At the northern tip of Sabah, the breathtaking view of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau – better known as the "Tip of Borneo” – continues to captivate visitors who come to witness the spectacular meeting point of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea.
Yet, behind this natural beauty, regarded as one of the most stunning in the country, the small coastal community that depends on tourism is still struggling with basic shortcomings that hinder the area’s potential to grow into a world-class destination.
Located about 180km from Kota Kinabalu, Kudat, where Tanjung Simpang Mengayau is, is a small town known for its coastal beauty and cultural heritage. Local traders and homestay operators acknowledge that the steady flow of domestic and international tourists provides them with income. However, inadequate and unstable basic facilities continue to hamper their operations.
Restaurant operator Mohd Sahlan Salleh, 39, said that although visitor numbers remain encouraging, especially during the holiday season, his business merely survives.
"In the 10 years I’ve been operating, the business is just okay … the profit is not much, but enough to get by. What we urgently need are better roads, regular maintenance, and a stable electricity and water supply.
"Once these issues are resolved, more people will be willing to come and enjoy their holidays here,” he said.
His shop is located about 2km from the Tip of Borneo, which is in the Tanjong Kapor state constituency.
Kampung Simpang Mengayau resident Siti Azura Abal, 38, echoed the same concerns, especially the frequent disruptions in water and electricity supply that have affected her restaurant.
"The roads are fine now, but the water and electricity supply really needs attention. If the power goes out for two or three days, our raw ingredients spoil, and we are forced to stop operations,” she said.
Siti Azura added that her stall also needs urgent upgrading due to its deteriorating condition.
"During the rainy season and storms early last year, the zinc roof of our shop was even torn off,” she said, hoping that the elected representatives chosen in the 17th Sabah State Election on Nov 29 would address their concerns.
Beyond water and electricity issues, homestay operator Ahmad Bukus, 63, said garbage washed in from the sea has also become a major challenge for local traders as it tarnishes the area’s image.
"Almost every morning, I have to collect rubbish along the beach. It’s not left by visitors. It seems to come from the sea. I hope the authorities can provide a large disposal container so that waste can be collected and managed more systematically.
"The cleanliness of this beach is crucial to preserving the beauty of the Tip of Borneo,” he said, suggesting that tourism promotion efforts also be strengthened.
Meanwhile, the potential of the Tip of Borneo as a surfing hub was highlighted by a teenager from Kampung Simpang Mengayau, Danish Daniel DD Lveh, who has been passionate about the sport since the age of five.
"The waves and scenery here are beautiful. If this place is promoted as a surfing destination, more people will come. It will help many traders, restaurant operators and homestay owners,” said the 15-year-old boy.
The Tanjong Kapor state constituency has 34,001 registered voters, and in this upcoming state election, 11 contenders are vying for the seat. – Bernama
