Rebuilding Hope: The Royal Engineers' Mission in North Borneo

Ref:  Photo provided by Anthony Catherall

• Their mission was to construct and repair infrastructure, including airstrips, bridges, and roads in Malaya and North Borneo.

Do you know I've only just noticed the Rolex, I bought in Borneo June 1960. with six weeks of our pay, and still got it - Anthony

During 1960s we as Royal Engineers were working hard in Malaya (Malaysia) to regenerate their country after being invaded by the Japanese in WW2. Our job was to build and repair the infrastructure of the country. (Malaya) - Anthony. 

11 Independent Field Squadron RE was to build an airstrip bridges and roads up at Malaya and North Borneo! In the 1960s, a group of dedicated Royal Engineers, known as the 11 Independent Field Squadron RE, embarked on a mission to rebuild and rejuvenate Malaya (now Malaysia) after the devastation of World War II. Among them was Anthony, a passionate and hardworking engineer, who, along with his comrades, was determined to restore the country's infrastructure.

The team faced numerous challenges as they worked tirelessly to construct airstrips, bridges, and roads across Malaya and North Borneo. The tropical climate, dense jungles, and rugged terrain tested their skills and resilience. Yet, their unwavering commitment to their mission kept them going.

Anthony often reminisced about the camaraderie and shared sense of purpose that bonded the squadron. They were not just building structures; they were laying the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Malaya. Each completed project was a testament to their dedication and a step towards healing the wounds of war.

As the years passed, the fruits of their labor became evident. The airstrips they built facilitated better connectivity, the bridges spanned rivers and valleys, and the roads linked remote villages to bustling towns. The Royal Engineers had not only rebuilt the physical infrastructure but also helped restore hope and prosperity to a nation rising from the ashes of conflict.

Our Squadron of Royal Engineers built this strip during this period and I have been fortunate to have re-visited CP with the blessing of the Malaysian I have great affinity with these aircraft, as I was fortunate to be able to fly in them and indeed parachute from one at RAF Seletar in Singapore. 

Baker and his motorbike in 1922

 Ref:  Photo provided by Richard Rose.

• His great Uncle Ernest Reginal Baker in North Borneo. Mr Baker, Executive Engineer Public Work Department who was in-charge of the construction Tamparuli Bridge circa 1930. 

This post is about Mr. Baker and his motorcycle. To me, it looks very classic when viewed today and for future generations. Not all vehicles from the past can still be seen today. However, such vehicles are usually well-preserved and maintained in museums.

Do you know the type of this motor vehicle? I am sure it is a Lea-Francis, Registration No XH should be London 1921 - 63, unused after 1964. I am not certain about the engine capacity or model used. It could be the 3 ½ HP 496 cc M.A.G. IOE V-twin with frame # A 1640 and engine # 2 C10 No. 43208. If you know the type of engine, please write it in the comments.

In 1895, Richard Henry Lea and Graham Inglesby Francis started making high-quality bicycles in Coventry. By 1910, they decided to manufacture motorcycles. A prototype was built in 1911, and by 1912, it was ready for public introduction. Key features included an enclosed all-chain transmission, a Bosch magneto, a two-speed gear, and a detachable rear wheel. Their workmanship was of high quality, comparable to Sunbeam machines.

In 1914, they introduced a model with a 496 cc J.A.P. engine and a three-speed gearbox. After World War I, customers could choose between a J.A.P. or M.A.G. engine of 496 cc. From 1921, a 5 HP (592 cc) engine was also available. By mid-1924, they stopped making motorcycles and focused on light cars. A unique feature was the flexible metal downpipes of the exhaust system.

This 1920 model has a foot clutch, enclosed rear chain, Lucas acetylene lighting, and roomy footboards. It's an older restoration and a rare survivor, with only about two dozen remaining today. 

Let's take a look using the zoom tool.

The image marked A is the Lea-Francis brand.

Lea-Francis 3½hp Engine no. 2C10 43040

Here is what you need. Photo Credit: Bonhams Car

From Allen Misselbrook to Richard Rose

MISSING CHAPTER – History of Tamparuli Bridge (Low level floodable bridge)

"We can't undo or change the past, it can only be accepted. People may change, but the sunshine will shine forever."

While information about the bridge can be easily found on Wikipedia, I wanted to compile a more personal and comprehensive account in my blog. This isn't about re-quoting or rewriting history, but about sharing it, especially for today's young children and future generations. The truth is important.

