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Step into Tun Mustapha Gallery, where history breathes through every exhibit—this cultural gem in Kota Kinabalu tells the story of Sabah’s past with powerful authenticity. From ancient tribal artifacts to wartime relics, each display feels like a whispered memory from the land’s soul. The vintage maps and black-and-white photos transport you straight back to pivotal moments in time, making it a quietly moving stop for anyone who loves stories that speak without words.
Everything you need to know about Tun Mustapha Gallery
Recommended is Lighthouse Resort Kota Kinabalu, just a 10-minute drive from Tun Mustapha Gallery. The resort offers private beach access and breathtaking ocean-view rooms, with complimentary shuttle services for easy transit to the gallery and city center. Its rooms feature indigenous cultural designs reflecting Sabah’s rich heritage. Guests can also enjoy water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding at the on-site activity hub, making it an ideal base for exploring both art and nature in Sabah.
Yes, access to Tun Mustapha Gallery is highly convenient as it's located adjacent to the Kota Kinabalu City Hall, within walking distance of major commercial and tourist areas. Several hotels, including Lighthouse Resort and Marriott Kota Kinabalu, offer free shuttle services running daily between the city center and the gallery. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek operate extensively in the area, with trips taking only 5–8 minutes. It’s recommended to book via mobile app for punctuality and a seamless visit experience.
Beyond the gallery’s exhibitions on Sabahan indigenous art, visitors should join community-led craft workshops, such as batik painting and bamboo weaving, to create authentic souvenirs. The outdoor sculpture garden features public artworks reflecting East Malaysia’s multicultural identity. Weekends often host local food markets offering traditional dishes like nasi lemak and Bajau grilled fish. These immersive activities provide deep insight into Sabah’s cultural diversity and vibrant daily life.
Absolutely. Nearby Lighthouse Resort Kota Kinabalu offers family suites, kids’ play areas, indoor pools, and dedicated family activities. The resort features a private beach with safe swimming zones, ideal for children. The gallery itself includes interactive educational exhibits perfect for kids learning about Sabah’s history and culture. Many surrounding restaurants provide children’s menus and high chairs, ensuring a comfortable, family-friendly stay. This makes it an excellent choice for parents seeking cultural discovery with little ones.
Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu is a top choice located just 1.5 km from Tun Mustapha Gallery, offering modern rooms, an infinity pool, and direct access to a shopping complex. Its central location makes it ideal for visiting cultural exhibitions showcasing Sabah’s indigenous art and heritage. The hotel is also close to Mount Kinabalu and the eastern coast of Malaysia, enabling convenient day trips to explore rainforests and tribal villages.
Unique Experience: Join a guided "Sabahan Traditional Craft Workshop" where you can learn to weave textiles or craft bamboo items with local artisans, gaining hands-on insight into indigenous craftsmanship and cultural traditions.
The most convenient options are ride-hailing services (like Grab) or motorbike rental—both take only 10 minutes from downtown. Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, the gallery has ample parking and is within a 3–5 minute walk to nearby restaurants and souvenir shops. For eco-friendly travel, take the free city shuttle bus, which runs multiple times daily and stops at major attractions, making it easy to visit the gallery as part of a sightseeing route.
Beyond exhibitions, join a local community-led Sabahan Indigenous Culture Tour to visit traditional villages and learn about the lifestyles of the Iban, Bajau, and other ethnic groups. Also popular is the Marine Life Workshop hosted at the gallery’s affiliated education center, where visitors can learn coral reef restoration techniques and participate in beach clean-up initiatives. These sustainable tourism activities allow travelers to engage meaningfully with culture and conservation while enriching their visit.
Yes, premium hotels such as Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu and Radisson Blu Kota Kinabalu provide complimentary shuttles to the gallery, especially beneficial for families or guests with mobility needs. Additional service runs on weekends and holidays, bookable via front desk or mobile app. On-site travel desks also assist with ticket bookings, guided tours, and itinerary planning, enhancing convenience and efficiency during your visit.
The gallery is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays. It’s recommended to arrive before 4:00 PM to fully enjoy indoor exhibits and interactive zones. Extended hours until 8:00 PM may apply during special exhibitions—check the official website or on-site notices for updates. Admission is free, though some interactive experiences require additional fees.
Must-try dishes include Sabah-style Nasi Lemak and Ikan Bakar Taliwang, both rooted in indigenous recipes with rich, aromatic flavors. Recommended spots are Bay Restaurant and Kota Kinabalu Night Market, where fresh seafood and local street food shine. Nearby, the Cultural Market hosts regular stalls selling farm-fresh produce, handmade spice pastes, and fruit jerky—perfect for sampling authentic regional flavors.
See what other travelers say about Tun Mustapha Gallery
Staying at Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Gaya Street, Jesselton Jetty, and Suria Mall. There’s even a supermarket right downstairs, which made our stay incredibly convenient. The room was spotless, and the housekeeping team went above and beyond to keep everything tidy and fresh. The staff were warm, welcoming, and always ready to help—genuine hospitality that made us feel at home. We truly loved every moment of our stay. The only minor suggestion would be upgrading the gym facilities, as it’s functional but could use some modernization. Other than that, we have nothing but praise for this hotel. A perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and great service—highly recommended!
