Cluster of islands in Sabah presents itself as an eco-tourism paradise

The poolside at Bunga Raya Island Resort. Villas at Bunga Raya Island Resort. Aerial view of Gayana Eco Resort. Villas at Bunga Raya Island Resort. Gayana Island Resort. The Marine Ecology Research Centre at Gayana Eco Resort. Assistant District Officer of Semporna, Norsih Nusuri, admiring the mobile film editing facilities on the expedition boat. Norsih, who represented Semporna District Officer Encik Abdul Mohamad Ibnu, launching the expedition and seeing its team members off onboard the 'MV Celebes Explorer'. Some of the giant clam displayed at the Marine Ecology Research Centre at Gayana Eco Resort.

THE string of five islands which constitute the 50 sq km Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is only a 15-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu’s downtown area.

For years, the islands with their pristine beaches and waters teeming with marine life, have been a convenient getaway for city residents.