Is Kota Kinabalu Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kota Kinabalu is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly, helpful, and respectful. Most places are well-polished and the locals are used to tourists. However, it is advisable to avoid unpopulated areas, especially at night, and always keep your belongings secure as is wise in any city. Distinctive cultural values and laws in Malaysia should be respected throughout your visit.

Safety rating

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Kota Kinabalu is currently ranked #16 safest place in Malaysia for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Kota Kinabalu?

Safety at night:Moderate

Kota Kinabalu, like many other Asian cities, is generally safe even at night. There are populous areas such as shopping malls, food markets and some streets that bustle with activity till late. However, as a solo female tourist, it would be prudent to be cautious not to venture into poorly lit or deserted areas alone after dark. It's also recommended to use reputable transportation services when moving around late at night, and always keep your personal belongings secure.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Kota Kinabalu generally offers a safe travel experience. Buses and taxis are reliable and regulated by the city's authorities, and drivers are usually helpful and courteous to tourists. However, instances of overcharging fare or unexpected route changes can occur. It is advised to have exact or close to exact change when using buses, and use taxis from a reputable company or use taxi booking apps for transparency in fares.

Street harassment:Low

Kota Kinabalu is generally a safe city with welcoming locals. However, like any place in the world, it has occasional instances of street harassment. These are fairly rare and are quickly dealt with when reported. On most days, you can go about your day enjoying the city's attractions, its vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people without encountering any form of street harassment. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and always stay within populated areas. Moreover, the police presence is clearly visible, providing an extra layer of safety.

Petty crimes:Low

Kota Kinabalu is generally considered a safe city, even for solo female travelers. Petty crime rates such as pickpocketing or bag snatching are lower compared to other global cities. However, caution should always be exercised especially in crowded areas and when walking alone at night. It's always recommended to secure your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Is Kota Kinabalu worth visiting?

Rachel

Singapore

Family travel

The most consistently beautiful sunsets I've seen. Food was always good and inexpensive. It seems that they get quite a lot of Korean tourists, most attraction/activity providers speak fluent English. We went for snorkeling and scuba diving and it was such a great experience. There was a guide during the snorkeling session and he swam beside us and pointed out various marine wildlife that we probably wouldn't have noticed otherwise.

Posted: June 17, 2024

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Is Kota Kinabalu safe for women?

It's pretty safe but close to the Philippines market in Kota Kinabalu, there is chances of molestation and mugging. I have personally experienced it so be careful, don't walk there alone. Even in centre point mall, which is very near to the Philippines market, you have to be careful. Other parts of KK is pretty safe and nothing to worry about. It's just the illegal immigrants and refugees harassing women in those areas that should be of concern.

Posted: August 19, 2024

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