Malaysia: Bountiful Borneo

Food writer Nick Kwek journeys to his ancestral homeland of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, exploring its rich culinary heritage shaped by tribal traditions and global influences. He begins by island-hopping with the Bajau Laut, a seafaring community whose free-diving and spear-hunting skills bring the freshest seafood to their native dishes. In Kota Kinabalu, Nick meets chef Raphael Lee, who reinvents traditional hinava with a modern twist for international visitors. Venturing into Sabah's lush valleys, Nick learns the art of rice wine-making with the Dusun Gana people and experiences their vibrant magunatip bamboo dancing. Returning to the capital, Nick savours chef Linn Yong's inventive cocktails and dishes, which showcase the multicultural flavours of the region. Through food, culture and community, Nick uncovers the soul of Sabah in every bite.