Spending a night at Rundum Highlands isn’t for the faint-hearted, but this remote gem holds the echoes of a rebellion, Murut culture, and Sabah’s untamed beauty.

Rundum Highlands, Tenom, is where adventure meets history – if you can survive the road there.

The 31-km stretch from Kemabong is a test of endurance, with slippery mud paths and bone-shaking rides.

We packed a tent, supplies, and a sense of humour, expecting a peaceful retreat – but nature had other plans.

Heavy rain hit midway, turning the logging road into a muddy obstacle course.

Locals say it’s normal, but the sheer remoteness is enough to make city folk reconsider their life choices.

The Rundum Rebellion of 1915, led by Murut warrior Ontoros Antanum, remains etched in the highlands’ history.

It’s hard not to feel the weight of that past when standing by the ruins of the old British fort.

The Murut Tagol community takes pride in preserving this legacy, even if infrastructure progress seems slow.

Electricity poles line the road, but homes still rely on generators – and forget about internet.

Camping under the stars here comes with complete disconnection, in every sense.

But it’s worth it when you wake to mist-covered hills and the fresh scent of mountain air.

The Rundum Highlands aren’t just a getaway – they’re a reminder of Sabah’s resilience and unbreakable spirit.

With better roads and amenities, this place could become a heritage hotspot.

For now, it remains a rough, rugged escape – and that’s what makes it so special. – January 11, 2025.