Labuan "Pearl of the South China Sea" is a former British Colony and is located some 8 kilometres off the coast of Sabah. Seen from the air, Labuan has often been likened to a star floating on a turquoise sea. It is a Free Port, a Federal Territory and an International Offshore Financial Centre (IOFC). The move towards IOFC status began in 1984 and now is a thriving free port, a tourist destination and a leading International Offshore Financial Centre.

The British came to Labuan one hundred and fifty years ago. It was a strategic island for the British. The main town of the island was named Victoria, after Queen Victoria. During the Japanese administration in 1942, the island was re-named Maida Island in memory of General Maida, the Chief Commander of the Japanese forces in Borneo. The Japanese ruled the island for almost three years from 1942 to 1945. The liberation of Borneo by the Allied Forces started in Labuan on 10th June 1945. The Australian forces landed in Labuan under the command of General McArthur. The island was reverted back to British rule until 1963.

PLACES OF INTEREST

• War Memorial This War Memorial is dedicated to 3,908 Australian, New Zealand, Indian and British servicemen who lost their lives during World War II. Every year on the 11th of November a Commemoration known as ‘Remembrance Day’ is held to honour the lives of the valiant men who fought during the war. This memorial is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graved Commission.



• Peace Park This Park was built as a memorial and renunciation of the horrors of the Second World War and dedicated to all fallen soldiers. A huge man-made mound is the focal point and there is a plague signifying the renunciation of war.



• Labuan Square (Dataran Labuan) This Square is a popular venue for the island’s main events and performance. Many stone plaques recall the historical events of Labuan throughout the years including the flags of all the Malaysian states.



• Japanese Surrender Point This is where the 37th Japanese Southern Army surrendered to the 9th Division Australian Imperial Forces on 9th September 1945 which led to the end of WWII in Borneo.



• Water Village (Kampung Air) These water villages are brightly decorated with colourful blooms and are an interesting feature among visitors. It promotes the lifestyle of the locals and visitors will be able to stay a few nights with the family. It is an unique and intriguing place of traditional houses on stilts.



• Labuan Marine Museum This museum preserves the precious marine heritage of Labuan. Conceptualised after a ship, visitors exposed to myriad aquariums displaying all kinds of marine life. Visitors are free to feel some of the marine life on display.



• Labuan History Museum These exhibits displayed here include World War II memorabilia, artifacts, monetary, It is a must visit for those wish to catch a glimpse of the island’s rich history.



• The Chimney It is a 106-foot high red brick structure and is Labuan’s most well-known landmark which is linked to the coal mining days of Labuan. It was built from 1847 to 1912 under the British rule during the coal mining era of Labuan. The actual purpose of the chimney is still a mystery but archaeological study found no traces of smoke. The structure has become an intriguing mystery that fascinates visitors.



• Wreck Diving The sunken relics of World War II and postwar shipwrecks made Labuan’s water the region’s centre for wreck-diving. Four wrecks await exploration are Australian Wreck, American Wreck, The Blue Water Wreck and finally The Cement Wreck.



• Marine Park This marine park encompasses 10sq km of pristine waters and three main islets are pooled together to protect the marine lives. The three secluded islets are surrounded by fringing coral reefs which make it a veritable snorkellers paradise. Visitors can indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving activities apart from strolling leisurely along the white sandy beaches.



• Offshore Financial Park The 17 storey complex stands as a landmark for the island’s status as an International Offshore Financial Centre which houses more than 600 international offshore banks and trust companies.



• Chinese Temple This ‘tao’ temple is one of the most significant Chinese temples in Labuan.



• Duty Free Island Labuan Island was the second island in Malaysia which was accorded the Duty Free Island status in 1990. As a duty free island, varieties of local and imported goods are exempted from custom duty. Visitors to this island took the opportunity to buy as many gifts as possible for their loved ones back home.



• Labuan Tamu (Labuan Sunday Market) Visitors should not miss the opportunity of visiting the Sunday market during the weekend which offers great bargains. From handicrafts to fashion wear, accessories to agriculture produce, visitors will find all kinds of everything here.



• Sport Fishing Rich marine lives in the waters off Labuan Island attract many sport fishing enthusiasts for year round fishing. Tuna, Dorado, Mackerel, Black marlin and Sailfish can be found throughout the year. Labuan Island is known for international fishing competitions.



• And many more exciting places