Fort Alice, Historical fort in Sri Aman, Malaysia
Fort Alice is a hilltop fortress in Simanggang with a rectangular layout, thick defensive walls, and a prominent lookout tower at its center. The structure contains an open courtyard, historical cannons, and interior spaces that now function as a heritage museum displaying objects from its past uses.
The fort was built in 1864 during the Brooke dynasty rule and originally called Simanggang Fort. It was later renamed and served as a key administrative center controlling the region throughout the colonial era.
The fort is named after Margaret Alice Lili de Windt, who married Charles Brooke in 1869; the exact date of the renaming is not documented. From 1864 to 1964, a policeman struck an eight o'clock gong and called in Iban that the drawbridge was raised and the door closed, barring people from up-river and down-river from entering.
The location sits on a hilltop, so visitors should prepare for a steep climb, particularly during hot midday hours. Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon when it is cooler and views from the tower are at their best.
From 1864 to 1964 a policeman struck an eight o'clock gong and called out in Iban that the drawbridge was raised and the doors shut, so people from up-river and down-river could not climb the fort. The wording changed slightly twice, but the meaning stayed the same.
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