Sandakan Division is one of the most ecologically and economically important divisions in Sabah. Known as the “Nature City” of the East, it is home to world-renowned conservation centers, tropical forests, and rich agricultural estates. From Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to Kinabatangan River safaris, this division is a magnet for eco-tourism, wildlife lovers, and nature researchers.
Formation & Historical Background
Sandakan was once the capital of British North Borneo (1884–1946)
Served as an important trading port for timber and agriculture
Played a major role during World War II, including the tragic Sandakan Death Marches
Developed into a key zone for wildlife protection, palm oil plantations, and eco-tourism
Basic Information
Category
Details
Division Name
Sandakan Division
State
Sabah
Division Center
Sandakan City
Area
Approx. 28,205 sq. km (one of Sabah’s largest)
Population (2025 est.)
Approx. 800,000+
Main Ethnic Groups
Kadazan-Dusun, Chinese, Malay, Bajau, Orang Sungai
Districts in Sandakan Division (5 total)
District Name
Administrative Town
Known For
Sandakan
Sandakan City
Eco-tourism, port, Sepilok, WWII history
Beluran
Beluran Town
Agriculture, rural forest areas
Kinabatangan
Kota Kinabatangan
Kinabatangan River, wildlife safaris, oxbow lakes
Tongod
Tongod Town
Remote forested interiors, eco-parks
Telupid
Telupid Town
Transit town, interior access, nature lodges
Local Governance & Representation
Position / Role
Name (2025 est.)
Remarks
Division Commissioner
Tuan Haji Mahadi bin Haji Osman
Oversees division-level coordination
District Officers
Respective to each district
Administer land, development, conservation
MPs & ADUNs
Represent all 5 districts
Focus on eco-tourism, rural economy, outreach
Key Features & Attractions
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) – Canopy walk, education hub
Kinabatangan River – River cruises, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants
Gomantong Caves – Swiftlet bird nest harvesting, bat ecology
WWII Memorial Park (Sandakan) – Historical remembrance site
Economy & Livelihood
Palm Oil Plantations – Major industry across Beluran, Kinabatangan
Timber & Wood-Based Manufacturing – Sandakan is a former timber capital
Sandakan Festival, Orangutan Awareness Day, Traditional harvest rituals
Summary
Sandakan Division is a living classroom of biodiversity and culture. From deep rainforest adventures to marine heritage, and from tribal villages to scientific sanctuaries, it is the perfect place for those who want to explore the wild, the wise, and the wonderful sides of Sabah.
