Ethnic Riches: Cultural Villages of Kota Kinabalu

Located on the island of Borneo in the east of Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu is a region rich in ethnic diversity. There are many cultural villages in this region for those who want to explore and experience different cultures. These villages introduce visitors to the lifestyle, traditions and crafts of the local people. In this article, we will tell you about some of the ethnic villages in Kota Kinabalu and what experiences you can have in these villages.

Rungus Village

The Rungus people are known as an ethnic group living in the Kudat region in the north of Sabah state. In Rungus village, you can be a guest in a traditional Rungus house and witness the daily life of the local people closely. The Rungus people are famous for their traditional handicrafts, and in the village you can visit local handicraft workshops and make handicrafts with the locals. You can also get closer to this culture by wearing local clothes and learning traditional dances.

Murut Village

Murut village is located in the Keningau district in the south of Kota Kinabalu. The Murut people are one of the oldest indigenous groups in Borneo. In this village, you can take walks deep into the forest and discover local plant and animal species with local guides. You can also watch the successful hunting skills of the Murut people and try their air rifles made with traditional poisoned arrows. A traditional dinner with local people in Murut village will be an unforgettable experience.

Suluk People

The Suluk people are an ethnic group living in the Kota Belud region in western Sabah state. In Suluk village, you can grow cotton with the local people and learn the art of weaving with cotton threads. You can also participate in the peacock dance of the Suluk people and watch this impressive show. A traditional meal made with fresh seafood from the village will pamper your taste buds and help you better understand this unique culture.

Dusun Village

The Dusun people are an ethnic group living in the interior of Sabah state and around Kota Kinabalu. In Dusun village, you can plant and harvest rice with the local people and make music with traditional musical instruments together with the village. You can also listen to the folklore stories of the local people and become more familiar with this culture by staying in traditional Dusun houses. You can have fun by participating in traditional games with the local people in Dusun village.

Bajau Village

The Bajau people are an ethnic group living in the Kota Belud region in eastern Sabah state. In the Bajau village, you can experience fishing with the local people and sail on traditional Bajau boats. You can also learn about the handicrafts that the Bajau people make from seashells and experience this art in practice. Tasting local dishes prepared in the traditional kitchen of the village helps you get to know this culture even more closely.

Village Location Traditional Handicrafts Rungus Village Kudat Weaving, wood carving, ceramics Murut Village Keningau Hunting equipment making, weaving Suluk People Kota Belud Weaving, handmade jewelry Dusun Village How much Musical instrument making, weaving Bajau Village Kota Belud Crafts from seashells, folk dances

Kota Kinabalu’s cultural villages are a great option for those who want to discover ethnic riches and experience the lifestyle of the local people. A visit to these villages offers the opportunity to understand different cultures and appreciate their values. The hospitality of the local people and traditional handicrafts make this experience unforgettable. We highly recommend giving these cultural villages a try on a trip to Kota Kinabalu. Remember, real ethnic experiences will be more valuable than ordinary tourist activities!

Ethnic Riches: Cultural Villages of Kota Kinabalu