Tun Mustapha Tower
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Tun Mustapha Tower

4.6
·491k reviews·Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Iconic 30-story glass tower offering panoramic city views from its revolving lookout floor.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Tun Mustapha Tower

Tun Mustapha Tower

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic 30-story glass tower offering panoramic city views from its revolving lookout floor.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Opening Hours First

Hours can change, so confirm before you go to avoid disappointment! :clock10:

Best for Views & Photos

The tower is primarily for its stunning panoramic views. Great for photographers! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Observation Deck

Soar to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Kota Kinabalu and its surroundings. A must-see vista!

Unique Cylindrical Architecture

Unique Cylindrical Architecture

Exterior

Admire the striking 30-story glass tower, a distinctive landmark of Sabah's modern skyline.

Revolving Lookout Floor

Revolving Lookout Floor

Observation Deck

Experience a slow, 360-degree rotation offering ever-changing perspectives of the city and sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the tower is a landmark, access to the observation deck can be limited. Check operating hours in advance, as they may vary. Consider visiting during weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.

Understanding the Tower's Significance

Tun Mustapha Tower, formerly known as Yayasan Sabah Tower, is an iconic architectural marvel. It was once the tallest building in Southeast Asia. Its unique design and historical context add to the visitor experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Menara Tun Mustapha, Yayasan Sabah. Gempa bumi 11.07.2024, Jam 10.13am, 6.6 skala richter di Mindanao Filipina. Gegeran Gempa Bumi di Menara Tun Mustapha, Yayasan Sabah. Pengumuman² semua warga yg brada d bangunan YS d minta mngosongkan pejabat masing² & d minta brkumpul d tapak helipad dgn kadar segera😊👍 #DatukPengarahYayasanSabah #DatukECICSB #TeamTukangKiraDuit #WargaYayasanSabah #SyukurKm...
@dee_dut70
4.2K likes • 321.4K views

Check Opening Hours First

Hours can change, so confirm before you go to avoid disappointment! :clock10:

Best for Views & Photos

The tower is primarily for its stunning panoramic views. Great for photographers! :camerawithflash:

Maklumat tidak tepat berhubung arwah Zara Qairina Mahathir membawa kepada penutupan telefon awam di SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha.
@hmetromy
3K likes • 107K views
Kemelut tuduhan mengaitkan seorang Menteri Kabinet Sabah, Datuk Mohd Arifin Arif dan cucu TYT Sabah dengan kes buli melibatkan pelajar SMK Tun Mustapha akhirnya terjawab. Dokumen rasmi yang diperoleh mendedahkan kebenaran bahawa pelajar Farisya Maisara binti Mohd Ariffin, sebenarnya anak kandung seorang juruteknik Malaysia Airport Holding Berhad Kota Kinabalu bernama Mohd Ariffin bin Akiah, bukann...
@sabahkini2
2.3K likes • 317.4K views

Historical Significance

Learn about its history as a former tallest building in SE Asia. :books:

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Tips

from all over the internet

Check Opening Hours First

Hours can change, so confirm before you go to avoid disappointment! :clock10:

Best for Views & Photos

The tower is primarily for its stunning panoramic views. Great for photographers! :camerawithflash:

Historical Significance

Learn about its history as a former tallest building in SE Asia. :books:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the breathtaking panoramic views offered from the Tun Mustapha Tower's observation deck, especially during sunset. The unique architecture is also a significant draw. However, some find the access and operational hours can be inconsistent, leading to potential disappointment if not checked beforehand.

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Unique architecture
Sunset vistas

What People Dislike

Inconsistent hours
Limited access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tun Mustapha Tower is located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services from the city center. It's a prominent landmark, so it's easily identifiable. TikTok

Yes, there is typically parking available at the tower, though it might be limited during peak hours. It's advisable to arrive early if you are driving.

While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can take a bus to a central point in Kota Kinabalu and then a short taxi or Grab ride to the tower.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees for the observation deck can vary. It's best to check the official Yayasan Sabah website or inquire on-site for the most current pricing. TikTok

Opening hours can fluctuate, so it's crucial to verify them before your visit. They are often open during daylight hours, but specific times should be confirmed.

Advance booking is generally not required for individuals, but it's always a good idea to check if you're planning a group visit or during special events.

Information on accessibility can vary. It's recommended to contact the tower management directly to inquire about facilities for visitors with disabilities.

📸 📸 Photography

The observation deck offers unparalleled panoramic shots of Kota Kinabalu. The exterior also provides excellent angles, especially during sunrise or sunset. TikTok

Generally, professional cameras are allowed, but it's wise to check for any specific regulations regarding equipment, especially for commercial photography.

Late afternoon for the golden hour light and sunset views is highly recommended. Weekday mornings can also offer clearer skies and fewer people. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Sightseers & Photographers

For those who love to capture stunning vistas, Tun Mustapha Tower is a prime location. The 360-degree views from the observation deck are unparalleled, offering fantastic opportunities for landscape photography. Aim for late afternoon for the best light, or a clear morning for crisp, detailed shots of Kota Kinabalu and its surroundings. TikTok

Don't forget to explore the exterior for unique architectural shots of the tower itself. Its distinctive cylindrical design makes for a compelling subject against the sky. Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy the views with fewer crowds, allowing for more time to compose your perfect photograph.

History Buffs

Tun Mustapha Tower holds a significant place in the architectural history of Southeast Asia. As one of the tallest buildings in the region upon its completion in 1977, it represents a period of rapid development and ambition. Learning about its construction and its former status can be a fascinating aspect of your visit. TikTok

While the tower's primary function now is as an office building and tourist viewpoint, its historical context adds depth to the experience. It's a tangible piece of Sabah's modern heritage that offers a glimpse into the past.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel

The Tun Mustapha Tower, formerly known as Yayasan Sabah Tower, is a striking architectural achievement. Completed in 1977, it was designed by architect Datuk Hasmuni Bin Haji Lim. Its unique cylindrical shape and 30-story height made it a significant landmark, even holding the title of one of the tallest buildings in Southeast Asia at the time of its construction. The exterior is clad in tinted glass, giving it a distinctive, shimmering appearance against the tropical sky. TikTok

The tower's design is not just for aesthetics; it incorporates a revolving lookout floor at the top, offering visitors a dynamic and ever-changing perspective of the surrounding landscape. This feature was quite innovative for its era and remains a key attraction. The building's presence is a testament to Sabah's development and ambition during the late 20th century.

Experiencing the Views

The primary draw for visitors to Tun Mustapha Tower is undoubtedly the panoramic view from its observation deck. From this vantage point, you can see the sprawling city of Kota Kinabalu, the islands scattered across the South China Sea, and the lush green hinterland. It's an ideal spot to get your bearings and appreciate the geography of the region. TikTok

Many visitors recommend visiting during the late afternoon to catch the 'golden hour' light as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the city. This time also offers a beautiful transition as the city lights begin to twinkle. While the tower itself is a historical structure, the experience is about the expansive vistas it provides, making it a popular stop for tourists and locals alike.

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