The Sabah Tourism Awards was introduced to celebrate the tourism industries achievements and to acknowledge their commitment to excellence. The Winners in the Sabah Tourism Awards 2009 are recognized as a tribute to excellence in their categories.
The Winners Of The Sabah Tourism Awards 2009
The Cleanest Town – City Hall and Municipalities
Sandakan
The main attractions in Sandakan are Orang Utans at Sepilok, Sukau river cruise, visit Turtle Island, and the Chinese Temple. The food in Sandakan is quite delicious and not available in Kota Kinabalu city. Sandakan used to be the capital of Sabah until World War 2.
The Cleanest Town – District
Kuala Penyu
This is a small town about 70km from Kota Kinabalu city. It is a rustic town, quite off the beaten path. You will get the real taste of rural Sabah when you visit. Beautiful seaside, see photo below, but not very developed. This is where you go to get to Pulau Tiga (Survivor Island).
- Photo source: http://relaxunwindinsabah.blogspot.com/
Best Shopping Complex – Wisma Merdeka
The first shopping complex in Kota Kinabalu, and still popular with the locals. Most people go there to buy clothes ,cosmetics and perfumes. Located within next to Hyatt Hotel, and the best Italian restaurant in town is just across the road.
- Wisma Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu City
Best Night Spot Experience
Stand-alone – The Cock & Bull Bistro at K.K. Waterfront
The Waterfront is the place to be for night entertainment, with pubs, discos and restaurants aplenty. Within walking distance of most hotels in Kota Kinabalu city.
Hotel/Resort – Shenanigan’s Fun Pub, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
This was our party place before we started our family, and many Saturday nights were spent here till the early hours. You get right up close to the band when they perform, and it gets packed on Saturdays.
Best Food Outlet
Best Restaurant – Tepi Laut Makan Street, Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
When translated it means, Seaside Food Street (you get the idea) at the Rasa Ria Resort in Tuaran.
Best Kopi Tiam – Kak Nong Restaurant
Kak Nong serves delicious Malay food, my personal favorite is the Mee Rojak. If you enjoy spicy food, this is the place to go.
Best New Tour Package
Sandakan Death March Walking Tour – TYK Adventure Tours
This is the infamous route in which the death march took place, where Allied POWs (and civilians) were forced to march from Sandakan to Ranau. Of the Allied POWs, only 6 Australians survived by escaping the Japanese guards.
4D3N Borneo Rainforest Lodge Package – Borneo Nature Tours
Borneo Rainforest Lodge is in the Danum Valley, renowned as a eco-tourism destination. The Danum Valley, a primary rainforest jungle, is far removed from human habitation. Known for its rich variety of plants and wildlife, Danum Valley has a reputation for being one of the best places for viewing Borneo’s wildlife.
Best Tourism Attraction
Best Tourism Attraction – Nature
The Canopy Walkway, at Borneo Rainforest Lodge located in Danum Valley.
Best Tourism Attraction – Non-Nature
K.K. Waterfront
Excellence In Hotel Services
5 Star – Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
Nature Lodge - Borneo Rainforest Lodge
Homestay – Miso Walai Homestay, in Kinabatangan.
Best Spa Experience
Stand-alone
Ka’andaman Traditional Healing Garden
Hotel/Resort
The Spa at Dalit Bay, Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort
- Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort
