In 1882, Kudat was established as the first capital of Sabah after the British North Borneo Chartered Company leased the territory of Sabah from the sultans of Brunei and Sulu.The Rungus-the indigenous tribe on the Kudat peninsula and on the east side of Marudu Bay-made their home inland, while the coastline attracted Muslim Bajau, Irranun and Suluk. The Rungus called the Kudat area after the Tomborungus River that ran into an inlet nearby.
When the British arrived and asked for the name of the place, the Rungus thought they wanted to identify the coarse grass growing there, so said Kutad. Eventually, the name was corrupted to Kudat, and was used in preference to the old name of Tomborungus. Because of a labour shortage, the British North Borneo Charted Company engaged the basel Missionary Society to bring in families of Christian Hakka from southern China to help develop Kudat.
The first pioneers arrived in 1883, followed by a steady flow of Hakkas who cleared the jungles to establish coconut plantations and small farms. They built their own homes, churches and schools. In the early years of 20th century, they began planting rubber. Although other Chinese groups eventually made Kudat their home, the district remains dominated by Christian Hakka and the Basel Church.
Accessible primary by sea until less than 50 years ago, when a road eventually linked Kudat with Kota Kinabalu, Kudat's past isolation has ensured that much of the original charm and traditional of the region remain relatively unchanged.
Sabah's Most Traditional People
Kudat The Rungus, a sub-group of the Kadazandusun, are Sabah's most traditional people. Sharing many of their beliefs, rituals and festivals with the rest of the Kadazandusun, the Rungus nonetheless have a number of unique legends and practices, as well as distinctive costumes and architecture.The True Tip of Borneo
The dramatic headland of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, the northwestern tip of Borneo, offers a stunning view over the South China Sea and the lighthouse on Pulau Kalampunian towards the islands of Banggi and Balambangan.
Tanjung Sempang Mengayau, the Tip of Borneo, is the latest must-visit attraction in Sabah. Located in the Kudat peninsula, approximately 50km from the town, it is the northern point of Borneo island where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea. Blessed with this nature amazing views and all the tranquility.
"Gong" Making
The village of Sumangkap is famous for its cottage industry of "Gong" making. "Gongs", either set horizontally in a frame or hang vertically, are the most important Rungus musical instrument and played on all festival occasions.
Sheets of thick aluminium alloy are cut and beaten to form "gongs", which can be made to order with names or special symbols embossed upon them. The gong vary in size from tiny souvenir "gongs" up to a giant of almost 2 metrs across.
Rungus Longhouse
Welcome to experience a staying in traditional Rungus longhouse, Kampung Bavanggazo, without sacrificing modern comforts such as showers and toilets. Located in a valley not far from the main road to Kudat, near Tinangol.
Honey Bee Village
Kampung Gombizau, 43 kilometers south of Kudat town, has been known as "Honey Bee Village". Visitors can wander about hives placed in the nearby softwood forest, and see how the bees are smoked out of their hives. The honey comb is then removed from the hive and the pure honey extracted.
"Tamu" Open Market
Apart from the fun and adventure amidst nature, another favourite pursuit is none other than shopping. A open market or Tamu in Pekan Tomborungus is just 5 minutes walk from the hotel. Held in every Tuesday evening 4pm to 9pm and Wednesday 6am to 10am. There will be a Pesta Kelapa (Coconut Festival) held every year in September.
The Tamu is a spontaneous gaiety of activities as the tribal people gather to buy and sell or barter their native farm products, handicrafts, traditional wares and wears, cultural instruments, local drinks and foodstuffs.
In Sikuati, 10 kilometers from Kudat, there is another Sunday Tamu (5am to 11am) , which had 50 years of history.
