THE TABURAN BEACH ECO tourism spot developed based on the concept of the Dusun Tobilung community in Kota Belud is sited at Taburan Beach, where a Tabilung house stands.
The house stands at 40 by 60 feet showing an ancient architecture utilised by the people in that area. It is a basic house for guests, who wish to experience the people’s old way of life, where beds were piled on the bamboo floor, and the breeze blows in through the bamboo walls.
Its Manager Abar Gumpai said he got the idea to build the traditional house with encouragement from Kadamaian Tourism Association (KATA) as well as the Panorama Paradise Ecotourism Resort, Operator Sylvester Junid who came to inspect the site in 2017 at Abar’s invitation.
He said he wanted his place to be unique and stand out on its own, so he abstained from building just another house or chalets.
He said he is quite pleased with the outcome as many international tourists have expressed their appreciation for its authenticity.
He initially wanted to build it as a family home but since tourists took interest in it, he decided to rent it out as a homestay.
The response and encouragement from guests and tourists encouraged him to build nine more huts there, where one can utilize for a day stay. He doesn’t encourage overnight stay in the huts as guests can be exposed to the elements, being that they are very close to the sea.
For guests who wish to explore the mangrove area, he has a boat ready for river cruises. The six-seater boat stands ready at the jetty to bring tourists around. They can travel for two kilometres upriver and thereabout.
He is not about to rest in his laurels and enjoy his achievement thus far. In future he plans to establish an eatery where he will serve food, notably local food upon demand. He also plans construct a hall and a swimming pool for guests convenience and enjoyment.
Abar is already welcoming visitors from as far as Korea and he hopes that more international and domestic tourists will come and enjoy his hospitality.
For photography buffs they will enjoy the beach as the sunset is spectacular.
Overnight guests at the eco resort will be provided with three meals; breakfast, lunch and dinner with the selling prices from RM10 to RM15.
The traditional menus are also available but it will only be served upon request from the visitors. Besides that, the visitors can also do their own cooking at the kitchen and for those staying at the chalets they can rent the stove.
For those who wish to enjoy Abar’s place, don’t hesitate to call him at 012 8391045.-BNN
