DBKK explores heritage gallery to honour Jesselton legacy

Sir George Jessel meeting Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor with 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).

16 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) has initiated discussions on plans to establish a heritage gallery dedicated to the history of the state capital and the legacy of the North Borneo Chartered Company (NBCC).

The proposal was discussed during a meeting with Sir George Jessel, a descendant of Sir Charles James Jessel, after whom Jesselton was named.

The meeting on Monday was chaired by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, whose portfolio includes the purview of DBKK.

Also in attendance were Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah and DBKK Director-General Datuk Lifred Wong.

Joniston described the discussion as a positive step towards creating development opportunities aligned with DBKK’s vision and functions.

He said that under its tourism division, City Hall is responsible for planning and coordinating tourism-related activities in and around Kota Kinabalu, as well as strengthening efforts 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 an opportunity to connect with Kota Kinabalu’s past,” he said.

Joniston, who also chairs the Sabah Tourism Board, added that he had briefed Chief Minister Hajiji Noor on the initiative. The Chief Minister expressed support for the proposal, with DBKK set to review potential sites for the gallery.

“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.

Mayor Sabin said the meaningful proposal underscored the importance of preserving historical connections while fostering goodwill and cultural understanding.

“Our history and heritage form an integral 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.

Sir George welcomed DBKK’s proactive approach, expressing his enthusiasm for the proposed gallery.

“It is encouraging to see City Hall so committed to preserving and sharing the history of Jesselton. Their enthusiasm is exactly what is needed to make this gallery a success."

“I am pleased to assist by contributing historical artefacts, including NBCC memorabilia, to help create an interactive gallery that allows 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,” he added.

During his visit, Sir George also toured Menara Kinabalu and briefly met the Chief Minister to discuss the proposal.

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, began as a small settlement known as 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 subsequently renamed Jesselton in honour of Sir Charles James Jessel, who served as the company’s vice-chairman.

The name Jesselton remained in use for several decades before the city officially adopted its present name, Kota Kinabalu, in 1967.