Puu Jih Shih Temple, Chinese temple on Tanah Merah hilltop, Malaysia.
Puu Jih Shih is a Chinese temple located on Tanah Merah hilltop overlooking Sandakan, featuring polished tile floors and vividly painted ceilings throughout its main halls. Golden pillars entwined with dragons decorate the corridors, creating a unified visual experience.
The temple was built in 1987 as a major religious undertaking in Sabah's development. Its construction represented a significant community effort reflecting the growing presence of Chinese believers in the region.
The temple displays multiple rows of golden Buddha statues inscribed with donor names, reflecting how visitors contribute to its spiritual significance. These figures form a central element of daily worship and remembrance within the space.
The temple sits west of central Sandakan and is accessible by public transport followed by a walking route to the hilltop. The approach involves an uphill walk, so wearing comfortable shoes is advisable for the visit.
The temple gardens feature clipped hedges shaped into a large Buddhist symbol, surrounded by white Buddha statues positioned along the approach path. This combination of topiary and statuary creates one of the site's most striking visual impressions upon arrival.
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