Tawau is located 300km southeast of Kota Kinabalu. Many people recognise it as an oil and gas town, as a large portion of its population is involved in the industry. Oil exploration around Tawau’s waters began as early as 1912 by Petroleum Maatschappij. The town also endured both World War I and World War II, witnessing the смена of Dutch, British, and Japanese rule.

5 worth-visit locations in Tawau

If you have the opportunity to visit Tawau, here are several activities you can enjoy while you’re there.

1. Menara Loceng Tawau

Start your Tawau journey by visiting the town’s only remaining World War landmark, located at Padang Bandar Tawau. Menara Loceng Tawau was built in 1921 using forced labour and funded by Japanese businessmen after the end of World War I.

The Tawau Clock Tower has a hexagonal shape topped with a cone shaped roof, giving it a distinct Japanese oriental design at first glance. It is not entirely original, as it was restored by the Rotary Club of Tawau in 2006. However, the original bell remains missing, believed to have been hidden during World War II.

2. Pasar Tanjung Tawau

Just a short walk from the Clock Tower, you’ll find one of Malaysia’s largest indoor markets, Pasar Tanjung Tawau, housing over 6,000 stalls across several floors. It’s the perfect place to experience local-style shopping while picking up handicrafts and souvenirs.

On the ground floor, you’ll find fresh produce, fruits, and local snacks such as amplang crackers. Head up to the first floor for dried seafood like anchovies, dried shrimp, and salted fish. Vendors can even pack them securely for air travel. At the top level, you’ll enter the “hanging market,” where handicrafts, souvenirs, and household items are sold. Don’t forget to bargain for the best deals.

3. Pasar Malam Jalan Chester Tawau

When night falls, make your way to the Jalan Chester Night Market, which operates every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Arrive after 6:30pm when all the stalls are fully open to experience the lively atmosphere at its best.

Here, you’ll discover a wide variety of local dishes. Must-try foods include grilled fish putu, fresh latok (sea grapes), burasak, gogos, and pentolan (Sabahan meatballs). Popular take-home snacks include amplang crackers, cheese tarts, pastil (vermicelli curry puffs), and assorted donuts. Many visitors love this market for its affordable prices.

4. Hutan Simpan Bukit Gemok Tawau

The next morning, head to Bukit Gemok for a breath of fresh air away from town. It’s located about 10km away along Jalan Merotai, so driving is recommended. The forest reserve spans 445 hectares and sits 428 metres above sea level, making it a popular exercise spot for locals.

You can jog or take a morning walk along a 1km trail that begins at the park entrance and leads into the forest. Along the way, seven rest huts are available for you to recharge before continuing uphill. Before reaching the summit, you’ll cross Titian Selara, a 231-metre canopy walkway. Once across, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Tawau town.

5. Batu Bersusun Kampung Balung Cocos

If you’re willing to venture further from town, a visit to Batu Bersusun in Kampung Balung Cocos is highly recommended. It is reportedly the only basalt column formation in Malaysia. These hexagonal basalt columns were formed from volcanic lava that cooled and cracked thousands of years ago, creating formations that appear almost man-made. They are estimated to be around 27,000 years old.

Locals call the site Giram Nak Legek, and it is situated beside a river. Nearby, you’ll also find a small waterfall and natural pools suitable for a refreshing dip. Although much smaller than Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, it offers a similar geological wonder without the hefty travel cost. Be sure to bring snacks, as there are no food stalls in the surrounding area.

Tawau Is More Than Just Oil & Gas

Tawau may not top most travel lists, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It offers glimpses of World War history, early petroleum exploration, and scenic natural escapes. Why not step away from the usual tourist trail and explore a destination that remains relatively undiscovered?

Bateriku di Tawau

Bateriku Tawau is located at Tb 4007, Ground Floor, Taman Berkeley, Jalan Apas. They welcome walk-in customers from 7:00am until midnight. For roadside assistance or emergencies, you can call +60193001792 or +601116006008.

Bateriku offers car battery delivery and installation services anywhere in Malaysia. With a comprehensive database system, they can identify your car model and recommend a suitable battery instantly.

Beyond on-demand battery delivery, Bateriku also provides additional services to ease your car troubles. Their roadside assistance team can jump-start your vehicle, deliver fuel if you run out, unlock your car if you’re locked out, repair or replace tyres, and arrange towing services to a workshop if necessary.