Forget modern, high speed trains and welcome travel and dining in steam rail as Malaysia’s North Borneo reopens its historic North Borneo Railway after a four year shut down.

Although re-launched for renovation by Sutera Harbour Reosrt and Sabah State Railways Department in January 2000, it wasn’t until last month that a British Vulcan steam train complete with wood burning engines tracked down the rails for the first time in almost half a decade.

The train set off from Tanjung Aru and offered its passengers views of paddy fields, jungles and coastal beaches.

Accommodating to up to 180 passengers, the train is available for private charters as well as a dining venue during the evenings.