Our adventure begins as we depart Sydney for Malaysia, flying via Kuala Lumpur enroute to Sabah (Malaysian Borneo), Malaysia’s second largest state that is blessed with remarkable natural beauty. For many travellers, it becomes one of the most memorable places they have ever visited

We arrive in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s coastal capital, before travelling inland to the peaceful highland village of Kundasang. The scenic drive winds through lush hills and mountain roads with spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak. At 4,095 metres, the mountain is part of Kinabalu Park, a protected area recognised by UNESCO for its extraordinary biodiversity — with over 5,000 plant species and hundreds of bird varieties.

Enjoy our first Group Dinner, a time of fellowship and an opportunity to get to know other members of our CFT Family.

Overnight: Kundasang

Today we explore the fertile highlands around Kundasang, often nicknamed “Little New Zealand” for its highland farms of rolling green pastures. Visit the Alpaca Club Farm, Desa Dairy Farm and Mesilou Strawberry Farm to sample fresh local produce. Yum!

Not only is Kundasang one of Sabah’s most beautiful regions it is also historically significant for the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, when over 2400 Allied prisoners were forced through these mountains during World War II. We visit the beautifully landscaped gardens of the Kundasang War Memorial and pray for all those Australian and British soldiers who perished (only 6 POWs escaped and survived this brutal experience). A time for reflection and gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives for future generations.

We also explore nearby Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, where mountain forests shelter orchids, pitcher plants and rare wildlife.

Overnight: Kundasang

This morning, we leave the highlands and journey back toward the coast. We stop at Pekan Nabalu, a colourful market where local Dusun villagers sell handicrafts, fresh fruit, honey and traditional snacks. Before lunch we stop to take some fun photos at the iconic Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the region, and Rumah Terbalik, where the entire house is built upside-down! Back in Kota Kinabalu we have the rest of the afternoon to relax and explore the waterfront precinct.

Overnight: Kota Kinabalu

Sabah’s cultural heritage is a vibrant mosaic with 80 local dialects and over 30 indigenous groups who have lived for centuries in harmony with the rainforest and rivers of Borneo.

The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living museum showcasing traditional lifestyles, food, and rituals of these indigenous communities. Whilst Islam is Malaysia’s state religion, there is a significant Christian population in Sabah and many of the main indigenous tribes of the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, and Rungus peoples have blended their traditional animistic beliefs with Christianity.

We visit Christ Church Likas, whose history is closely tied to the post-World War II development of the city and the growth of the Christian community in the region. The church is well-known for its active involvement in local charity, education, and social work and its architecture, combining modern and traditional elements, reflects the multicultural and dynamic character of Sabah.

Overnight: Kota Kinabalu

Get ready for a delightful day as we cruise to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a cluster of tropical islands just offshore from Kota Kinabalu. Our destination is Manukan Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and white sandy beaches.

This tropical paradise is the perfect spot for our daily devotions, and we enjoy the opportunity to relax, reflect and connect! Swim or snorkel in the pristine waters, stroll along the sand or simply sit beneath palm trees, having a chat with new friends and enjoying the sea breeze.

Overnight: Kota Kinabalu

This morning, we fly across to Sandakan; in colonial times this was the bustling capital of British North Borneo and known as “Little Hong Kong” due to its thriving timber trade and large Chinese community. Perched on a hill the Chinese Puu Jih Shih Temple overlooks Sandakan Bay and offers spectacular views back to Kota Kinabalu.

We visit St Michael’s and All Angels Church, one of the oldest stone churches in Sabah and a beautiful reminder of the long Christian presence in Borneo; the church served both local believers and British colonial families and remains an important Anglican parish today.

Within the church are glorious stained glass “Friendship Windows”, installed by relatives of Australian POWs in heartfelt appreciation for the help of the local people; the 6 Australian escapees who survived Sandakan were hidden for up to 5 weeks by local Dusan Christian communities who risked their lives to save these prisoners.

