Climate and Clothing

Sabah has an equatorial climate. Temperatures rarely rise above 32°C (90°F) except on exceptionally hot days, and along the coastal areas rarely drop below 20°C (68°F) at night. Although in the interior and at higher altitudes it can get quite cold at night. Relative humidity is usually 85-95 per cent.

Rainfall is common throughout the year, and varies from about 150 cm (60 inches) to over 450 cm (180 inches) per year. In most parts of Sabah the wetter period (or rainy season) occurs during the North East Monsoon from October to February and the drier season during the South West Monsoon from March to September, but often there is no really sharp division between the two. It is sufficient to say that on the whole, sunny blue skies are the norm but when it rains, the heavens open.

Click here for more information on Sabah's climate.

Living in a tropical climate, we dress very informally (e.g. lightweight linens & cottons, T-shirt, shorts, jeans). For dinners and night spots, smart casual wear is the norm. Either safari suits or lounge suits are acceptable for business meetings. Topless or completely naked sunbathing is not allowed.

Electricity and Water

Electricity and piped water are available in urban areas and outlying towns. Other remote areas rely on kerosene lamps for lighting and stream or well water for drinking and washing. Electric current is on a 240 Volts AC 50 Hz. cycle system using a square 3-pin plug. Visitors are advised against drinking un-boiled water.

Medical Services

Those intending to visit remote areas are advised to take anti-malaria medication. Clinics and dispensaries take care of non-major medical treatment while state-run hospitals are available in all major towns.

Bargaining

Most prices of retail (except departmental stores) items can be bargained. Try out your skills!

Tipping

Tipping is not necessary as most tour packages and meals are inclusive of service charges.

Languages

Bahasa Malaysia is the National language. English is widely spoken and understood. Other languages are Mandarin Chinese, Hakka, Cantonis and Kadazan. Click here for more information on useful phrases in Bahasa Malaysia.

Transportation

Traffic drives on the left and signposting is easy to understand. Taxis are easily available at the airports and at hotels, as well as from many places downtown. Kota Kinabalu airport has a taxi service counter with fixed prices. Elsewhere, you are advised to fix the fare before getting into the taxi (in Sabah, taxis have no meter!). A number of local car rentals operate in Kota Kinabalu and are represented in most of the major hotels. Boats service the offshore islands. Malaysia Airlines has an extensive route network throughout Peninsula Malaysia & Sabah/Sarawak.