Agnes Keith House, Sandakan

Nestled atop a hill in the coastal city of Sandakan, Malaysia, the Agnes Keith House stands as a testament to the rich cultural history and colonial past of the region. This well-preserved museum was once the residence of the famous American author Agnes Newton Keith, known for her poignant memoirs of life in British North Borneo (now Sabah) during the tumultuous times of World War II and beyond.

Constructed in 1930, the house underwent restoration after the war and now serves as a historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of the Keith family. The traditional colonial wooden structure, with its high ceilings and airy verandas, overlooks the stunning Sulu Sea, providing a serene backdrop to the stories contained within its walls.

The museum showcases Agnes Keith's original works, personal belongings, and period furniture, immersing visitors in the ambience of a bygone era. Among her most notable works is "Land Below the Wind," which gives the museum its unique literary significance and attracts visitors interested in the literary and colonial history of East Malaysia.

Open to the public, the Agnes Keith House provides educational tours that explain the historical context of the Keith family's experiences and the impact of Agnes's writing on the understanding of the cultural and social dynamics of the time. The museum also features a quaint English-style tea garden where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments after their tour.