Land Below the Wind welcomes Royals

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and his wife Catherine, were treated to a welcoming reception hosted by the Sabah state government at a resort, here, soon after their arrival Friday night.

The royal couple arrived at 7.50pm at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport on board a special aircraft.

Scores of people waited anxiously outside the fenced area of the airport to get a glimpse of the royal couple despite a brief downpour.

Present to accord them a warm welcome at the reception were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, Sabah Deputy Chief Ministers Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan and Datuk Yahya Hussin as well as over 100 state and foreign dignitaries.

Prince William wore a black suit while Catherine was dressed in a white lace outfit over a blue knee-length dress designed by British fashion designer Alice Temperly.

They were presented beaded jewellery known as Pinakol, which is synonymous with Rungus ethnic culture and a copy of the book "Spirit of Borneo" showcasing life in the territory as captured by the lens of famed Hollywood couple Martin and Osa Johnson during their two visits to then British North Borneo in 1920 and 1935.

Today, Prince William and Catherine will fly via helicopter to Danum Valley, a primary rainforest conservation area located 70km from Lahad Datu, where they will spend the day briefed by researchers and explore the 438 sq km area.

Malaysia is the royal couple's second destination after Singapore, en route a nine-day tour of the Far East, as representatives of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in conjunction with the celebration to mark the 60-year reign of the Queen.

Source: Daily Express