Walai Tokou Homestay: Forging towards Success and Prominence in the industry

16 March 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Nestled in the picturesque village of Kg Sinisian Kundasang, the Walai Tokou Homestay offers an idyllic escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Kinabalu, this cosy homestay provides an unparalleled experience, especially during sunrise when the first blush of dawn delicately kisses the mountain tops. As the sun rises, the surrounding landscape is painted in hues of pink and orange, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates the hearts of all who visit.

The homestay, which translates to “Our Home,” is a reflection of the warm hospitality and vibrant culture of the local dusun community.

Kohadie Watiman, the spokesperson for Walai Tokou Homestay and who is also the Chairman of the Cooperative Walai Tokou Kundasang Sabah Berhad (KOPSTAY) embodies this spirit, welcoming guests with open arms and sharing the rich heritage of the region.

Kohadie who is the Deputy President Homestay Malaysia is passionate about showcasing the beauty of Kundasang and ensuring that each visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.

Accommodations at Walai Tokou are designed to provide comfort while immersing guests in nature. The cozy rooms offer stunning views of Mount Kinabalu, allowing visitors to wake up to the majestic sight of the mountain every morning. The homestay's surrounding lush greenery and tranquil ambiance create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities during their stay, such as guided treks through the nearby hills, exploring the diverse flora and fauna, or visiting the nearby Kundasang War Memorial for a taste of history. For those seeking adventure, a day trip to the base of Mount Kinabalu offers a chance to experience the region's renowned hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat to unwind, an adventurous getaway, or a deeper understanding of the local culture, Walai Tokou Homestay offers a welcoming atmosphere with unrivaled views of one of Southeast Asia's most majestic mountains. As the dawn breaks over Mount Kinabalu, the memories of your stay will linger long after you've departed from this serene sanctuary.

As for Kohadie, he is not about to rest on his laurels. In fact, he is working towards improving the tourism product and developing his cooperative further.

Currently, there are 42 homestay houses available, with the cooperative boasting a membership of 153 individuals, as stated by Kohadie.

“Our cooperative members are all homestay operators who are committed to providing our guests with clean, comfortable accommodation. We pride ourselves on offering tourism packages that highlight the beauty of our natural surroundings and the warmth of our local culture,” Kohadie explained.

Those interested in joining the cooperative should possess at least two acres of land, which can be either rented or developed through joint ventures. One potential location for new members is Kg Bukit Lawis, situated around five kilometres radius from their site office. This area presents an excellent opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the scenic environment while contributing to the local tourism industry.

During a recent visit, Datuk Ewon Benedick, the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, announced the approval of a RM300,000 Development Assistance Grant from the Malaysian Cooperative Commission (SKM) for the Walai Tokou Kundasang Sabah Berhad Cooperative (KOPSTAY).

This funding aims to expand the cooperative's offerings by introducing new tourism products, specifically glamping and camping sites, to attract more tourists to Kundasang and boost the local economy.

According to Ewon, KOPSTAY has shown outstanding performance, having received awards such as the Sustainable Village Award. The minister expressed his satisfaction with the cooperative's growth and commitment to enhancing its services. In addition to the RM300,000 grant, a further RM12,500 has been allocated for cooperative programmes.

Kohadie expressed his utmost gratitude to the Minister, saying that the grant will go a long way in development and management of the Homestay Programme in Kg Sinisian, ensuring that guests and operators alike benefit in their hospitality endeavour.