The Sabah Society

Searching for Borneo in British Museums | Dr Jennifer Morris
2024-09-10 20:00 - 21:00 (Asia/Shanghai) | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Dr Jennifer R. Morris is the Borneo Early Career Research Fellow in the Department of Asia at the British Museum. She is a historian and museologist trained at the universities of Cambridge, Leicester and Singapore, and specialises in the history of museums and collecting in Borneo. She has previously contributed towards the development of the Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching as part of the Sarawak Museum Fellowship Programme, and curated the virtual exhibition ‘Plant People: Unearthing Botany in Sarawak’ for the Friends of Sarawak Museum.t

Annual General Meeting 2024
2024-10-17 18:30 - 21:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Dear members,

Kindly please take note of our AGM which is on Thursday 17 Oct 2024 at 6.30pm. This will be followed by a talk at 8pm. More details on talk will be out soon.

Your attendance is much appreciated as this will ensure that the Society will be able to move forward.

A gentle reminder to all members to please renew your membership fees RM75 for voting eligibility.

See you.

Rachel Yee

Honorary Secretary 2023-2024

The Artistic legacy of William Pretyman | Mohd Shari
2024-10-17 20:00 - 21:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
The collections of scenic pencil sketches and watercolour of North Borneo made by William Pretyman, the West Coast Resident at Tampasuk in the late 19th century (1878-1880).

Pictures are for sale on that night

The diaries of Alexander Rankin Johnstone Dunlop, 1897 - 1907 | Stella Moo-Tan
2024-11-20 20:00 - 21:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Arguably the youngest cadet to serve in the British North Borneo Chartered Company, AR Dunlop’s life and 46-year career in British North Borneo is extraordinary to say the least. His diaries give us a glimpse of the early part of the British administration where among other things, he was involved in the pursuit of Mat Salleh who posed the most serious challenge to British rule.

His diaries are also infused with sketches of many local people and places, showing Dunlop’s artistic talent.

Gaya Street ~ Doing it in style | Team Bergaya (Rosemary Chin) | 26 Nov
2024-11-26 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
If you think you know Gaya Street, then think again!

Walk with us around the corners, and through the alleys, and up the stairs, and down again.

Join us on a magical mystery tour. We promise you won’t be disappointed.

NB WW2 History: Selected bombing mission by the Allied forces | Avtar Singh
2024-12-05 20:00 - 21:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
In May and June 1945 during the Second World War, specific bombing and strafing missions were carried out by allied forces against several district namely Kota Belud, Kudat, Ranau, Inanam, Jesselton, Pensiangan, Tenom, and Kinarut in North Borneo/ Sabah.

These missions were planned according to allied intelligence information.

I will be sharing never been seen before mission reports and photographs of the actual bombings/strafing’s of these towns from those who participated in these missions, including estimated battle damage on structures and buildings.

This will give the audience a better understanding of why missions and targets were selected and what transpired in a small number of flight operations over North Borneo/Sabah and how North Borneo/ Sabah ultimately became the most heavily bombed British territory in Malaya and Borneo.

Book - The illegals in Sabah my untold story
2025-01-09 20:00 - 21:00 | Sabah
We have on sale the above book at RM50 per copy in both languages English and BM. It will be signed by author TS Datuk Chong Kah Kiat himself. You can pre book your copy here 013 8809850

The illegals in Sabah - My untold story | Tan Sri Datuk Chong Kah Kiat, former CM of Sabah
2025-01-09 20:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
SEAT RESERVATION CLOSE

SEAT RESERVATION CUT-OFF POINT

Dur to overwhelming response, to everyone who has reserved a seat for Tan Sri Datuk Chong Kah Kiat’s talk, please take note that TSS will hold the reserved seats onlu until 7.45PM. After this time, the seats will be opened to walk in guests.

How did it all begin, and why has Sabah, in particular, faced an influx of PTIs (Pendatang Tanpa Izin) over the years? I have taken steps to address this issue by personally entering the field (turun Padang) to engage directly with the community. Along the way, I encountered many challenges, experienced rewards, and faced some regrets. My story concludes with a reflection on what we, as Sabahans, can collectively do to tackle these ongoing issues.

