LABUAN

At the north of Brunei Bay and facing the South China Sea is the island of Labuan, an international offshore financial center and Malaysia’s only deep-water anchorage. Declared a Federal Territory on 16 April 1984, it lies 8 km off the coast of Borneo adjacent to the state of Sabah. Labuan comprises of Labuan Island and the six islets of Rusukan Kecil, Rushkan Besar, Kuraman, Daat, Papan and Burung.

Bandar Labuan, l formerly known as Victoria., is the major town and port. In 1990, Labuan was declared an International Offshore Financial Centre and Free Trade Zone. The main attractions of Labuan are wreck diving, sport fishing and duty-free shopping. There are four fascinating wrecks in the seas surrounding Labuan, marking it a highly rated diving destination in the region. There is accommodation to suit all types of budgets here. Enjoy fresh sea food as well as local, Chinese and Western cuisine in dining outlets around the island.

Flights are available  from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Miri (Sarawak) and Kuching  (Sarawak) to Labuan. Labuan is a 20 minute boat ride from Menumbok, a small fishing town on he mainland of Sabah. High-speed air-conditioned ferries travel daily from Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.

The Chimney

Situated on a rise at Tanjung Kubong is the famous Chimney, a 106-foot high red brick stack believed to the linked to the coal mining days of Labuan. In its heyday, a thriving settlement was built at the seafront area below the Chimney. It was then used as a bell tower to announce the arrival of ships to the residents below. The structure has become an intriguing mystery that fascinates local and visitors alike.

Labuan Bird Park

Located near the Chimney structure, the park has three large dome-like cages amidst a sprawling landscape. Enhance your knowledge on the feathered species as you encounter home bills, kingfishers, sharmas, mynas, herons, peacocks and many more.

Labuan International Sea Sports Complex

This complex houses the main sea sports centre, marine museum, souvenir shops, eateries, seafood restaurant and a tourist information centre. It is also the venue for the annual Labuan International Sea Challenge made up of numerous water-based competitions.

Peace Park

This park was built as a memorial and renunciation of the horrors of the Second World War. Prominently seen in the park is a large raised-mound with two walls, surrounded by landscaped gardens and pavilions. Arched bridges over tranquil ponds and shaded gazebos create a feeling serenity.

World War II Memorial

This is one of the most visited places in Labuan. The beautifully landscaped memorial garden is the final resting place of 3,908 war heroes who died in battle or captivity in Borneo during the Second World War. Every year in November a commemoration is held (Remembrance Day) to honour the lives of the valiant men who fought during the war.

Surrender Point

This is where the 37^th Japanese Southern Army Surrendered to the 9^th Division Australian Imperial Forces on 9^th September 1945 which led to the end of World War II in Borneo. Southeast Asia’s first war crime trials were also conducted in this area.

Botanical Gardens

About five minutes from Labuan town, is the Botanical Gardens which was previously the grounds of the Government House, locally known as ‘Bumbung 12’. Built in 1852, the house was a long and low structure with an interesting  roof  design. The Botanical Gardens is a recreational park with old trees and beautiful landscaping.

Water Villages

There are many water villages in Labuan. The main ones are  Kampung Bebuloh Laut and  Kampung Pattau-Pattau. Each house is connected to the other by cement walkways. These water villages, brightly decorated with colorful blooms on their verandahs are an interesting feature in Labuan.

Labuan Square

Labuan Square or Dataran Labuan is situated at the centre of Labuan town. It is a popular venue for the island’s main events and performances. Labuan’s flag and that of thirteen other states in the county fly high on the raised stage in the square.

Labuan Museum

The exhibits displayed here include musical instruments, monetary items, firearms, marriage accessories, costumes artifacts and World War II memorabilia, The museum is conveniently located in the centre of Labuan town. It is a must-visit for those who wish to catch a glimpse of the island’s rich history.

Labuan  Marine Museum

The museum was set up to preserve the precious marine heritage of Labuan. Conceptualized after a ship, visitors enter the museum through a metal bridge and are exposed to myriad aquariums displaying all kinds of marine life. One can also touch and feel starfishes, sea cucumbers and king crabs.

Labuan Weekend Tamu

Every Saturday and Sunday, the street of Jalan OKK Awang Besar is filled with stalls offering great bargains. From handicrafts to fashion wear, accessories to agriculture produce, you can find all kinds of everything here.

Marine Park

Labuan Marine Park is located 2 km off the southern part of the mainland. The park encompasses 10 sq km of pristine waters and three secluded islets namely Kuraman Island, Rusukan Kecil Island and Rusukan Besar Island. Stretches of white sandy beaches, beautiful reef atolls and tropical jungles await you.

Duty Free Shopping

There are many stores around the island and they carry a wide range of goods, both local and imported. Exemptions of custom duty on imported goods liquor textile, leather goods, liquor, cosmetics, confectionery and more. There are many shops where one can find embroidered linen, teakwood furniture, Chinese ceramics and jade carvings.

Sea Sports Activities

Labuan is the place for recreational fishing as the clear blue waters here teem with rich marine life. Kayaking takes you to some very secluded beach spots on the island and it’s great way to enjoy the sun and sea in a leisurely manner. The clear waters and colourful coral reefs around Labuan make for fantastic diving and snorkelling.