Belud

Belud, commonly referring to Kota Belud District, is a district in the Malaysian state of Sabah. It lies on the northwest coast of Sabah along the South China Sea and is part of the West Coast Division. The district capital is Kota Belud town. The area includes coastal lowlands and inland hills, with a tropical rainforest climate and a noticeable wet season.

Administratively, the district is governed by Sabah state authorities and managed locally by a district officer, with several administrative sub-units within the district. It is composed of multiple communities and villages, connected by road networks that link to larger towns in Sabah.

Economy and society in Belud are traditionally anchored in agriculture and fishing. Typical activities include rice farming, coconut cultivation, and small-scale farming, complemented by marine livelihoods along the coast. In recent years tourism has grown, emphasizing rural and coastal experiences, natural scenery, and cultural encounters. The population is ethnically diverse, with Dusun and Bajau communities being prominent; Malay is widely spoken, and religious life includes Islam and Christianity. The region participates in Sabah’s broader cultural calendar, including harvest and community festivals such as Kaamatan.

Culture and local life are enriched by traditional crafts and markets. Beadwork, weaving, and other crafts are practiced in some villages, and weekly markets provide a hub for trade and social activity. Belud’s landscapes—coastal plains, rivers, and foothill country—support both livelihoods and ecotourism, drawing visitors interested in nature and rural Sabah experiences.

Transportation and education are supported by road connections to Kota Kinabalu and Kudat, with basic public services such as primary and secondary schools and healthcare facilities serving the district.