(ANN/THE STAR) – My return to Sabah, after 12 years, was a truly delightful experience. Accompanied by my teacher, SR Samuel, and his family, I explored the enchanting Borneo Kellybays in Tuaran.
This privately-owned eco-tourism gem, situated between a mangrove forest and the sea, is approximately an hour away from Kota Kinabalu.
Upon our arrival, the first impression of Borneo Kellybays was its isolation and natural surroundings, providing a perfect escape from city life. Visitors are ferried to the retreat by boats, with the option to set traps for mangrove crabs along the way.
The crabs however are caught solely for amusement, not for consumption, and are released back into the water.
While the retreat doesn’t offer accommodation, camping overnight is possible with prior arrangements.
Borneo Kellybays boasts a variety of attractions, including water sports like kayaking, surfing, and banana boat riding. Additionally, cultural experiences such as batik painting and learning to use a blowpipe are available.
For those seeking a more laid-back experience, archery and snooker are also on offer.
My family and I participated in the batik painting activity and found it to be particularly enjoyable.
The retreat also features a pristine, seven-kilometer private beach facing the South China Sea. We took a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters and amused ourselves watching small crabs scurrying around the seashore.
Guests are required to use life jackets when swimming in the open sea, and lifeguards are on duty at all times. If swimming isn’t your preference, the retreat provides easy chairs and hammocks for relaxation on the beach.
Enjoy the cool sea breeze and clear blue skies while reading a book or engaging in conversation with friends.
For transportation, it’s advisable to arrange with your hotel or a tour company, as getting a taxi from the retreat to Tuaran town or Kota Kinabalu may prove challenging.
For the adventurous, taking a bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tuaran and then finding the mini-bus service to Kampung Laya-Laya is an option.
From the village, a 20-minute walk to the jetty is required to board the boat for Borneo Kellybays. The boat service operates from 9:30 am, and the last boat from the retreat to the jetty is at 5 pm. – Hussein Rahman