Tan Sri Chong Kah Kiat was the 13th Chief Minister of Sabah from March 2001 – March 2003. Tan Sri Chong’s short stint as Chief Minister was pre-occupied with the 3 challenges of his Chief Ministership namely [llegal immigrants, illegal loggings and illegal fish bombings in Sabah.

Tan Sri Chong retired from active politics since 2007 and will be sharing his story of his crusade in addressing the influx of illegal immigrants into Sabah when he was the Chief Minister of Sabah.

It will be held at The Secretariat The Sabah Society, Damai Plaza. To secure your seats please contact 013-8809850 or at email sabahsoc@gmail.com

Members Night | Thur 16 Jan 2025 @ 6.30PM
2025-01-16 18:30 - 20:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
It’s time to celebrate you! Join us on TSS Member’s Night for a santai makan as our President, Edwin Liew, will be sharing his journey through the Trans-Siberian Railway! There will be light meals prepared for everyone. Do come to the Sabah Society Secretariat this coming January 16, 2025, Thursday!

Let us know if you are joining so the food is enough ✨🙏🏽🫶🏼 013-8809850

THE SETTLEMENT OF A LOWER LABUK KAMPUNG 1925-1975 | Dr Elizabeth Koepping
2025-02-21 20:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Dr Elizabeth is an anthropologist who has studied and obtained cultural anthropology degrees from Edinburgh, Manchester and Queensland and is trained in theology from Oxford. She taught anthropology and education in Queensland and Melbourne and then in Heidelberg, Germany. Her PhD thesis was titled “Too Hot, Too Cold, Just Right: Social Relations in a Kadazan Village in Sabah, Malaysia.” Her work in Sabah focuses on the culture of natives as well as the relationships between people in a domestic setting.

Overriding MA63: The Malayan " Social Contract" | Datuk Dr Johan Ariffin
2025-03-13 20:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Author of ‘Unequal Partners’ and ‘Revisiting the Social Contract’ – Datuk Dr Johan Ariffin.
The concept of a ‘social contract’ has been manipulated by Peninsular politicians to override the provisions of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). This notion, which was originally a quid pro quo arrangement among leaders of the three major communities (Malay, Chinese, Indians) during the formation of the Federation of Malaya, has been politically weaponized to pressure non-Malays, particularly those in Sabah and Sarawak, into compliance. However, the so-called social contract had no connection to the Borneo states. Over time, it has been misapplied to these regions, serving to entrench Malay hegemony under the guise of ‘Ketuanan Melayu.’ This distortion not only undermines the historical context but also perpetuates an inequitable narrative in Sabah and Sarawak.

Montfort Youth Training Centre - Real life & Real skills for youth | Thur 27 Mar
2025-03-27 20:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Mr Joseph Tek Choon Yee, Member of the Board of Governors of MYTC will talk on the history of MYTC and recount how MYTC equips youths from underprivileged backgrounds with skills gained through vocational training to make a better life for themselves.

A Sabahan World Feeling and Its Outlook on Governmentality
2025-04-29 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Despite having formed Malaysia in 1963, Sabah has undergone several transitions of governmental systems. The last 500 years of history compels us ask how much of a world feeling does a Sabahan outlook draw upon? Adi answers these question in his upcoming talk with TSS.

Rethinking Economic Development: Adapt Or Be Left Behind
2025-05-16 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
While other countries are reaping the benefits of new technologies and human resources, Sabahans are struggling to keep up. Too reliant on tourism, palm oil, and fossil fuel production as sources of state revenue, Augustine reimagines what economic policies will look like to enable sustainable development.

Symbolic Representation of Sabah
2025-06-19 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Jared works closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture (MOTAC), the National Cultural Council (Majlis Kebudayaan Negara, MAKEN) is an independent advisory council with the purpose to develop, to grow and to empower the nation’s arts, culture and heritage, in accordance with the Dasar Kebudayaan Negara (DAKEN) 2021.

