Kota Kinabalu Central Market, also called Pasar Besar, is an indoor market on the waterfront in Sabah, Malaysia. Stalls sell fresh produce, tropical fruit such as rambutan, durian and several kinds of banana, rice, grains, locally made hot sauces and homemade kueh. The fish market is at the far end, with fishing boats moored in the harbour behind the fish sellers. Come to watch daily life, photograph the colourful produce, and eat. On the second floor, the seafood you buy downstairs can be cooked for you.
What the market sells
The market is an indoor hawker centre where you can buy dry and fresh food, meat and fish, along with everyday household items.
Fruit stalls carry rambutan, durian and several kinds of banana. Other stalls sell rice, grains, locally made hot sauces, homemade delicacies and even fresh tobacco.
Most of what is sold here is local produce for local shoppers, so the market is less about souvenirs than about daily shopping. For handicrafts and souvenirs, the Handicraft Market and the Souvenir Market are a short walk away on the waterfront.
The fish market and the harbour
The fish market is at the far end of the market space. Behind the fish sellers, fishing boats rock in the harbour, which makes a good view while you shop.
The smell of seafood is strong, especially around midday when the sun is high. Early visits are more comfortable for most people.
Eating at the market
Buy fish or prawns at the stalls, then take them to the second floor to have them cooked on site.
For a different meal, Gerai Makan Alrafa is known for chili crab cooked with fresh seafood. Its seafood is bought from the stalls behind the main building.
At the kueh stalls, you can pick up small traditional snacks to eat while you walk.
The evening and night market
The market is busier and livelier after dark. Many stalls open for the night market, and the Pasar Malam, or night market, runs in the evening along the same street.
After sunset you can find grilled seafood, fragrant curries and satay. The choice is wide, so it helps to walk the length of the stalls before you order.
Getting there and getting around
From the market, walk to the nearest bus stop and take a bus heading toward Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu. The fare is affordable and buses run often.
Get off at the stop closest to Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, or ask the driver for help if you are unsure where to leave the bus.
FAQ
Is the market open every day?
Yes. It is open every day, from early morning until early evening.
Can I buy seafood and have it cooked there?
Yes. You can buy seafood from the market and have it cooked on the second floor.
Is the market good for photos?
Yes. The fresh produce and fish stalls are colourful and easy to photograph, and vendors are not pushy about it.
What payment methods work?
Bring cash. Alipay is also worth trying alongside cash.
How do I get back to the city by bus?
Walk to the nearest bus stop and take a bus heading toward Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu. Fares are affordable and buses run frequently.
