Labuan Town

Bandar Labuan

The main commercial and administrative hub of Labuan, featuring shops, restaurants, and government buildings along the waterfront. It's the primary entry point for visitors and offers authentic local experiences with markets and street food.

Things to do

• Labuan Museum — Explore the island's World War II history, maritime heritage, and local culture through exhibits and artifacts housed in this waterfront museum.
• Waterfront Promenade Walk — Stroll along the scenic waterfront boulevard lined with government buildings, shops, and rest areas offering views of Brunei Bay.
• Central Market (Pasar Sentral) — Browse fresh produce, seafood, local spices, and handicrafts in this bustling traditional market that captures authentic Labuan life.
• Friday Mosque (Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah) — Visit this prominent Islamic landmark with distinctive architecture, though non-Muslims should observe prayer times and dress respectfully.
• Chimney Monument — View this symbolic structure commemorating the oil industry's importance to Labuan's development, located near the waterfront.
• Local Street Food Courts — Experience open-air dining areas near the market and town center where vendors serve fresh grilled fish, noodles, and traditional snacks.

Food to try

• Grilled Fish (Ikan Bakar) — Fresh-caught local fish seasoned with turmeric, garlic, and chilies, grilled over charcoal and served with sambal and rice, a staple at waterfront stalls.
• Laksa — A rich coconut-based noodle soup with seafood or chicken, aromatic spices, and a fiery kick, commonly found at morning food courts.
• Tamu Labo (Labuan Night Market Food) — Weekend night market offering grilled seafood, satay, curry-based dishes, and desserts reflecting Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences.
• Cendol — A refreshing dessert of green rice flour noodles in sweet coconut milk and palm sugar syrup, perfect for cooling down in Labuan's heat.
• Seafood Curry (Kari Seafood) — Local restaurants serve aromatic curry dishes featuring prawns, squid, and fish from Brunei Bay with coconut milk and traditional spice blends.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Prayer Times — Many shops and food stalls close or reduce hours during the five daily Islamic prayers, particularly during Friday midday prayers.
• Dress Modestly — While Labuan Town is more relaxed than rural areas, visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Cash and Haggling — While major establishments accept cards, the central market and street vendors primarily use cash; light haggling is acceptable and expected in traditional markets.
• Greet with 'Assalamualaikum' — Using this Islamic greeting shows respect and politeness to locals; the response is 'Wa alaikum assalam,' and handshakes are common though men and women may avoid physical contact for religious reasons.