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Welcome to Sabah – The Land Below the Wind

Situated in the heart of BIMP-EAGA, Sabah is Malaysia’s gateway to cultural richness, biodiversity, and emerging digital transformation. From the iconic Mount Kinabalu to the vibrant capital city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah offers breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and a strategic hub for regional collaboration.

As a state that values both heritage and innovation, Sabah is proud to host BECS2025 — a platform that blends local spirit with global expertise.
 

Plan Your Visit – BECS2025

1. Accommodation (Near SICC, Kota Kinabalu)

Hotel

Distance to SICC

Approx. Rate (Nov 2025)

Highlights

Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu

~ 2.7 km

~RM500 - 700/night

5 luxury, seafront view, in-house dining

Hilton Kota Kinabalu

~ 3.0 km

~RM450 - 600/night

Rooftop pool

Hotel Sixty3

~ 1.7 km

~RM300 - 400/night

Modern boutique, city centre vibe

Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu

~ 3.4 km

~RM250 - 350/night

Comfortable mid-range, near Filipino Market

Mercure

~ 1.4 km

~RM300 - 400/night

Stylish, accessible, welcoming

Pro Tip: Book early! November is the peak season in Kota Kinabalu due to festive events and pleasant weather.

 

2. Getting Around

  • KKIA Airport (BKI) → SICC: 15‑25 min by taxi or Grab (RM25–RM40)
  • Ride‑hailing: Widely available; always opt for licensed service
  • Taxis: City taxis accept cash only; ride-hailing is recommended
  • Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer free shuttle to SICC or waterfront areas

 

3. Recommended Attractions & Dining Spots
 

Type

Spot

Notes

Nature & Culture

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Short boat ride (~15 min) to islands, perfect for snorkeling or sunset picnic

Signal Hill Observatory

Panoramic city & sea views—ideal at dawn or dusk

Sabah State Museum

Sabah heritage displays & cultural village tours

Food & Markets

Anjung Kinabalu

Local arts, souvenir lanes, and fresh seafood dinners

Waterfront Street Food

Must-try: grilled fish, sago pudding, coconut shakes

Yee Fung Laksa

Famous KK laksa served fresh on Gaya Street

Evening & Leisure

Waterfront Night Market

Souvenirs, snacks, and live local performances

Sutera Harbour Resort

Fancy cocktails overlooking the bay—book early

Gaya Street Bazaar (Sunday only)

Handicrafts, local pastries, and cultural dance demos

For more info, please visit the Sabah Tourism Board website.

 

4. Travel Tips & Practical Info

Weather

Expect warm (25‑32 °C), breezy coastal days, possible afternoon showers

Language

English is widely understood; a few Malay phrases go a long way, and Chinese is also commonly spoken

Currency

Ringgit Malaysia (MYR) - most places accept cards, but bring cash for smaller vendors

SIM & Connectivity

Pre-paid SIMs available at airport; free Wi-Fi at SICC and major hotels

Police

999

Ambulance

999

Tourist Info

+6088212121

Local Nerd Tip

Sabah pronounces “Kota Kinabalu” as ‘Kota Kin-a-bah-loo’, locals affectionately call it “KK”