The North Borneo Railway features a British Vulcan steam locomotive, designed and built by the Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows, England, in 1954 as part of the last order before the factory converted to diesel and electric locomotive construction.
The Vulcan 6-015, a 2-6-2 carrying a green livery with polished boiler bands and red edging to the running plate and tender frame, was de-commissioned for general use in the early 1970s by the Sabah State Railway Department. It was proudly re-launched on 22nd January 2000 when Kota Kinabalu achieved its city status. Not only does this steam engine represent the last fleet of the steam engines that have plied the tracks through Borneo since the late 1800s, it is also one of the only functional wood-burners left in the world. Each carriage can accommodate 36 persons to provide a total train capacity of 180 passengers.
The Vulcan 6-015, a 2-6-2 carrying a green livery with polished boiler bands and red edging to the running plate and tender frame, was de-commissioned for general use in the early 1970s by the Sabah State Railway Department. It was proudly re-launched on 22nd January 2000 when Kota Kinabalu achieved its city status. Not only does this steam engine represent the last fleet of the steam engines that have plied the tracks through Borneo since the late 1800s, it is also one of the only functional wood-burners left in the world. Each carriage can accommodate 36 persons to provide a total train capacity of 180 passengers.
Seating arrangements accommodate four passengers per set, with tables in-between to facilitate the on-board dining experience - a ‘tiffin’ meal served on the return journey. The tiffin lunch highlights a blend of Asian and continental cuisine, primarily focusing on a sampling of Malaysian delights.
Each carriage features a communal washroom, providing the amenities of a modern bathroom onboard the train. Windows remain open throughout the journey and high-powered fans line the ceilings to ensure maximum comfort. A British Pullman carriage is used as a functional kitchen car as well as a powerful generator to provide for all electrical and power requirements. The North Borneo Railway is built and operated to the highest international standards and is fully compliant with modern safety standards.
The North Borneo Railway also features six carriages that have been meticulously restored and renovated to reflect the era of the steam train. The exterior utilizes the traditional deep green and cream of the original North Borneo Railway, with carved brass logos featuring the original British seal. The interior, highlighting the natural woods of Sabah, has comfortable seating and dining facilities. Seating accommodates 36 passengers per carriage, with a total train capacity of 180 passengers. An exotic bar car and observation deck accompanies the train, providing a comfortable lounge area to heighten the overall journey experience.
A provision has been made for air-conditioning, though the open windows enhance the entire heritage experience, as passengers are able to lean out of the windows and doors to enjoy the fresh, country air.
The North Borneo Railway is built and operated to the highest of international standards and is fully compliant with modern safety standards.
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