catch them on sale during the Mega Sales Festivals.

5. North Borneo Railway The North Borneo Railway features a British Vulcan steam locomotive, designed and built by the Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows, England in 1954 as part of the last order before the factory converted to diesel and electric locomotive construction

6. Yayasan Sabah Building Built with bold architectural and engineering concepts, it is a building which many thought was not possible.

7. Sandakan Crocodile Farm This crocodile farm is the Sabah’s only licensed crocodile breeder whose original stock came from wild crocodiles found around the Kinabatangan River

8. Sabah Tea Garden Sabah Tea Plantation is the largest single commercial tea plantation in Borneo with an area of 1,000 acres.

9. Sutera Harbour Resort & Spa Sutera Harbour Resort is Asia's premier lifestyle destination located on lush seafront setting in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

10. Maliau Basin The Maliau Basin is one of the most spectacular and pristine natural features in Malaysia, and indeed, Southeast Asia.