The state capital of Sabah is Kota Kinabalu. It is a relatively new town as most of its original buildings were destroyed during World War II. Only the north-eastern corner of the town remained and is known as 'Old KK' among the locals today. The post-war reconstruction has resulted in Kota Kinabalu becoming a hodgepodge of new and old buildings. Previously known as Jesselton, Kota Kinabalu is a sprawling, relaxed township of more than 13,000 inhabitants. There is an interesting blend of European, Malay and Chinese shop houses, traditional market places set amongst several high-rise buildings and new shopping areas.
The town is also referred to as 'Singgah Mata' (where the eye lingers) and its still as appealing as it was to the mariners of old. Kota Kinabalu has some beautiful views of perpetual blue skies, a coral-studded sea with lovely sunsets and misty mountains in the distance.
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