Maliau Basin: Sabah’s Lost World
Maliau Basin, famously known as Southeast Asia’s “Lost World,” is a remote and pristine rainforest located in the southern part of central Sabah. Covering 588.4 square kilometres—almost the size of Singapore—it is one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems. The basin, encircled by steep cliffs, forms a self-contained natural amphitheatre drained by a single river, the Maliau River, which flows southeast before joining the Kinabatangan River, Sabah’s largest waterway.
Biodiversity and Adventure
Maliau Basin is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 1,800 plant species, including six species of pitcher plants and more than 80 types of orchids. One of its rarest treasures is the Rafflesia tengku-adlinii, found only in two locations in Sabah. Scientific expeditions have even uncovered entirely new species here—such as a newly identified tree and a moss species.
The basin’s rich vegetation ranges from lower montane and heath forests to lowland and hill dipterocarp forests, dominated by towering Agathis trees.
Once a well-guarded secret of the indigenous Murut tribe, Maliau Basin remained unknown to the outside world until 1947, when a pilot nearly crashed into its mist-covered rim. Today, despite being a conservation area, it remains largely untouched—preserving its reputation as Sabah’s true “Lost World.”
For adventure seekers, the seven-tier Maliau Falls hidden deep within the forest is a highlight. Night drives and guided walks offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, with natural waterfall pools providing the perfect place to unwind.
The basin is ideal for nature lovers, jungle trekkers, and bird enthusiasts. To date, more than 30 mammal species, 270 bird species, and over 80 rare or endemic orchids have been recorded, with discoveries continuing through ongoing scientific missions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as jungle trekking, night drives, birding, or taking a refreshing dip in the stunning waterfall pools. Tours to Maliau Basin are usually arranged for groups of two to twenty travellers.
Travel Packages and Costs
For the latest updates on fees, visitors are advised to check the official website or social media channels, as rates may vary. Typical package inclusions:
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Return overland transfers (Tawau → Agathis Camp)
Conservation and campsite user fees
VHF radio rental
Forest ranger cum radioman
Licensed guide
Where to Rest and Recharge: Maliau Basin Studies Centre
The Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC) serves as a hub for research, conservation, environmental education, and training. It is common to encounter groups participating in field courses or educational programmes.
Accommodation options at MBSC include:
- Belian Camp (Camping Ground): Basic camping facilities.
- Hostel: Simple dormitory-style rooms separated by gender, located 10–15 minutes from the dining hall
- Standard Resthouse: Comfortable rooms with ceiling fans, attached bathrooms and twin beds, close to the dining hall
- Deluxe & VIP House: Higher comfort levels, including air-conditioned chalet-style rooms
Additional notes:
- Towels provided in Resthouse and Chalet rooms
- Dining hall serves as the main food hub; self-catering kitchens available at the hostel and campsite
- Amenities are basic—visitors should expect minimal luxury
- Power Supply: Generator (GENSET) runs daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Emergency contact information is available on the guest board and in the centre’s manual
How to Get to Maliau Basin
A 4WD vehicle is required to reach the Maliau Basin Conservation Area. The journey from Tawau or Keningau takes approximately five hours, travelling through logging roads and oil palm plantations. Weather and road conditions may affect travel time.
Travellers coming from Kota Kinabalu must first drive to Keningau before continuing toward the Maliau Basin Studies Centre. There are no straightforward routes, but reaching this remote corner of Borneo’s interior feels like stepping into another world—far beyond the modern map.
Visitor Information
Access to Maliau Basin is restricted. Visitors must obtain permission from Yayasan Sabah. For accurate permit fees, check the official website or contact their customer service. All visits must be arranged through licensed operators and accompanied by guides or rangers. The area is extremely remote, with limited access and minimal communication or safety infrastructure.
Address:
Maliau Basin Conservation Area, Tongod, Kalabakan, Sabah, Malaysia
Contact Number: 017-348 8435
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Social Media:
For more details, visit the official Sabah Holidays website by Tourism Sabah.
