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Bajau Sama Cultural Centre For The Most Colourful Tribe Of Sabah

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ajau is the second largest indigenous group of Sabah. Bajau people are famous for using bold bright colours in their traditional costumes and handicrafts. Bajau has about 13 sub ethnic, including the Ubian, Sama, Simunul, Tolen, Pala’u, and Sikubung, all of which are named according to their place of origin or current regions.

Bajau Sama (or Bajau Samah) mainly resides in West coast of Sabah (Malaysia), especially Kota Belud and Tuaran districts. They are also known as the Cowboys of the East because of their excellent horsemanship.

To preserve their cultural heritages, the building of RM7.5million Sabah Bajau Sama Cultural Centre (Local Name: Pusat Kebudayaan Persatuan Rumpun Bajau Sama Sabah) was completed in 2022 and open to visitors who want to see the vibrant cultures of Bajau Sama, who are widely recognised as the colourful, festive, and musical people.

Sabah Bajau Sama Cultural Centre is in Tuaran and about an hour drive from Kota Kinabalu City.

Gallery

The gallery of Sabah Bajau Sama Cultural Centre is the highlight. It shows everything about Bajau Sama, from handicrafts, motifs, musical instruments, wedding decoration, antiques to clothing. The information panel is available in both English and Malaysia languages, for visitors to learn about the exhibited items. Guided tours are also available.

Traditional Bajau Houses

You may explore the two traditional Bajau houses (farmer and fisherman) behind the main building. Such wooden houses are getting rare when most people prefer brick and mortar buildings nowadays. There is a mini herbs garden there too.

Horse Riding

You can try out horse riding at the Centre. A staff will accompany you and the horse for a safe stroll around the track.

Other Activities

For a more complete cultural experience, you may come in a group and add in some activities (fees applicable and need to book in advance) such as Penjaram (famous Bajau Sama snack) cooking demo, food sampling and cultural dance.

Other Services / Facilities

The Centre is suitable for hosting events such as weddings, meetings and gatherings. The outdoor stage, main hall, conference room, chairs and desks are available for rent.

Find out more at mysabah.com

Address: Kampung Lok Batik, Tuaran, Sabah

Admission fee: Adult RM10, Child (4-12 years old) RM5, Senior (60 years old and above) RM5, Baby (below 4 years old) Free | additional RM5 for non-Malaysians

Opening Hours: 8am-12pm (until 11.30am on Friday) and 2pm-4:30pm | closed on Monday

Facebook: @RumahBajau

Instagram: @pusatkebudayaan_bajausama

Call/Whatsapp: +60 17-8383507 (Afiqa), +60 13-8375792 (Ifah), +60 14-9437383 (Ayien)

by mySabah.com Image | mySabah.com