Tawau is located at the Southeast coast of Sabah, which is about 500km from       state capital, Kota Kinabalu. It is the third largest town and also has the fastest rate of development in Sabah. The Tawau residency comprises of Merotai, Kalabakan, Kunak, Semporna and Lahad Datu.

Tawau is a coastal town and the airport has daily scheduled flights to and from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, Lahad Datu and Tarakan in Kalimantan, Indonesia. There's a big sea port near the town centre. Tawau is connected by major roads like the Tawau-Lahad Datu highway and the Tawau-Kunak highway.

 The People

The Tawau residency has a population of over 400,000 people. There are Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazan (indigenous people of Sabah), Indonesians and Filipinos. Majorities of the Chinese live in and around the town area while the others live outside of town area. Just like any other Malaysians, the people here are warm and friendly and the possibilty of meeting someone who speaks English is high.

 The Climate

Tawau is hot and humid throughout the year. Average daily temparature ranges from 26 to 32 degrees celcius. Cotton clothings are highly recommended as they are light, comfortable and absorb perspiration easily. It is advisable to bring a bottle of water when you travel around.