KOTA na Tayo! Kota Kinabalu Post-COVID — 5 Reasons to Pack Your Bags For KK

Can you hear that? It’s the sound of travellers packing their bags for a much-awaited trip (and not just to the kitchen this time!). We’ve got just the destination for you: Kota Kinabalu! Known as KK for short, the state capital of Sabah, Malaysia, has long been a destination of choice for Pinoys. As borders reopen and leaving on a plane becomes a reality again, here are the top five reasons why KK should be on your travel list.

Also read: DIY Kota Kinabalu: Tips & Trip Ideas From an Experienced Visitor

1. Proximity

The flight time from Manila to KK is a mere 1 hour 40 minutes, with direct flights via Cebu Pacific Air and Air Asia Philippines (as of pre-COVID times). A shorter flight means more quality time to explore and enjoy what KK has to offer! And don’t worry about a holiday visa you only need a valid passport to enter Malaysia for leisure purposes.

2. Safety first

Malaysia has strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure everyone stays protected and safe at all times. Travellers must be fully vaccinated to enter Malaysia and you will notice from the get-go that these SOPs are firmly observed throughout your journey, from mandatory mask-wearing to keeping a safe distance from each other.

All establishments are attended by fully-vaccinated staff, from hotels to restaurants. Customers and visitors are also required to download the MySejahtera app, which has a ‘check-in/check-out’ feature. Simply scan the QR code provided at each establishment you visit (and don’t forget to checkout when you leave).

3. Beach within reach

KK is home to some of the best sunset views in the world. | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

As your plane descends along the KK coastline, you are greeted by a cluster of islands that make up the beautiful emerald gems and golden strips of sand surrounded by the sparkling waters of the South China Sea.

Lazy beach days on your island of choice within the . | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

The best part? These five islands are no more than 20 minutes away from the city’s main coastline. Day-trippers can enjoy parasailing, scuba diving, snorkelling or just lazing on the beach, soaking up the sun. Want to spend a night or two in this paradise? You’re spoilt for choice with the many award-winning island resorts that await you, including the Manukan Island Lodge and luxurious Gayana Eco Resort.

4. Safety-first sunset drinks

Plenty of al fresco places to wine and dine in KK from rooftop bars with city vistas to ocean-side pubs.| Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

KK has many open-air and semi-outdoor spaces that are safe for you and your barkada to sit back and have a good time. All establishments strictly adhere to the customer quota based on their establishment size to avoid overcrowding.

Did we mention the spectacular sunsets in KK? Book front row seats to the sunset show at any of the coolest rooftop bars in town (try the Hilton) or sea-side lounges (Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa is a favourite).

Also read: An Unplanned Kota Kinabalu Trip Showed Me Sabah’s Unsung Destinations

5. Makan time!

IG-worthy eats: The must-try roti tisu that towers above the rest! | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Gutom ka na ba? Then it’s time to eat or makan as the locals say! From fresh seafood to tea time delights that are uniquely Sabahan, be ready for a food trip like no other. Kedai kopi or coffee shops are at every corner and the best place to truly eat like a local.

A tea-time favourite The UFO Tart, named after its unique shape. | Image credit: Sabah Tourism Board

Order a plate of Tuaran Mee or savour a bowl of Ngiu Chap (noodles in a beef broth), which many locals claim to be the breakfast of champs! Want to learn traditional recipes? Sign up for a cooking class at a homestay programme where you can shop for your ingredients at a local market (or tamu) and learn from your host how to whip up a local dish so you can impress your friends back home!


Brought to you by Sabah Tourism Board.

Published at


About Author

Sabah Tourism Board

Some describe it as a natural playground. Some say, it's simply unique as it offers a great array of travel options coast to coast. Some say, the hospitality of Sabah is the pride of this state. We say, the above is all true!

Brand Managers!

Want to see your brand or business in this story?

Talk to us now

Subscribe our Newsletter

Get our weekly tips and travel news!

Recommended Articles