1. What is the most popular attraction in Tawau?
The most popular attraction in Tawau is the Tawau Hills Park, known for its beautiful nature and diverse wildlife.2. Is Tawau a good place to visit?
Yes, Tawau is a good place to visit. It offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty with numerous tourist attractions such as hot springs, beaches, and mountain hikes.
3. What is there to do in Tawau?
There are several things to do in Tawau, including hiking through the Tawau Hills Park, visiting the hot springs in Apas Balung or Kg. Sin Onn, exploring the markets and local cuisine in Chinatown, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Kelapuan Island or Sipadan Island, and learning about the rich history of the town at Teck Guan Cocoa Museum or Wakit Wood Lighthouse.
4. How do I get to Tawau from Kuala Lumpur?
You can get to Tawau from Kuala Lumpur by flying directly from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Tawau Airport (TWU), which takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from Subang Skypark Airport (SZB) to Sandakan Airport (SDK) and then transfer via road or ferry to Tawau.
5. What is the best time to visit Tawau?
The best time to visit Tawau is between March and October when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.
6. Is it safe to travel to Tawau?
Overall, it is considered safe to travel to Tawau. However, like any other destination, it is important to take general safety precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas at night.
7. What are some popular dishes in Tawau?
Some popular dishes in Tawau include Kuey Teow Tawau, a dish of flat rice noodles fried with seafood and vegetables; Mee Sua (longevity noodles) served in a broth with meat and vegetables; and Sang Nyuk Mian (pork noodle soup). The town is also known for its variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish and prawn curry.
2. How diverse is the culture in Tawau?
The culture in Tawau is quite diverse, with a mix of indigenous, Malay, Chinese, and other ethnic groups. The largest ethnic group is the Bajau people, who are traditionally seafaring and have strong cultural ties to the ocean. Other notable ethnic groups include Kadazan-Dusun, Suluk, Murut, and Chinese. Christianity and Islam are the two major religions practiced in Tawau.The city also has a significant Hindu population.
There is also a significant presence of migrant workers from neighboring countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines, adding to the diversity of the culture in Tawau.
Overall, this mix of cultures and backgrounds contributes to a vibrant and unique cultural landscape in Tawau.
3. What are some traditional cultural activities or celebrations in Tawau?
Some traditional cultural activities and celebrations in Tawau include:
1. Pesta Rumbia – This is an annual festival celebrating the local sago palm, also known as “rumbia”. The festival features various cultural activities, traditional dances, food stalls, and handicraft exhibitions.
2. Tawau Dragon Boat Race – Held during the Chinese New Year celebration, this event sees teams competing in traditional dragon boats along the Tawau River.
3. Sabah Fest – A cultural extravaganza held annually in May in Kota Kinabalu, but also celebrated in Tawau. The festival showcases the diverse cultures of Sabah through music, dance, and various performances.
4. Kaamatan Harvest Festival – This is a major celebration for the Kadazan-Dusun community in Sabah. It usually takes place during May and involves traditional rituals and ceremonies to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.
5. Hari Raya Aidilfitri – One of the biggest religious festivals in Malaysia, this Eid al-Fitr celebration is marked with prayers at mosques, family gatherings, and feasting on traditional Malay dishes such as ketupat (rice dumplings) and rendang (spicy meat dish).
6. Ching Ming Festival – A traditional Chinese festival where families visit and clean their ancestors’ gravesites to honor and remember their loved ones.
7. Gawai Dayak Harvest Festival – Celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak on June 1 each year, this festival marks the end of rice harvesting season with offerings of thanks to the spirits.
8. Tadau Kaamatan Unduk Ngadau Competition – A beauty pageant that takes place during the Kaamatan Harvest Festival where young Kadazan-Dusun women compete for the title of Unduk Ngadau (Harvest Queen).
9. Muhibbah Carnival – An annual carnival that celebrates Malaysia’s diverse cultures and traditions through various performances, food stalls, and handicraft exhibitions.
10. Lantern Festival – Celebrated by the Chinese community to mark the end of the Lunar New Year period, this festival sees colorful lanterns lit up all over town and traditional lion dances performed on the streets.
