Discover Sandakan’s Rich Past on the Heritage Trail

via the Star, 11 November 2023: The Sandakan Heritage Trail in Sabah, Malaysia, is an immersive journey into the town’s historical past, once a thriving trade hub known as “Little Hong Kong.” Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, the trail was established to educate the younger generation about Sandakan’s vibrant history. It covers 10 main heritage sites, including the city’s oldest mosque, Masjid Jamik, the William B. Pryer Monument, the Agnes Keith House, and St. Michael’s And All Angels Church.

Once the capital of the British North Borneo before it was moved to Jesselton – or what is now Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan was a hub of trade and commerce, to the point that it became known as “Little Hong Kong” due to the influx of immigrants from Hong Kong back in the day.

Now, the place is more known for its nature and wildlife attractions thanks to its proximity to the Kinabatangan River, but if you take the time to dig beneath its surface, you’ll find there’s plenty to uncover for those interested in British colonial history and World War II.

The town barely managed to survive the Japanese occupation and bombings from Allied Forces, and though it has been rebuilt and restored, you can still see glimpses of the past by walking the Sandakan Heritage Trail, which will take you back over 100 years of the town’s history.

Source: The Sandakan Heritage Trail in Sabah is a must-do for history buffs | The Star