History in the Making: Sandakan Heritage Trail Recognised as Malaysia’s First Historical Tree Trail

29 June 2025

SANDAKAN : A new chapter in heritage tourism was written today as the Sandakan Heritage Trail was officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the First Historical Tree Trail in Malaysia, a distinction that marks a unique fusion of historical storytelling and environmental conservation.

In his speech at the recognition ceremony, Walter Kenson, President of the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS), expressed his pride and joy at witnessing what he described as “an amazing achievement unfolding before our eyes in just three months.”

“It is both an honour and a moment of pride for Sandakan,” Kenson said. “This initiative reflects the power of community collaboration and our deep commitment to preserving not just our buildings, but also our living history, our trees.”

The project is spearheaded by Lai King Hang, Founder and Chairman of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, in partnership with Teo Chee Kim, President of the Sandakan Tourism Association (STAN).

The idea was first proposed in March during a meeting between the Heritage Trail team and Kenson.

What makes the trail extraordinary is its integration of 42 historically significant trees, now QR-coded with information provided through the support of the Sabah Forestry Department. Visitors can scan the codes to learn about the age, species, and historical context of each tree, some of which have witnessed over a century of Sandakan’s transformation.

This approach positions the trail as a living museum, where nature and history converge to offer a truly immersive experience.

The recognition ceremony also coincided with Sandakan Founding Day 2025 and the 22nd Anniversary of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, commemorating the town's founding by William B. Pryer on 21 June 1879, 146 years ago.

In his closing remarks, Kenson expressed his aspiration to institutionalise Sandakan Founding Day as an annual celebration, forming part of his broader agenda to revitalise Sandakan’s urban and tourism landscape, while fostering community pride and economic renewal.

Over 300 participants took part in the commemorative walk, including 130 members of the Sandakan Girl Guides, community leaders, and members of the Sabah Society Sandakan, who provided interpretive commentary at selected heritage trees along the route.

As the Sandakan Heritage Trail continues to grow in prominence, it now stands not only as a symbol of the town's rich past but also as a pioneering model for eco-historical tourism in Malaysia, where every tree tells a story, and every step brings visitors closer to understanding Sandakan’s enduring legacy.