4. Is there a significant influence of other cultures on Tawau’s way of life?
Yes, there is a significant influence of other cultures on Tawau’s way of life. Due to its diverse population and history as a trading and port city, Tawau has been shaped by various cultural influences from neighboring countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, China and India.
Some examples include:
1. Food: Tawau’s food scene is heavily influenced by neighboring countries, with dishes like satay, roti canai and bak kut teh being popular among locals. There are also many Filipino and Indonesian restaurants serving their respective cuisines.
2. Language: While Malay is the official language in Tawau, many residents also speak Chinese (Hakka or Mandarin), Suluk (a dialect of Bahasa Melayu spoken by the Suluk community), Tagalog (Filipino) and various Indonesian dialects.
3. Cultural celebrations: Tawau celebrates various festivals from different cultures such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Christmas and Pesta Kaamatan (Harvest Festival). These celebrations often involve traditional performances and activities from respective cultures.
4. Architecture: Tawau’s architecture reflects its multicultural identity with a mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and colonial buildings found throughout the city.
5. Traditional practices: Many traditional practices and beliefs from neighboring countries have also been adopted by certain communities in Tawau. For example, the practice of “berkhatan” (circumcision) among Malays was introduced by Arab traders while the Badjao community follows their own traditional way of life influenced by Philippine culture.
Overall, these cultural influences have enriched Tawau’s diversity and contributed to its unique way of life.
5. How has Tawau’s culture evolved over the years?
Tawau’s culture has evolved significantly over the years as a result of various factors, including its history, geographical location, and interactions with other cultures.
1. Multiculturalism: Tawau’s location in Sabah, a state known for its diverse population of indigenous tribes, Chinese, Malay, and other ethnic groups, has resulted in a rich blend of cultures. This multiculturalism can be seen in the city’s food, language, customs, and celebrations.
2. British influence: Tawau was once under British rule during the colonial era. The British brought with them their language, religion (Christianity), and architecture, which have all had an impact on Tawau’s cultural landscape.
3. Immigrant population: Tawau has been a popular destination for immigrants from neighboring countries such as Indonesia and the Philippines due to its proximity to these countries. As a result, there is a significant population of Indonesians and Filipinos in Tawau who have influenced the city’s culture through their food, language, and customs.
4. Islamization: The majority of Tawau’s population are Muslims due to the influence of the Malay community and also due to conversion of some indigenous tribes to Islam. This has resulted in Islamic practices being integrated into the local culture.
5. Modern influences: With development and globalization, modern influences have also had an impact on Tawau’s culture. Western clothing styles, technology advancements, and globalized cuisine have become more prevalent in the city.
6. Preservation efforts: Despite modern influences and changes over time, efforts have been made to preserve Tawau’s traditional cultures and practices through festivals such as Sabah Fest and Pesta Kaamatan (Harvest Festival). These events showcase traditional music, dance performances, crafts, and cuisine from different ethnic groups in Sabah.
Overall,Tawau’s culture continues to evolve but remains deeply rooted in its diverse heritage and traditions.
6. What are some local delicacies that represent Tawau’s culture?
1. Ikan Singgang – a sour and spicy fish dish made with local freshwater fish
2. Mee Tawau – a type of hand-pulled noodles served in a flavorful broth
3. Hinava – a traditional dish made with raw fish, lime juice, and vegetables
4. Ambuyat – a starchy dish made from sago palm pulp, often eaten with savory sauces or curries
5. Bubur lambuk – a porridge made with rice, chicken, and spices, commonly consumed during the holy month of Ramadan
6. Sambal terung pipit – a spicy dish made with tiny eggplant and chili paste
7. Bosou nusuk – preserved minced pork mixed with herbs and rice wine, often used as a condiment or side dish
8. Serunding – shredded meat or fish cooked in coconut milk and spices until it becomes dry and crispy
9. Lihing – the local version of tapioca wine, often served during festive occasions
10. Nasi kuning Tawau – yellow glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and turmeric, typically served during weddings or special occasions.
7. Are there any cultural museums or centers in Tawau?
There are a few cultural museums and centers in Tawau, including:1. Tawau Cultural Village – This is a popular tourist spot where visitors can learn about the cultures and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Sabah, including Bajau, Murut, and Bugis.
