New Leadership Steers Sabah Society into 65th Year

28 September 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Society (沙巴學會) has ushered in a new chapter of leadership following its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at its Secretariat in Damai, Kota Kinabalu on 26 September. Members gathered to review past achievements, elect a new Council, and set the course for the year ahead with fresh programmes and initiatives.

The AGM saw nominations and elections for key positions including President, Vice President, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, and Committee Members. The newly elected Council for the 2025–2026 term will continue advancing the Society’s mission to promote knowledge, heritage, culture, and the natural history of Sabah.

The Sabah Society Council 2025–2026

President: Edwin Liew Yun Fu (刘永富)

Immediate Past President: Datuk Dr Heng Aik Cheng (邢益清)

Vice President: Dr Mahadi Harris-Murshidi

Honorary Secretary: Rachel Yee Mei Fung (虞美鳳)

Honorary Treasurer: Lee Mei Tchuin @ Chloe Tiffany Lee (李美君

Committee Members: David Thien Shing Vui (鄧胜威); Chai Moi Len (蔡美莲); Assoc. Prof. Dr Balvinder Kaur Kler; Vincent Oh (胡金成); Eyen Khoo (丘薏媛), Chairlady – Sandakan Branch

President Edwin Liew expressed gratitude for members’ support and emphasised that 2025 marks a milestone year for the Society.

“The Sabah Society has always been about building knowledge and fostering appreciation for Sabah’s unique heritage, culture, and environment. With the support of our members, we look forward to delivering another year of meaningful programmes, partnerships, and community engagement,” he said.

As part of its 65th anniversary celebrations, the Society is offering special membership promotions until 2026 to encourage wider participation in its mission “to know Sabah.”

The Society also extended its appreciation to AGM Returning Officer Dr Ravi Mandalam for his guidance throughout the proceedings.

Reflecting its role as a growing platform for learning and community involvement, the AGM attracted strong member participation. The meeting concluded with an engaging educational talk titled “Buaya Sabah – Guardians of Our Heritage & Rivers” by Dr Sai Kerisha Kntayya, who highlighted the ecological and cultural significance of crocodiles in Sabah, and the importance of safeguarding them as guardians of both rivers and heritage.