Set in the Malaysian state of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu’s now-sleepy little sister, Sandakan, was the capital of British North Borneo until 1946. Today, the town functions as one of the main ports for oil, tobacco, coffee, sago and timber exports. During a visit, travellers can explore the elaborate Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple on the hill and, just out of town, the fishing village of Buli Sim Sim, where residents live on stilt houses perched above the water. Further afield is the Sandakan Memorial Park, which is situated on the original site of a notorious WWII prisoner-of-war camp. With its small museum and leafy surroundings, it is a must for history buffs and nature lovers.