Labuan National Geopark is Malaysia's only island geopark — a 402 km² living museum where dramatic coastal rock formations, ancient trace fossils, active mud volcanoes, and remnants of Southeast Asia's earliest coal mines reveal a story written over 35 million years. Recognised as a National Geopark on 16 December 2021, it encompasses the entire Federal Territory of Labuan including its territorial waters, making it one of the most accessible and compact geoparks in the country.
What Is Labuan Geopark?
Labuan National Geopark is a designated area within Malaysia's Federal Territory of Labuan that preserves and promotes the island's unique geological, ecological, and cultural heritage. It was officially recognised as Malaysia's sixth national geopark on 16 December 2021 during the National Geopark Committee Meeting, joining the ranks of Langkawi (a UNESCO Global Geopark), Kinabalu, Kinta Valley, Jerai, and Lenggong.
The total area of Labuan Geopark covers approximately 402 km² (40,165 hectares), including the island's territorial waters. The land area alone spans 94.52 km², with the main island of Pulau Labuan accounting for 95.7% of the total land. The geopark boundary is coterminous with the administrative boundary of the entire Federal Territory — meaning when you set foot on Labuan, you're standing inside the geopark.
What makes Labuan Geopark special is the concentration of geological diversity within such a compact, accessible island. Within a 20-minute drive, visitors can walk across rock formations spanning 35 million years of Earth's history — from deep-sea sediments deposited over 2,000 metres below the ocean surface during the Oligocene era, to shallow coastal formations from the Middle Miocene, to active geological phenomena like mud volcanoes that are still erupting today.
Why Labuan Earned National Geopark Status
The evaluation was led by Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr Ibrahim Komoo, Malaysia's leading geopark expert. The committee assessed eight geosites across the island and found:
- Three distinct geological formations spanning 35 million years, all exposed and accessible within a single island
- Rare trace fossils including Paleodictyon, Ophiomorpha, and Teichichnus — indicators of ancient marine environments
- The only accessible oil reservoir outcrop in Malaysia where visitors can see and touch rocks that normally exist thousands of feet below the seabed
- An active mud volcano similar to those found at Pulau Tiga, Klias Peninsula, and Tawau
- Historical coal mining sites dating from 1847 — among the earliest in Southeast Asia
- Mega-scale cross-bedding with coal gravel formations unique to Labuan and not found elsewhere in Malaysia
Geological History — 35 Million Years in the Making
The geology of the Labuan archipelago is a continuation of the formations found in western Sabah, Brunei Darussalam, and northern Sarawak. Labuan is formed entirely of sedimentary and alluvial rocks — there are no igneous or metamorphic rocks on the island. The rock units, from oldest to youngest, are the Temburung Formation, the West Crocker Formation, and the Belait Formation, which fold together to form a large asymmetric anticline that plunges north-eastward.
The geological history of Labuan begins with the deposition of more than 12 km of deep-sea sediments in the northwestern Sabah Basin. These sediments, deposited at depths exceeding 2,000 metres below the ocean surface, formed the rock units known as the West Crocker Formation and the Temburung Formation. Turbidite deposits — underwater avalanches of sediment — created the distinctive interbedded sandstone and mudstone sequences visible today at Kampung Bebuloh and Tanjung Punei.
Tectonic uplift caused by the subduction of ancient South China Sea crust pushed the deep-sea sediments upward. A coastal environment emerged along northwest Sabah and Brunei, including Labuan. Mangrove swamps, estuaries, delta plains, flood plains, and riverbeds collected various types of sediment. Plant waste material accumulated and turned into coal seams. Sandy sediments became hydrocarbon-retaining rocks. This entire sequence forms the Belait Formation — the youngest and most widespread rock unit on Labuan.
The end of the subduction process folded the entire rock sequence into large anticline structures. Periodic folding lifted the rock layers upward from the seabed, simultaneously creating gravity faults and erosion features. Over millions of years, this process slowly raised Labuan from beneath the ocean to form the island we see today. The low hills, coastal cliffs, and dramatic rock outcrops around the island are all products of this final phase of geological transformation.
The Three Rock Formations
Every rock you see on Labuan belongs to one of three geological formations. Understanding these three layers is the key to reading the island's story:
1. Temburung Formation (Oldest — ~35 million years)
The oldest rocks on Labuan. Deep-sea sediments deposited at depths exceeding 2,000 metres, consisting of red to dark grey mudstone layers overlaid by sandstone intervals. Best observed at Kampung Bebuloh Darat, where the dramatic colour contrasts between the mudstone and sandstone layers are striking. These rocks originated in the same deep ocean basin that formed the geological foundations of Brunei and western Sabah.
2. West Crocker Formation (Middle — ~30 million years)
Also known as the Setap Shale Formation in some classifications, these rocks represent a transitional period when the ocean basin was beginning to be uplifted. Turbidite deposits — layers of sediment from underwater landslides — are characteristic of this formation. Visible at Tanjung Punei, where interbedded sandstone and mudstone reveal the chaotic energy of ancient submarine sediment flows. Rare trace fossils of Nereites and coal clasts can be found embedded in the sandstone layers.
