East Malaysia, Territory in northern Borneo, Malaysia
East Malaysia is a territory occupying the northern portion of Borneo island, comprising two states and one federal territory covering roughly 200,000 square kilometers. The landscape ranges from interior rainforest to coastal plains cut by numerous rivers.
The territories remained under British control until unification with West Malaysia and Singapore in 1963, with each territory developing at its own pace. Administration shifted from local rulers and colonial officers to elected governments of the two states.
Local communities continue to use names and place designations in indigenous languages such as Kadazandusun and Iban, visible in signage and conversation with residents. Many settlements maintain traditional longhouses that visitors can find along rivers, where people still live communally and practice their crafts.
Major towns connect by air or via the main highway, while smaller settlements inland often require boat or unpaved road access. Travelers should allow extra time for movement, as distances span large areas and connections may involve multiple legs.
The Gunung Mulu caves in the north contain one of the world's largest underground chambers, the Sarawak Chamber, which could comfortably fit several jumbo jets. Within Deer Cave, millions of bats exit the cavern each evening, a natural spectacle visitors can observe up close.
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