Flight Ticket and Schedule From Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Tawau (TWU)

Comprehensive Guide to Kuala Lumpur to Tawau Flights: Everything You Need to Know

Flying from the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur to the charming coastal town of Tawau offers travelers a convenient gateway to explore eastern Sabah's natural wonders. This route connects Malaysia's capital with one of Borneo's most important agricultural and tourism hubs. Whether you're planning a business trip or a vacation to explore Tawau's pristine rainforests, coral reefs, or nearby attractions like Sipadan Island, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the Kuala Lumpur to Tawau flight route. From direct flight options to airport information and beyond, we've compiled essential details to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Direct Flights

The Kuala Lumpur to Tawau route is well-served by several major airlines offering direct flights daily. Each carrier provides different experiences, schedules, and aircraft types to meet various traveler preferences. Here's a detailed breakdown of the airlines operating on this route:

1. Airline: AirAsia

• Average Flight Duration: 2h 50m
• Aircraft Used: Airbus A320, Airbus A320neo
• Flight Features: As a low-cost carrier, AirAsia offers affordable base fares with options to add amenities like meals, extra baggage, and seat selection. Their flights typically operate multiple times daily from KLIA2 (Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2) to Tawau Airport. The Airbus A320 and A320neo aircraft feature all-economy seating configuration with modern amenities and reasonable legroom. Passengers can enjoy AirAsia's pre-booked hot meals and in-flight entertainment via their mobile app.

2. Airline: Batik Air

• Average Flight Duration: 3h 0m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
• Flight Features: Batik Air Malaysia (formerly Malindo Air) offers a full-service experience with flights departing from KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) Terminal 1. Their Boeing 737 aircraft provides both Business and Economy class options, with complimentary meals and beverages for all passengers. Business class travelers enjoy extra legroom, wider seats, and priority boarding. The airline operates several flights daily between Kuala Lumpur and Tawau, with schedules throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening to accommodate different travel plans.

3. Airline: AirAsia (Premium Service)

• Average Flight Duration: 2h 55m
• Aircraft Used: Airbus A321neo
• Flight Features: For travelers seeking extra comfort while maintaining value, AirAsia offers premium services on select flights using their newer Airbus A321neo aircraft. These planes feature more legroom in certain rows, the option for Hot Seats with priority boarding, and an overall enhanced flying experience. The slightly longer flight duration compared to standard AirAsia service is typically due to flight scheduling and air traffic patterns. The A321neo is more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to older aircraft models.

4. Airline: Malaysia Airlines

• Average Flight Duration: 2h 55m
• Aircraft Used: Boeing 737
• Flight Features: As Malaysia's national carrier, Malaysia Airlines provides full-service flights from KLIA Terminal 1. Their Boeing 737 aircraft feature Business and Economy class configurations with complimentary meals, beverages, and in-flight entertainment for all passengers. Malaysia Airlines typically offers 1-2 daily flights on this route, with timings designed to facilitate connections with their international network. Enrich members can earn and redeem miles on these flights, and the airline provides generous baggage allowances even for economy class passengers.

Layover Flights

No layover flight options are currently available for the Kuala Lumpur to Tawau route, as direct flights efficiently serve this domestic connection. All major carriers operate non-stop services between these destinations.

Information about schedule and airline subject to change based on airline policy. Please check regularly at Traveloka App.

About Kuala Lumpur International Airport - Kuala Lumpur

Location

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is located in Sepang district, approximately 45 kilometers south of Kuala Lumpur city center. The airport serves as Malaysia's main international gateway and is situated amid palm oil plantations in Selangor state. Its strategic location makes it accessible from various parts of the Klang Valley metropolitan area, including Putrajaya, Cyberjaya, and southern parts of Kuala Lumpur.

Airport Terminal

KLIA consists of two main terminal buildings:

• Main Terminal (KLIA Terminal 1): A modern facility handling full-service carriers including Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air. The terminal features a satellite building connected via an automated people mover. The design incorporates natural lighting and tropical indoor gardens, creating a distinctly Malaysian atmosphere.

• KLIA2 (Terminal 2): Located about 2km from the main terminal, KLIA2 primarily serves low-cost carriers like AirAsia. As one of the world's largest purpose-built terminals for budget airlines, it offers extensive shopping and dining options. The terminal includes a transportation hub with bus and taxi services, as well as a connection to the ERL train system.

Both terminals operate 24/7 and handle domestic and international flights, with clear signage in multiple languages to assist travelers.

