Cultural Heritage – Labuan Geopark

CULTURE HERITAGE OF LABUAN

Labuan’s cultural heritage reflects a blend of Malay, Bruneian, and colonial influences, seen through its historic sites, traditional arts, festivals, and community life, shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and local customs that preserve identity, foster unity, and celebrate shared heritage.

Echoes of Culture and Legacy

An immersive journey into Labuan’s rich cultural heritage, where centuries-old traditions, diverse communities, and historical landmarks intertwine. Discover the island’s vibrant identity through its festivals, local crafts, architecture, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Labuan is not only rich in natural heritage, but also holds a long-standing cultural history and local traditions passed down through generations. This cultural heritage encompasses the people’s lifestyle, customs, beliefs, and traditional performing arts, closely intertwined with the island’s natural surroundings. The uniqueness of Labuan’s cultural traditions is evident in its diverse communities, particularly the Brunei Malays, Kadayans, and Kadazan-Dusuns, who continue to preserve the traditional practices of their ancestors. Traditional coastal villages and water settlements still retain their distinctive architecture and way of life, standing as living testimonies of enduring cultural heritage.

In addition, Labuan’s cultural heritage includes tangible elements such as traditional tools, ceremonial attire, handicrafts, and heritage cuisine. Coastal villagers continue to use fishing gear, traditional cooking utensils, and woven crafts made from nipah palm leaves.

Labuan is known for its traditional Brunei Malay garments like the baju kurung labuh and sinjang, often worn during cultural events and festive celebrations. Heritage foods such as ambuyat, punjung, keropok lekor and salted fish reflect the maritime culture that has shaped the identity of Labuan’s people for centuries.

Intangible heritage also forms a vital part of Labuan’s cultural identity. Traditional performing arts such as the Labuan zapin dance, folk songs, as well as local legends and myths, continue to be passed down within communities. Popular folktales include the story of Pulau Ular as a stopover for migratory birds, and the legend of Batu Bersurat. The local community also preserves traditional herbal medicine knowledge, oral taboos, and ancestral beliefs, maintaining cultural wisdom that has survived through generations.

Location Information

Location details for Labuan’s culture heritage, including map references, approaches, and visitor wayfinding

C1- PATAU-PATAU TRADITIONAL WATER VILLAGE

Patau-Patau is known for its beautiful water village, inhabited for over a century. Visitors can explore its charming old stilt houses and traditional fishing village lifestyle.

C2- BEBULOH LAUT TRADITIONAL WATER VILLAGE

This traditional water village is one of Labuan’s oldest fishing settlements, with wooden houses on stilts connected by wooden walkways. The community preserves maritime traditions and ancestral customs.

C3- CHIMNEY MUSEUM

Located in Tanjung Kubong, this museum highlights Labuan’s 19th-century coal mining history. The iconic Chimney tower is a prominent landmark here.

C4- SURRENDER POINT

The historic site where Japanese forces officially surrendered to the Allied Forces in 1945. It is now preserved as a solemn memorial landmark.

C5- LABUAN MUSEUM

The main museum showcasing Labuan’s history, community culture, World War II relics, and Labuan’s ethnic heritage.

C6- PULAU PAPAN LIGHTHOUSE

This lighthouse was built during the British colonial era to guide ships passing through the Labuan Strait. It’s now a popular spot for fishing and recreation.

C7- RUSUKAN KECIL ISLAND (GRAVE ISLAND)

This island contains an old coastal graveyard, believed to be burial grounds for ancient sailors or fishermen. It’s also a popular snorkeling destination.

C8- RUSUKAN BESAR ISLAND (GRAVE ISLAND)

Similar to Rusukan Kecil, this island has a historic burial site. It is known for its beautiful coral reefs and unspoiled natural scenery.

C9- PULAU KURAMAN LIGHTHOUSE

A significant landmark in southern Labuan waters, this lighthouse aids navigation and is a tourist spot within the Labuan Marine Park.

C10- REEF LIMESTONE PULAU BURUNG

This geosite lies atop a marine abrasion platform encircling the island, representing ancient coral reef limestone.

Discover Labuan National Geopark, where ancient rock formations, fossil-rich cliffs, and submerged volcanoes reveal a story written over millions of years. From towering chimneys to coral-fringed islands, every layer tells a tale—waiting for you to explore.