Transforming Sandakan into Sabah’s Premier Heritage and Nature Tourism Hub

24 June 2025

SANDAKAN: Sandakan has added another milestone to its tourism credentials with the official recognition of Malaysia’s First Historical Tree Trail, certified by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR).

This achievement further cements the town’s growing reputation as a leading heritage and nature tourism destination in Sabah.

The announcement was made ahead of a special Historic Tree Trail Walk, scheduled for Saturday, 28th June, jointly organised by the Sandakan Heritage Trail Committee and the Sandakan Tourism Association (STAN).

President of the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS), Walter Kenson, who will serve as the Guest of Honour at the event, welcomed the recognition as a proud moment for the community. He also revealed that the concept of tagging significant historical trees along the trail was his own initiative, an idea that later inspired the nomination for national recognition.

Founder and Chairman of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, Lai King Hang, commended Walter Kenson for his vision, noting that this development marks a major step forward in enhancing the trail, which has existed for over two decades. A total of 42 historically significant trees have now been identified along the 3km route, with expert input from the Sabah Forestry Department.

Among the most notable features of the trail is a tree planted by Harry Keith, husband of renowned author Agnes Keith, at the grounds of the Agnes Keith House. Harry Keith, the third Conservator of Forests during the British colonial era, played a pioneering role in initiating large-scale forest conservation efforts in North Borneo, now Sabah.

The MBR certificate presentation ceremony will take place on the grounds of the Agnes Keith House, with the award being handed over to Walter Kenson on behalf of the Sandakan Municipal Council by MBR representatives from Kuala Lumpur.

The heritage walk is expected to draw over 250 participants, including 130 students and leaders from the Sandakan Girl Guides.

President of STAN and co-organiser, Teo Chee Kim, expressed his appreciation for the strong collaboration that made the event possible, citing the close working relationship between STAN, MPS, and supporting bodies such as the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Tourism Malaysia, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Sabah Forestry Department, and the Sabah Society, among others.

He also voiced his hopes that the event would spark increased interest in Sandakan as a must-visit destination in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026.