Labuan, Federal territory on Borneo island, Malaysia.
Description
Labuan is a federal territory spread across seven islands off the northwest coast of Borneo in the South China Sea, with Victoria serving as its capital. The largest island covers roughly 35 square miles (92 square kilometers) and connects to the mainland through regular ferry services.
History
The British Crown acquired the territory from the Sultan of Brunei in 1846 to establish a naval base for controlling sea routes. During World War II, Japanese forces occupied the islands and left behind several sunken vessels in the surrounding waters.
Culture
The name comes from Malay and means "anchorage," reflecting centuries of use by trading vessels seeking shelter. Today the waterfront remains active with fishing boats and ferries crossing between the islands.
Practical
Most visitors reach the territory by ferry from the mainland or by flight to the small airport on the main island. Diving trips to the shipwrecks require advanced certification, as they rest in deeper waters.
Did you know?
Four World War II shipwrecks rest in the surrounding waters at depths between 100 and 130 feet (30 to 40 meters). Divers find visible remains of engines, cannons, and cargo holds now inhabited by tropical fish.
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Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Bridge
48.5 km
Royal Regalia Museum
54.8 km
Brunei Museum
53.9 km
Labuan War Cemetery
4.9 km
Gadong
55.2 km
Ministry of Finance Building, Brunei
51.5 km
Malay Technology Museum
54.1 km
Lapau
54.8 km
Chimney Museum
9.5 km
Ash-Shaliheen Mosque
52.9 km
Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum
54.3 km
Pulau Muara Besar Bridge
36.5 km
An-Nur Jamek Mosque, Labuan
3.6 km
Track and Field Sports Complex, Bandar Seri Begawan
51 km
Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque
42.7 km
Labuan Museum
3.8 km
Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
54.8 km
Lambak Kanan Library
44.4 km
Tungku Beach
54.3 km
Old Lapau
55 km
Pulau Keraman
12.9 km
Muara Port
34.7 km
Kianggeh Market
54.9 km
Taman Peraginan Tasek Lama
53.7 km
Teng Yun Temple
55 km
Muara Beach
33.1 km
Tanjung Batu Beach
33.9 km
St. Andrew's Church
54.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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