West Coast Division of Sabah is the most developed and strategically important division in the state. Home to the state capital Kota Kinabalu, it is the center of administration, tourism, education, commerce, and cultural integration. This division combines the charm of mountains, marine parks, and multicultural festivals into a vibrant and welcoming destination.
Formation & Historical Background
Established under Sabah’s administrative structure as part of British North Borneo governance
Includes Kota Kinabalu, the capital and gateway to Sabah since independence
Historically home to Kadazan-Dusun tribes and Bajau seafarers, with strong colonial and World War II remnants
Rapid development post-1990s due to tourism, trade, and infrastructure growth
Basic Information
Category
Details
Division Name
West Coast Division
State
Sabah
Division Capital
Kota Kinabalu
Area
Approx. 7,500+ sq. km
Population (2025 est.)
Over 1.2 million
Local Authority
Multiple municipal and district councils
Administrative Districts in West Coast Division
District Name
Administrative Center
Key Highlights
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu City
Capital city, Jesselton Point, Gaya Island, urban tourism
Penampang
Donggongon
Kadazan-Dusun cultural hub, heritage and religious sites
Papar
Papar Town
Paddy fields, traditional markets, coastal fishing
Tuaran
Tuaran Town
Upside Down House, Sabandar beach, adventure tourism
Kota Belud
Kota Belud Town
Bajau Horsemen, Sunday tamu (market), cultural displays
Ranau
Ranau Town
Mount Kinabalu, Kundasang highlands, Desa Dairy Farm
Local Governance & Representation
Position/Role
Name (2025 est.)
Remarks
Division Commissioner
Encik Roslee bin Kasim
Coordinates inter-district development
Mayors & District Officers
Vary by district
Oversee respective municipalities
State Assembly Reps
Represent each DUN in 6 districts
Focus on education, tourism, economy
Key Features & Attractions
Natural Wonders:
Mount Kinabalu & Kinabalu Park (Ranau) – UNESCO site
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park – Island hopping from KK
Kundasang & Desa Dairy Farm – Highland scenery and cold weather
Cultural Heritage:
Mari Mari Cultural Village (Penampang)
Bajau Horsemen Parade (Kota Belud)
Weekly “Tamu” Markets in all districts
Adventure & Eco-Tourism:
Crocker Range hiking trails
River rafting in Kiulu (Tuaran)
Paragliding & ATV rides in Ranau and Kota Belud
Economy & Livelihood
Tourism: Top revenue generator via mountains, islands, and cultural sites
West Coast Division of Sabah represents the soul and skyline of the state. From snowy mists of Kundasang to coral-fringed islands off Kota Kinabalu, this division blends natural grandeur, indigenous pride, and urban ambition. It is the ultimate destination for those seeking modern Malaysia with a wild and welcoming heart.
