The current time in Kota Kinabalu is 10:58:06
The date is Friday, February 20th, 2026
Timezone: Asia/Kuala_Lumpur (UTC+8)
13 hours after United States
The geographic location is 5° 58.5' N 116° 4.3' E
Sunrise: 06:30, Sunset: 18:28, Day length: 11:57
Moon phase: 9.2% (Waxing crescent)
Kota Kinabalu is located in the northern hemisphere
Current season: Winter
Kota Kinabalu is located on the northwest coast of Borneo, Malaysia, at GPS coordinates 5.9749° N latitude and 116.0724° E longitude. It serves as the capital of the Malaysian state of Sabah and is situated in the Asia/Kuala_Lumpur timezone. The city is renowned for its proximity to natural attractions, including Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, which comprises several beautiful islands.
Kota Kinabalu is known for its vibrant cultural scene, showcasing a mix of indigenous and modern influences, and is a key gateway for ecotourism in the region. Its regional significance is underscored by its role as a trade and transportation hub in Malaysian Borneo.
Kota Kinabalu operates on Malaysia Standard Time, which follows the Asia/Kuala_Lumpur timezone. The UTC offset for this timezone is UTC+8. Malaysia does not observe daylight saving time, maintaining a consistent standard time throughout the year.
This means that the time remains the same regardless of the season, providing stability for planning and communication. When considering the time difference with the United States, Kota Kinabalu is significantly ahead. For example, when it is noon in Kota Kinabalu, it could be anywhere from midnight to 10 AM in various parts of the United States, depending on the specific state and whether daylight saving time is in effect.
Therefore, the best time to contact someone in Kota Kinabalu would be between 8 PM and 11 PM Eastern Standard Time, as this corresponds to the following morning in Kota Kinabalu. In comparison to other major cities in the region, such as Jakarta and Singapore, Kota Kinabalu’s time zone is aligned with both, as they also operate on UTC+8. This makes scheduling meetings or travel within Southeast Asia easier, as there is no time difference to account for.
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah in Malaysia, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural beauty. Nestled along the coast of Borneo, the city serves as a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinabalu Park, home to Southeast Asia’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu. This region is rich in biodiversity, making it a prime destination for eco-tourism, with numerous hiking trails and wildlife watching opportunities.
The city itself showcases a blend of indigenous cultures, reflected in its various festivals and events, such as the Harvest Festival, which celebrates the agricultural traditions of the local communities. Visitors can explore the bustling markets, where they can find local handicrafts and sample traditional Sabahan cuisine. The waterfront area, with its picturesque sunsets and lively atmosphere, is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
Kota Kinabalu is also known for its proximity to beautiful islands like Gaya and Manukan, which offer pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities, further highlighting the region’s natural allure.
Kota Kinabalu is served by Kota Kinabalu International Airport, which is about 8 kilometers from the city center. Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available for transport from the airport. Public buses also operate, connecting the city with nearby attractions and other towns.
While there is no train service in the city, buses are a reliable way to explore the surrounding areas. The weather in Kota Kinabalu is typically hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 24°C and 32°C throughout the year. The region experiences a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it can rain at any time.
However, the best time to visit is between March and October, when rainfall is relatively low and outdoor activities can be enjoyed more comfortably. For visitors, it is advisable to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing and carry an umbrella or raincoat due to the unpredictable weather. Make sure to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen while exploring the beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
Familiarize yourself with local customs and try the diverse food offerings to fully enjoy the cultural experience in Kota Kinabalu.
Venturing beyond the vibrant hub of Kota Kinabalu opens up a world of diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich histories. Exploring nearby cities allows you to experience the unique charm and flavors of the region, making every journey an unforgettable adventure waiting to be discovered.
Explore major cities spread across Malaysia.
Exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of the region can transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure. By venturing across neighboring countries, you can immerse yourself in a tapestry of traditions, flavors, and breathtaking sights that create a deeper appreciation for this vibrant part of the world.
| City | Country | Time difference | Local time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quetzaltenango | Guatemala | 14 hours | 20:58:07 |
| San Pedro Town | Belize | 14 hours | 20:58:07 |
| Sainte-Marie | Martinique | 12 hours | 22:58:07 |
| Road Town | British Virgin Islands | 12 hours | 22:58:07 |
| Santiago | Chile | 11 hours | 23:58:07 |
| Nieuw Nickerie | Suriname | 11 hours | 23:58:07 |
| Stanley | Falkland Islands | 11 hours | 23:58:07 |
| Atakpamé | Togo | 8 hours | 02:58:07 |
| Aarhus | Denmark | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| East Side | Gibraltar | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| Innsbruck | Austria | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| Mitrovica | Kosovo | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| Milan | Italy | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| Bangui | Central African Republic | 7 hours | 03:58:07 |
| Tighina | Moldova | 6 hours | 04:58:07 |
| Petah Tikva | Israel | 6 hours | 04:58:07 |
| Walvis Bay | Namibia | 6 hours | 04:58:07 |
| Tbilisi | Georgia | 4 hours | 06:58:07 |
| Chon Buri | Thailand | 1 hour | 09:58:07 |
| Saipan | Northern Mariana Islands | +2 hours | 12:58:07 |
| Toga Village | Tuvalu | +4 hours | 14:58:07 |
In this FAQ section, you'll find essential information about the time in Kota Kinabalu, including its timezone, time difference from other regions, and practical tips for adjusting to local time. Use this guide to ensure a smooth experience during your visit.
