Semporna

Semporna is in the Tawau Division and is situated on the South Eastern coast of Sabah. The interior mountain ranges stand on its west and the Celebes Sea on its east. Semporna was founded not long after the British established Sandakan. The name ’Semporna,’ means ’a place of rest,’ and was given after the British overcame resistance from the local Bajaus in the mid 1880s.

Resistance from factions of seafaring Bajaus continued and created great concern to the British rulers. Several acts of forced order were recorded. Rules were made to try to stop the mobility of Bajaus. Some settled down then, but some eventually lived on shore, in houses on stilts and became the Sea Bajaus. Traditional timber boats with elaborate carvings can still be found today.

Chinese traders played an important role in building up the economy of this isolated town off the south-east coast of Sabah.  Marine products are still the main source of livelihood for the local inhabitants. The Kaya Pearl Farm started in 1963 covers thousands of hectares, and produces a wide range of pearls for local and international market.

Updated On: 04.11.14