OLD MEMORY ABOUT BA LIN ROOFTOP BAR & RESTAURANT

I write this post after I heard of upcoming closure of Ba Lin Rooftop Bar & Restaurant (Ba Lin) on 15 June 2020 (as shown in the following screenshot taken from its official Facebook page). Since it is one of the famous eateries and hanging out places in Sandakan city, so I would like to jot down old memory about that place.

I once studied at Sandakan for 3 years and few months. Some places are fascinating and recommendable to those who wish to visit Sandakan. For me, there are two eateries I strongly recommend: Ba Lin, and Lindung. The latter which located at Sepilok area (also known as Batu 14 by local residents) had closed permanently since June 2016. The former one will be ceased to operate due to the heavy impact of COVID-19 pandemic.

The attraction of Ba Lin lies on its location, foods and conductive surrounding. It is situated at top of NAK Hotel in Sandakan city centre. Everyone can take a view at there during the sunset and night while having dinner. There are many comfortable corner and seats can be chosen for hanging out and dinner. I am very sure that Ba Lin is one of the must-visit destination.

One of the comfortable corner for patrons.

Foods available in this restaurant is recommendable too... Numerous dishes in Western style are delicious. Quite costly, but recommendable to those who wish to enjoy dinner and scenic view at the same time and place. Furthermore, since this restaurant serves no pork, therefore many Muslim customers can be found and dine in.

One of the numerous dish I had tried in Ba Lin. I seldom take photo on these dishes, thus not much I can show to all readers.

Me was enjoying good meal. What a old memory in Ba Lin...

Frankly to take note that the upcoming closure of Ba Lin is one of the restaurant and hotel shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Wide social distancing, restricted movement control (partial lockdown) as well as unusually lower demand for outdoor economy activities contribute unsustainable income, thus make those business struggle for overcoming unusual challenge of the time. Some choose to transform its conventional business mode into a newer mode (like online business or concentrating drive-in or taking away service), some are unfortunately chose to close its business permanently until further notice.

Last but not the least, as a temporary settler in Sandakan, I would like to deliver appreciation to Ba Lin for everything, especially making Sandakan city centre memorable and lively during the night.

7/6/2020

1.38am