Sibu Town Square X'mas Trees 2010

The annual Christmas Trees competition is back in town and I am glad to be around to witness it again.

However, this year event is a pale shadow compare to the previous years due to lack of participation from the bigger corporations.

The trees paraded at the Sibu Town Square are mainly erected by Lions and JCI clubs. Only one tree is from a tuition centre here. All the trees here seems to lack creativity and innovation which lead to a boring display this year.

The controversial "Heineken" Tree by Lions Club of Sibu Seduan which gave a wrong impression that Christians are drinkers. However, I think it is not a big issue as it only reflects the members of the club which came out with this idea are actually the real heavy drinkers instead.

This is the only tree which caught my attention which really reflect the true identity of the town. It depicts the town's main culinary dish, the kampua noodle. Definitely worthy of a winner this year.

Other side activities spotted at the town square is people releasing the sky lantern at night. Truly a sight to be behold.

Signal Hill Observatory

One of the best way to get a bird's eye view of Kota Kinabalu is at Signal Hill Observatory. It is quite easy to get here from the city centre. I first made my way to Atkinson Clock Tower and it is just a mere 10 minutes walk from the Clock Tower.

It's quite a scenic walk en route to the platform of Signal Hill Observatory from Atkinson Clock Tower. With all the lush greenery, I don't feel the heat on a bright sunny afternoon.

A complete view of the city can be viewed from here. It's definitely an awesome view with the South China Sea and islands as the backdrop.

Walking further up, one can see the city's port as well as Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal

Atkinson Clock Tower

The Atkinson Clock Tower is one of the oldest building in Kota Kinabalu. The building of the clock tower was initiated in 1902 and was completed in 1905. It is within walking distance from the city centre and is located just beside the police station.

It was originally built as a memorial to the first District Officer of Kota Kinabalu, then Jesselton, Mr. Francis George Atkinson who had died in 1902 of "Borneo Fever" (malaria) at the age of 28.

Built with public donations and of merbau timber, the tower has been repaired several times by the city council. It was refurbished in 1959 to celebrate the city's diamond jubilee. It is said that the original clock, a double-face clock was a gift from his mother to Atkinson, was replaced in 1964.

The Clock Tower stands at 157 metres high. The tower once served as a lighthouse as a guide to sailors.

The Sabah Museum took over the care and maintenance of the Clock Tower in 1979 and the site was gazetted as a Government Reserve in August 1983.

The surrounding landscape of the Clock Tower is now in danger as there is a plan to built a multi-storey commercial complex next to it. Let's hope it did not materialize as it will be a shame to see such a historical site been marginalized in the name of development.

Gaya Street Christmas Celebration

I was fortunate to be in Kota Kinabalu at the right time this week to witness the Christmas celebration along the Gaya Street. The street virtually came alive at night where the locals, foreigners and visitors throng the street.

With a brightly decorated Christmas tree standing tall in the heart of the city and Christmas carols in the background, one cannot miss but feel the joy of the Christmas celebration approaching.

As people of various walks of life embrace the festive season, they are reminded of the need for mankind, regardless of race and belief, to help to spread the message of love and peace.

The Christmas carols were held for 3 consecutive days from 14-16th December 2010 from 6-9pm. Different choir group will sing at 2 allocated stations along Gaya Street at different interval during the whole duration of the event.

What a night to be remembered. Everyone was having a good time and I am glad to be able to soak into the atmosphere

Malayan Railway Headquarters Building

There is a beautiful structure along Hishamudin Road which house the headquarters of Keretapi Tanah Melayu from the day it was built until today.

It is strategically located opposite the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. That Railway Station used to be the main railway station for the city before been replaced by KL Sentral few years back.

This splendid building was designed in 1913 by a British architect named Mr. A.B. Hubback. Construction work began in 1914 by a local contractor and the building was finally completed in November 1917 after interruption of the First World War. This building is a fine example of Moorish architecture reflecting the Ottoman and Mogul glory of the 13th and 14th centuries blended Gothic and ancient Greek design of the 14th century.


The ground floor is adorned with 97 large frontal Gothic arches and 4 smaller arches. The high and wide verandahs skirting the building create a cooling effect and are suitable for the constant high climatic temperatures in Malaysia.

The first floor has 94 large arched windows of Gothic design and 4 circular arches of smaller size. The second floor has 171 Gothic arches and 4 large and 12 smaller circular arches.

Five domes sit majestically on top of the building, each surrounded at four corners entwined columns. They are of orthodox Greek design typical in the 14th century.

This historical building suffered serious damage twice in its lifetime, firstly during the Second World War when its North wing was bombed and secondly when the same wing on the second floor was gutted by fire in 14 November 1968

Malones Irish Restaurant & Bar @ Pavilion

Malones is an Irish restaurant and bar outlet which is located in Pavilion and KLCC. They serve Irish beers and food in both of their outlets

Recently, I visited Malones at Pavilion. Happy hour is from 2-8pm so it might be a good time to get a pint of Irish beer. The waiters here are friendly and I feel very comfortable just sitting here and watch the world walk pass me.

I ordered a pint of Kilkenny (RM 20 during happy hour time) since it is getting popular lately here. It pours an amber red colour with a nice long lasting head. Taste slightly sweet initially but quickly changes to malty dry finish.

Kilkenny is smooth and easy to drink but it lacks the characters I am looking for.

Malones also serve Paulaner draught beer. I ordered 300ml (RM 18) and it went down well for me. I think the Paulaner sold here is a bit pricey compare to the other outlet which exclusively serve this brand of beer only.

A visit to an Irish restaurant will not be complete without sampling its traditional food. I recommend the Irish Stew (RM 24.90) where they serve generous amount of lamb. It was cooked with potato and carrot. It is delicious and able to lock my hunger until late night.