Experiencing Soul and Mental Wellbeing in Sabah: Places That Invite Stillness and Reflection

29 January 2026

PENAMPANG: In an era where wellness takes centre stage, many are discovering that true wellbeing goes beyond physical health. It’s about nurturing the soul, calming the mind, and allowing emotions to find balance. Cleopatra Lajawai, a seasoned traveller and wellness advocate, shares her insights on how Sabah, Malaysia’s natural haven, offers spaces that foster genuine mental and emotional serenity.

“Wellness doesn’t require elaborate settings or constant activity,” Cleopatra who is the CEO of AEI Wellness Sdn Bhd and QiMag Wholistic Professionals PLT, explains. “It’s about the environment, the pace, and the willingness to be present. Sometimes, the simplest places can be the most transformative.”

According to her, tourism, by its very nature, can be a subconscious form of wellbeing. Yet, she emphasises that the quality of experience determines whether it remains superficial or becomes a profound journey of inner discovery. “When travel supports reflection, stillness, and connection, it becomes a catalyst for personal growth,” she adds.

In Sabah, nature’s tranquillity provides the ideal backdrop for mental and emotional restoration. From serene coastlines to lush forests and majestic mountains, the environment itself invites a pause, a moment to breathe deeply and reconnect.

“Before engaging in any guided programme, the atmosphere must feel safe and open,” Cleopatra notes.

“In Sabah, the land, the air, and the warmth of the local people create a natural sanctuary that encourages inner balance. When travellers arrive with intention, through prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection, they often find that their journey begins within.”

Coastal Calm and Emotional Release

Sabah’s expansive coastlines play a pivotal role in emotional healing. The sound of waves, the vast horizon, and gentle sea breezes naturally promote slower breathing and contemplation. Simple practices like mindful breathing by the sea, silent shoreline walks, or witnessing sunrise and sunset rituals help individuals shed mental clutter and gently release emotions.

Forests and Green Spaces: Reconnecting with the Self

The lush forests and green spaces of Sabah serve as living classrooms for soul reconnection. Walking among the trees, listening to natural sounds, and slowing down physical movement nurture inner clarity and calmness. Many visitors find that by engaging with nature in this mindful way, they experience a profound sense of belonging and peace.

“Connecting with trees, plants, and the land, not through words, but through presence, allows for a deeper sense of unity,” Cleopatra explains. “These moments of stillness help soften the mind, release self-judgement, and foster self-love and acceptance.”

Elevated Landscapes: A View to Inner Clarity

Highland and mountain environments further support mental clarity and emotional perspective. The steady presence of elevated terrain often inspires feelings of strength and reassurance. Many travellers report that simply being in these spaces leads to clearer thoughts, calmer breathing, and a renewed sense of purpose.

“Transformation here is subtle but powerful,” Cleopatra remarks. “It happens not through effort, but through simply ‘being’ in the moment.”

Guided Support for Deepening Wellness

While nature offers the ideal setting, Lajawai stresses the importance of experienced guidance. Skilled facilitators help travellers navigate their inner journeys, encouraging mindfulness and emotional safety. Proper guidance ensures that wellness experiences are supportive, meaningful, and accessible.

Prioritising Inner Wellbeing

Cleopatra underscores that focusing on the inner pillars, soul and mental/emotional health, is essential. When these foundations are nurtured, travellers are better equipped to embrace other aspects of wellbeing, including physical health, relationships, and their environment.

This approach aligns with the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), advocating that inner wellbeing is the cornerstone of sustainable communities and responsible tourism.

A Path of Ongoing Discovery

Looking ahead, Cleopatra plans to share more about Sabah’s wellness spaces and practices, aligned with the ten Sustainable Holistic Wellness Pillars. For travellers seeking a deeper, more conscious experience, she recommends connecting with SETIA for customised wellness packages designed to support presence, awareness, and inner connection.

“Sabah offers more than destinations,” she concludes. “It offers spaces to pause, breathe, and reconnect, first with ourselves, and then with the world around us.”