Atkinson Clock Tower, Kota Kinabalu

The Atkinson Clock Tower stands as a remarkable memorial in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Built in 1905, this historical wooden structure is the oldest standing building in the city and serves as a testament to the colonial era of British North Borneo.

Perched on the hilly terrain of Signal Hill Road, the Atkinson Clock Tower measures at a modest height of about 15.24 meters. It was constructed in memory of Francis George Atkinson, the first District Officer of Jesselton, as Kota Kinabalu was formerly known. Atkinson's untimely death from a tropical disease at the age of 28 led to the creation of this enduring monument.

Unlike the grandeur of steel and glass structures that dot the city's skyline, the Atkinson Clock Tower exudes a charming simplicity. Its wood and iron construction is a rarity as it has withstood the test of time, including the devastation of World War II, where much of Kota Kinabalu was reduced to ruins.

The clock tower remains operational to this day, its clock face visible from various points of the city. It is not only a functioning timepiece but also a beloved icon, representing the historical continuity amidst the city's rapid modernization.

Tourists and locals alike can visit the Atkinson Clock Tower, which is easily accessible from the city center. The site invites visitors to step back in time and offers an excellent vantage point for panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu. While there are no observation decks like those found in more modern towers, the surrounding area provides a serene spot to appreciate the city's landscape and the tower's colonial architecture.