Tapiau

Tapiau. Located in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, Tapiau is a small town situated near the Sugut River and is part of the Kota Marudu district. The town is surrounded by lush Bornean rainforests and is close to the Crocker Range. Tapiau is also near the Padas River, which is known for its rafting and kayaking activities, attracting tourists from Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan.

Introduction

Tapiau is a town with a rich cultural heritage, being home to the Rungus and Dusun ethnic groups, who are indigenous to the region. The town is also close to the Mount Kinabalu national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts tourists from around the world, including Australia, United Kingdom, and United States. Visitors to Tapiau can experience the local culture by attending the Sabah Fest or visiting the Sabah Museum in Kota Kinabalu. The town is also a gateway to the Malaysian Borneo region, which includes the states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the Brunei district of Temburong.

Geography

The geography of Tapiau is characterized by its location in the Sugut River valley, surrounded by the Crocker Range to the south and the Usukan hills to the north. The town is situated near the Padas River, which flows into the Sulu Sea and is known for its coral reefs and marine life. The region is also home to several waterfalls, including the Kundasang Waterfall and the Mesilau Waterfall, which are popular tourist destinations. The Kinabatangan River and the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre are also nearby, attracting visitors from Singapore, Indonesia, and Philippines.

History

The history of Tapiau dates back to the British North Borneo period, when the town was an important center for the British North Borneo Company. The company established a number of plantations in the area, including rubber and oil palm plantations, which are still present today. The town was also an important hub for the North Borneo Railway, which connected Kota Kinabalu to Tenom and Melalap. During World War II, Tapiau was occupied by the Japanese Empire, and the town was a key location for the Allies during the Borneo Campaign. The town is also close to the Sandakan Death March trail, which is a significant historical site.

Economy

The economy of Tapiau is primarily based on agriculture, with the town being a major producer of oil palm and rubber. The town is also home to a number of plantations, including those owned by the Sime Darby and IOI Group companies. The timber industry is also significant in the region, with several sawmills and plywood factories operating in the area. The town's economy is also driven by tourism, with visitors attracted to the region's natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as hiking and wildlife watching in Kinabalu National Park and Sepilok Forest Reserve. The town is also a key location for the Sabah Tourism Board and the Malaysian Tourism Board.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure of Tapiau is relatively well-developed, with the town being connected to Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan by the Sabah State Route 1. The town is also served by the Tapiau Airport, which offers flights to Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Sandakan Airport. The North Borneo Railway also passes through the town, providing a scenic route to Tenom and Melalap. The town has a number of hotels and resorts, including the Shangri-La and Hyatt chains, which cater to tourists visiting the region. The town is also close to the Universiti Malaysia Sabah and the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia campuses, which offer a range of academic programs. Category:Townships in Sabah