Malaysia in Motion: From City Lights to Rainforest Nights
Nine lucky members of the LCC network just got back from an epic FamTrip to Malaysia with our trusted DMC Borneo Trails Tours & Travel Lufthansa City Center.
Our colleague Sonja reports:
"This September, I had the incredible opportunity to accompany a familiarization trip to Malaysia—specifically the captivating regions of Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and the bustling capital Kuala Lumpur—with representatives from seven European LCC travel agencies. What unfolded was an unforgettable adventure filled with nature, culture, and cuisine."
A Dynamic Team, One Shared Goal
"Our group was a dynamic mix of travel professionals from Europe— Germany, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Rumania, and Spain —brought together by a shared mission: to experience Malaysia firsthand and discover how best to showcase this diverse destination to our clients back home. Organized by our LCC DMC partner Borneo Trails Tours & Travel and co-sponsored by Lufthansa German Airlines, the itinerary was designed to highlight the country's unique offerings."
Kota Kinabalu – Gateway to Borneo’s Natural Wonders
"We began our journey in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. From the moment we arrived on the world’s largest island, the lush greenery and warm hospitality set the tone.
We explored the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where we learned about the traditional lifestyles of Sabah's indigenous groups and could visit traditional houses of North East Borneo's 5 main tribes. It was a hands-on experience, with culinary and craft demonstrations, as well as traditional dances that gave us insight into Borneo's rich cultural tapestry."
Sandakan – Heart of Borneo’s Wildlife
"Next, we flew to Sandakan, located on Borneo’s eastern coast—a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This leg of the journey was emotional and inspiring.
Our visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre left a lasting impression. Watching young orangutans swing freely through the trees and learning about conservation efforts highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to protecting its endangered species.
We also stayed in the Borneo Nature Lodge, an eco-friendly resort nestled along the riverbank of Kinabatangan River and a natural haven for the outdoor enthusiast. The lower Kinabatangan is one of Sabah's most splendid natural treasures and the area is teeming with many rare and endangered animals. During two river cruises we could spot the fascinating wild proboscis monkeys, hornbills, little crocodiles and even a group of rarely seen Borneo pygmy elephants (the smallest subspecies of the Asian elephant). As the sun rose over the river, it was a moment of awe and reflection for all of us – what great nature surrounded us.
We also had the chance to visit another hidden gem near Sandakan, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable wildlife encounters we have ever had. Tucked away in the lush mangrove forests of Sabah and surrounded by palm oil plantations, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is one of those rare places where nature feels both untouched and welcoming. The sanctuary is home to the endemic proboscis monkey, famous for its comically large nose, pot belly, and expressive face. These quirky primates are endangered, and Labuk Bay offers a safe haven where they can thrive. What makes this place unique is how close you can get to them—without cages or barriers, just respectful observation."
Kuala Lumpur – A Modern Metropolis with Heart
"Our final stop was Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s vibrant capital. A striking contrast to Borneo’s wild beauty, the city offered sleek skyscrapers, colorful street markets, and world-class dining.
We toured landmarks like the Petronas Twin Towers, stopped by the King’s Palace and visited the Batu Caves. But what stood out most was the multicultural spirit of KL—a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international influences that make the city both exciting and welcoming."
Takeaways from the Journey
"Traveling with seven international agencies meant we all brought different perspectives—but we left with a shared admiration for Malaysia’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and warm people. Whether it’s a wildlife safari in Borneo or a city break in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia offers something unique for every traveler.
This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about understanding what makes a destination truly special and how we, as travel professionals, can authentically promote it to the world."