Transport to Airport

Travelers have multiple convenient options to reach Kuala Lumpur International Airport:

• KLIA Ekspres: The fastest way to reach the airport, this non-stop train service connects KL Sentral to KLIA in just 28 minutes. Trains depart every 15-20 minutes from early morning until late evening.
• KLIA Transit: Similar to the Ekspres but makes intermediate stops at Bandar Tasik Selatan, Putrajaya, and Salak Tinggi. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes and is ideal for travelers coming from these areas.
• Airport Coach Services: Several bus companies operate services from KL Sentral and other city locations to both KLIA terminals. These budget-friendly options take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Metered taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab provide door-to-door convenience. The journey typically takes 45-60 minutes, though this can increase significantly during peak traffic hours.
• Private Car: The airport is accessible via several highways including the ELITE Highway and MEX Highway. Ample parking is available at both terminals for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Facilities

KLIA offers comprehensive amenities for travelers at both terminals:

• Dining: Numerous food outlets range from international fast-food chains to local Malaysian cuisine, with options available 24/7 in key areas.
• Shopping: Extensive duty-free shopping zones feature international brands, local products, and souvenirs. The airport is known for its competitive pricing on electronics, chocolates, and liquor.
• Lounges: Multiple airline lounges for premium passengers and pay-per-use lounges for all travelers offer comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, shower facilities, and business services.
• Connectivity: Free WiFi throughout both terminals, charging stations, and business centers cater to digital needs.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated prayer facilities for Muslim travelers are available throughout both terminals.
• Rest & Relaxation: Transit hotels within the airport premises, sleeping pods, and massage services help travelers refresh during layovers.
• Medical Services: Clinics and pharmacies provide healthcare assistance and medications.
• Special Assistance: Wheelchair services, baby care rooms, and assistance for elderly or disabled passengers ensure accessibility for all travelers.

About Tawau Airport - Tawau

Location

Tawau Airport (TWU) is situated approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Tawau city center in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. The airport serves as an important gateway to eastern Sabah, providing access to Tawau city, Semporna, and world-renowned diving destinations like Sipadan Island. The airport's location amidst lush greenery reflects the natural beauty that attracts visitors to this region.

Airport Terminal

Tawau Airport features a single modern terminal building that handles all domestic flights. Following a significant upgrade completed in recent years, the terminal now offers improved facilities while maintaining efficient operations for the approximately 1.5 million passengers it serves annually.

The compact terminal has a straightforward layout with clear signage, making navigation simple for travelers. Check-in counters are located at the front of the terminal, with departure gates easily accessible through security screening. The arrival area includes a baggage claim section and transportation services at the exit.

Although smaller than Kuala Lumpur's airport, Tawau Airport is well-designed to handle peak passenger flows with minimal congestion, particularly during the multiple daily arrivals from Kuala Lumpur.

Transport From Airport

Several transportation options connect Tawau Airport with the city center and surrounding areas:

• Airport Taxis: The most convenient option, with fixed-rate services available directly outside the arrival area. The journey to Tawau city center takes approximately 40-50 minutes.
• Grab: Ride-sharing services operate from the airport, offering competitive rates and the convenience of cashless payment. Pickup points are clearly marked outside the terminal.
• Car Rental: Several car rental companies have counters at the airport, providing options for self-drive travelers looking to explore the region independently.
• Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels in Tawau and Semporna offer shuttle services for their guests, though these typically require advance booking.
• Public Bus: Limited public bus services connect the airport to Tawau city, though these are less frequent and may not be ideal for travelers with significant luggage.

For travelers heading directly to Semporna (the gateway to Sipadan and Mabul islands), pre-arranged transfers are recommended as public transportation options are limited.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, Tawau Airport offers essential amenities for travelers:

• Dining: Several cafes and food stalls serve local Malaysian cuisine and light refreshments, though options are more limited than at larger airports.
• Retail: Small shops selling local products, souvenirs, travel necessities, and snacks are available in both public and passenger-only areas.
• ATMs and Currency Exchange: Banking facilities allow travelers to obtain local currency before leaving the airport.
• Information Counter: Staffed service desks provide assistance with local transportation, accommodation, and tourism information.
• Prayer Rooms: Dedicated facilities for Muslim travelers are available within the terminal.
• WiFi: Free wireless internet access is provided throughout the terminal, though connection speeds may vary.
• Baggage Services: Luggage wrapping and storage services are available for travelers with special requirements.
• Medical Services: Basic first aid facilities for emergency situations.

While more compact than international hubs, Tawau Airport efficiently serves its role as a gateway to eastern Sabah, with amenities focused on essential traveler needs.

FAQ Kuala Lumpur to Tawau Flight

1. Question: How long is the flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau?

Answer: Direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau typically take between 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours, depending on the airline, aircraft type, and weather conditions. AirAsia flights usually take around 2 hours 50 minutes, while Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air flights average about 2 hours 55 minutes to 3 hours.

2. Question: How many flights operate daily between Kuala Lumpur and Tawau?

Answer: On average, there are 6-8 daily flights connecting Kuala Lumpur and Tawau across all airlines. AirAsia typically offers the most frequent service with 3-4 daily flights, while Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air each operate 1-2 flights per day. Flight frequency may increase during peak holiday seasons and decrease during off-peak periods.

3. Question: What is the baggage allowance for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau?

Answer: Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare type. Malaysia Airlines typically offers 30kg for economy and 40kg for business class. Batik Air provides 20-30kg depending on the fare. AirAsia's base fares include only cabin baggage (7kg), with checked baggage available as an add-on purchase. Pre-booking baggage allowance through Traveloka during ticket purchase is typically more economical than adding it later or at the airport.

4. Question: Which terminal at KLIA do flights to Tawau depart from?

Answer: AirAsia flights to Tawau depart from KLIA2 (Terminal 2), while Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air flights depart from the Main Terminal (Terminal 1). Be sure to check your flight details carefully, as the two terminals are about 2km apart and require different transportation arrangements if you're transferring between them.

5. Question: What is the best time to book flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau for the lowest fares?

Answer: For the best fares, book your Kuala Lumpur to Tawau flight 4-6 weeks in advance. Prices typically rise significantly within 2 weeks of departure. Mid-week flights (Tuesday to Thursday) generally offer lower fares than weekend flights. Additionally, flights during early morning or late evening tend to be more affordable than mid-day departures. Using Traveloka's fare alert feature can help you track price changes and secure the best deals.

6. Question: Are there any travel restrictions or requirements for domestic flights within Malaysia?

Answer: As of 2025, standard identification requirements apply for domestic flights within Malaysia. Malaysian citizens can travel with their MyKad (national ID), while international visitors must present their passport. Some airlines may also request to see your return or onward ticket if you're a foreign visitor. Always check for the latest requirements before your flight, as regulations may change.

7. Question: What are the transportation options from Tawau Airport to popular resorts in Semporna?

Answer: Semporna (gateway to Sipadan and Mabul islands) is approximately 80-90km from Tawau Airport. Pre-arranged hotel transfers are the most convenient option, typically taking 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, airport taxis offer fixed-rate services to Semporna. Some dive resorts organize shared transfers for their guests. For budget travelers, there are also public minivans from Tawau town to Semporna, though this requires first taking a taxi from the airport to Tawau.

8. Question: Can I change or reschedule my flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau?

Answer: Flight change policies vary by airline and fare type. Most airlines allow changes with a fee and fare difference payment. Malaysia Airlines and Batik Air typically offer more flexible change policies, especially with higher fare classes. AirAsia's lowest fares are more restrictive, though their premium fares include greater flexibility. Booking through Traveloka allows you to manage changes through your account, often with streamlined processes compared to dealing directly with airlines.

Other Ways to Travel From Kuala Lumpur to Tawau

While flying is the most practical way to travel between Kuala Lumpur and Tawau, there are alternative options for adventurous travelers who wish to experience more of Malaysia along the way:

1. Combination of Flight and Ferry

• Route: Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, then take a ferry to Tawau
• Total Duration: 2-3 days
• Details: This option involves flying from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu (2 hours), then taking a ferry along Sabah's eastern coast. The ferry journey is lengthy but offers spectacular views of Borneo's coastline. This route is more of an adventure than a practical travel option and requires careful planning as ferry schedules can be limited.

2. Combination of Flight and Bus

• Route: Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, then take a bus to Tawau
• Total Duration: 15-18 hours (including flight time)
• Details: After flying to Kota Kinabalu, travelers can take a long-distance bus that travels across Sabah to Tawau. The bus journey takes approximately 12-15 hours and passes through towns like Ranau, Sandakan, and Lahad Datu, offering glimpses of Sabah's diverse landscapes. While time-consuming, this option allows you to see much more of Sabah than flying directly.

3. Road Trip via Brunei and Ferry (Multi-Country Adventure)

• Route: Drive from Kuala Lumpur to Sarawak, cross into Brunei, continue to Sabah, then to Tawau
• Total Duration: 7-10 days
• Details: This ambitious journey involves driving through Peninsular Malaysia, taking a ferry to Sarawak, driving through Brunei (requiring appropriate visas), and continuing through Sabah to Tawau. This is more of an expedition than a practical travel option, covering over 2,500km of road travel plus sea crossings. Only recommended for dedicated road trip enthusiasts with plenty of time.

4. Combination of Train, Ferry, and Bus

• Route: Train from KL to Johor Bahru, ferry to Sarawak, buses through Borneo to Tawau
• Total Duration: 10-14 days
• Details: This slow-travel option combines Malaysia's various transportation networks. Start with a train journey down Peninsular Malaysia, cross to Borneo by ferry, then use the local bus networks to gradually make your way to Tawau. This approach is for travelers who value the journey over the destination and wish to experience Malaysia's transportation infrastructure firsthand.

While these alternative routes exist, they are primarily of interest to adventure travelers rather than those seeking efficient transportation. For most travelers, particularly those with limited time or traveling for business purposes, the direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau remains the most practical and time-efficient option.

Explore Tawau

Popular Destinations in Tawau

1. Tawau Hills Park

Located just 24km from Tawau city center, this lush rainforest park features magnificent dipterocarp forests, cooling waterfalls, and natural hot springs. Home to some of Borneo's tallest tropical trees and diverse wildlife, it offers well-maintained hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The park's Gelas Hill and Bombalai Hill provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and are popular with photography enthusiasts.

2. Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve

This accessible nature reserve just 7km from the city offers scenic hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The main trail to the summit takes about 1-2 hours to complete and rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Tawau and its surroundings. The reserve has become increasingly popular with fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking outdoor activities close to the city.

3. Teck Guan Cocoa Museum

Reflecting Tawau's importance as a major cocoa-producing region, this museum provides fascinating insights into chocolate production from bean to bar. Visitors can learn about cultivation methods, processing techniques, and sample various chocolate products. The facility includes demonstration areas where visitors can observe chocolate-making processes and purchase fresh, locally-produced chocolate products.

4. Tawau Japanese War Memorial

This solemn historical site commemorates the events of World War II in Borneo. The memorial marks the location where Japanese forces surrendered to Australian troops in 1945. The well-maintained grounds include informative displays about the occupation period and its impact on local communities, making it an important site for those interested in the region's complex history.

5. Semporna and Sipadan Island

While technically outside Tawau proper, these nearby destinations are the primary reason many travelers come through Tawau. Semporna (about 90km from Tawau) serves as the gateway to world-renowned diving sites including Sipadan Island, consistently rated among the world's top diving destinations. The incredible marine biodiversity, dramatic underwater drop-offs, and crystal-clear waters attract diving enthusiasts from around the globe.

Popular Cuisine in Tawau

1. Tawau Kon Lau Mee

This iconic local noodle dish features springy egg noodles tossed in a savory sauce with minced pork, vegetables, and often topped with slices of char siu (barbecued pork). What makes Tawau's version distinctive is the perfectly balanced sauce and the technique of briefly dunking the noodles in boiling water just before serving, giving them the perfect texture. Best enjoyed at local coffee shops around the town center.

2. Sabah Fish Noodles (Sang Nyuk Mian)

A beloved breakfast dish throughout Sabah but with a unique Tawau preparation style. Fresh fish slices are served in a clear, flavorful broth with rice vermicelli noodles, garnished with green vegetables and fried garlic. Some versions include handmade fish balls or fish cake. The emphasis is on the freshness of the seafood, reflecting Tawau's coastal location.

3. Ngiu Chap (Mixed Beef Soup)

This hearty beef soup features various beef parts including tripe, tendon, brisket, and meatballs in a rich, aromatic broth. Served with either rice noodles or yellow noodles, it's garnished with fresh herbs and crispy fried shallots. Tawau's version is known for its particularly complex broth, often simmered for hours with local spices and herbs.

4. Coconut Pudding (Tawau Agar-Agar)

A refreshing dessert made with coconut milk, palm sugar, and agar-agar (natural vegetable gelatin). The Tawau version often incorporates local fruits like jackfruit or durian for added flavor complexity. Served chilled, it's a perfect treat after a spicy meal or during hot afternoons. Look for it at local dessert stalls and night markets.

5. Hinava (Raw Fish Salad)

This traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish has been embraced throughout Sabah, including Tawau. Fresh raw fish is marinated in lime juice, ginger, chili, and other local herbs. The citrus juice "cooks" the fish, creating a refreshing, tangy dish similar to Latin American ceviche but with distinctly Bornean flavors. In Tawau, it's often prepared with locally caught deep-sea fish and served as an appetizer at seafood restaurants.

Tawau's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural makeup, with influences from indigenous Sabahan cultures, Chinese immigrants, and neighboring Indonesian communities. The city's position as a major port and agricultural center ensures access to fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local plantation products like cocoa and palm oil, all of which feature prominently in local cooking.