The Pothole Paradise of Sabah
Tourists come to Sabah for the beaches, the mountains, and—most famously—the roads that look like they were designed by Swiss cheese architects.
Locals say the potholes aren’t a problem; they’re heritage sites. In fact, a whole folklore has developed around them.
The Great Pothole Festival
Every year, villagers gather to decorate the biggest pothole with fairy lights and bunga raya petals. The mayor gives a speech:
> “Our leaders may not build smooth roads, but at least they provide us with… depth.”
Kids jump in with rubber boots. Foreign tourists mistake it for an infinity pool.
Unique Transportation
Driving in Sabah is not just commuting—it’s an extreme sport.
- Motorcyclists have perfected the zigzag ballet, weaving around craters like dancers avoiding stage traps.
- Car owners proudly say, “My suspension didn’t survive last year’s rainy season, but my spirit did.”
- Grab drivers now charge extra for what they call “the rollercoaster experience.”
Leaders’ Contribution
Sabah’s leaders insist the potholes are intentional features.
- One minister claimed, “They collect rainwater, so technically we solved two problems: water storage and road maintenance.”
- Another said, “Potholes slow drivers down. It’s road safety innovation!”
- The tourism board has rebranded highways as “Adventure Tracks.”
International Recognition
Rumors say UNESCO is considering Sabah’s potholes for World Heritage status. Criteria: uniqueness, resilience, and the ability to turn every 10-minute drive into a 40-minute saga.
A viral travel guide even calls Sabah “The Land Below the Windshield Cracks.”
Conclusion
While other states brag about skyscrapers or smooth expressways, Sabah stands tall—or rather, sits deep—in its proud identity. The potholes aren’t just holes. They’re symbols of patience, humor, and leaders who somehow convinced everyone that bad roads are a cultural treasure.
