Northern Gateway to Indigenous Beauty & Coastal Wonders
Kudat Division, located in the northernmost part of Sabah, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, scenic coastal landscapes, and traditional Rungus longhouse life. From the iconic Tip of Borneo to guitar-making villages, it’s a place where time slows down and authenticity thrives.
Formation & Historical Background
Kudat was one of the earliest settlements during British North Borneo era
Briefly served as first capital of British North Borneo (1881)
Known for its peaceful coastal villages, Rungus tribe culture, and maritime significance
Remains a rural yet tourism-rich destination for cultural exploration
Basic Information
Category
Details
Division Name
Kudat Division
State
Sabah
Division Center
Kudat Town
Area
Approx. 4,623 sq. km
Population (2025 est.)
Approx. 250,000
Main Ethnic Groups
Rungus, Kadazan-Dusun, Chinese, Malay, Bajau
Districts in Kudat Division (3 total)
District Name
Administrative Center
Known For
Kudat
Kudat Town
Tip of Borneo, Rungus longhouses, coconut & fishing
Kota Marudu
Kota Marudu Town
Agriculture, scenic views, local markets
Pitas
Pitas Town
Remote, riverine villages, traditional life
Local Governance & Representation
Position / Role
Name (2025 est.)
Remarks
Division Commissioner
Encik Mohd Farid bin Jamil
Manages division-wide coordination
District Officers
Assigned per district
Lead in land, infrastructure, tourism efforts
MPs & ADUNs
Represent all 3 districts
Focus on rural empowerment & indigenous rights
Key Features & Attractions
Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau) – Northernmost point of Borneo
Rungus Longhouses – Cultural stays in Kg. Bavanggazo, Kg. Tinangol
Kudat Sunset Beaches – Bak Bak, Kalampunian, Tindakon Dazang
Honey Bee Farm, Gong Village – Local crafts, traditional lifestyle
Traditional Music & Dance – Sumazau, gong beating, Rungus storytelling
Economy & Livelihood
Agriculture:
Coconut, rubber, fruits, hill rice
Fishing & Aquaculture:
Coastal and riverine communities in Pitas & Kudat
Handicrafts & Home Industries:
Beadwork, bamboo items, local guitar (gambus) production
Eco & Cultural Tourism:
Homestays, cultural tours, craft markets
Transport & Connectivity
Road access via Kota Belud-Tuaran-Kota Kinabalu route
Public buses and minivans connect to all three districts
Kudat has a short-haul airport (KUD) with limited services
Boat services for coastal & island visits
Education & Healthcare
Government schools and rural boarding facilities
Community learning centers focused on cultural preservation
Hospitals:
Kudat Hospital, Kota Marudu Hospital, rural clinics in Pitas
Culture & Local Cuisine
Dominated by Rungus tribal traditions with modern harmony
Signature dishes:
Pinasakan, Tuhau, Hinava, Nasi Goreng Ikan Masin, Bamboo Chicken
Cultural festivals:
Rungus Festival, Coconut Festival, Local Tamu Markets
Summary
Kudat Division is Sabah’s northern jewel, where tribal wisdom, coastal charm, and traditional hospitality shine under the golden sunset. Whether exploring the edge of Borneo or resting in a longhouse homestay, Kudat offers real experiences in an untouched setting.