Jared aims to refine cultural perceptions of symbolic and artistic representation of Sabah. This talk is part of an ongoing effort to ensure appropriate cultural representation.

KK's "Street Kids": Whose Trauma?
2025-07-08 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Whose trauma is truly being addressed in policy responses and in public discourse regarding street kids? Dr Sanen Marshall and Dr Ayesah Uy Abubakar explore whether popular labeling and representation perpetuates derogatory stereotypes or reflects social realities.

Kinarut Vanilla Farm Educational Trip
2025-07-19 10:00 - 11:30 | https://maps.app.goo.gl/5ohsr2faCRmH7zUC7
An educational visit to the idyllic Vanilla Farm in Kinarut, just south of the capital, Kota Kinabalu. The purpose of this trip is to learn about vanilla agriculture and how it commercially sustains itself as a viable agribusiness in Sabah.

Sandokan: The "Hero of Marudu" in Italian Literature
2025-07-25 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Sandokan is a 19th century hero who fought the British invaders. In a book written by the Italian Author Emilio Salgari (1862-1911) Sandokan is a contemporary of the 19th century hero of Marudu, Syarif Osman. Both hail from the area that is today called Sabah. Dr Gerlich traces the history of these two figures in Sabah’s past.

Gaya Island Hike
2025-08-02 07:00 - 12:00 | Sabah
Join us as we hike to the highest point on Gaya Island to enjoy great views and good company!

Photo Exchange and Get-To-Know
2025-08-15 19:00 - 21:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Join us this Friday (15 Aug 2025) for an evening of fellowship and remembrance of our Gaya Island Hike. We will be showcasing slides from the hike while facilitating a photo exchange amongst those who wish to share their photos with each other.

65th Anniversary Special Membership Promotion
2025-09-26 00:00 - 2026-12-31 23:59 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Great news for all current and new members!
As The Sabah Society marks its 65th Anniversary, we are delighted to introduce a special membership promotion in celebration of this milestone. 🌿
This exclusive offer begins at our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 26 September 2025 and will remain available throughout the year 2026. It is the perfect time to join us and be part of our community dedicated to exploring, learning, and preserving the rich heritage and culture of Sabah.

Special Anniversary Rates

Ordinary Membership~RM 75~ now only RM 55

Student Membership~RM 30~ now only RM 25

Become A Member Today!
Why Join The Sabah Society?
✔ Discover more about Sabah’s heritage, culture, history, and natural wonders✔ Take part in talks, field trips, and activities that deepen your knowledge of our state✔ Support efforts to preserve and share the heritage of Sabah for generations to come
As we celebrate 65 years of “to know Sabah,” we invite you to be part of this meaningful journey. Together, let us continue to preserve our shared heritage and foster a deeper appreciation for Sabah’s culture and natural treasures.
👉 Don’t miss this special anniversary promotion. Become a member today and celebrate 65 years of discovery with us!

Annual General Meeting 2025
2025-09-26 18:30 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Dear Sabah Society members,

We would like to announce the details of the upcoming Annual General Meeting for 2025/2026 is as follows:

Date: 26 September 2025 (Friday)
Time: 6:30 pm
Venue: The Sabah Society Secretariat, Plaza Damai

The Sabah Society Committee 2024/25 will present and discuss past year AGM minutes, financial reports, and past events. The highlight will be the election of the Office Bearer and Committee Members for term 2025/2026.

Kindly renew annual membership to ensure voting rights. As per the Constitution, life members and ordinary members (RM75) are eligible for voting. Student memberships (RM30) is reserved for observation. All members enjoy the benefits of subsidized fieldtrips and usage of The Sabah Society library at the Secretariat. Members will also receive a complimentary copy of the Sabah Society e-journal.

We greatly appreciate your continued support for The Sabah Society in living up to its motto: To Know Sabah. The Sabah Society is made up of volunteers such as yourselves. Let us all contribute to ensure the success of the society. Your attendance is very important in order to meet the quorum for an AGM.

