Tawau Bell Tower, Bell tower in Tawau, Malaysia
The Tawau Bell Tower is a structure with contemporary design standing near Jalan Bomba and featuring a large bell for announcements. It sits at a location marked by direction indicators pointing toward Dunlop Street, Kuhara Road, Sin On Road, and the Celebes Sea beyond.
The bell tower was built in 1921 by the Japanese community in North Borneo and remains among the town's oldest structures. During World War II, the original bell was moved away from the site to a nearby church for safekeeping and was never returned.
The bell tower reflects a blend of Japanese and Malaysian traditions through its presence in the town. It stands as a reminder of how different communities shaped the character of Tawau over generations.
The site is accessible near Jalan Bomba with directional markers making it straightforward to locate on foot. It works well to visit in early morning or late afternoon when the area is quieter and the light is softer.
The original bell that hung in the tower was removed during World War II and hidden at a nearby church to protect it from bombing. The bell has never been recovered, making it a lasting reminder of the town's wartime decisions.
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