Things To Do
in Membakut

Membakut is a small town located in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, known for its lush greenery and friendly local community. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful countryside and is a unique blend of rural charm and cultural diversity. The area is rich in agricultural activities, particularly in rubber and palm oil production.

Visitors can experience the warmth of local hospitality while enjoying stunning natural landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Membakut
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Malaysian dishes like Nasi Lemak or Roti Canai. Afterward, visit the Membakut Market to experience local life and shop for fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding countryside, taking a guided tour of local rubber plantations or rice fields. Alternatively, visit a nearby village to learn about traditional handicrafts.

evening
:

Dinner at Restoran Taman, where you can enjoy local seafood dishes. End the night with a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the cool breeze and local wildlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Have breakfast at a local food stall before heading out to the nearby Klias River for a river cruise. Spot wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and monitor lizards.

afternoon
:

Return to Membakut for lunch, then visit the local cultural center to learn about the diverse ethnic groups in Sabah, including the Kadazandusun and Bajau communities.

evening
:

Savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby night market where you can find souvenirs and try local street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$3 - $5
Coffee$1 - $2
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Accommodation$15 - $30 per night
🛍️Souvenir$5 - $10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local hospitality.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • Affordable costs of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transportation may not be as developed as in larger cities.
  • Language barriers may exist for those not familiar with Malay.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Berapa harga ini?" - How much is this?
  • "Maaf" - Excuse me/Sorry

Places to Visit in Membakut

Visit one of these nice places.

Klias River

A picturesque river known for its scenic views and wildlife, perfect for sunset photography.

Local Villages

Capture the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the local communities.

Membakut Market

A vibrant setting with colorful stalls, great for capturing the hustle and bustle of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Membakut

Membakut offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing a variety of authentic Malaysian flavors influenced by its diverse ethnic groups.

Membakut Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Lemak

A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal, anchovies, peanuts, and boiled egg.

Must-Try!

Soto

A flavorful soup with meat, vegetables, and spices, often served with rice or noodles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Membakut Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies.

Night Market

A bustling market featuring a variety of street food stalls, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Membakut experiences a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging 25°C to 33°C throughout the year. The dry season from March to October is generally warm and sunny, while the rainy season from November to February sees increased precipitation, particularly in the afternoons. Expect occasional thunderstorms during the rainy months but also lush greenery and vibrant landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; addressing people with 'Encik' (Mr.) or 'Puan' (Mrs.) shows respect.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees.

Respect for Elders

Elders are highly respected in Malaysian culture; showing respect is important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Membakut is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets. Travelers should also ensure they have travel insurance that covers health and safety emergencies.

Tipping in Membakut

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, though some establishments accept credit cards; ensure to carry enough cash for market visits.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March - October)

Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Rainy Season (November - February)

Frequent rain showers can occur, so pack an umbrella and be prepared for wet conditions.

Harvest Season (August - October)

This is the best time to see local agriculture in full swing, with many fruits and vegetables ripe for the picking.

Festive Season

Major festivals like Hari Raya and Chinese New Year can be celebrated, offering unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Membakut at Night

Membakut's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few local bars and cafes where you can unwind after a day of exploring. The night market comes alive in the evening, offering a vibrant atmosphere with street food, shopping, and occasional live music. While there are no nightclubs, the local scene is cozy, focusing on socializing over food and drinks.

Hiking in Membakut

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kinabalu National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering various hiking trails with stunning views, including the challenging trek to the summit.

Kudat Rungus Longhouse Trail

A scenic trail leading through traditional Rungus longhouses and beautiful landscapes, ideal for cultural exploration and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Membakut by plane.

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)

The nearest major airport, located about 80 km from Membakut, offering both domestic and international flights. It serves as the main entry point for travelers visiting Sabah.

Getting Around

Walkability

Membakut is a small town, making it quite walkable for visitors. Most attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are available in some areas, but be cautious of traffic and always be aware of your surroundings while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kadazandusun

The largest indigenous ethnic group in Sabah, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Bajau

A maritime ethnic group traditionally known for their seafaring skills and vibrant culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport native to Southeast Asia, resembling volleyball but using a rattan ball and players hit the ball over the net using their feet.

Football (Soccer)

Widely popular in Malaysia, with many locals engaging in casual games in parks and open spaces.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Membakut is generally light, with most roads being narrow and accommodating local vehicles and bicycles. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, with limited schedules. It's advisable to plan your travel times accordingly, particularly during rush hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Membakut.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your preferences clearly.

Halal Food

Most food in Membakut is halal, but it's best to confirm with the vendor if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Membakut includes a local clinic and a few private practices. For more serious medical needs, larger hospitals are located in nearby towns such as Papar and Kota Kinabalu, which are accessible by public transport. It is advisable to have travel health insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover Malaysia

Read more in our Malaysia 2025 Travel Guide.

Malaysia Travel Guide