Tabin Adventure for RM390

By Joniston Bangkuai

KOTA KINABALU: Nature lovers can see some of Borneo’s most endangered animals in their natural habitats on a special tour package.

Introduced in conjunction with the launch of MASwing’s ATR 72 aircraft flights between here and Lahad Datu later this month, the two-day, one-night package, a joint effort by MASwing – Malaysia’s first commuter airline – and Tabin Wildlife Holidays (TWH) will cost around RM390 per person.

The package, limited only to residents of Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, will include a return airfare from Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu, return land transfers from Lahad Datu to the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, one night accommodation with meals, a guided tour of the wildlife reserve and other activities, said TWH general manager Wong Seu Lin.

About an hour by road from Sabah’s bustling east coast town of Lahad Datu, the 120,500-hectare reserve is a dedicated ground for breeding wildlife, including the endangered Sumatran rhino, Borneo pygmy elephant and the orang utan.

“Tabin is home to some 70 mammal species and 300 species of birds, many of them endemic to Borneo.

“I expect the package to be a hit considering that the normal rate for a two-day, one-night stay at Tabin is more than RM700,” Wong said.

Another major attraction is Tabin’s high concentration of mineral- rich mud volcanoes and salt springs, which are often visited by animals and birds.

Wong said visitors will get to stay in authentic Borneo-style jungle lodges.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman will launch the new MASwing route on Sept 15, and the packages will be available for booking from Oct 11 to Dec 21.

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