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Kinabalu National Park (Taman Negara Kinabalu) is one of the world’s hot spots for
biodiversity and it covers an area of 754 square kilometers surrounding the
majestic Mount Kinabalu which at 4,095.2 meters is the highest mountain in
south-east Asia. The rich diversity of natural habitats is home to a wealth of
flora and fauna, and numerous other attractions for the adventurous traveler,
including walking, trekking, climbing and relaxing in hot springs. The park
contains more than 5000 species of plants and a rich variety of birds, mammals
and other animals and particularly insects.
It is also one of the most accessible and spectacular mountains in the world,
Mount Kinabalu, as well one of the highest in South-East Asia. The mount was
first climbed by Sir Hugh Low in 1851. He had collected many kinds of unique
plants. His discoveries served to focus the attention of the scientific world on
Kinabalu. In 1888, John Whitehead had spent nearly 2 years collecting the
animals. Today research is directed towards the conversation of this magnificent
mountain and its rich biodiversity.
Established as one of the first national parks of Malaysia in 1964, is
Malaysia's first World Heritage Site designated by UNESCO in December 2000 for
its "outstanding universal values" and the role as
one of the most important biological sites in the world. Kinabalu Park is now
accessible to visitors to experience its wonders for themselves.
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