3. Belait Formation (Youngest — ~15 million years)
The most widespread formation on Labuan, representing the shallow coastal and terrestrial environments that existed after the island was uplifted from the deep sea. This is where you'll find coal seams, oil seepages, trace fossils of shallow marine life (Ophiomorpha, Teichichnus), and the thick sandstone layers at Tanjung Kubong Beach that are so fresh and well-preserved they look like they were deposited yesterday. The Belait Formation is the geological foundation of Labuan's coal mining industry — the very reason the British colonised the island in 1846.
The 8 Geosites — Where to Explore
Labuan Geopark contains eight designated geosites, each showcasing different aspects of the island's geological heritage. All are accessible by road and most can be explored independently, though guided geo-tours are available for deeper understanding.
1. Tanjung Kubong Beach (Bethune Head – Kubong Bluff)
The crown jewel of Labuan Geopark. A stunning rocky coastline with diverse landscapes formed by sandy beaches alternating with rocky outcrops. Features sea caves, sea gates formed by wave erosion, mega-scale cross-bedding unique to Malaysia, and the only accessible oil reservoir outcrop where visitors can see and smell petroleum seeping from rocks that normally exist thousands of feet below the seabed.
2. Historical Coal Mining Sites (Tanjung Kubong)
Among the first coal mining sites in Southeast Asia. Underground tunnels, shafts, and adit passages from British-era mining operations that began in 1847 are still visible. An 8-mile railway once connected the mines to Victoria Port. The famous 106-foot Chimney — a red brick stack of unknown purpose — stands here as a mysterious monument to the island's industrial past. The mine operated for 64 years before a series of accidents led to its closure in 1911.
3. Mud Volcano (Kampung Layang-Layangan)
The only mud volcano on Labuan Island — and one of the few in Malaysia accessible to visitors. Similar to the mud volcanoes at Pulau Tiga (made famous by the TV show Survivor), Klias Peninsula, and Tawau. This active geological phenomenon provides evidence of ongoing subsurface geological processes including gas migration and sediment mobilisation. A living, breathing reminder that the Earth beneath Labuan is still geologically active.
4. Tanjung Punei Beach
A rich fossil site where Nereites trace fossils can be found in sandstone layers — evidence of organisms that lived on the ancient ocean floor. The beach exposes turbidite deposits (underwater landslide sediments) alongside slump structures that show how the original ocean floor was deformed. Coal clasts embedded in conglomerates reveal the transition from deep marine to coastal environments.
5. Tanjung Batu Beach
Famous for its spectacular tafoni weathering — honeycomb-like erosion patterns formed when salt water seeps into sandstone and crystallises, gradually breaking the rock from within. The beach also displays thick rock layers showing tidal river trough filling, and abundant trace fossils of shallow marine life including vertical excavations by Ophiomorpha and Teichichnus organisms.
6. Tanjung Layang-Layangan Beach
Features dramatic sea gates formed by wave erosion and geological structures exposed to exceptionally fresh rock surfaces. Home to unique mega-scale cross-bedding with coal gravel — a geological feature not found anywhere else in Malaysia. The coastal erosion platform surrounding the island is beautifully displayed here, showing how the sea is actively reshaping the island's geology in real time.
7. Coal & Oil Seepages (Kampung Ganggarak)
One of Labuan's most scientifically significant sites. Here you can observe coal-bearing strata alongside active oil seepages — two petroleum seeps indicate an active petroleum system in the subsurface. Oil exploration on Labuan began in 1897 following reports of oil seeping from coal mines. This site connects Labuan's geological heritage directly to its modern identity as an offshore oil and gas hub.
8. Turbidite Outcrops (Kampung Bebuloh)
The oldest rocks on Labuan. Deep-sea sedimentary rocks deposited at depths exceeding 2,000 metres are exposed here, represented by dramatic red to dark grey mudstone layers overlaid by sandstone intervals. These 35-million-year-old outcrops are windows into an ancient ocean floor that existed long before Labuan was even an island. The Geopark Bebuloh Laut visitor area provides access to guided walks through this geological time capsule.
Biodiversity & Ecosystems
Labuan Geopark is not just about rocks — it's also a haven for biodiversity. The island's compact size belies the diversity of ecosystems it supports, from dense mangrove forests and coral reefs to tropical rainforest remnants and coastal wetlands. The geopark's marine component, covering the territorial waters around Labuan and its six surrounding islands, is particularly rich in marine life.
Coral Reefs
Fringing reefs around the surrounding islands support diverse hard and soft corals, attracting snorkellers and divers to the Labuan Marine Park.
Mangrove Forests
Coastal mangroves serve as breeding grounds for fish, crabs, and shrimp. The Kina Benuwa Mangrove Ecology Park offers guided walks through these vital ecosystems.
