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Guide
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia π²πΎ
#532
,
Nomad Score:
71%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah, located on the north coast of Borneo. |
π₯ Population | Approximate population is around 500,000. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 25 Mbps, with options for fiber and mobile broadband. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Currency is Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). 1 MYR β 0.23 USD. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Electricity supply is 240V, 50Hz, with Type G sockets in use. |
πΆ SIM Card | Popular providers include Digi, Maxis, and Celcom, offering good pre-paid plans. |
π³ Banking for Expats | International cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted. ATMs are available throughout the city. |
π Accommodation | Airbnb, local guesthouses, and budget hotels are available; average prices range from MYR 50 to MYR 250 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards accepted widely, particularly in urban areas and tourist spots. |
π Short Term Rentals | Short-term rentals are popular, with many options on platforms like Airbnb. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Economical stays can be found at places like The Palace Hotel or boutique hostels priced around MYR 30 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The waterfront area and Likas Bay are popular spots for tourists. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The city center is ideal for digital nomads, offering various cafes and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Borneo 360 and Kota Kinabalu Workspaces are popular for remote work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Waffle Bar + Coffee Co. offers good Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere. |
πΌ Networking Events | Events often occur at spaces like The Red Room or local cafes; check social media for announcements. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups such as 'Kota Kinabalu Expats' organize regular meetups. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Grab is the most popular app for rides in Kota Kinabalu. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available near Tanjung Aru; look for local shops. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Tanjung Aru Beach is the closest, just a short drive from the city. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | AirAsia operates most regional flights, connecting with East Malaysia and beyond. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia handle most international travel. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Main roads connect Kota Kinabalu to other parts of Sabah and the rest of Malaysia. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; buses and taxis are the main forms of transit. |
π Public Transport Passes | Limited public transport; most locals prefer using taxis or private transport. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses operate to nearby towns, with good connections to local attractions. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Queen Elizabeth Hospital is the main public facility, equipped for various needs. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga & Wellness Studio in Luyang offers regular classes. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Gold's Gym is a popular option for fitness enthusiasts. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Self-service laundries are available, with many in the city center. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Foodpanda and GrabFood are the leading options for delivery in the area. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) is a must-try local delicacy. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Green Road Cafe offers a wide range of vegan dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Korean desserts at Nara Dessert Cafe are popular among locals. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Sunday Market in Gaya Street is excellent for local foods and souvenirs. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Lazada.com.my and Shopee.com.my are popular for online shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery is available through HappyFresh. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Waterfront is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and lounges. |
π» Local Brewery | Sabah Craft Beer is a local favorite known for its unique flavors. |
π· Wine Bars | Nok: Wine & Coffee offers a selection of wines and a cozy atmosphere. |
π² Street Food Stalls | The Night Market at Sinsuran is famous for its diverse street food. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Kota Kinabalu has numerous Italian, Chinese, and Indian restaurants. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Signal Hill is a perfect spot for panoramic views of the city. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Sabah Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the region. |
π° Historical Sites | The Atkinson Clock Tower is a well-known historical landmark. |
π Religious Sites | St. Michael's Cathedral is an impressive architectural site. |
π Annual Events | The Sabah International Folklore Festival occurs annually, celebrating local culture. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Kota Kinabalu's waterfront area is vibrant with local culture and markets. |
π Theater Venues | The Sabah Cultural Centre hosts various performances and events. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Central Market offers a wide variety of goods from local artisans. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music can be found at various venues, particularly in Lintasan Deasoka. |
π¨ Street Art | Street art is prevalent, with murals showcasing local talent across the city. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Sabah Cooking School offers classes focusing on local cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Little Tree Cafe features local art and hosts community events. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Old Customs Building is a notable historic site in the city. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The culture in Kota Kinabalu is a blend of indigenous heritage, reflected in daily life. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nearby, offering hiking and birdwatching. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Tun Sakaran Marine Park is known for its biodiversity and snorkeling. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal walkway from the city center to Tanjung Aru is great for walking or cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The city skyline from Signal Hill is breathtaking at sunset. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre is ideal for birdwatching, particularly migratory species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beach areas allow bonfires, specifically at Tanjung Aru. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Pos Malaysia provide reliable shipping services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Repair shops can be found in various malls, particularly in Centre Point Sabah. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Sports complexes around the city often have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Local language schools offer courses in Malay and other languages. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Kota Kinabalu City Library is a peaceful place for reading and studying. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Various community centers host events and activities for expats and locals alike. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming hubs can be found in major malls, catering to gamers. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Kota Kinabalu; gaming is limited to specific venues. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. MYR 5,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = MYR 200,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. MYR 4,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = MYR 160,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. MYR 4,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = MYR 270,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. MYR 3,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = MYR 210,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. MYR 3,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = MYR 304,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. MYR 3,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = MYR 240,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | The standard corporate tax rate is 24%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% for non-residents. |
π¦ Tax System | Residents are taxed on income earned in Malaysia. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | The maximum personal income tax rate is 30%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Goods and Services Tax (GST) is at 6%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Malaysia does have rules regarding CFC taxation. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on the assessed value of the property. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Standard rate is 4% for properties valued above MYR 400,000. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No special tax breaks, but Malaysia offers a relatively low tax burden compared to many countries. |