Bijan Café & Guest House opened its doors to the local community and tourists in August last year (All photos: Aireena Azni/The Edge Malaysia)
A 40-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu will bring you to a small town in the sub-district of Tuaran called Tamparuli. You will know you have arrived at one of Sabah’s iconic destinations when you look ahead and see a hanging bridge. It is none other than the famous Jambatan Tamparuli (Tambunan native Justin Lusah even wrote a song about it based on the legend of a woman who was kidnapped and left at one of its pillars). Locals use the bridge as an alternative route to travel from the small town to the main road on the opposite side.
Before crossing the bridge, visitors can enjoy a short traditional dance and musical performance by a group of volunteers at its starting point. There is no fee to use the bridge but you are encouraged to leave a tip for the performers.
dsc00270.jpg
Crossing the bridge is an experience not to be missed. You will probably not feel it shaking at the start, but as you move forward, and more people walk along with you, you will experience some movement. We recommend stopping midspan to take in the scenic view of the crystal clear river.
From the bridge, you can spot the yellow-orange building, flanked by towering trees, that is Bijan Café & Guest House. Founded by Beaufort-born Sofie Mahmood, Bijan (Malay for “sesame”) opened its doors to the local community and tourists in August last year. Located right beside the Tamparuli riverbank and a stone’s throw from the Pasar Tamu area, it is the epitome of peace and serenity. When the sun is out, guests can admire the waterway while enjoying the sounds of nature playing in the background and Sabahan cuisine prepared by experienced local cooks.
dsc00247.jpg
Drop by during lunch hour to savour Nasi Bungkus Daun, which comes with a variety of lauk options such as Pakis Masak Belacan, Daging Salai Masak Lemak, Ayam Rendang, Gulai Ikan and Sambal Ikan Masin. If you are lucky, one of the traditional cooks will do a demonstration on how to wrap the nasi, also known as Nuba Laya. A popular dish among the Kelabit tribe, it is essentially mushy rice wrapped in daun irik.
If you are planning to explore more of Tamparuli and the nearby districts with a big group of friends and family, Bijan provides eight rooms on-site that can accommodate up to 15 people. The outdoor and indoor spaces can be rented separately for corporate events or family gatherings. The company can help organise team-building activities such as water rafting, hiking and kick-boxing.
dsc00286.jpg
On Nov 12, the United Tuaran Tourism Association, of which Bijan is a part, will organise a Tuaran Treasure Hunt as an initiative to promote tourism in the district. This competition is a refreshing way to catch sight of and learn about the beautiful area, as well as the rich cultural heritage that Sabah has to offer. The participation fee is RM400 per team (up to four people) and prizes worth RM17,750 are up for grabs.
This article first appeared on July 24, 2023 in The Edge Malaysia.
