Asia is a popular travel destination due to its unmatched diversity in culture, scenic landscapes, and experiences. Lucky for us, Singapore is close to many vibrant cities and breathtaking natural wonders easily accessible from Singapore Changi Airport. Among them, the largest island in Asia is less than two hours flight from Singapore. Whether you’re a beach lover, adventure seeker, or cultural explorer…you will adore Asia’s largest island located in Southeast Asia. The island of Borneo is politically divided among three countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Read on to learn about the largest island in Asia named Borneo.
Asia’s largest island – Borneo
Borneo is the third-largest island in the world and the largest in Asia. The island spans a whopping 748,168 square kilometres. Surrounded by the South China Sea, Java Sea, Celebes Sea, and Makassar Strait…it offers a tropical rainforest climate, fostering some of the most ancient and biodiverse ecosystems globally.
Interestingly, Indonesia occupies the largest portion of around 73% known as Kalimantan, where as Malaysia controls 26% with the states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the remaining 1% is governed by Brunei.
Borneo is a fascinating destination to explore for people of all ages. Culturally, the island is home to more than 200 indigenous ethnic groups, such as the Dayak people, who live in communal longhouses.
Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can explore pristine locations through jungle treks, river safaris, and wildlife tours. In fact, Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, estimated to be over 130 million years old, with more than 15,000 plant species and countless endangered animals. Plus, the world’s largest flower – Rafflesia – grows in this rainforest. Meanwhile, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mount Kinabalu in the Sabah region stands as the tallest peak in Southeast Asia measuring 4,095 metres.
Beyond its wildlife, Borneo boasts serene beaches and world-class diving spots like Sipadan Island. Plus, there are unique accommodations to feel part of the indigenous community and close to nature. Overall, Borneo is an unforgettable holiday near Singapore.
How to get to the largest island in Asia
Travellers can hop on direct flights from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to key cities in Borneo. These include direct flight routes to Kota Kinabalu (BKI) in two hours and 20 minutes, as well as Kuching (KCH) in one hour and 30 minutes, and the capital of Brunei’s Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) in just two hours.
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