Shopping in Kota Kinabalu
Discover 9 markets, shops, and shopping spots in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. From local markets to specialty stores — curated from real traveler tips.
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Filipino Market
Synonymous with pearls, local handicrafts, home decorations and lately crystals. Don't forget to bargain for good prices. The attendants here are very friendly and will always greet you with a warm smile. You can also find souvenirs such as keychains, t-shirts with Sabah themes, carved wooden statues, batiks and sarongs, rattan handicraft and floor mats, Islamic calligraphy and broaches. Some of the items are imported from Australia and others from neighbouring Asian countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Korea, and there is little actual Sabah handicraft available, but it is a very colourful place that will stay in your memory as a 'souvenir' from Sabah.
Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen -
Suria Sabah
One of the newest and most modern mall in Sabah located between Wisma Merdeka and Jesselton Point. The food court, located on the 4th floor, offers a nice view of the sea and Pulau Gaya. Shop consists of mainly branded goods compared to other malls in KK.
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Sunday market
With everything from Malaysian delicacies, ground coffee, t-shirts, handicrafts, hardware to anything in between at bargain prices. Held every Sunday morning, 6AM-1PM, along Jl. Gaya right in the heart of town.
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1Borneo Hypermall
The largest mall in Sabah and possible the whole of Borneo. Located about 20 minutes drive from the city centre. There is a free shuttle bus from the city centre from Warisan Square.
Jalan Sulaman 10am–10pm -
Borneo Art Gallery
Located in Asia City Complex, contain art works by local and regional artists. Art works are for sale.
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Centre Point Sabah
A large mall adjacent to Asia City, Api-Api, Warisan Square and Sinsuran.
1, Jalan Centre Point -
Kompleks Karamunsing
An older but large mall specialises in computers and electronics.
Jalan Karamunsing -
Wisma Merdeka
One of the oldest and smallest malls but still very popular.
Jalan Tun Razak -
IMAGO Shopping Mall
Huge new shopping mall with lots of cafes and restaurants.
Travel tips by Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA 3.0). Verify opening hours before visiting.
Shopping Guide for Kota Kinabalu: Markets, Stores & Souvenirs
Shopping in Kota Kinabalu is one of the best ways to experience local culture beyond the usual tourist trail. Whether you're browsing open-air markets for fresh produce and local specialties, hunting for antiques in backstreet shops, or looking for handcrafted souvenirs to bring home, Kota Kinabalu's shopping scene has something for every kind of traveler.
This guide lists 9 shopping spots in Kota Kinabalu sourced from Wikivoyage — the community travel guide written by real travelers. These are the shops, markets, and stores that visitors actually recommend to each other.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Kota Kinabalu
- Visit markets early for the best selection at Kota Kinabalu's food and craft markets.
- Carry local cash — many independent vendors and market stalls prefer cash over cards.
- Check opening days — many specialty shops in Kota Kinabalu are closed on Sundays or have limited weekend hours.
- Ask about local products — the best souvenirs are made locally, not imported for tourist shops.
- Use Nomax to connect with travelers currently in Kota Kinabalu who can share real-time shopping tips.
Meet Fellow Travelers in Kota Kinabalu
Download Nomax to see other travelers currently in Kota Kinabalu. Find a market companion, share shopping discoveries, or join city activities organized by the traveler community. Free on iOS and Android.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shopping in Kota Kinabalu
Where to shop in Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu has 9 curated shopping spots including markets, specialty stores, and local boutiques. This guide covers the best places to shop in Kota Kinabalu, from open-air markets to specialist shops. Use Nomax to connect with fellow travelers who can share shopping tips.
What souvenirs to buy in Kota Kinabalu?
The best souvenirs from Kota Kinabalu are locally produced food and drink, handmade crafts, books about the city, and artisan goods. Markets are the best place to find authentic products. Check listings in this guide for specialty shops and markets in Kota Kinabalu.
Are there markets in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, Kota Kinabalu has several markets in this guide including food markets, antique fairs, and craft markets. Opening days and hours vary by market — check individual listings before visiting.
Is Nomax free to use in Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, Nomax is completely free. Download it on iOS or Android to connect with travelers currently in Kota Kinabalu, join activities, and get shopping recommendations from people who know the city.
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