A city’s identity is often forged in the crucible of its history, and Kota Kinabalu is poised to solidify its connection to a pivotal past through a significant new cultural institution. Officials at Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) have formally announced an ambitious initiative to create a dedicated heritage gallery that will chronicle the rich history of Sabah’s capital and preserve the influential legacy of the North Borneo Chartered Company (NBCC). This forward-thinking project was catalyzed by a meaningful discussion between city leaders and Sir George Jessel, a direct descendant of Sir Charles James Jessel, the historical figure for whom the city was once named Jesselton. The proposal seeks not only to honor the city’s origins but also to weave this historical narrative into its modern fabric, providing a permanent space for reflection, education, and cultural enrichment for generations to come. This initiative represents a concerted effort to look backward in order to move forward, ensuring that the stories that shaped the city are not lost to time but are instead celebrated as a core component of its future identity.
A Vision for Heritage and Urban Development
Fostering Cultural Identity Through Tourism
The proposed gallery is strategically positioned as a cornerstone for enhancing the region’s cultural landscape and amplifying its heritage tourism sector. Spearheading these discussions is Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, who has underscored the project’s potential to forge a deeper connection between the city and its visitors. By providing a curated space to explore the transformation of a small settlement known as Api-Api into the bustling administrative hub of Jesselton, the gallery aims to offer a compelling narrative that complements Sabah’s renowned natural beauty. This initiative moves beyond a simple historical display; it is envisioned as an immersive experience that will enrich the understanding of both residents and tourists, adding a significant layer to Kota Kinabalu’s identity. The project has received robust support from the highest levels of government, including the full endorsement of Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, signaling a unified commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s unique historical assets as a driver for both cultural pride and economic growth.
Integrating History into a Modern Cityscape
This heritage initiative is seamlessly integrated into Kota Kinabalu’s broader strategic vision for urban development, reflecting a sophisticated understanding that a city’s soul is as important as its infrastructure. Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah has articulated that honoring the past is a fundamental pillar in the city’s ambition to become a “Smart, Liveable and Globally Connected Coastal City.” The establishment of the heritage gallery is seen as a tangible manifestation of this commitment, grounding futuristic aspirations in a deep respect for heritage and inclusivity. The project is not an isolated effort but part of a holistic plan to ensure that as Kota Kinabalu modernizes, it retains its unique character and historical depth. The active search by DBKK for a suitable location for the gallery further demonstrates the project’s priority and the city’s proactive stance on cultural preservation. This approach ensures that the city’s evolution is a thoughtful process, balancing progress with the preservation of the historical narratives that provide context, meaning, and a distinct sense of place for its inhabitants and visitors.
A Collaborative Endeavor
A Descendant’s Contribution to History
A unique and personal dimension of this project comes from the direct involvement of Sir George Jessel, who has enthusiastically embraced the initiative and pledged significant support. His commitment extends beyond mere endorsement; he plans to contribute a valuable collection of historical artifacts and memorabilia related to the North Borneo Chartered Company. This collaboration ensures an unparalleled level of authenticity and richness for the gallery’s future exhibits. Sir George’s vision is to help create an interactive and engaging museum experience that transcends static displays, allowing visitors to tangibly connect with the early history of Jesselton. By providing access to primary artifacts, the gallery will offer a direct window into the era of the NBCC’s administration and the life of his ancestor, Sir Charles James Jessel. This partnership between a historical descendant and the city government creates a powerful bridge between the past and present, promising a gallery that is not only informative but also deeply resonant and personal, capturing the spirit of the city’s origins.
A Unified Path Forward
The consensus and enthusiasm surrounding the gallery’s creation reflect a shared understanding of its importance in chronicling the city’s complete historical trajectory. The initiative provides a crucial platform to narrate the evolution from its indigenous roots as Api-Api to its pivotal role as Jesselton, the administrative center for the British North Borneo Company established in 1899. This unified effort brings together government leaders, tourism bodies, and historical stakeholders in a common cause: to honor a complex legacy while simultaneously fostering greater cultural understanding. The project was viewed by all participants as a vital step in creating new development opportunities that are thoughtfully aligned with the city’s core functions and historical identity. The establishment of the gallery represented a deliberate choice to invest in cultural capital, ensuring that the story of Kota Kinabalu’s founding and growth would be preserved and shared, strengthening the city’s character for the future.
