Kota Kinabalu formerly known as Jesselton, is the capital of the state of Sabah, located in East Malaysia. It is also the capital of the West Coast Division of Sabah. The city is located along the northwest coast of Borneo facing the South China Sea. The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park lies on its west and Mount Kinabalu, which gave the city its name, is located towards the east. Kota Kinabalu has a population of +/- 600,000 including the adjacent Penampang district.

Kota Kinabalu is often known as KK. It is a major fishing destination and a popular gateway for travelers visiting Sabah and Borneo.

Mount Kinabalu is only 2.5 hour drive from the city center, and stands in the middle of the Kinabalu National Park, a World Heritage Site. In 1997, a re-survey using satellite technology established its summit (known as Low’s Peak) height at 4,095 metres (13,435 ft) above sea level, which is some 6 metres (20 ft) less than the previously thought and hitherto published figure of 4,101 metres (13,455 ft).

The City is always a thriving place with many shopping Malls, the Filipino Market, Central Market, the Waterfront, evening market and the many food stalls and Seafood Restaurants.