120-year-old landmark revived as Kota Kinabalu’s new heritage and tourism hub ahead of VM2026
KOTA KINABALU: The iconic Atkinson Clock Tower has reopened after a RM15 million restoration, blending meticulous heritage preservation with the needs of modern tourism.
The 120-year-old landmark has been transformed from a quiet historical relic into a vibrant destination and is set to become a highlight of Visit Malaysia (VM) 2026.
City Hall Mayor Datuk Sri Dr Sabin Samitah officiated at the reopening at the base of the 13.7m wooden structure on Nov 10.
In his address, Sabin described the project not merely as renovation works but a strategic investment in the city’s identity and future.
“This restoration demonstrates our dual commitment to safeguard our historical heritage while developing modern, comfortable and accessible urban spaces. We have not just restored a tower, we have created a living heritage site that educates, inspires and offers recreation for residents and international visitors alike,” he said.
Upgrades were designed to make the area more welcoming, secure and enjoyable.
Key enhancements include revamped landscaping, new seating, modern lighting and CCTV along the tree-top walkway.
Retaining walls and improved drainage systems were also added to reduce soil erosion.
Public amenities were upgraded with improved restrooms, clearer signage and facilities accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Sabin said community feedback played a vital role in shaping the project.
“Our goal has always been to restore and enhance the site while preserving the historic tower’s integrity. Today, the area is safer, more accessible and better equipped for everyone to enjoy,” he said.
The restoration has turned the surrounding area into an integrated historical and recreational precinct.
Native Borneo flora now lines landscaped paths, new seating encourages contemplation and a state-of-the-art lighting system highlights the tower’s silhouette, turning it into an around-the-clock attraction.
A standout feature is a 500m tree-top walkway linking the Atkinson Clock Tower to the nearby Signal Hill Observatory Tower.
The aerial path allows visitors to traverse the canopy while moving between two of the city’s key historical viewpoints.
The Observatory Tower also received structural repairs and upgraded lighting to complement the heritage trail.
Sabin added that the project’s symbolic timing coincided with the clock tower’s 120th anniversary.
The initiative, led by City Hall with support from the Economy Ministry via the Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority (Sedia) was completed on schedule on Sept 13.
The reopening also honoured the tower’s illustrious history.
Built in 1905 as a memorial to Francis George Atkinson, Jesselton’s first district officer who died of malaria in 1902 at the age of 28, the structure was commissioned by his mother, Mary Edith Atkinson.
The tower has since witnessed Kota Kinabalu’s growth from a small settlement into a bustling capital, standing as a symbol of memory, love and perseverance.
The ceremony was attended by Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Josie Lai and Sedia chief executive Datuk Seri Hashim Paijan, reflecting cross-departmental collaboration to leverage Kota Kinabalu’s heritage for a dynamic tourism future.