2. Tawau Heritage Centre – Located in the historic building of KemPenyala Malaysia, this center features exhibitions and galleries on the history and heritage of Tawau.
3. Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) – This center promotes the preservation and celebration of Kadazandusun culture through various events and activities.
4. Pasar Tanjung Lumpur – This market is considered as one of the oldest traditional markets in Tawau, selling local handicrafts, food, and produce from different ethnicities in Sabah.
5. Tun Sakaran Marine Park Interpretation Centre – Located on Bohey Dulang Island within Tun Sakaran Marine Park, this centre showcases the rich marine biodiversity in the area and educates visitors about conservation efforts.
6. Rumah Budaya Kulipulao – A community-based cultural center that aims to preserve Dusun traditional practices and showcase their way of life through exhibitions and workshops.
7. Runde Heather Culture Museum – A private museum that features antique items related to British colonial history in Tawau and serves as a reminder of its role as an important trading post during that time.
8. What is the relationship between the different ethnic groups in Tawau?
The different ethnic groups in Tawau have a harmonious relationship with each other. They coexist peacefully and often engage in cultural exchanges and celebrations together.There is a sense of mutual respect and understanding among the various ethnicities, and there are no major tensions or conflicts between them.
Intermarriage between different ethnic groups is also common, further solidifying the strong bond between them.
Overall, the people in Tawau value diversity and appreciate the unique contributions of each ethnicity to their community.
9. How does the local government preserve and promote Tawau’s cultural heritage?
1. Heritage Sites and Conservation Efforts: The local government of Tawau has designated several heritage sites, such as the Old Tawau Town, the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum, and the Japanese War Memorial. These sites are preserved and protected through conservation efforts to maintain their cultural and historical significance.
2. Cultural Festivals and Events: The local government organizes various cultural festivals and events throughout the year to promote Tawau’s diverse cultural heritage. These include celebrations for Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Harvest Festival, and many others.
3. Heritage Walks: Heritage walks are organized by the local government to showcase the rich history of Tawau’s different ethnic groups. Visitors can learn about the traditional lifestyles, practices, and customs of the various communities that have lived in Tawau over the years.
4. Museums and Galleries: The local government has established several museums and galleries in Tawau that display artifacts, artworks, and other items related to its cultural heritage. These include museums dedicated to indigenous cultures, Chinese culture, colonial history, and more.
5. Preservation of Traditional Crafts: The local government supports traditional craftsmen in Tawau by providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills at events and festivals. This helps preserve these dying art forms and promotes them among younger generations.
6. Cultural Education Programs: The local government works closely with schools to incorporate cultural education programs into their curriculum. This allows students to learn about Tawau’s cultural heritage from a young age.
7. Promotion of Local Cuisine: Tawau is known for its unique food culture influenced by its diverse ethnic groups. The local government promotes local cuisine through food festivals and events to introduce visitors to these culinary delights.
8. Supporting Indigenous Communities: Indigenous communities in Tawau still practice their traditional customs and rituals which are an integral part of their heritage. The local government provides support to these communities to ensure their culture is preserved and promoted.
9. Heritage Tourism: The local government actively promotes heritage tourism in Tawau by highlighting its cultural sites, events, and activities. This brings in visitors who are interested in learning about the city’s rich heritage and contributes to the local economy.
10. Are there any ancient historical sites or ruins in Tawau worth visiting for a cultural exploration?
Yes, there are several ancient historical sites and ruins in Tawau that are worth visiting for a cultural exploration. These include:
1. Agop Batu Tulug – This prehistoric site features stone pillars and carvings dating back over 3,000 years.
2. Teck Guan Cocoa Museum – This museum showcases the history of cocoa cultivation in Tawau and its role in the development of the town.
3. Japanese War Cemetery – This cemetery was built to honor Japanese soldiers who died during World War II.
4. Tanjung Aru Beach – This beach is home to an old lighthouse that dates back to the early 1900s and offers beautiful ocean views.
5. Nunuk Ragang Monument – Located in Kampung Lama, this monument marks the spot where a peace treaty was signed between two warring tribes in 1704.
6. Bukit Tiban Heritage Museum – This museum houses artifacts from the indigenous Murut tribe and offers a glimpse into their culture and traditions.
