by David E.
KOTA KINABALU: August 5, 2026 – The founder of the Trans Borneo Expedition has announced a new journey in 2027 to mark three decades since the first cross-island adventure.
Anuar Ghani, speaking at a press conference in Sabah, said North Borneo Explorer Sdn Bhd would introduce a fresh route to continue the legacy of the 1996 expedition.
The original journey saw participants traverse Borneo, crossing borders and challenging terrain to build connections between Malaysia and Indonesia.
“Thirty years ago, what began as a simple dream became the first Trans Borneo Expedition,” Ghani said.
“At that time, few people believed an international overland expedition could successfully traverse the island of Borneo.”
The 2027 expedition will build on plans to improve cross-border links between Sabah and North Kalimantan.
Ghani pointed to Indonesian progress on border infrastructure, including a cross-border post inaugurated by President Joko Widodo at Lumbis Labang in October 2024.
However, he expressed concern about Malaysia’s pace in developing two new CIQ crossings in Sabah.
The Serudong-Kalabakan to Simanggaris crossing is estimated to cost RM819 million, while the Bantul-Pagalungan to Lumbis Labang link would cost RM367 million.
According to a parliamentary answer from the Home Ministry, only RM41 million (2.2%) has been approved as of November 2024.
“The Sabah and federal government must reciprocate the Indonesians’ eagerness and enthusiasm for connectivity,” Ghani said.
He also called for the abolition or replacement of the Carnet de Passage customs waiver, which requires hefty deposits for vehicles crossing borders.
The requirement creates a “cost-prohibitive financial barrier” that contradicts ASEAN objectives on cross-border transport, he argued.
Ghani endorsed the Tribute to Trans Borneo expedition organised by Indonesia 4×4 Overland, granting permission to use the Trans Borneo name through his company.
He also renewed calls for the return of Feri Malaysia, a proposal allowing West Malaysians to drive their own vehicles across Sabah and Sarawak to promote national integration.
“I believe the best chapters of Trans Borneo are still waiting to be written,” he said.
“Every journey is measured not only by the kilometres travelled, but by the friendships you build along the way.”
The event commemorated the original 1996 expedition and its 1995 reconnaissance mission with pioneers including Gideon Mosito, Pak Harry Sanusi and the late Beta Tusin.
Ghani concluded with the expedition’s motto: “Satu Jalur, Sejuta Saudara” (One Trail, a Million Brothers).
Also in attendance at the media briefing were Deputy Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department and Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai; the Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority (SEDIA), Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hashim Paijan, represented by Deputy CEO Dr Chong Vun Leong; Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jimit; representatives from Indonesia 4×4 Overland and Borneo Expeditions Sdn Bhd, John Kong; and President of the Sabah Four Wheel Drive Association (SFWDA), Faez Nordin, together with committee members.
