ESL Blogs

I'm re-posting this blog because I finally managed to up-load some more photos. Phew! Finally!

A few weeks back, I took my Mom to Labuan to visit my brother and his family who are staying there currently. My brother and his family lives in Labuan and will be moving back to West Malaysia at the end of the year. Thus, it's like killing two birds with one stone. I've been to Labuan, a few century ago, but never really had the opportunity to explore the island.

Labuan is also known as The Pearl of Borneo. It's located about 8 km east coast of Sabah and derived from the Malay world 'pelabuhan' or 'port'. It's a duty free island and popularly known for its offshore financial activities and offshore support hub for oil and gas activities. It takes about 2 and 1/2 hour direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Labuan. 

After a long flight, it's really nice to see my brother waiting for my Mom and I at the airport. Since my brother's wife is still working in the Air Force, they are staying in the apartment provided, just next to the airport. The airport is about 20 minute drive to the Labuan township. During my whole holidays, I will be bunking at my brother's house, rather than a hotel. Even though that would restrict my movement a bit, that's a good arrangement because my Mom wanted to spend her time with him and his family.

The first day was spent relaxing and basically doing nothing. The next day, my brother brought my Mom and I driving around the island. Our first stop was the Chimney Museum, in Tanjung Kubong. It exhibits the history of coal mining of Labuan and also a Chimney Tower. The tower is well over a century old and the historical symbol of pride to the people of Labuan. 

Next we went to the Surrender Point. Surrender Point is a memorial park situated in the Peace Park. It's called the Surrender Point because this is the place where the Japanese officially surrendered Labuan to the Australian which marked the end of World War II in Borneo. The walk through the Peace Park was very solemn.

After that we went to the City Centre and visit it's famous wet market. The visit was not too long because my Mom fragile health. But it was a good visit.

The next day my brother dropped me off to the City Centre because he has to work. I just walked around the town and somewhat enjoyed the views. In the afternoon, we went to a nearby beach. I had a blast day with my naughty nephews frolicking on the beach. 

The next day, I took my brother's car and went back to the City Centre. This time, I bought some souvenirs for my friends and families. Because it would be our last night in Labuan, in the evening, we went to a famous seafood restaurant and had a wonderful dinner. 

On my last day in Labuan, I went to the Labuan War Memorial Park. A few soldiers from various branches such as the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and Military were preparing for the Remembrance Day. Reading various plaques laid on the field was really a sombre occasion. 

Labuan is offering much more than what I've written in here. So, if you found yourself drifted away, you will want to be marooned in Labuan. 

Once again I'm dedicating this blog to Luci, whom I made a promise to write about my visit to Labuan. Unfortunately, my net is not too good, and it takes ages to upload some photos. So, I guess I will try to up-load them later.