29-06-2025
Sandakan Heritage Trail enters M'sian record book
Edwin Yeoh from the Malaysia Book of Records presenting the official certificate to Sandakan Municipal Council president Walter Kenson.
SANDAKAN (June 29): The Sandakan Heritage Trail has carved its name into the Malaysia Book of Records as the country's first historical tree trail, marking a proud milestone for this historic town.
The official recognition was presented on Saturday in a ceremony held in conjunction with Sandakan Founding Day 2025 and the 22nd anniversary of the Sandakan Heritage Trail.
President of the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS), Walter Kenson, described the achievement as a moment of great honour and pride for Sandakan.
'It is truly amazing to witness this historic milestone unfolding before our eyes in just three months,' he said in his speech.
Kenson extended his congratulations to the Sandakan Heritage Trail team led by founder and chairman Lai King Hang, who spearheaded the initiative, together with Teo Chee Kim, president of the Sandakan Tourism Association (STAN).
'The idea of identifying the prominent trees along the heritage trail was conceived in early March when I met the Sandakan Heritage Trail group for the first time,' Kenson said.
Today, a total of 42 heritage trees have been identified and equipped with QR codes, with the support of the Sabah Forestry Department in Sandakan. This makes the Sandakan Heritage Trail one of the most unique trails in Malaysia — blending heritage preservation and environmental awareness in a meaningful way.
More than 300 people joined the trail walk, including 130 leaders and members of the Sandakan Girl Guides. Members of the Sabah Society Sandakan were also present to provide explanations about selected trees along the trail.
Modern Sandakan was founded by William B. Pryer on 21 June 1879 — exactly 146 years ago. Kenson expressed hope that Sandakan Founding Day will become an annual celebration as part of wider efforts to revitalise the town, improve services, and boost business opportunities with the cooperation of residents and community leaders.
