Keningau, city in Sabah, Malaysia

Keningau is a city in Sabah that serves as the district seat for the surrounding area. It has an older main section with small shops and traditional buildings, plus a newer area with modern facilities including a hospital and schools. The two sections show how the town has grown over time.

Keningau was established in the early 1880s by the British North Borneo Company and became an important administrative center during colonial times. During World War II it was a key location for Japanese administration, before later becoming a symbol of Sabah's independence.

The name Keningau comes from a local cinnamon tree called koningau that once grew abundantly in the region. Today the town reflects the blend of its residents, including Dusun, Murut, and Lundayeh people, along with Chinese communities who together shape its markets and streets.

You can reach Keningau by bus in about three hours from Kota Kinabalu or drive in about two hours. Once you arrive, you will find various accommodation options ranging from budget to upscale hotels, plus restaurants and shops throughout the city. The best time to explore is early morning when the markets are most active.

The Keningau Oath Stone is a monument marking Sabah's entry into Malaysia and representing promises to preserve peace and culture. This location is visited by locals as a symbol of their shared history and serves as a quiet place of reflection for visitors.

• GPS coordinates: 5.33168,116.15232
• Latest update: February 17, 2026 00:20