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East Malaysia

East Malaysia consists of the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak which are located on the island of Borneo, to the east across the South China Sea from West Malaysia. While East Malaysia is relatively less developed than West Malaysia, it has, notably, far more natural resources including large oil and gas fields.

Sarawak contains the Mulu caves within the Mulu national park; among these is the limestone cave with the largest chamber in the world, Sarawak chamber. The Mulu national park was declared a World Heritage site in 2001.

Both Sabah (formerly British North Borneo) and Sarawak were separate British colonies from Malaya, and did not become part of the Federation of Malaya in 1957. However, both voted to become part of the new Federation of Malaysia in 1963.

As states of the Federation, Sabah and Sarawak retained a higher degree of autonomy than the other states in West Malaysia. For example, they have separate immigration controls, and even Malaysian citizens from West Malaysia require passports when visiting East Malaysia.

Images courtesy of Tourism Malaysia

In the Directory

• Accommodation [1]
• Charters and Day Trips [1]
• Career Development [1]
• Dive Resorts [4]
• Dive Shops [2]

Photos

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

Riding out the rapids at Kiulu River

Kuching Waterfront

Climate

Warm tropical climate with general temperatures ranging from 21¬?C to 32¬?C and very strongly influenced by the Northeast and the Southwest Monsoon. May to September usually is a drier period. The states in East Malaysia normally have their rainy season between November to February.

Underwater Recommendations

Lying 8kms off mainland Sabah, Labuan’s crystal clear waters and perfect diving conditions all year round makes it a very appealing destination. World War II and post-war shipwrecks have made this spot the region’s prime center for wreck diving - Mabul and Kapalai Island are located off Sabah, in the Celebes Sea and should be noted for its micro fauna and rarely sighted marine species like octopus, turtles and scorpion fish. The shallow water around the island discourages large predators from getting closer, making this place a safe and easy diving haven for both new and seasoned divers - Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park was gazetted a marine park in 1974 and lies just 8kms off Kota Kinabalu. The park comprises five idyllic islands - Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. Its pristine surroundings and easy accessibility via fishing boats and speedboats make the park a favourite escape among picnickers, divers and nature lovers.

Getting There

Malaysian Airline System (MAS) is the main domestic airline, servicing both the peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak. There are no boat services between Peninsular and East Malaysia, but fast boats ply the rivers of both Sabah and Sarawak.