Birdlife
Labuan Bird Park and the island's natural habitats host various tropical bird species. Mangrove areas are particularly rich in resident and migratory birds.
Marine Life
The waters around Labuan's islands support sea turtles, reef fish, and the marine organisms that have colonised the island's four famous shipwrecks.
Tropical Flora
Despite its small size, Labuan supports diverse tropical plant life. The annual Borneo Flora Festival celebrates this botanical heritage.
Coastal Ecosystems
Tidal flats, sand spits, and rocky shores create varied habitats for crabs, mudskippers, and other intertidal organisms.
Cultural & Historical Heritage
Labuan Geopark is deeply intertwined with the island's rich cultural and historical heritage. The same geological resources that make the geopark scientifically significant — coal deposits, strategic harbour location, oil reserves — are the reasons Labuan attracted colonial interest and became a pivotal location in the history of Southeast Asia.
Coal Mining Heritage (1847–1911)
Labuan was one of the first coal mining centres in Southeast Asia. The British established mining operations at Tanjung Kubong in 1847, just one year after acquiring the island from the Sultan of Brunei. An 8-mile railway connected the mines to Victoria Port for coal export. The mining operation was facilitated by imported red bricks from England — the same bricks used to construct the famous 106-foot Chimney that still stands today. A series of mining accidents led to the closure of operations in 1911 after 64 years, but the tunnels, shafts, and industrial remnants remain as some of the most tangible links to Labuan's colonial industrial past.
World War II Heritage
The geological landscape of Labuan played a role in its WWII history. The island's strategic position at the mouth of Brunei Bay, its harbour (formed by the same geological processes that shaped the geopark), and its proximity to oil-producing regions made it a target during the Japanese occupation and the subsequent Allied liberation in 1945. The Labuan War Cemetery, Peace Park, and Surrender Point all sit within the geopark boundary.
Living Cultural Heritage
Labuan's population of approximately 100,000 comprises Bumiputera communities (85%), Chinese (12.3%), Indian (0.9%), and other ethnic groups, residing in 27 villages and the central urban area. The traditional water villages of Kampung Patau-Patau, where Brunei Malay communities live in stilt houses over the sea, represent a living cultural heritage that has coexisted with the island's geological landscape for generations.
Things to Do at the Geopark
Guided Geo-Tours
Local operators offer guided geological tours of the key geosites, led by trained geo-guides who explain the formations, fossils, and geological processes in accessible language. The Pulau Rusukan Besar Resort and Agrotourism VCO Geo-Farm Labuan are active geopark tourism partners offering packages that combine geological exploration with island stays and eco-tourism experiences.
Self-Guided Exploration
- Chimney Museum Walking Trail — explore the historical coal mining sites, The Chimney, and surrounding rock outcrops at Tanjung Kubong. Free entry, open 9am–5pm daily.
- Tanjung Kubong Coastal Walk — follow the coastline to see sea caves, oil seepage sites, and mega-scale cross-bedding. Best at low tide.
- Kampung Bebuloh Geosite — visit the oldest rocks on Labuan. The Geopark Bebuloh Laut visitor area provides interpretation boards.
- Kina Benuwa Mangrove Ecology Park — guided walks through mangrove ecosystems with boardwalks and interpretation signage.
- Mud Volcano (Kampung Layang-Layangan) — observe the active mud volcano near Peace Park and Layang-Layangan Beach.
Educational Programs
Labuan Geopark offers educational programs for schools, university research groups, and visiting geologists. The geopark has an active partnership with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's (UKM) Pusat Penyelidikan Geotaman (Geopark Research Centre), which conducts ongoing research on Labuan's geological heritage. The geopark regularly participates in community events including the Borneo Flora Festival and Minggu Perpaduan (Unity Week) exhibitions.
Practical Information for Visitors
| Official Status | Malaysia National Geopark (recognised 16 December 2021) |
| Total Area | 402 km² (40,165 hectares) including territorial waters |
| Land Area | 94.52 km² (9,452 hectares) |
| Number of Geosites | 8 designated geosites |
| Age of Formations | 15 to 35 million years (Oligocene to Middle Miocene) |
| Location | Federal Territory of Labuan, off the northwest coast of Sabah, East Malaysia |
| Getting There | Fly to Labuan Airport (LBU) from KL, Kota Kinabalu, or Miri. Ferry from KK, Menumbok, or Brunei. See full transport guide → |
| Getting Around | All geosites accessible by car (rentals from RM60/day). Grab available. Most sites within 20 min drive. |
| Best Time to Visit | Year-round. Dry season (March–September) ideal for coastal geosite exploration. Low tide recommended for Tanjung Kubong. |
| Entry Fees | All geosites are free to access. Chimney Museum free entry (register at guest book). |
| Guided Tours | Available through local operators. Contact Pulau Rusukan Besar Resort or enquire at the Chimney Museum. |
| Research | Academic researchers can coordinate with UKM's Pusat Penyelidikan Geotaman for fieldwork support. |
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Discover 35 million years of geological history on Malaysia's most accessible island geopark.
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