Kota Kinabalu: The three personal diaries of Alexander Rankin Johnstone Dunlop (A.R. Dunlop) have been compiled into a book by Sabah State Archives and launched by State Public Service Department Director General Datuk Zainudin Aman.
Edited by Stella Moo-Tan and Prof Datuk Dr Danny Wong Tze Ken, the book offers a comprehensive reference for those interested in the history of Sabah.
Zainudin said the information and data contained in the diaries provide valuable insights and serve as a reference for current generations to understand the historical perspectives and experiences of Dunlop, who travelled extensively across North Borneo, now known as Sabah.
“From his diaries, we are able to capture that Dunlop was not only an administrator during the British Colonial era but also an enthusiastic planter. He was one of the pioneers in planting tobacco (and others) in North Borneo.
James showing his mother’s (Mary Dunlop) photo from his handphone.
“We need to look at this period from a positive perspective. The British brought modernisation, education, knowledge and innovation to this region. “Therefore, we should be grateful that we attained all these advancements, despite the fact that they ‘colonised’ our country.
“There are certainly valuable lessons and guidance to be found in these historical accounts, which can help us continue improving our lives.
“Most importantly, documenting this historical information ensures that future generations can understand and appreciate the contributions of our previous leaders and pioneers,” said Zainuddin.
He said the efforts of Sabah Archives was highly commendable, particularly in preserving the early history of Sabah.
“We owe a great deal of appreciation to the early contributions of pioneers who documented their findings through their lenses, allowing us today to glimpse Sabah’s past.
“One such pioneer, Dunlop, played a crucial role in this endeavour. His initiative to sketch and write about everything he saw has provided us with invaluable insights into the era.
“Thanks to his work, Sabah Archives has been able to continue documenting and preserving these precious historical records.
“Today, we are fortunate to have access to Dunlop’s vision of early Sabah, brought to life through his detailed observations and the continued efforts of Sabah Archives.
“Their work ensures that the rich history of Sabah remains accessible for future generations,” he said.
State Archives Director Shirley Sion said the book is an excellent resource for history enthusiasts.
She acknowledged the presence of several of Dunlop’s descendants, who travelled from Tawau, Labuan and Kota Kinabalu to witness the launch of their ancestor’s book entitled, “The Diaries of Alexander Rankin Johnstone Dunlop 1897-1901.”
Datuk James Wong, the legendary former state football player, is directly connected to Dunlop through his mother, Mary Dunlop.
“My mother, Mary Dunlop, is a direct descendant of the British administrator who once lived in Sabah during the colonisation era. We are grateful to be connected to this great man.
This new ancestral information came to light during the preparation of launching the book, marking a significant revelation for the Dunlop descendants,” said James.
The event showed a little “reunion” of some of Dunlop descendants, who had the opportunity to connect with one another and explore their shared lineage through their ancestor, A. R. Dunlop.
Among Dunlop’s roles were British North Borneo Company officer, District Officer, Acting Resident of Darvel Bay (covering Tawau, Semporna and Lahad Datu), and later Acting Resident of the West Coast.
He was also a talented artist, documenting local people through a series of sketches in his diaries.
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