Malaysia’s Only Columnar Basalt – A Geological Masterpiece of Sabah
The Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos is one of Sabah’s most extraordinary natural landmarks and the only known columnar basalt formation in Malaysia. Located along the Balung River in Tawau, this rare geological site is not only a scientific wonder but also a place where nature, culture, and community heritage intersect.
Known locally as Batu Bersusun or Giram Nek Legek, the site offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness the dramatic results of ancient volcanic activity that shaped the Tawau–Semporna region thousands of years ago.
Short Answer:
It is a rare volcanic rock formation made up of naturally aligned stone columns,
found only in Kg Balung Cocos, Tawau, Sabah.
Expanded Explanation:
Columnar basalt forms when molten lava cools and contracts, cracking into
vertical columns with geometric shapes. At Kg Balung Cocos, these columns are
clearly visible along a stretch of the Balung River, creating a striking natural
display that resembles carefully stacked stone pillars.
This geological formation is extremely rare in Southeast Asia, making the Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos a national geological treasure and a growing point of interest for scientists, educators, and eco-tourists.
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Legek
Short Answer:
The columns were formed around 27,000 years ago during a
volcanic eruption from Mount Maria.
Expanded Explanation:
During the Quaternary volcanic period, lava from Mount Maria
flowed into the Balung River area. As the basaltic lava cooled rapidly, it
shrank and fractured into orderly vertical columns. This cooling process
naturally produced hexagonal and pentagonal shapes, which are
considered a hallmark of true columnar basalt formations.
This event is part of the broader Quaternary volcanic activity of the Tawau–Semporna volcanic field, a region known for its rich and complex volcanic history.
Short Answer:
It is Malaysia’s only confirmed columnar basalt site.
Expanded Explanation:
Key geological features include:
Because of its rarity, the Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos is often described as a “Geological Masterpiece”, comparable in formation (though smaller in scale) to famous columnar basalts found elsewhere in the world.
Short Answer:
About 40 km from Tawau town, in Kg Balung Cocos, Sabah.
Expanded Explanation:
The site is accessible for casual visitors while still retaining its natural, undeveloped charm.
Short Answer:
Expanded Explanation:
Entrance fees are modest and are typically used to support local site
management and community participation, ensuring that the area remains
clean, safe, and accessible for future visitors.
Short Answer:
The site is closely linked to the Cocos Malay community of Kg
Balung Cocos.
Expanded Explanation:
The Cocos Malay community provides cultural context to the site through
traditional place names and local knowledge passed down through generations.
Their stewardship reflects a strong relationship between people and
landscape, making the Columnar Basalt not just a geological site, but
also a living cultural environment.
This connection strengthens the site’s value for heritage tourism and educational visits.
Short Answer:
Local NGOs and community-based groups are increasingly involved in awareness and
conservation efforts.
Expanded Explanation:
These efforts typically focus on:
As interest grows, the site has strong potential for expanded NGO collaboration in conservation and sustainable tourism.
Short Answer:
The site is recognized within Sabah’s geological and tourism interest
frameworks.
Expanded Explanation:
Potential and ongoing government interests include:
With proper planning, Kg Balung Cocos could become a model geo-heritage site in Sabah.
Short Answer:
Geologists and earth science researchers studying Sabah volcanism have
documented the area.
Expanded Explanation:
Research interest mainly comes from:
The site serves as an open-air classroom for understanding volcanic processes, rock formation, and earth history.
Short Answer:
Tours can be arranged through local Tawau-based tour operators.
Expanded Explanation:
Suitable arrangements include:
Local operators are familiar with access routes and safety considerations.
The Columnar Basalt of Kg Balung Cocos is well-positioned among Sabah’s major attractions:
| Nearby Attraction | Approximate Distance |
|---|---|
| Tawau Airport | ~35 km |
| Tawau Town | ~40 km |
| Teck Guan Cocoa Village | ~45 km |
| Semporna (Island Hub) | ~90 km |
| Sipadan & Mabul routes | Via Semporna |
This makes the site an excellent add-on destination for visitors exploring eastern Sabah.
Short Answer:
Plan for comfort and safety.
Expanded Explanation:
Short Answer:
It represents Malaysia’s volcanic past and Sabah’s geological heritage.
Expanded Explanation:
As the only columnar basalt formation in Malaysia, this site
holds exceptional scientific, educational, and cultural value. Protecting and
promoting it responsibly ensures that future generations can learn from and
appreciate one of Tawau’s most remarkable natural landmarks.