Overnight: Sandakan

Situated about 11 km outside of the town is the former site of the notorious WWII prisoner of war camp, now a beautifully landscaped Memorial Park with a small museum.

This morning, we attend a special Sandakan Memorial Day service, a time for remembrance, unity, and healing as we reflect on the endurance and sacrifice of more than 2,400 Australian and British prisoners of war, and the Sabahans who risked their lives to help them. As we honour those who perished and those who survived, we also acknowledge the enduring connections between nations, families, and generations that have grown from this tragedy.

Enjoy a fascinating visit to the historic Agnes Keith House; Agnes Newton Keith was an American author whose first book “Land Below the Wind” is one of few written accounts of contemporary life in British North Borneo in the 1930s and an invaluable record of a world gone by. In her subsequent memoir “Three Came Home” Agnes wrote about the Japanese invasion in 1942 and her own POW internment before being liberated in September 1945 (the book was made into a movie starring Claudette Colbert in 1950). Today the house is a museum telling the story of this remarkable woman, her books and her family.

Then step back in time to enjoy refreshments at the charming colonial style English Tea House.

Overnight: Sandakan

A day of natural wonder as we meet Borneo’s world-famous wildlife.

At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, orphaned orangutans are cared for and prepared for life back in the wild. Seeing these intelligent creatures up close is truly unforgettable.

Next door is the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bear species. Founded in 2008, the centre aims to work for the welfare of sun bears rescued from poor conditions in captivity and is focused on their care, rehabilitation, and release as well as spreading awareness about their conservation.

Then walk through the rainforest canopy at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where elevated walkways allow us to observe birds and wildlife high among the treetops.

Overnight: Sandakan

This morning, we travel to the banks of the Kinabatangan River, Sabah’s longest river and one of the richest wildlife habitats in Southeast Asia. This region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to witness iconic species like the proboscis monkey, Bornean pygmy elephant, orangutan, and a dazzling array of birdlife, including hornbills and kingfishers.

We check in to our rainforest eco-village, where modest hardwood chalets are nestled deep within the jungle. In the late afternoon, we take our first river safari, scanning the trees for wildlife and birds and the riverbank for resting crocodiles.

Overnight: Rainforest Lodge, Kinabatangan

An early morning river cruise gives us the best chance to spot wildlife as the jungle awakens. The Kinabatangan region is one of the few places in the world where ten primate species live in the same ecosystem — including orangutans and the remarkable long-nosed proboscis monkey.

A guided 30-minute walk along wooden boardwalks takes us to the nearby village of Kampung Bilit, a small community of roughly 400 people where residents live alongside wild orangutans, macaque monkeys, and hornbills. Immerse yourself in the local culture and community life as we see local people going about their daily activities.

After lunch at the lodge the remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to explore walking trails or simply relax and reflect on the incredible beauty of God’s creation.

Enjoy a nighttime river safari when the jungle takes on a very different atmosphere – a truly magical experience.

Overnight: Rainforest Lodge, Kinabatangan

After breakfast we return to Sandakan and fly back to Kuala Lumpur; enjoy a tour of Malaysia’s lively capital, a fascinating city where modern skyscrapers stand alongside historic mosques and colonial buildings.

Tonight, we come together for our final Group Dinner, an opportunity to reflect on the incredible travel experiences we have shared.

Overnight: Kuala Lumpur

Our final morning is yours to enjoy at leisure to relax, explore or go shopping. Check out the air-conditioned Central Market (Pasar Seni) for Malaysian batik, handicrafts and souvenirs or explore the famous, bustling Petaling Street Market in Chinatown, best for finding affordable souvenirs, accessories, clothing and local snacks.

Later we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Sydney, bringing home wonderful memories of fellowship, faith, nature and discovery in the beautiful land of Sabah.

Overnight: In flight

A morning arrival in Australia feeling very blessed having been part of such a delightful holiday, one filled with fun, faith and fellowship shared with new friends.