After years of searching for information about the history of the Tamparuli Bridge (low-level floodable bridge in North Borneo), I was fortunate to find valuable details through the Yapton local history in the UK. The stories were fascinating. I read about the person who I believe built and designed the bridge many years ago. The most significant find was a photo of the Tamparuli low-level bridge in North Borneo, dated 1938. Many people might not be aware of this, and most of these photos have never been seen by the world or even Google. Local people often say the bridge was built by the British in the 1930s, which seems like a good estimate.

I reached out to Yapton local history and asked if someone could help me contact Richard Rose, who I believe is the great-grandchild of Ernest Reg Baker, the person who built and designed the Tamparuli bridge.

I have contacted Yapton local history and requested information about Richard Rose to facilitate my communication with him regarding the history of the construction of the Tamparuli Bridge - Date 2020-11-28 18:05

 

A few days after I received an email from the person in charge the Chairman of the Yapton & Ford Local History Group, they forwarded it to Richard Rose.

Ref:  The Chairman of the Yapton & Ford Local History Group

• This original text was received from Richard Rose via Allen email on Dec 01 2020, at 05:12.

Reg and Belle Baker - Part 2

Owners of Sandakan in UK

Ref:  Richard Rose

• This original text was received from Richard Rose via email on November 29, 2020, at 00:13.

My great Uncle, Ernest Reginald Baker (aka Reg to family and friends) was born on 21st December 1890 in East Dulwich, London. He was one of a family of 6 children, 3 boys and 3 girls, and youngest of these was my grandmother.

He attended High School Dulwich and then went on to attend Battersea Polytechnic from 1906 to 1908 where he studied Civil Engineering. In 1908 he then went north to a pupilage in  Newcastle where he underwent practical training. He worked for a well-known Newcastle Civil Engineer, J .Watt Sandeman. He performed surveying for harbours in the North East, and got involved in borings, foundations of buildings and harbour construction. He worked on the Tyne and Blyth, Whitby and Berwick Harbours.

In July 1914, aged 24, he left Southampton on a ship bound for Singapore, and then onto British North Borneo. He worked in the town of Sandakan (the name he later used for his house in Yapton) for the Public Works Department as an Assistant Engineer, under a Mr Budden. He worked on the construction of main roads, bridges, drains, culverts and sewers. He was also superintendent of construction of a “25 mile range” lighthouse. He applied to and became a member of the Institution of Civil Engineers in December 1916.

From passenger records, it would appear that he did 5 year stints in Borneo, after which he would return home for 6 months or so. In the days well before air travel, the trip by sea from Borneo, via Singapore or Japan, back to the UK would have taken 6-7 weeks.

In September 1926, he married Isabella (aka Belle) Hetherington, in Newcastle. I assume, but don’t know for sure, that he had met her many years before when he lived in Newcastle. The family always talked of her as a very lovely lady. They left for Borneo on a ship from London on 6th November 1926. 

They then proceeded to live the life of expats in Borneo. The family story had been that they left Borneo in a mad rush in January 1942, when the Japanese invaded the island for its oil reserves. However, I had since learnt that this was a rather fanciful story, and in fact they were back in the UK, living in Knutsford Cheshire in 1939 where Reg was employed with the Air Ministry as the Resident Engineer at RAF Padgate. To my knowledge, they never returned to Borneo after the war. In the family, we have a couple of items of furniture and some small artefacts from Borneo, that belonged to them. I assume these items adorned the rooms of Sandakan (see later) when they lived there. 

I have little knowledge of their time back in the UK. I now know, thanks to the recent help of the Yapton Local History Society, that they purchased the large house in Church Road, Yapton in 1949, renaming it Sandakan, and living there and running it as a guesthouse until the mid 1950s. I also know, from a family address book, that they lived at Oakshott Hanger, Hawkley, Liss, at some time, and perhaps this was after they sold Sandakan. 

Belle died in Churt, Surrey in February 1965. I do remember going to see Reg in the late 1960s when he lived in an apartment in South Harting; I was about 7 or 8 years old.  I remember him telling me that I would become an engineer, and he was right, for I too read Civil Engineering at University. Reg died in Chichester in March 1975, aged 84 years.

