Shopping in Sabah is a delight – with tons of goodies made locally plus the fantastic exchange rate, everything here is such a bargain! From KK to Sandakan and Tawau, markets, boutiques, department stores and shopping malls brim with arts and crafts, gifts, souvenirs, fashion wear and accessories. Whether you are just planning to spend your leftover cash with a couple of T-shirts or if you are up for some serious retail therapy, here’s a quick guide on how to make your shopping experience in Sabah fun and memorable!

Shopping Malls in Sabah
Many shopping complexes in Sabah are located in the city or downtown area and are usually open from around 10am to 10pm daily. In KK, most of the larger or 4 and 5 star hotels and resorts provide free shuttle to the city.

Tamu Markets
On any day in Sabah, you will find a range of markets where you can pick up bargains on handmade crafts, crystals, antiques, the freshest seafood, local cakes, vegetables and exotic fruits. Mostly held in the outskirt towns such as Kota Belud, Tamparuli, Papar and Donggongon, these buzzing open-air markets or Tamu are not to be missed.

Apart from market goodies, the Tamu is a great way to meet the locals and to buy direct from the people who create, make or grow what they well. Plus, each Tamu at the different location offers different sights, sounds or smells.

Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market: While in Kota Kinabalu, be sure to check out the Handicraft Market (opens from 1am to 9pm daily) which boasts exquisite pearl jewelry and a wide range of ethnic wares such as handbags, table runners, shell ornaments and carved wood furnishings.

Gaya Street Market: Located in the heart of KK, this is a popular site for locals and visitors to shop every Sunday. Antique gongs, handicrafts, potted plants, orchids, pets, crystals, ceramics, clothing and accessories, local cakes and biscuits are just some of the hundreds of items on offer.

Sabah Seafood – Must buy
Sabah is well known in the region for its abundance of fresh and cheap seafood. For the enjoyment of your family and friends back home, frozen items such as tiger prawns, sea cucumber and wide variety of fishes such as garoupa and snapper can be neatly-packed for you to bring along on your flight (of not more than 12 hours long) with ease and convenience.

Sabah Pearls
Sabah in home to an abundance of pearls. This exquisite harvest from the sea is collected and either sold raw or arranged into jewellery pieces such a necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Many stores in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan offer some great buys.