The Bajau Villages in Sabah, Malaysia, offer an extraordinary cultural experience unlike any other. Often referred to as the “Sea Gypsies” or Bajau Laut, these communities have thrived for centuries by living in harmony with the sea. Located primarily around Semporna and nearby islands like Mabul, Bodgaya, and Maiga, the Bajau people live in stilt houses above water and maintain a nomadic maritime lifestyle rich in tradition, diving skills, and craftsmanship.
Who Are the Bajau People?
The Bajau are an indigenous ethnic group native to maritime Southeast Asia. In Sabah, they are primarily known for their ocean-centric way of life. Many Bajau Laut (Sea Bajau) live in houseboats or stilt villages over shallow reefs and coastal waters. Their seafaring heritage includes free diving, fishing, and boat-making, passed down through generations.
Some Bajau families still practice a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving between islands and reefs, while others have settled into more permanent water villages.
What to Expect in Bajau Villages
Visiting a Bajau village is like stepping into a floating world. Here’s what makes them so special:
1. Stilt Houses Over the Ocean
Homes are built on wooden stilts above the crystal-clear water. These floating villages create a stunning visual landscape, especially at sunrise and sunset.
2. Traditional Boats (Lepa-Lepa)
The Bajau’s hand-carved wooden boats, called lepa-lepa, are often beautifully decorated and used for fishing, transport, and cultural ceremonies.
3. Incredible Free-Diving Skills
Bajau divers are famous for their ability to hold their breath for extended periods and dive up to 20–30 meters deep to hunt for seafood.
4. Cultural Practices and Beliefs
The Bajau people have unique customs, animist beliefs blended with Islam, and oral traditions that reflect their oceanic worldview.
Best Places to Visit Bajau Villages in Sabah
Semporna
The gateway to the Bajau islands, Semporna is the launching point for village visits and marine park tours.
Mabul Island
Popular for scuba diving, Mabul is also home to several Bajau Laut communities. Tourists can visit the water villages to witness local life.
Bodgaya & Maiga Islands
Less commercialized and more authentic, these islands host traditional Bajau villages with breathtaking sea views and a serene lifestyle.
How to Reach Bajau Villages from Kota Kinabalu
- Fly from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau (1.5 hours).
- Drive from Tawau Airport to Semporna (1.5–2 hours).
- Take a boat from Semporna Jetty to the islands (20–60 minutes, depending on destination).
Responsible Travel Tips
- Ask before taking photos – Many Bajau residents value privacy.
- Support local economies – Buy handmade crafts and support village-run boat tours.
- Be respectful – Dress modestly and follow your guide’s cultural advice.
Final Thoughts
The Bajau Villages in Sabah offer an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s last true ocean-dwelling cultures. With their floating homes, colorful boats, and unparalleled connection to the sea, the Bajau people reflect a way of life that is as beautiful as it is endangered. A visit to these unique communities not only provides cultural insight but also encourages the preservation of this rare maritime heritage.
