Hidden Gems

Maliau Basin

By: Tan Sri Son | 04/05/2025

Maliau Basin – The Lost World of Sabah

Tucked away in the heart of Borneo, in the Malaysian state of Sabah, lies a place so remote, untouched, and shrouded in mystery that it has earned the nickname “The Lost World of Sabah.” This is Maliau Basin, a vast, bowl-shaped geological formation ringed by steep cliffs that rise up to 1,675 meters above sea level. Largely unexplored and fiercely protected, Maliau Basin is one of the last great frontiers of pristine wilderness left on Earth—a living time capsule of nature in its purest form.

Geography and Formation

Maliau Basin covers an area of approximately 390 square kilometers—an immense natural amphitheater created millions of years ago, possibly through tectonic movements or geological uplift. The steep escarpments surrounding the basin act like a fortress, isolating it from the outside world and creating a unique microclimate that sustains an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna. The only entry points are through specific trekking routes that require official permits, making it a destination for only the most determined adventurers.

Biodiversity – A Living Ark of Nature

The isolation of Maliau Basin has allowed it to become a refuge for countless species, some of which are rare, endangered, or found nowhere else. It is part of the Maliau Basin Conservation Area (MBCA), a Class I Protection Forest, meaning that logging and human settlement are strictly prohibited. Within its boundaries, scientists have documented over:

1,800 species of plants, including rare orchids, pitcher plants, and towering dipterocarp trees.

80 species of mammals, such as clouded leopards, sun bears, and Bornean pygmy elephants.

270 species of birds, including the rhinoceros hornbill and the elusive Bornean bristlehead.

Countless insects, amphibians, and reptiles, many of which are yet to be fully studied.

The biodiversity here is so rich that researchers often refer to it as a “biological goldmine” and a living laboratory for conservation science.

The Jewel of Maliau – Maliau Falls

The most iconic feature within the basin is Maliau Falls, a breathtaking seven-tier waterfall that cascades through dense rainforest. This is no ordinary waterfall—it is among the largest and most spectacular in Southeast Asia. Each tier presents its own unique beauty, with deep, clear pools ideal for cooling off after long treks. The journey to reach Maliau Falls is not easy; it requires days of trekking through rugged terrain, crossing rivers, and camping in the wilderness. But for those who endure the challenge, the sight of the falls makes every step worthwhile.

A Destination for the Adventurous

Visiting Maliau Basin is not like visiting a typical tourist attraction. There are no paved roads into its interior, no luxury hotels, and no quick photo stops. Instead, it offers multi-day expeditions led by licensed guides, where trekkers carry their own supplies and sleep in basic camps or field study centers. The terrain is challenging—steep climbs, muddy trails, and unpredictable weather are all part of the experience. This makes Maliau Basin a true paradise for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and scientists who seek raw, authentic encounters with the natural world.

Conservation and Research Efforts

Recognizing its extraordinary ecological value, the Sabah government established the Maliau Basin Conservation Area in 1981. Since then, access has been highly regulated, with most visits tied to research or eco-tourism programs that support conservation funding. The Maliau Basin Studies Centre serves as a hub for scientists and environmentalists from around the world, providing facilities for studying the area’s unique ecology and biodiversity. Such controlled access ensures that the basin remains one of the last unspoiled rainforests in the region.

Cultural and Historical Significance

For local communities, Maliau Basin has long been a place of mystery and respect. Indigenous groups such as the Murut and Kadazan-Dusun people have traditional knowledge about the forests surrounding the basin, though the interior remained largely unexplored until recent decades. Folklore often depicts the basin as a sacred or forbidden place, possibly due to its inaccessibility and the dangers posed by its wild terrain.

Why Maliau Basin Matters Today

In an era when deforestation and urbanization are rapidly consuming Southeast Asia’s natural landscapes, Maliau Basin stands as a beacon of what is still possible when conservation is prioritized. It is not just a tourist destination—it is an invaluable ecological treasure that serves as a carbon sink, a freshwater reserve, and a sanctuary for endangered wildlife. Protecting such places is critical, not only for biodiversity but also for future generations who deserve the chance to witness nature in its most pristine form.

Conclusion

Maliau Basin is more than just a hidden gem of Sabah—it is a living testament to the power and beauty of nature when left undisturbed. Its towering cliffs, dense jungles, roaring waterfalls, and rare wildlife combine to create an otherworldly landscape that few are fortunate enough to experience. For those who seek adventure, solitude, and a profound connection to the natural world, Maliau Basin offers a journey unlike any other.

Far from the noise of cities and the touch of mass tourism, this “Lost World of Sabah” stands as a reminder of Earth’s raw beauty and the responsibility we share to protect it.

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