DURIANS IN SEASON

It's peak time for durians in Sabah. They are everywhere in the city and in the suburb areas. A roadside stall selling durians and "rambutans"

Uunloading tons of durians.
They are not cheap, selling between RM5 to RM12 per kilo depending on the species, but people here are still willing to pay whatever cost to satisfy their appetite at the durian stalls. The local D24 The very succulent D24 flesh, creamiest and most delicious fruit. it is the best of the best!

SAPI ISLAND - A PERFECT GETAWAY FROM THE CITY

Sapi island is one of the five islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park. This uninhabited 25 acres island offers visitors white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, coral reef and tropical forest. A perfect getaway from the city. Sapi island from the air - courtesy of Sabah Tourism Board. 15-20 minutes speed boat ride from the city.Approaching the island's jetty Relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the crystal clear water. Optional water sports like jet ski, wake boarding, water skiing, banana rides, parasailing and ocean kayak are also available. There are a few operators providing such activities. Life guard keeping an eye on the sea - making sure it is safe and an enjoyable day for everyone. Shaddy trees provide cooling shade from the sun. It is a wonderful experience to have BBQ lunch under the many different species of trees.

Watch out for these monitor lizards looking for food at the edge of the jungle. Long-tailed macaques can also be spotted occassionally

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To get to the island, one can either take the speedboat transfer from the City jetty (The Jesselton Point) or buy a guided island tour package from a tour operator.

A RELAXING AFTERNOON AT MEMGKABONG RIVER

Feeling bored last Saturday, I joined my friend for a boat ride down the Memgkabong river. It was am enjoyable and relaxing afternoon as the weather was perfect. The magistic view of Mt.Kinabalu from the river.A speed boat with toursists.

The untouched mangrove forest.

This fisherman from the kampong (village) was trying his luck in swallow water.

"showing off" his catch.

Villagers fishing with net

Not bad at all ! They caught some barracudas.

"Sunset" as we were returning to the Jetty.

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We plan to come back for fishing in a couple of weeks. Perhaps, we can do better than the "kampung" folks with our "modern" fishing techniques !!!

SABAH STATE MOSQUE

The state mosque of Sabah which is situated within the Kota Kinabalu city boundary is an outstanding piece of architecture with a majestic dome and stunning gold inlay motifs. It is a unique combination of the prevailing Islamic architecture and contemporary design.

The capacity of this mosque is good for 5,000 worshippers at one time. There is also a special balcony exclusively for Muslim women during prayer time.

This is one of the stops of the Kota Kinabalu city tour conducted by tour operators. Visitors can also visit this mosque on their own but try to avoid the Friday's prayer from 10:30 AM to 2.30 PM.

Here are some of general rules to follow while at the mosque:

* Female visitors are required to wear robes and head scarves.
* No short pants for male.
* Visitors must report to the Security counter prior to entering the mosque.
* No shoes are allowed inside the mosque.

The mosque is opened for visitors daily from 8.00 AM to 11.00 AM & from 2.00 PM to 4.00 PM daily except Friday from 8.00 AM to 10.30 AM & from 2.30 PM to 4.30 PM