Ernest Reginal Baker - Executive Engineer PWD

 

After years of relentless searching, I finally stumbled upon a treasure trove of information about the history of the Tamparuli Bridge, a low-level floodable bridge in North Borneo. My quest led me to the Yapton local history archives in the UK, where I uncovered fascinating stories that brought the bridge's past to life.

NOTE: Mr Baker who was In-Charge of the construction, built and design Tamparuli Low Level Bridge circa 1930

Among the tales, I discovered the story of a man who, I believe, was the mastermind behind the bridge's construction and design many years ago. 

The most captivating find was a photograph of the Tamparuli Bridge, dated 1938. This image, previously unseen by the world and even Google, revealed a piece of history that had been hidden for decades. Local lore suggested that the bridge was built by the British in the 1930s, and this photograph seemed to confirm that estimate.

I believe the photo was taken as a memento before he retired and returned to the UK, more precisely before the Japanese occupation in 1941

Eager to learn more, I reached out to the Yapton local history society, hoping they could help me connect with Richard Rose, whom I believed to be the great-grandchild of Ernest Reg Baker, the visionary who brought the Tamparuli Bridge to life.

A few days later, Richard personally contacted me via email. What an absolute delight it was to receive his message and the wealth of information he shared! He was thrilled that someone from Borneo was inquiring about his great uncle, Ernest Reg Baker, and the Tamparuli Bridge. Richard has been diligently researching his family history, and his great uncle Reg was one of the more colorful characters, having spent most of his working life in Borneo.

Richard's mother, she died peacefully in May 2021. She was 94 years old and had had a good innings, but of course it was a difficult time and we were sad - Richard. We shared information and stories about his great uncle's journey to North Borneo. Did you know there is a place named Sandakan in the UK? We will cover this in the blog later. They must have named it Sandakan when they bought it in 1949, as it was the name of the town in North Borneo where they lived and worked. I researched the location, address, and photo on Google Maps, but unfortunately, the house is no longer available. It was demolished some years ago, and a small housing estate called 'The Limes' was built in its place. Its location was on Church Road, which joins Church Lane at the Church. On the map, it is called Yapton Lodge.

Ernest Reginald Baker (known as Reg to family and friends) was born on 21st December 1890, in East Dulwich, London. He was one of a family of 6 children, 3 boys and 3 girls, and youngest of these was my grandmother. The family group photo is the Bakers. Reg is third from the left, and his Granny is the little girl front middle.

He attended High School Dulwich and then went on to attend Battersea Polytechnic from 1906 to 1908 where he studied Civil Engineering. In 1908 he then went north to a pupilage in  Newcastle where he underwent practical training. He worked for a well-known Newcastle Civil Engineer, J .Watt Sandeman. He performed surveying for harbours in the North East, and got involved in borings, foundations of buildings and harbour construction. He worked on the Tyne and Blyth, Whitby and Berwick Harbours. 

In July 1914, at the tender age of 24, he embarked on a life-changing journey. Leaving Southampton behind, he set sail on a ship bound for Singapore, and from there, ventured onward to the exotic lands of British North Borneo. His destination was the bustling town of Sandakan, where he joined the Public Works Department as an Assistant Engineer under the guidance of Mr. Budden.

In Sandakan, he dedicated himself to the construction of vital infrastructure—main roads, bridges, drains, culverts, and sewers. His expertise and passion for engineering also led him to oversee the construction of a "25-mile range" lighthouse, a beacon of hope and safety for sailors navigating the treacherous waters.

His commitment to his craft did not go unnoticed. In December 1916, he applied for and proudly became a member of the prestigious Institution of Civil Engineers. His journey was not just one of professional achievement, but also a testament to his adventurous spirit and unwavering dedication to building a better world.

Ref: Richard Rose which I believe he is great grand children Ernest Reg Baker the one who built and designed the bridge.

KODAK Camera

 

Facts: The first Kodak camera was introduced in 1888 by George Eastman. It quickly became popular due to its simplicity and portability, making photography accessible to many amateur photographers

While specific records about the exact time North Borneo (now Sabah) started using Kodak cameras are scarce, it’s likely that the use of Kodak cameras in North Borneo began not long after their introduction, especially as photography became more widespread globally in the late 19th and early 20th centuries

One example of a postcard you see below uses the Kodak brand from 1918 – 1936. Its use, especially in North Borneo (Sabah), began before World War I.

