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About

The

Muzeum

Nestled in the heart of Semporna, the Tun Sakaran Museum stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and education. Established in 2015, this two-story institution was built on land generously donated by Tun Dr. Sakaran Dandai himself, reflecting his commitment to honoring and showcasing the rich heritage of his birthplace.

 

The ground floor is dedicated to the Tun Sakaran Gallery, offering visitors an intimate look into the life and contributions of Tun Dr. Sakaran Dandai, the 8th Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah. Through a curated collection of photographs, personal artifacts, and informative panels, guests gain a comprehensive understanding of his journey from a community leader to a pivotal figure in Sabah’s political landscape. Notably, the museum also displays an array of distinguished gifts and souvenirs presented to Tun Sakaran during his tenure, each symbolizing significant moments and relationships forged throughout his career.

 

Ascending to the upper floor, visitors are immersed in the cultural and historical tapestry of the Semporna community, with a particular emphasis on the Bajau people. This section houses an impressive array of artifacts, including traditional Lepa-Lepa boats, intricately carved tools, musical instruments, and ceremonial items. These exhibits not only highlight the artistic prowess of the Bajau but also shed light on their seafaring traditions and way of life. Interactive displays and detailed narratives provide deeper insights into the customs, beliefs, and daily activities of this vibrant community.

Beyond its exhibits, the Tun Sakaran Museum serves as an educational hub, fostering a deeper appreciation for Sabah’s diverse cultural landscape. Its strategic location in Semporna, a renowned gateway to some of the world’s most exquisite diving spots, makes it an essential stop for both local and international visitors seeking to enrich their understanding of the region’s history and people.

 

The museum welcomes guests daily, offering free admission to all. Operating hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply curious, the Tun Sakaran Museum promises an enlightening experience that bridges the past with the present.

About

The

Bajau

Community

The Bajau community of Semporna, often referred to as the Bajau Laut or “Sea Bajau,” holds a unique and storied place in Malaysia’s cultural mosaic. Traditionally a nomadic, seafaring people, the Bajau have spent generations living on houseboats or stilt houses above coral-rich waters, navigating the Sulu and Celebes Seas with remarkable skill and grace.Their intimate relationship with the ocean is not just a way of life—it is the very essence of their identity.


Among the Bajau, deep-sea diving is both a livelihood and a legacy. Known globally for their astonishing breath-holding abilities and underwater agility, many Bajau divers can remain submerged for minutes at a time without modern equipment, harvesting seafood and pearls with traditional tools passed down through the generations. This close-knit connection to the sea has earned them global recognition as natural freedivers, studied by scientists and admired by explorers.


Culturally, the Bajau are just as captivating on land as they are at sea. Their craftsmanship is reflected in ornate wood carvings, traditional textiles, and the vibrant Lepa-Lepa boats—each one painted in bright colors and adorned with flowing sails during the annual Regatta Lepa festival. This celebration in Semporna is a proud display of Bajau heritage, bringing together boats, dance, music, and storytelling in a breathtaking tribute to their ancestral roots.

The Bajau are also known for their deep spiritual beliefs, often combining Islamic practices with animistic traditions and a reverence for the natural world. From weddings to sea rituals, their ceremonies are rich in symbolism, reflecting a worldview that sees the ocean not only as sustenance but as a living entity deserving of respect and balance.

Today, while modern influences have reshaped parts of their lifestyle, many Bajau in Semporna continue to uphold their traditions with pride. Efforts to document and preserve their cultural legacy—including exhibitions at the Tun Sakaran Museum—play a vital role in ensuring that their stories, knowledge, and artistry remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

 

For visitors to Semporna, engaging with the Bajau culture offers a profound glimpse into a world where community, craftsmanship, and the sea intertwine. It is a living heritage—resilient, rich, and deeply rooted in the rhythm of the tides.

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