Penampang is one of the districts in the West Coast division of Sabah. The majority of its population are Kadazan. Once considered a quiet and relatively remote town, Penampang gradually evolved into a satellite township of Kota Kinabalu as the city expanded. The development of major shopping centres such as Mega Long Mall and ITCC accelerated its growth and transformation.
However, Penampang is a large district, and many parts of it still retain their traditional identity, especially areas further inland and away from the coast. Most tourists visiting Sabah head straight to Ranau to see Mount Kinabalu. This time, why not add Penampang to your itinerary? It is just as worth exploring.
5 worth-visit location in Penampang
Here are five interesting places you can visit when you are in Penampang.
1. Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan St. Michael & St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s Church and School in Penampang are among the oldest institutional buildings in Sabah, with records dating back to the late 1800s. The church was named after the Archangel Michael, whom the missionaries invoked for protection when they first arrived in Penampang to spread Christianity.
The school located near the church is the second oldest Catholic school in Sabah, registered in 1888. Over the years, it has gradually developed from a simple bamboo structure into the concrete building seen today.
Notable alumni include Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, Stacy Angie Anam, Velvet Lawrence Aduk, Datuk Corneliu Piong, Datuk Peter Mojuntin, and Datuk Ewon Benedick.
Official website: Gereja St. Michael Facebook: SMK St. Michael
2. Monsopiad Heritage Village
Monsopiad was a legendary Kadazan-Dusun warrior from Kuai Kandazon, Penampang. Raised in a farming family, he learned martial arts to defend his village from bandits. His reputation grew as he defeated raiders, beheading them and displaying their skulls on his house veranda as trophies.
Over time, Monsopiad became increasingly arrogant and began seeking fights to prove his strength. Concerned for the safety of the community, the villagers eventually plotted against him and killed him. Today, his story lives on at the Monsopiad Cultural Village, where visitors can learn about this powerful legend and its lessons.
Official website: Monsopiad Heritage Village
3. Pasar Tamu Donggongon
If you want to experience the daily life of Sabah locals, visiting a Tamu is a must. Located not far from Kota Kinabalu, Tamu Donggongon is a lively morning market in Penampang. Here, you can find fresh vegetables, local fruits, traditional food, and handicrafts.
The atmosphere is vibrant, often accompanied by traditional snacks and local delicacies. Originally a place for villagers to barter goods, it has evolved into a weekly market where locals shop for their daily supplies. Do note that Tamu Donggongon operates only on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Location: Tamu Donggongon
4. Tagal Tinopikon Park
Tagal Tinopikon Park is located in Kampung Notorus, about 23 km from Kota Kinabalu. It is one of more than 500 Tagal sites across Sabah. The Tagal system prohibits fishing in designated river areas to preserve aquatic life.
The river here is filled with various fish species, including the popular pelian fish. Many of the fish are tame and will swim around visitors who dip their feet into the water, creating a unique “fish massage” experience.
The park also offers additional activities such as fruit orchard visits, jungle trekking, and cultural demonstrations. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Lokasi Tagal Tinopikon Park.
5. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is located about 25 km southwest of Kota Kinabalu. Covering 280 acres, the park houses wildlife such as orangutans, sun bears, Borneo pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards.
Visitors can enjoy animal shows, feeding sessions, and educational activities focused on the conservation of endangered species. The park also welcomes volunteer applications for those interested in contributing their time and skills.naga.
Location Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.
Bateriku in Penampang
Bateriku operates in the Penampang area, Sabah. Our outlet is located at Padimas Point along Jalan Pintas Penampang. The outlet operates daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 midnight. For roadside assistance, you may contact +60193001408 or +601116006008.
Bateriku provides on-demand car battery replacement services throughout Malaysia. With a comprehensive database system, your car model can be identified quickly and the appropriate battery recommended instantly.
In addition to battery delivery, we offer roadside assistance services including jump-starts, emergency fuel delivery, car lockout assistance, tyre repair and replacement, and towing services if your vehicle needs to be sent to a workshop.
View the full list of Bateriku services.