Sincerely,
Rachel Yee
Honorary Secretary 2024/2026

Buaya Sabah: Guardians of Our Heritage & Rivers
2025-09-26 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Sabah is home to the saltwater crocodile, a species that has long shaped the ecology and culture of our rivers. Dr Sai Explores the biology and ecology of C. porosus in maintaining healthy ecosystems and our role in ensuring that crocodiles remain an enduring part of Sabah’s landscapes and identity.

The Land of The Disappearing Identity: Adaptability in The Sabahan Ethnic Landscape
2025-10-30 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Sabah’s rich ethnic landscape is shifting. As traditions meet modern life, what happens to identity? In this month’s talk, we explore how Sabahans are adapting to cultural change and how and whether this truly affects ethnic identity. This eye-opening talk invites you to reflect on what it means to belong in a land where identity is both disappearing and transforming. Whether you’re Sabahan, Malaysian, or simply curious; come listen, question, and connect.

Bajau Laut: The Sea Is Our Home
2025-11-13 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Bajau Laut: The Sea is Our Home is a poignant documentary by Joo Peter, capturing the vanishing way of life and struggles of the sea-dwelling Bajau Laut in Semporna, Sabah. The screening will last 63 minutes, followed by a discussion with the film-maker on the social issues that affect the Bajau Laut. Join us on Thursday the 13th of November to understand the cultural identity and fragile maritime existence of the Bajau Laut.

Danum Valley Trip
2025-12-05 08:00 - 2025-12-07 17:00 | Danum Valley Conservation area, Malaysia
Experience the untouched beauty of Danum Valley on this guided trip—encounter exotic wildlife, ancient rainforest, and unique eco-adventures in Borneo.

Join an unforgettable Danum Valley trip and explore Borneo’s pristine rainforest, rare wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Due to election day coinciding with the original date of our Danum Valley trip, the dates have been changed. Mark your calendar with the new dates: 05 Dec 2025 — 07 Dec 2025

Don’t miss this opportunity to grab exclusive deals to Danum Valley only available for The Sabah Society! Normally RM 4,450 per pax, TSS have special rates for our members and those who join us only on this occasion. For triple sharing the price is as low as RM 1,197 per pax.

Implementing Totally Protected Species Action Plans: Intelligence, Enforcement, and Digital Innovation
2025-12-10 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Goossens’ talk features the Danau Girang Field Centre’s work on consolidating the intelligence, enforcement and prosecution capacity to mitigate wildlife crimes in Sabah. This is done through the establishment of specialised units such as the Intelligence Unit, the Forensic Unit and the Rapid Response Teams for the Sabah Wildlife Department. Join us on Wednesday to hear more about what we can do to protect our wildlife in Sabah.

Beyond the Jungle: A Journey in Conservation
2026-01-22 20:00 - 22:00 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
In Yulinda’s presentation, she will highlight remarkable flora and fauna discoveries from her work in Tawau, share insights from her field research, technical DSLR camera trap documentation, and showcase her efforts in promoting Tawau as a destination for nature lovers through strong conservation-driven tourism initiatives. Her journey into conservation began unexpectedly. Growing up as a local Sabahan with little connection to nature, she later developed a deep passion for wildlife and forests through hands-on field experience.

Spiders of Borneo Book Launch
2026-01-26 18:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
A keen nature photographer, specialising in the spiders, insects and birds of Borneo, Wong’s works have been used by various magazines and publications. He is currently a member of the Malaysian Nature Society-Bird Conservation Council Records Committee, which assesses rare bird records for Malaysia. He authored A Naturalist Guide to the Birds of Borneo, also published by John Beaufoy.

Reptiles of Borneo Book Launch
2026-01-26 18:00 - 21:30 | The Sabah Society Secretariat, Luyang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, 88450, Malaysia
Indraneil Das is a Professor at the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. He has a DPhil from Oxford University and was a Fulbright Postdoctoral Fellow at the Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University. He has authored many books on reptiles and amphibians.