7. Ruins of Kudat Railway Station – The remnants of this old railway station, built by the British in 1907, can still be seen today.
8.Ruin of Tanjung Batu Ancient Settlement – Dating back to the B.C era, this archaeological site contains remnants of an ancient settlement believed to be inhabited by seafarers from China and India.
9. Memorial Park Sabindo– This park contains monuments and memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers during World War II and those who contributed to Independence of Malaysia.
10.Tawau District Mosque (Masjid Pekan Tawau) – Built in 1960s, this mosque features traditional Malay-Indonesian architecture, making it a significant cultural landmark in Tawau.
11. Is religion an important aspect of Tawau’s culture and society?
Religion plays an important role in Tawau’s culture and society. The majority of the population is Muslim, followed by significant Christian, Buddhist, and Hindu communities. Many cultural events and festivals in Tawau are centered around religious celebrations, such as Islam’s Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as well as Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Wesak Day.Places of worship for various religions are also prominent in the cityscape of Tawau. The Masjid An-Nur and Masjid Muktafi Billah Shah are two notable mosques that attract a large number of worshippers during prayer times. The St Patrick’s Church is a 100-year-old Catholic church that holds regular masses for its congregation.
In addition to organized religion, beliefs and traditions stemming from different faiths have also been integrated into the daily lives of Tawau residents. For example, it is common to see Chinese businesses displaying red lanterns during Chinese New Year or restaurants serving halal versions of popular Chinese dishes to cater to the Muslim population.
Overall, religion plays a crucial role in shaping the customs, traditions, and values of Tawau’s multicultural society. It promotes a sense of community and unity among its diverse population while also providing a moral compass for individuals to live their lives by.
12. What types of traditional handicrafts can be found in Tawau?
Some traditional handicrafts that can be found in Tawau include:
1. Basket weaving – Tawau is known for its expert basket weavers who create beautiful and intricate designs using local materials like rattan, bamboo, and pandan leaves.
2. Wood carving – The Murut tribe in Tawau are skilled in wood carving, producing traditional masks, sculptures, and decorative items with intricate designs.
3. Beadwork – Orang Sungai communities in the area are known for their intricate beadwork, creating handmade jewelry, clothing embellishments, and accessories.
4. Handwoven textiles – Traditional fabrics like songket and tenunan are produced by the Kadazandusun people of Tawau using techniques passed down for generations.
5. Pottery – The Bajau communities in Tawau are skilled pottery makers, producing functional items like jars and bowls with beautiful geometric designs.
6. Silverware – The Dusun Lotud people of Tawau are renowned for their silver crafting skills, making intricately designed jewelry and commemorative items.
7. Fishing nets – The coastal areas of Tawau are home to skilled fishing communities who produce handmade fishing nets using traditional methods.
8. Batik painting – This traditional method of fabric painting can be found in some smaller villages around Tawau where artisans create unique and colorful batik pieces.
9. Wickerwork – Wicker furniture is a specialty craft found in some rural villages around Tawau where skilled artisans create unique pieces from rattan or bamboo.
10. Traditional masks – Different indigenous groups in Sabah have distinct traditional mask-making techniques used for ceremonies and cultural performances.
11. Umbrellas – Local craftsmen still make handcrafted umbrellas using bamboo frames and painted rice paper covers as a way to earn an income in the rural areas around Tawau.
12. Mats & rugs– Handmade mats and rugs made from pandan or other natural materials can be found in some villages around Tawau, often showcasing intricate designs and patterns.
13. How do families and communities typically celebrate special occasions or festivals in Tawau?
In Tawau, families and communities celebrate special occasions or festivals by coming together to indulge in traditional food, music, and cultural activities. Some common ways of celebration include:
1. Preparing traditional foods: Families gather together to prepare traditional dishes such as nasi sampah (rice wrapped in banana leaves), sambal-belacan (spicy shrimp paste), hinava (raw fish salad) and other delicacies.
2. Hosting feasts: It is a common practice for families to invite their friends, relatives, and neighbors to join them for a grand feast during festivals. This not only strengthens bonds but also promotes a sense of unity among community members.
3. Organizing cultural performances: Traditional dance performances, music shows, and theatrical productions are commonly organized during special occasions or festivals in Tawau. The locals take great pride in showcasing their cultural heritage through these performances.
