Labuan ~ Sights & Visits

Tanjung Kubong Tunnel & Coalmining
The northern tip of the island is called Tanjung Kubong. An expansive network of underground tunnels and deep wells are found in this area. This is the site of coal mining, which started in 1847. The mine was operated by various British companies for 64 years. The last one, the New Central Borneo, installed an 8 mile long railway track to Victoria Port to facilitate the export of the coal. A series of mining accidents led to the closure of the mine in 1911. The area is dotted with pits and tunnels. Old bricks and pieces of rail tracks and rusted cables can still be seen strewn on the ground. One can actually enter a low tunnel with the help of a short rope and emerge from the top. Across the road next to the Chimney, is a vertical well. It is 10 feet wide and measuring some 100 feet deep. At the bottom of this well are found entrances of more tunnels, which are yet to be explored.


The Chimney
A well-known landmark, this 106 feet high structure was built in the 1800�s. Believed to be a relic from the old coal mining days of Labuan during 1847 to 1912. The Chimney appears square shaped with an inner hollow structure is made from more than 23,000 pieces of red bricks. The bricks layering and works are typical of British style. The �Chimney� was long thought to be nothing more than a ventilation shaft. However, recent findings revealed that there were no traces of smokes or burning to suggest its use as a chimney as popularly believed. Careful digging has revealed at least 12 layers of bricks beneath the surface. The structure sits firmly on a large tract of limestone rock containing rich kaolin or porcelain clay, which provided the strong foundation.

It iis still very much a mystery until today. Various hypothesis has been put forward to its purpose. Some said it was an unfinished mansion. While others said it was a light house beaconing passing ships. In its heyday, a thriving settlement was built at the sea front area below the Chimney. It was then used as a bell tower to announce the arrival of ships to the residents below. It has become an intriguing riddle that fascinates locals and visitors alike.
Location - Tanjung Kubong
 

Labuan Bird Park
Located near the Chimney at Tanjung Kubong. It has three large dome-shaped cages surrounded by surrounded by beautiful trees and flowering plants. The park is home to many species of Borneo birds most likely to be encountered by bird watchers. A slow, relaxing walk within the bird park is recommended to take in the beauty and marvel at a large variety of tropical birds from around the region.

There are plans to collect a good percentage of the 580 species of birds found in Borneo�s diverse habitats, from mangroves along the coast to forest in the mountains. Unlike bird watching in the wild, here at the bird park, Much bird watching can be done without the arduous treks in the jungle or any need to tow expensive equipment. All you require is a notebook to jot down what you see and a pair of good binoculars. Help in identifying birds can be obtained from the park. Entrance to the park is free.
Location - On the northern end of Labuan island,
accessible via Jalan Tanjung Kubong


Botanical Gardens
The Labuan Botanical Garden is a charming garden with an equally charming story behind it. It is a recreational park with majestic old trees and beautiful landscaping.

It was formerly the site of the Government House which was built in 1847 was locally known as Bumbung 12. It was believed that Hugh Low, the Colonial Secretary for many years did much of the early work on the Garden. Many of the older trees were planted by him. The house however was completely destroyed during the War.

On the grounds can be found two graves with tombstones dating back to 1847 may also be found here; these graves, said to be the oldest on Labuan, were relocated here to protect them from the tides along the coast.


One of the two graves relocated was that of Commander James A. Gordan of HMS Wolf, present at the handing over of Labuan to the British on December 24, 1846 and who assisted in the construction of the grounds. the other is a small grave of a much-loved foxhound named 'Jim'.
Of this era, today, only the old water storage tank remains.
The Labuan Botanical Garden is located behind the old airport, about 2km east of Labuan town and is accessible via Jalan OKK Abdullah.


Layang-Layangan Beach
A golden beach, brilliant sunshine and waves gently lapping - this is the reason why Layang-Layangan beach is an extremely popular spot especially so on weekends. Cycling paths and picnic tables are shaded by leafy trees. In this area too can be found many food stalls with live musical bands performing every weekend. Horse riding and cycling are some of the popular leisure activities on this beach. The Peace Park and Manikar Beach Resort are also nearby.



Pancur Hitam Beach
This is one of the most developed beaches in Labuan. A beautiful landscaped park extends directly onto the long sandy beach.

Located at the north shore of Labuan, Pancur Hitam beach is home to Labuan's biggest and most luxurious private house - the "House of Millions of Peace". The roads nearby this house, Jalan Batu Manikar and Jalan Pancur Hitam, are tastefully designed with well landscaped and decorated pathways.

Just in front of the house, rows of local market stalls offer treats including fresh coconut water, chicken wings, popcorn and other mouth-watering local cuisines and knick-knacks. Right at the side of the house, there is a small natural path that will lead you to Bukit Pohon Batu (Pohon Batu Hill), the second highest peak in Labuan, where you can enjoy a jungle trekking jaunt. From this high vantage you can also have a bird's eye view of the entire Labuan island.

Further south of Pancur Hitam beach, you will find a recreational area known as the "Sudut Cabaran" (Challenging Site), which offers an ideal site for various recreational activities including picnic and camping.

Towards the evenings, you can take in a breathtaking sunset with the three peaks of Phin Batu Hill as a dramatic backdrop.