Kimaragang and Tobilung Dusun communities are the major population in Kota Marudu while the other minority populations are Brunei, Orang Sungai, Bugis, Bajau, and Suluk natives. Situated in the northern region of Sabah, the small district of Kota Marudu is bordered by Kota Belud, Pitas, Beluran, and Kudat. It is located 130 kilometres away from Kota Kinabalu, roughly 2 hours drive away.

The district also has the largest solar power station in Southeast Asia. In honour of the agricultural product’s contribution to Kota Marudu’s socio-economic development, the town celebrates an annual Maize Festival which includes a variety of activities from competitions, traditional sports, exhibitions, and a beauty pageant.