4. Lighting up streets and houses: During festivals like Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Christmas, the streets of Tawau are beautifully decorated with lights, lanterns, and colorful decorations. Houses are also adorned with flowers and lights to signify the joyous occasion.
5. Visiting mosques or temples: Muslims visit mosques while Buddhists visit temples on religious occasions like Eid al-Adha or Wesak Day respectively. They offer prayers, seek blessings from elders, and perform rituals according to their faith.
6. Exchanging gifts: It is customary for families and friends to exchange gifts during special occasions as a token of love and appreciation towards each other.
7. Charity work: During festive seasons, many families engage in charity work by donating food or money to those in need within their community.
8. Family outings: Families often take this opportunity to spend quality time together by going on trips to nearby beaches or parks for picnics or just enjoying some outdoor activities.
9. Firework displays: On New Year’s Eve and other festive occasions, Tawau skies light up with spectacular firework displays.
Overall, these celebrations bring people of different cultural backgrounds together, promoting unity and harmony within the community.
14. Are there any unique customs or traditions specific to certain ethnic groups in Tawau?
Some unique customs and traditions specific to certain ethnic groups in Tawau include:– The Kadazan-Dusun community celebrates the annual Harvest Festival or Kaamatan, which is a celebration of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. This festival includes traditional dance performances, music, and food.
– The Bajau community celebrates the annual Regatta Lepa-Lepa Festival, which is a colorful display of their traditional boats. This festival also includes traditional dances, music, and food.
– The Chinese community celebrates the Lunar New Year with various cultural performances and customs such as lion and dragon dances, red lanterns, and giving red packets (ang pow) containing money as gifts.
– During Ramadan, the Muslim communities in Tawau observe fasting from dawn till dusk and break their fast together during sunset. The end of Ramadan is celebrated with Hari Raya Aidilfitri, where families visit each other’s homes to seek forgiveness and enjoy a feast together.
– The Suluk community performs the annual Kada Sayang Festival to commemorate their ancestors who migrated to Tawau from Indonesia. This festival consists of traditional dances, music performances, and games.
Additionally, there are customs and traditions specific to indigenous communities like those from Orang Sungai, Ida’an and many more. These include rituals related to childbirth, marriage ceremonies, funerals etc., all of which reflect their distinct cultures and beliefs.
15. Can visitors participate in any cultural activities or experiences while in Tawau?
Yes, visitors can participate in various cultural activities and experiences while in Tawau. Some popular options include visiting local markets and trying traditional food, participating in cultural festivals and events, learning about the culture and history of the indigenous communities through homestays or village visits, engaging in traditional dances and music performances, and joining guided tours to historic sites and heritage buildings. Visitors can also take part in activities such as batik painting, making handicrafts, and trying traditional games.
16. Are there any traditional music or dance performances that showcase Tawau’s culture?
Traditional music and dance performances that showcase Tawau’s culture include the Kuda Pasir (Horse Parade), a traditional dance performed by the Malay community featuring dancers dressed as horses; Magunatip, a traditional dance of the Bajau community which involves rhythmic body movements and clapping; and Sabah Hinava Dance, a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dance accompanied by gongs and other musical instruments. Additionally, cultural festivals such as the Harvest Festival or Pesta Kalimaran typically feature various traditional music and dance performances that highlight Tawau’s diverse cultures.
17. How welcoming are locals to outsiders who want to learn more about their culture?
It varies from culture to culture and from individual to individual. In general, locals are usually open and welcoming to outsiders who show genuine interest in their culture and traditions. They may be more reserved or cautious at first, but once trust is established, they will often happily share their knowledge and customs with visitors. Some cultures may also have specific protocols or rules for outsiders wanting to learn about their culture, so it’s important to approach them respectfully and with an open mind.
18. Is there a language barrier for non-Thai speakers trying to immerse themselves in the local culture?
Yes, there may be a language barrier for non-Thai speakers trying to immerse themselves in the local culture. While English is widely spoken in popular tourist areas and major cities, it may be more difficult to communicate with locals in smaller towns or rural areas. Therefore, it can be helpful to learn some basic Thai phrases before traveling to Thailand. This will not only allow for better communication but also show respect and interest in the local culture.
