Sir George Jessel meeting Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Also pictured are Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai (4th left), State Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki (2nd right) and State Secretary Datuk Seri Sr Safar Untong (left).
Assistant Mininister Datuk Joniston Bangkua chairing a discussion meeting with Sir George Jessel. Also pictured are Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah and DBKK Director-General Datuk Lifred Wong.
KOTA KINABALU : – Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) held discussions with Sir George Jessel, descendant of Sir Charles James Jessel, after whom Jesselton was named, on plans to establish a heritage gallery highlighting the city’s history and the legacy of the North Borneo Chartered Company (NBCC).
The meeting on Monday was chaired by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, whose portfolio covers DBKK, and attended by Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah and DBKK Director-General Datuk Lifred Wong.
Joniston said the discussion is a positive step for DBKK to create development opportunities that align with its vision and function.
Under the tourism division, this includes planning and coordinating tourism activities in and around Kota Kinabalu, while strengthening initiatives to promote the city.
“The idea of this gallery is exciting because it could help highlight the city’s history and boost heritage tourism, giving both residents and visitors a chance to connect with Kota Kinabalu’s past,” said Joniston.
Joniston, who is also chairman of Sabah Tourism Board, added that he had briefed the Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor on the initiative, who expressed support for the gallery, stating that DBKK would review the potential sites.
“Our focus is on proper planning and preservation as we explore the best ways to represent the city’s history in a manner that complements Kota Kinabalu’s broader development plans,” he said.
In the discussion, Sabin said such meaningful proposal reflects the importance of preserving historical connections while strengthening goodwill and cultural understanding.
“Our history and heritage form an important part of this living narrative, strengthening Kota Kinabalu’s position as a city that honours its past while welcoming the world.
“As we pursue our vision of becoming a Smart, Liveable and Globally Connected Coastal City, we remain committed to building a future rooted in heritage, inclusivity and sustainability,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sir George expressed his support and excitement for DBKK’s proactive approach in exploring the idea of a heritage gallery.
“It is encouraging to see the City Hall so committed to preserving and sharing the history of Jesselton, and their enthusiasm is exactly what is needed to make this gallery successful.
“I am happy to assist in contributing historical artefacts, including NBCC memorabilia, to help create an interactive gallery to allow visitors to experience the city’s past in a tangible and engaging way.
“I look forward to working closely with DBKK to showcase the origins of the NBCC and the early development of Jesselton,” Sir George added.
During his visit, Sir George also toured Menara Kinabalu and had the opportunity to speak briefly with the Chief Minister about the gallery proposal.
The state capital of Sabah started out as a small settlement called Api-Api.
In 1899, it came under the administration of the British North Borneo Company, which developed it into its new administrative centre.
The town was renamed Jesselton in recognition of Sir Charles James Jessel, who served as the company’s vice chairman.
The name Jesselton remained for several decades until 1967, when the city officially adopted its current name, Kota Kinabalu.
