Quick answers
Common questions about visiting Labuan, answered directly. Where an answer depends on something that changes, that is stated.
Common questions
Where is Labuan?
In the South China Sea, about 8 km off the coast of Sabah in Borneo. The territory covers 95 square kilometres across one main island and six smaller ones. [Tourism Malaysia, Labuan Map & Guide, December 2023]
Is Labuan part of Sabah?
No. Labuan is a Federal Territory administered directly by the federal government. It became one on 16 April 1984 and is one of Malaysia’s three federal territories.
Why is Labuan duty-free?
Labuan holds duty-free status as a territory. It was also declared an International Offshore Financial Centre in 1990, which is why the island has both a business district and a tourism industry.
What is Labuan known for?
Four wreck dive sites inside a marine park, the largest war cemetery in Malaysia, duty-free shopping, and fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
How do you get to Labuan?
By air from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu or Miri, or by ferry from points in Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam. Confirm current routes and schedules with the carrier, as they change.
Do I need a visa?
Labuan follows Malaysian entry rules. Requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check the official Malaysian immigration guidance for your passport before travelling.
Can you travel to Brunei from Labuan?
Yes. Brunei Darussalam is one of the ferry connections, and a common addition for visitors with a spare day.
Do you need to rent a car?
Not for the town centre, which is compact and among the most pedestrian-friendly in Malaysia. You will need a car, taxi or ride-hailing service for the Chimney, Labuan Bird Park, the war cemetery and the west-coast beaches.
How do you reach the water villages?
By water taxi. That is the usual way to move around the stilt villages.
How many days do you need?
Two nights for the main sights, three for a comfortable pace, and five if you plan to dive the wrecks or add a day trip to Brunei.
What are the four wrecks?
The American, Australian, Blue Water and Cement wrecks, all within Labuan Marine Park. Two of them are Second World War casualties.
Do I need to be an experienced diver?
The four sites differ in depth and difficulty. Certification requirements are set by each dive operator, so confirm directly with them which sites your qualification and experience allow.
What currency is used?
The Malaysian ringgit (MYR).
What can you buy duty-free?
Chocolate, jewellery, cosmetics, perfume, watches and local souvenirs. The main outlets are at Financial Park, Jalan OKK Awang Besar, the ferry terminal area, Victoria Point and Labuan Airport.
How much can I take home duty-free?
Allowances are set by Royal Malaysian Customs and change from time to time. Check a current customs notice before buying in quantity. This site does not publish allowance figures that cannot be verified against a current source.