19.W hat lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path places would you recommend for someone looking for a deeper cultural experience?
1. Tbilisi, Georgia: This charming capital city has a rich history and culture, with its unique blend of Eastern European and Middle Eastern influences. Visit the old Town and experience traditional Georgian cuisine and music.
2. Luang Prabang, Laos: This sleepy town in Southeast Asia offers a peaceful escape from the bustling cities. Explore the ancient temple complexes, witness local Buddhist rituals, and learn about the ethnic tribes living in nearby villages.
3. Wadi Rum, Jordan: A desert wilderness known for its red sand dunes and stunning rock formations. Spend a night at a Bedouin camp and learn about their nomadic lifestyle. You can also go on a jeep safari or hike to explore the area.
4. Chefchaoeun, Morocco: This blue-washed town in the Rif Mountains is both visually stunning and culturally rich. Wander through its narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, visit its local markets, and try delicious Moroccan food.
5. Oaxaca City, Mexico: This vibrant city is a cultural hub of Mexico, renowned for its art scene, delicious food, and indigenous traditions. Take a cooking class to learn about regional dishes or explore nearby villages known for their crafts.
6.Ljubljana, Slovenia: Located between Italy and Croatia, this small but charming capital city offers a fascinating mix of Slavic and Mediterranean cultures. Walk along the Ljubljanica River and discover hidden galleries, museums, and cafes.
7.Havana, Cuba: While many tourists flock to Varadero’s beaches or Old Havana’s historic district; venture out to smaller towns like Trinidad or Viñales to get an authentic taste of Cuban culture. Experience traditional music performances or stay with locals in casa particulares (private homestays).
8.Yakushima Island, Japan: Located off the southern coast of Japan’s mainland; this remote island offers breathtaking landscapes including ancient forests home to monkeys, deers and more. Learn about the local way of life through homestay or eco-tourism experiences.
9.Manila, Philippines: Often overlooked as a cultural destination; Manila boasts a rich history with influences from Spanish, Chinese, and American cultures. Visit Intramuros for colonial architecture or explore local markets to immerse yourself in Filipino culture.
10. Matera, Italy: A city known for its ancient cave dwellings that have been turned into modern homes and hotels. Stroll through the winding streets and discover museums, galleries, and restaurants showcasing the region’s history and cuisine.
20.How has modernization affected the traditional way of life in Tawau?
Modernization has greatly affected the traditional way of life in Tawau in various aspects, including:
1. Changes in Economic Activities: The traditional way of subsistence living such as fishing, farming and hunting have been replaced by modern economic activities like industrialization, commercial agriculture and tourism. Many traditional occupations are no longer considered viable or sustainable, leading to a shift towards modern ways of making a living.
2. Rise of Urbanization: As Tawau has become more modernized, many rural communities have moved to urban areas in search of better jobs and opportunities. This has led to a decline in rural populations and a rise in urban population and lifestyle.
3. Improvement in Infrastructure: With modernization, there has been an improvement in infrastructure such as roads, transportation networks, communication systems and electricity supply. This has made it easier for people to access goods and services, leading to changes in their lifestyle and consumption patterns.
4. Western Influence on Culture: The influx of Western culture through media, technology, fashion and lifestyle products has greatly influenced the traditional way of life in Tawau. This can be seen in changing attitudes towards gender roles, family structure and social norms.
5. Decline in Traditional Customs and Practices: With the introduction of modern ways of living, there has been a decline in traditional customs and practices that were once central to the way of life in Tawau. Many younger generations are less interested or knowledgeable about their cultural heritage.
6. Education: Modernization has brought about increased access to education for both boys and girls. This has led to changes in attitudes towards education among the younger generation who now aspire for higher education and white collar jobs rather than following their parents’ footsteps into traditional occupations.
7. Environmental Impact: In the pursuit of progress through modernization, the environment is often compromised with factors such as deforestation and pollution taking its toll on the natural resources that were essential for the traditional way of life.
Overall, modernization has brought about many positive changes and opportunities in Tawau, but it has also resulted in a loss of traditional values and practices. Sustaining a balance between progress and preserving cultural heritage is crucial for maintaining the unique identity of Tawau.