The mighty Lower-Kinabatangan River sustains one of the world?s richest ecosystems, 80km (50 miles) southwest of Sandakan. It is also recognized as Sabah?s first and Malaysia?s largest RAMSAR site. Other than being home to Borneo?s indigenous orang utan and proboscis monkey, the surrounding forest is one of only two known places in the world where 10 species of primates can be found.

This is Malaysia?s second-longest river with a massive length of 560km from its source in the Southwest Sabah to its outlet at the Sulu Sea, on the East Coast. A total of 26,000 ha was gazetted as the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary under the State?s Wildlife Conservation Enactment of 1997.

The Kinabatangan river sustains one of the world?s most diverse ecosystems. Its lower basin has the largest forest-covered floodplain in Malaysia. Exotic wildlife such as orang utans, proboscis monkeys, Asian elephants and Sumatran rhinos roam free in the jungle. There are many tour agencies in Sukau that can arrange accommodation, transfers and tours. Sukau is 135km from Sandakan.

Must do:

? Go on a river safari to spot the wildlife and birds

? Join a night tour to view crocodiles and nocturnal birds

? All eight species of hornbills found in Borneo reside here - try and spot them!

? Join a homestay programme in the nearby villages