Tenom: Sabah is enhancing heritage-based tourism through the development of the Murut Cultural Centre here, with the “Skull House” or Rumah Tengkorak set to emerge as a key landmark attraction.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin he project under the Sabah Murut Cultural Centre aims to preserve the identity and heritage of the Murut community while enhancing the State’s tourism appeal in a sustainable way.
“This project is based on authenticity, historical storytelling and immersive spatial experiences, ensuring visitors do not just observe but truly experience Murut heritage,” he said.
A major highlight of the project is the Skull House, which will serve as an iconic building and cultural interpretation centre featuring historical exhibitions, traditional artefacts and presentation spaces introducing the origins of the Murut community.
“The design of the Skull House symbolically represents history and heritage, guiding visitors through a structured cultural narrative journey,” he added.
The project also includes 10 traditional huts representing various Murut sub-ethnic groups, including Murut Tagol, Timugon and Tangara, each designed with distinct architectural identity.
Jafry said the development will also function as an educational platform, benefiting local communities through tourism activities and cultural interpretation programmes.
The project, which began on May 6, 2025, is scheduled for completion on May 6, 2026, with a contract cost of RM825,559.
He expressed confidence that the development will become a significant cultural tourism icon in Tenom, further strengthening Sabah’s position as a world-class heritage destination.
