Nestled between sea and tropical forest, Sandakan sits on the eastern coast of the peninsula of the same name, in northern Borneo. A former capital of Sabah, the city captivates with its natural heritage. Nearby, animal sanctuaries, forest reserves and boat excursions offer unique encounters with Borneo's wildlife.

History

Like much of Borneo, this region came under the influence of the Brunei Empire in the 15th century, then the Sultanate of Sulu between the 17th and 18th centuries. Around 1870, the first European settlement was established by Scottish trader William Cowie, who named the site "Sandakan." This trading post initially served as a base for the trade in weapons and local resources.

In 1879, the British North Borneo Company established a new settlement after a fire destroyed the original site. Renamed Elopura, the city became the capital of British North Borneo in 1884. It flourished through the timber trade, attracting numerous Chinese migrants, earning it the nickname "Little Hong Kong."

This period of prosperity ended abruptly with Japanese occupation in 1942. The city witnessed the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, during which thousands of Allied prisoners died. Furthermore, in 1944, Allied bombing completely destroyed the city. Given the extent of the damage, the capital was relocated to Jesselton (Kota Kinabalu) in 1946.

A reconstruction plan was launched after the war. The economy shifted toward the fishing industry and the export of raw materials such as oil and timber. Though stripped of its political capital status, the city remained the commercial hub of the east coast.

Sandakan Today

Today, Sandakan is a major destination for ecotourism in Malaisie. It serves as the gateway to exceptional natural sites such as the Sepilok orangutan sanctuary and the Turtle Islands National Park. Modernized yet respectful of its past, it offers visitors a unique blend of historical memory and wild adventure.

What to See in Sandakan?

The Sandakan Memorial

Located approximately 10 km northwest of the city center, Sandakan Memorial Park commemorates the city's darkest chapter: World War II. This site once housed a prisoner-of-war camp where Allied soldiers endured inhumane conditions.

It also marks the starting point of the Sandakan Death Marches, a series of forced marches imposed by the Japanese army on Allied prisoners of war, killing approximately 2,500 captives due to exhaustion, starvation, and disease.

Today, this free park offers a peaceful setting conducive to reflection and education. A visitor center documents these past events in detail.

Agnes Keith's House

This historic residence was home to American writer Agnes Keith and her English husband. After being a prisoner of war and finding her original home destroyed, she had this new residence built, named "Newlands."

Now transformed into a museum, the building faithfully recreates the atmosphere of the 1950s across two floors. Through period furnishings and decorations, visitors explore airy rooms that reflect the personalities of its inhabitants.

English Tea House

Located on the same estate, this establishment with a terrace invites you to enjoy English teas and cakes while taking in panoramic views of the ocean and tropical forest. The more adventurous can also try their hand at croquet on its verdant lawn.

Puu Jih Syh Temple

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this temple is the largest Chinese religious building in Sandakan. It is richly decorated and also offers magnificent views over the ocean.

St. Michael's and All Angels Church

It is the largest stone church in Sabah. Restored after World War II, it is renowned for its stained glass commemorating the sixtieth anniversary of the end of the global conflict.

What to See Around Sandakan?

Selingan Island

Selingan Island, located 40 km north of Sandakan in Sabah (Malaisie, Borneo), is a major destination within Turtle Islands National Park. Called the "turtle island," it is a world-renowned site for observing the nesting of green and hawksbill turtles. Access is primarily by boat from Sandakan's quay, with a crossing of approximately one hour.

Sepilok

This is one of the greatest attractions in the region. This world-renowned sanctuary is one of the best places in Borneo to see orangutans in their natural habitat. It is located about twenty kilometers from the city center.

Near the rehabilitation center, you will also find a center for sun bears and a space dedicated to exploring the tropical forest.

Kinabatangan

Spanning 560 km, Kinabatangan is Malaisie's longest river. An excursion on this waterway immerses you in one of Malaisie's richest biodiversity zones. Along the water, you will observe numerous bird species, families of proboscis monkeys and sometimes crocodiles. The journey also leads to Oxbow Lake, a former meander isolated from the river.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Located 40 km from Sandakan, this sanctuary allows you to observe the proboscis monkey up close. While the experience may seem somewhat artificial at times, the site guarantees numerous close encounters with these fascinating animals in a perfectly managed environment.

The city has an international airport, with over twenty weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu. A few connections also serve other destinations within Sabah state.

Grab taxis prove extremely efficient and reliable. While a bus network exists, it is hardly more economical and lacks geographic flexibility.

When to Visit Sandakan?

The ideal period to explore the region extends from March to September, during Sabah's dry season. These months guarantee the best conditions for observing wildlife.

For an excursion to the turtle islands, absolutely avoid December to February. These rainy months make navigation difficult due to rough seas. By choosing the dry season, you will maximize your chances of enjoying the landscapes and outdoor activities comfortably.