Labuan Chimney Museum — Attraction in Labuan

The Chimney Museum is a museum site featuring the history of coal mining in Labuan around 1847 to 1911 and the history of Tanjung Kubong. While, the Chimney Tower, which is also known as ‘Punil’ by the nearby local community serve as historical landmark and proof of relics during rapid era of coal mining in Labuan which built in late 1890s. The museum that formerly known as the Chimney Information Centre was completed in 2000 and officially opened to public on 26 October 2002 by the late YB Datuk Seri Panglima Mohamed bin Omar Beldram, representative of the Parliament Member of Labuan.

The two-storey building architecture was inspired by colonial-aged school in Labuan. On the ground floor, this museum exhibits a gallery featuring the earliest history of Labuan as the largest producer of coal mineral resources in the region until the development of the railway system which is believed to be among the earliest in Malaysia. Furthermore, visitors also can explore a taste of atmosphere inside a coal mining tunnel through a special diorama. Meanwhile, another gallery on the top floor shows the uniqueness of the Chimney Tower which is still a mystery because the actual purpose of its construction hasn’t yet to be ascertained. Various hypotheses have been put forward to its purpose as a ventilation shaft, bricks smelting, light house, bell tower or a landmark during coal mining era in Labuan. Also display the conservation works and archeological excavation of the Chimney Tower with 32.5 meters in height and Chimney sites done by the Department of Museums and Antiquities (now Department of Museums Malaysia) from 1997 and fully completed in 1999, and it is considered as one of the riskiest conservation work ever done in Malaysia. In 2013, the Chimney Tower was awarded with The International "Green Apple Awards" by embracing the Bronze for the Architecture Heritage category from The Green Organization, in London

Variety of mining artefacts collection are exhibited in this museum which are largely unearthed during conservations works and archaeological excavations at its surroundings. Among the museum’s fascinating collections are Chinese brass opium pipe, the ceramic artefacts used by miners, various of types of coal mining equipment, the remains of locomotives components of coal transportation trains ever operated in Labuan as well as the discovery of the original Chimney Tower bricks, largely originated from the British renowned factories in Scotland and a coal mining company in Labuan. Also display the different types of coal found around Tanjung...

This chimney was built in the year of 1980's and the usage of it is still a mystery. It is stated that there is no traces of smoke and whatsoever that indicate that it works like any normal chimney. However, the locals believe that it was used as a ventilation shaft. Still, there are many people that have other thought. Some say that it is just an unfinished mansion built in those days while others claim that it is a light house to be. Until today, no one knows the right purpose of this chimney and this is why it is such mysterious. This also acts as an attraction which attracts tourists around the world as well as locals. It has a height of 106 feet and it was built with stacks of red bricks. It was made up with up to 23,000 pieces of red bricks that are imported from the England. The architectural style and design are more or less the same as those of British. Near to the chimney, there is a museum with the name of Chimney Museum which showcases lots of information that are related. There are the brick samples from the chimney and the reinforcement materials used during the construction, just to name a few. After a visit to the chimney and the museum, slow down your pave as there are more. There are many nearby attractions such as Labuan Bird Park, Taman Damai, Coal Mine Tunnel and etc.

One of the nearby accommodations to the chimney is the Manikar Beach Resort. The resorts offer many facilities including swimming pool and beach volleyball, just to name a few. It has as much as 245 luxurious rooms and suits up for your pick. Of course, there are other hotels in Labuan. However, remember to make reservations to avoid peak season. Before heading back home, shopping for souvenirs is a must in Labuan Island due to its duty free goods offered. Wines and alcohols, perfumes and chocolates, all these discounted prices items are sold almost...

The Labuan Chimney Museum is a fascinating place to explore and learn about the island’s history. The exhibits are informative and well-presented, offering interesting insights into the mystery of the iconic chimney, the coal mining era, and Labuan’s heritage. It’s a great stop for anyone who enjoys learning about local history and unique landmarks.

The museum is clean, organized, and easy to navigate, making it suitable for both adults and kids. The outdoor area around the chimney is also well-kept and perfect for photos. Staff are friendly and helpful, adding value to the experience.

We were extra lucky during our visit as the museum was celebrating its 23rd anniversary — and we even received a small prize for being the No. 1 visitor of the day, which made the visit even more memorable!

Although the museum is not very large, it offers a meaningful educational experience. With more interactive elements, it could easily reach a 5-star rating.

A worthwhile and enriching visit for knowledge seekers, history lovers, and...