ATV Kiau Adventure Is Sabah’s Newest Must-Visit Destination

3 February 2025

By EVB

KOTA BELUD: Nestled near the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Kiau Taburi is quickly gaining recognition as an adventure destination, thanks to ATV Kiau Adventure.

This thrilling off-road experience offers visitors an opportunity to explore Sabah’s breathtaking landscapes in an exciting and unconventional way.

With Mount Kinabalu as a breathtaking backdrop, riders are treated to one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic views while navigating through lush greenery, crossing rivers, and traversing scenic kampung routes.

The trails offer a mix of excitement and discovery, making it perfect for both first-time riders and seasoned adventure seekers.

Since its inception in December 2023, ATV Kiau Adventure has grown significantly, starting with just four ATVs and now expanding to a fleet of eight, with additional ATVs from partner operators.

The business can now accommodate up to 14 adventurers per ride, ensuring that more people get to experience the thrill of riding through Kiau’s scenic terrain.

"It wasn’t easy at first," said Dr. Woweham Sindeh, founder of ATV Kiau Adventure, and a proud native of Kiau. Dr. Woweham, who is also a Senior Medical Lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), shared his journey in building the business.

"I started with just four ATVs, purchased with my own savings, and had to find ways to expand while keeping the business sustainable. To grow, I partnered with other ATV owners in Kiau, offering them a commission for each ride, and that really helped us grow."

One of the key aspects of ATV Kiau Adventure’s success is its commitment to community involvement. Local ATV owners are given the opportunity to partner with the business, earning a commission for each ride.

Additionally, the business has hired local guides and a mechanic, ensuring that the adventure not only provides thrills but also creates opportunities for the people of Kiau Taburi.

"One of my biggest challenges was finding the right people to run the business," Dr. Woweham admitted. "I needed skilled guides to lead tours safely and a reliable mechanic to keep the ATVs in top condition. Fortunately, I found a talented local mechanic and passionate guides from Kiau who share my enthusiasm. Seeing them work close to home and take pride in what they do is incredibly rewarding."

ATV Kiau Adventure has gained popularity among Malaysians and is now attracting visitors from Brunei, Singapore, China, and even Europe.

Despite the increasing demand, Dr. Woweham remains committed to keeping prices affordable so that more people can experience the adventure.

"It’s amazing to see how a small idea can bring people from all over the world together," he said. "The joy of seeing first-time riders laugh, the look of awe when they take in the view of Mount Kinabalu—it’s these moments that make it all worthwhile."

Looking ahead, ATV Kiau Adventure has ambitious plans for expansion. Currently, the fleet consists of 2WD ATVs, which are well-suited for the existing routes.

However, Dr. Woweham plans to introduce 4WD ATVs to tackle more challenging terrains, making the experience even more thrilling.

His goal is to expand the fleet to at least 20 ATVs to meet the growing demand from local and international visitors.

"I want to offer an even better experience for our visitors," he explained. "Upgrading to 4WD ATVs will allow us to explore new trails and provide thrill-seekers with an unforgettable adventure."

ATV Kiau Adventure is more than just a business; it’s a gateway to exploring Sabah’s natural beauty in a thrilling and unique way.

As it continues to grow, it is poised to become a must-visit destination for those seeking an unparalleled off-road adventure.

With its stunning landscapes, community-driven ethos, and ambitious plans for the future, ATV Kiau Adventure is set to leave a lasting impression on the world of adventure tourism.