Labuan Island
*Pearl of The South China Sea*
Labuan is an Pearl island that is located approximately 8km off the coast of the state of Sabah at the mouth of the Brunei Bay. It comprises of one main island and six smaller ones, thus covering an area of 92 sq. km. It is also centrally located in the middle of the Asia-Pacific region. Labuan's inhabitants are very cosmopolitan. They come from all walks of life and from various regions around the world, thus creating a diverse and stimulating society
Once a part of the Sultanate of Brunei, Labuan was ceded to the British in 1846. It remained under the British rule for 115 years except for the three years when it was under the Japanese occupation. With the increasing change in colonization, Labuan was ceded to the state of Sabah in 1963
. Subsequently, its administration was handed to the Federal Government of Malaysia in 1984. Recognizing Labuan's strategic location and proximity to major shipping routes and offshore oil and gas fields, the Federal Government launched a long-term development program to jump-start Labuan's stagnating economy and to encourage the influx of both domestic and foreign investments. As Malaysia's only deepwater anchorage, Labuan is a free port, a Federal Territory, and an International Offshore Financial Centre (IOFC).Getting there & around Labuan is well served by both Royal Brunei Airlines and Malaysia Airlines. For those who wish a more leisurely approach, high-speed air-conditioned ferry services are available from Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei.
Buses and taxis are readily available within Labuan itself. Basically, they will take you anywhere around the island. It is, however, important to note that their fares are fixed. Car rental is also available for those who wish to travel on their own. Labuan Square
Previously known as the "Labuan Town Field", it has since been transformed into an interesting park with neat lawns and fine examples of trees, shrubs, and flora that are indigenous to Labuan. The park's design reflects Labuan's status as an International Offshore Financial Centre and is a popular place to stroll and relax.
Peace Park
Located at Laya
ng-Layangan Village in the west coast of Labuan, Peace Park is dedicated to all fallen soldiers of World War II. This beautifully landscaped park has developed into a place of pilgrimage for those who visit Labuan. Located next to it is Surrender Point. It was built as a memorial where the commander of the Japanese Army surrendered to the Australian on September 9th, 1945, which led to the end of World War II in Borneo.
The Chimney 
Situated at Tanjong Kubong, the Chimney is the only reminder of the coaling days of Labuan. The coal-mining era started in 1847 and ended in 1912. During that time, Labuan was used as a coaling station for ships sailing to the Far East. A single rail track was constructed to transport coal to the Victoria Port.
Labuan Bird Park
Located near the Chimney structure, the park has three large dome-like cages amidst a sprawling landscape. Enhance your knowledge on the feathered species as you encounter hornbills, kingfishers, sharmas, mynas, herons, peacocks and many more.
Museum of Marine Biology
The Museum of Marine Biology is sited together with the Administrative block in a separate building. It takes the shape of a semi circle fronting the sea with an open gallery. A large part of the building space is used by the Maritime Museum. While the rest of the space is for administrative use such as meeting room and office spaces for sports bodies. The podium level contains comfortable resting room for VIP and additional gallery space for museum.
Labuan International Sea Sports Complex
Labuan International Sea Sports Complex is located at the waterfront area along Jalan Tanjung Purun. It is within close proximity to Labuan town center. is the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex. Part of the beautification project under the 7th Malaysia plan, the complex covers an area of 5.91 acres and was built at a total cost of RM25 million.
The annual Labuan International Sea Challenge is a popular event which offers competitors fun and frolics on the high seas off Sabah.
Sea Sports Centre
This is a center for major sea sports activities and a venue for carnival. There is a large boat storage area that allows direct access to the beach front. There are also facilities for changing room, rest area and general preparation. It serves as a permanent exhibition area for all type of sea sports activities. It connects to the many "leisure walks" on the beachfront.
World War II Memorial 
This is one of the most visited places in Labuan. The beautifully landscaped memorial garden is the final resting place of 3,908 war heroes who died in battle or captivity in Borneo during the Second World War. Every year in November a commemoration is held (Remembrance Day) to honour the lives of the valiant men who fought during the war.
Surrender Point(Peace Park)
This is where the 37th Japanese Southern Army surrendered to the 9th Divisi
on Australian Imperial Forces on 9th September 1945 which led to the end of World War II in Borneo. Southeast Asia's first war crime trials were also conducted in this area.
Botanical Gardens
About five minutes f
rom Labuan town, is the Botanical Gardens which was previously the grounds of the Government House,
locally Known as 'Bumbung 12'. Built in 1852, the house was a long and low structure with an interesing roof design. The Botanical Gardens is a recreational park with old trees and beautiful landscaping.
Water Villages
There are many water villages in Labuan. The main ones are Kampung Bebulaoh Laut and Kampung patau-Patau. Each house is connected to the other by cement walkways. These water villages, brightly decorated with colourful blooms on their verandahs are an interesting feature in Labuan.
Labuan Museum
The exhibits displayed here include musical instruments, monetary items, firearms, marriage accessories, costumes, artefacts and World War II memorabilia. The museum is conveniently located in the centre of Labuan town. It is a must-visit for those who wish to catch a glimpse of the island's rich history.
Labuan Weekend Tamu
Every Saturday and Sunday, the street of Jalan OKK Awang Besar is filled with stalls offering great bargains. From handicrafts to fashion wear, accessories to agriculture produce, you can find all kinds of everything here.
Marine Park Labuan
Marine Park is located 2km off the southern part of the mainland. The park encompasses 10sq km of pristine waters and three secluded islets namely Kuraman island, Rusukan Kecial Island and Rusukan Besar island. Stretches of white sandy beaches, beautiful reef atolls and tropical jungles await you.
Duty Free Shopping
There are many stores around the island and they carry a wide range of goods, both local and imported. Exemptions of custom duty on imported goods include textile, leather goods, liquor, cosmetics, confectionery and more. There are many shops where one can find embroidered linen, teakwood furniture, Chinese ceramics and jade carvings.
Sea sports Activities Labuan
Sea Sports Activities Labuan is the place for recreational fishing as the clear blue waters here teem with rich marine life. Kayaking takes you to some very secluded beach spots on the island and it's a great way to enjoy the sun and sea in a leisurely manner. The clear waters and colourful coral reefs around Labuan make for fantastic diving and snorkelling.
Getting There
Flights are available from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu (Sabah), Miri (Sarawak) and Kuching (Sarawak) to Labuan. Labuan is a 20-minute boat ride from Menumbok, a small fishing town on the mainland of Sabah. High-speed air-conditioned ferries travel daily from Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei