Sabahan Indian (Tamil: சபா இந்தியர்கள்; Malay: Kaum India di Sabah), are MalaysianIndians that live primarily in the state of Sabah, Malaysia. Unlike in Peninsular Malaysia, the Indian population in Sabah is very small. It consists mainly of Indians who are professionals who recently transferred or migrated to Sabah due to work, although there are some whom are descended from immigrants who served in the British colonial military.[2][3] They form large percentage of the state's professional community such as, particularly in the areas of business, commerce, education, and healthcare.[4]
The first Indians arrived in Sabah in the late 19th century, primarily as indentured labourers on British rubber plantations. After the completion of their indentureship, many Indians chose to remain in Sabah, establishing themselves as traders, merchants, and artisans.
In the early 20th century, the Indian community in Sabah grew significantly with the arrival of professionals such as teachers, doctors, and engineers. These individuals played a crucial role in the development of Sabah's education and healthcare systems.
Malaysian Indians in Sabah are predominantly Tamil, followed by smaller groups of Malayalees, Telugus, and Punjabis. They practice a variety of religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism.[2]
Indian festivals such as Deepavali, Pongal, and Thaipusam are celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Indian community in Sabah. Deepavali also observe as state public holiday in Sabah[5]
Malaysia (Kota Kinabalu, Lahad Datu and Sandakan)
