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About Us
Kampung Marais, Tenom
Welcome to Kampung Marais, a picturesque and vibrant village nestled in the heart of Tenom, Sabah. Our community is proud to share our rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted traditions, and the natural beauty that surrounds us with visitors from all over the world.
Kampung Marais is an inland village located in Tenom, Sabah, Malaysia, about 40 kilometers from Tenom town. The village is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, making it an ideal place to experience authentic and immersive village life. The journey to this village is through hilly roads and breathtaking scenery, where the experience will showcase Sabah's unique natural beauty.
The community in Kampung Marais is very enthusiastic about developing their village and has taken the initiative to establish a cooperative called Koperasi Marais Center Tenom Berhad. This cooperative aims to promote and develop the local
economy through various activities in the village. These activities are not only for the well-being of the villagers but also to attract tourists who want to experience the unique and authentic village life.
Among the main activities offered in Kampung Marais are rubber tapping, rice planting, and husk separation. Tourists have the opportunity to participate in this activity and experience for themselves the way of life of the village community that depends on nature. In addition, village leisure activities such as cycling around the village and fishing in the river are also the main attraction for tourists who want to enjoy the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the village.
Kampung Marais is also known for the variety of handicrafts made by local residents. Handcrafting activities and making clothes from bark are among the attractions that allow tourists to witness for themselves the traditional skills that are still practiced. In addition, tourists can also enjoy traditional food and watch Murut dance and music performances, which is one of the main tribes in Sabah.
Apart from that, Kampung Marais also has its own brand of rice products, where tourists can actually see the rice processing and packaging process. This experience is not only educational but also gives appreciation to the hard work done by the villagers in producing high quality products.
Experience the Vibrant Murut Culture in Kampung Marais
Kampung Marais is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Murut people, one of Sabah’s most storied indigenous communities. Here, the traditions and customs of the Murut are not just preserved but celebrated through various activities that invite you to immerse yourself in our way of life. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the warmth and hospitality that defines Murut culture, where every visitor is treated as an honored guest.
One of the highlights of experiencing Murut culture in Kampung Marais is the opportunity to witness and participate in traditional dance and music performances. The "Magunatip" bamboo dance, renowned for its rhythmic precision and energetic movements, is a sight to behold. You’ll be invited to join in, learning the steps from local dancers and feeling the pulse of the music played on traditional instruments like the gong and kulintangan. These performances are more than just entertainment; they are expressions of our identity and a way to pass down stories and values from one generation to the next.
Beyond the dances, you can explore other facets of Murut culture through activities like traditional handicraft making, where you’ll learn the skills of weaving and carving that have been honed over centuries. These crafts are not only beautiful but also hold deep cultural significance, reflecting the Murut’s close connection to nature and the spiritual world. By participating in these activities, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Murut people’s history, beliefs, and way of life, making your visit to Kampung Marais a truly enriching cultural experience.
Savor the Authentic Flavors of Murut Cuisine in Kampung Marais
In Kampung Marais, the culinary traditions of the Murut people are brought to life through a variety of dishes that showcase the rich flavors and natural ingredients of our land. Murut cuisine is deeply rooted in the environment, with many dishes featuring wild vegetables, bamboo shoots, freshwater fish, and forest herbs that are foraged from the surrounding jungles. Each dish is prepared using time-honored methods, such as cooking in bamboo tubes over an open fire, which infuses the food with a unique smoky flavor. When you dine with us, you’re not just enjoying a meal; you’re experiencing a taste of Murut heritage.
A visit to Kampung Marais offers the chance to savor traditional Murut dishes like "Tinupak," rice cooked in bamboo, and "Pinasakan," fish simmered in tangy wild fruit and herbs. These dishes are often accompanied by "Nasi Sulang," a fragrant rice steamed with forest leaves, which adds a distinctive aroma and taste. Sharing these meals is a communal experience, where food is not just sustenance but a way to connect with others and celebrate the bounty of the land. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply curious about local cuisine, Murut dishes provide a delicious and authentic window into the culture and lifestyle of our community.
Our Vision
We envision Kampung Marais as a model of sustainable rural tourism, where visitors can connect with the heart of Sabah's culture, traditions, and natural beauty, leaving with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of our way of life.
What You Can Experience
Join us in a range of traditional activities that connect you with nature and culture.
