The Tawau Bell Tower (also known as the Belfry) is the oldest standing structure in Tawau, constructed by the Japanese to commemorate the signing of armistice agreement following World War I when Japan was an ally of Great Britain.

[1] The bell tower was constructed in 1921 by the Japanese community in North Borneo using prison labour and funds contributed by Japanese businessmen in Tawau.

But where could be a safe place when during the war all historical building face the risk of destruction?

The resident decided!As the abandoned structure was recently almost near collapse, it was restored with funds contributed by the Rotary Club of Tawau (RCT) in 2006.

[3] Media related to Tawau Belfry at Wikimedia Commons