Tip of Borneo Reopens to the Public Following Major Revitalisation

21 May 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The iconic Tanjung Simpang Mengayau, affectionately known as the Tip of Borneo, has officially reopened to the public following a revitalisation project spearheaded by the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS).

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Datuk Seri Christina Liew, officiated the reopening ceremony on Monday, which included the inauguration of the newly completed Visitor Information Centre—highlighting both the cultural significance and tourism potential of the landmark.

“In 2018, the 11-hectare Tip of Borneo was gazetted for public use and placed under the care of my Ministry. Since then, we have remained committed to protecting, enhancing, and promoting this extraordinary destination for the benefit of both locals and international visitors,” she said.

According to the Minister, the site was temporarily closed in January 2022 to facilitate crucial upgrades aimed at improving the visitor experience while preserving its natural charm.

The project was implemented under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (RMK12) and was officially completed on 30 September 2024.

The newly launched Visitor Information Centre features amenities such as a souvenir shop operated by Kadaiku, offering locally made crafts and products, as well as a café, which is set to open in the near future.

“The Ministry plans to hand over the management of the site to Sri Pelancongan Sabah (SPS) to ensure more systematic and sustainable tourism operations. Furthermore, new activities are being planned to make the Tip of Borneo a more vibrant and engaging destination,” Liew added.

These enhancements, she said, are part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry and its agency, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), to promote tourism in the region, support the local economy, and ensure that Sabah’s natural landmarks remain accessible, educational, and welcoming.

Liew also urged visitors to play their part in preserving the site's pristine condition.

“Let us work together to keep this iconic destination clean and beautiful for generations to come. Dispose of waste responsibly, respect the environment, and help us safeguard the serenity and unique natural beauty of this treasured location,” she said.

Located at the northernmost tip of Sabah, where the South China Sea meets the Sulu Sea, the Tip of Borneo is one of the state’s most photographed and visited natural attractions, renowned for its sweeping ocean views and historical significance.

Visitors can also look forward to the return of the Music Fest at the Tip of Borneo, scheduled for December this year.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, Deputy Permanent Secretary II Alesia Sion, Liew’s Political Secretary Vivien Lee Mee Peng, Chairman of Sabah Parks Peter Lintar, Director of Sabah Parks Dr Maklarin Lakim, CEO of Sri Pelancongan Sabah Thonny Chee, CEO of Sabapak Eco Remystar Taylor, and STB Product Manager Effendi Mahany.