The value for money here is outstanding! The room was much larger than the photos suggested—especially the bathroom, which felt spacious and well-designed. Right across from the hotel is a convenience store, and there are several restaurants nearby that look promising. I especially loved the retro-inspired design with exposed concrete and brick walls—it gives the place a unique, cozy atmosphere. At night, it’s incredibly peaceful and relaxing, making it feel like a quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Cleanliness, layout, and attention to detail are all top-notch. This is definitely a standout choice if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’d absolutely stay here again.
Staying at Sunset Seaview Vacation Condos @ Infinity Avenue was an absolute delight. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk to IMAGO Shopping Mall, and the ground floor is packed with great dining options, so you can grab a meal without even stepping outside. The sea views from the rooms are stunning, especially at sunset. Everything was clean, modern, and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for exploring Kota Kinabalu. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of coastal charm.
This was our first stay at Hotel Five 2, and it absolutely exceeded our expectations. We arrived early at 8:00 AM, and the front desk staff were incredibly welcoming—they happily stored our luggage without any hassle. During checkout, a kind staff member even offered us complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, which added such a warm, personal touch. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was simple but spotlessly clean, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—just a 5-minute walk to Centre Point, making it super easy to explore the city on foot. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers great value and genuine hospitality. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.
Arrived in Kota Kinabalu late at night after an early flight, and chose this apartment hotel as a convenient overnight stop. I got a taxi right outside the airport for just MYR 30—only about 15 minutes to reach the property. Since it was so early, the security staff hadn’t arrived yet, but luckily ran into another guest heading out who helped me access the unit using the password provided by the host. The apartment itself is clean, well-equipped, and perfect for a quick layover. Everything you’d need is there—kitchenette, bedding, Wi-Fi—no complaints at all. The location is fantastic: right below Imago Shopping Mall, so dining and shopping are just steps away. And in under 5 minutes on foot, you’re at the beach—beautiful views, gentle sea breeze, ideal for relaxing after a long trip. Honestly, the value-for-money here is outstanding. I’d definitely come back if I ever visit Kota Kinabalu again.
Staying at Green Apple Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The room was incredibly comfortable, with a modern and clean design that made me feel right at home. The view from the window was stunning—perfect for watching the sunrise or enjoying the city lights at night. Location-wise, it's convenient and close to everything I needed: great restaurants, shopping spots, and local attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the entire experience even better. It’s clear this hotel values guest comfort and quality. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu—I’ll definitely be back.
My stay at Lintas View Hotel was absolutely delightful. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. The room was clean, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Located just minutes from the city center, it's incredibly convenient for getting around by public transit. The hotel’s modern design and quiet ambiance made it a great base for both business and leisure travelers. I especially appreciated how responsive and genuine the team was throughout my visit. It’s clear they truly care about guest satisfaction. I’d happily return and recommend this hidden gem to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu.
This stay was absolutely fantastic! The location is unbeatable—right next to a convenience store, making late-night snacks and essentials super convenient. Public transit access is just steps away, and everything in town is within easy reach. The staff were incredibly responsive—any request I had was handled promptly and with great care. The room itself was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The pool area is stunning—serene, beautifully designed, and perfect for relaxing under the tropical sun. One standout feature? The hot water—it’s consistently hot and the flow is strong, which is rare in this type of accommodation. Overall, this was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu. Will definitely be returning.
Staying at Homesuite' Home at Jesselton Quay was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from both Gaya Street and the waterfront, perfect for hopping on island tours without any hassle. The building has a Korean restaurant, convenience stores, a laundry facility, and even a charming cat mascot who runs the front desk—such a cute touch! Getting around is super easy too; taxis are always quick to arrive, whether you're heading to the airport or exploring the city. I actually misplaced my wallet once, and the staff returned it untouched—truly heartwarming and incredibly reassuring. This place offers comfort, convenience, and genuine hospitality. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Kota Kinabalu!
I can't say enough good things about my stay at Riverson Soho KK - Home Suite. From the moment I arrived, everything felt seamless and thoughtfully planned. The management sent a clear message beforehand with instructions to download and save the self-check-in PDF—reading it in advance made the process smooth and stress-free. Though there was no staff waiting to greet us personally, the setup was so intuitive that we never felt overlooked. My room was spotless, spacious, and beautifully designed with modern touches throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a deep, restful sleep—truly felt like home. The on-site facilities were excellent: my car was safely parked in the reserved underground lot, and I enjoyed using the pool and gym, both well-maintained and inviting. Location-wise, this hotel is perfect. Just a short walk to The WALK, where you’ll find a great variety of dining options, and only a few minutes away from the popular IMAGO shopping mall. Whether you're here for leisure or business, this place offers convenience, comfort, and luxury all in one. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and hassle-free stay—and I’m already planning my next visit!
Everything was great overall! The hotel was spotlessly clean, and the staff were very friendly. The only downside was that the pool was closed—apparently due to an unknown reason—which was a bit disappointing since my kids were really looking forward to swimming. Still, the room was comfortable, the location was convenient, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to families traveling with children.
The room was extremely comfortable and perfect for a family stay. The location is fantastic—just a short walk to the beach and surrounded by great local restaurants. Everything was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough for our group. A few small upgrades would make it even better: a taller ironing board, pool-friendly slippers, and maybe a microwave in the room would be a nice touch. But honestly, I couldn’t be happier with the overall experience. The staff were prompt and friendly, always ready to help whenever we needed something. Great value for money, and I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend this place if you're visiting Kota Kinabalu!
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