There were several types of Kodak cameras used over the years, depending on the era and the lifespan of the equipment. If you look at the postcard and the logo used, 'K.ltd' clearly indicates it was a Kodak product from around 1936 – 1940. Later, the Kodak logo was replaced with the letter 'K'.

Photo credit: The postcard above is owned by my historian friend from the UK, Richard Rose. This postcard belonged to his uncle, who migrated to North Borneo (Sabah) in 1914 and returned to London before World War II.

Some of the cameras used include the No. 3A Folding Pocket Kodak (Model E2, F, G, C), No.1 & A Pocket Kodak, Autographic Kodak Junior, Special, and Vest Pocket Kodak, with various models over the years.

You can use this site as a resource for Kodak camera products: or visit the Kodak website.

You might have seen the camera below; it was still in use in Sabah in the 1980s, including by the Admin's own family. Photo credit to 'PhotoJottings'. 

Sources Ref:

1. KODAK by George Eastman

2. George Eastman | Kodak Camera,

3. KODAK History

4. KODAK model

5. KODAK circa 1888

Memorial at Tamparuli 1961

 

In 1960, two soldiers from the Royal British Army's Service and Medical Corps tragically drowned when they were swept away by strong currents while attempting to cross the lower Tamparuli Bridge. The soldiers who perished were Pte Hall and Cooper. The image above is a clipping from a 1962 book, and a monument was erected in 1961 to commemorate this tragedy.

The Tamparuli Memorial, erected in 1961, commemorates a tragic event that occurred on May 18, 1960. On that day, two British soldiers, Pte Hall and Cooper, from the Royal Army Service Corps and the Royal Army Medical Corps, were transporting a severely injured Dusun woman from Sayap village to the hospital in Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu). As they reached the Tamparuli Bridge, they found that the river had flooded the main route to the hospital.

Despite the dangerous conditions, the soldiers attempted to cross the bridge in a military Land Rover. Tragically, the strong currents swept the vehicle away, and all three passengers drowned. This heartbreaking incident claimed the lives of two British soldiers and a local woman.

The monument, built on September 6, 1961, still stands strong and is well-maintained by the authorities. It serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers involved in the incident.

Sources: COLONY OF NORTH BORNEO ANNUAL REPORT, 1960

• Tragic Incident by Mr Anthony Catherall: It recounts a tragic incident where two Army personnel and a native woman lost their lives while attempting to cross a flooded river at Tamparuli.
• Memorial: A public subscription was raised to commemorate the bravery of the soldiers involved in the incident

Korporal George Gutok 2nd Ranger Sabah

George Gutok - Kg Kiansom Baru Tamparuli Kiulu.

Berasal dari Kg Kiansom Baru Tamparuli yang terletak kira-kira 5 minit pemanduan ke Pekan Tamparuli. 

In The Loving Memory.

Cpl (R) George Gutok, P.P.A & P.P.M

21 Feb 1942 - 19 Sept 2015

Former Royal Malaysian Army, Renjer 7. 

SABAH 2nd Ranger.

Di tengah-tengah Konfrontasi antara Malaysia dan Indonesia, pemberontakan parti komunis di Malaysia masih aktif semasa penghujung darurat di mana ramai anak muda dari Tamparuli dan Kiulu menyertai tentera Malaysia untuk melawan musuh negara. Beliau salah seorang anak muda yang menyertai tentera untuk misi melawan musuh komando Indonesia (tentera elit) dan pemberontak komunis dari tahun 1965 hingga 1976. Koperal George Gutok menyertai tentera Diraja pada bulan Mac 1965 dan menjalani latihan selama enam bulan di Kem Ramilis Ipoh Perak dan selepas itu beliau ditempatkan di Kem Tanjung Batu di Tawau sehingga Disember 1966. Tidak ada pertempuran besar berlaku, hanya operasi kecil dan rutin harian dimana platunnya menerima penyerahan militan Indonesia yang dihantar oleh Presiden Sukarno untuk memboikot penubuhan Malaysia. Konfrontasi ini berakhir dengan penggulingan Presiden Sukarno oleh Jeneral Suharto pada tahun 1966.

Mereka sanggup berkorban demi negara Malaysia yang tercinta. Beliau berkhidmat di bawah 2nd Renjer tentera Diraja komanwel British. 

Selepas berkhidmat di Tanjung Batu, Tawau selama lebih setahun, beliau dipindahkan semula ke Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor selama satu tahun. Beliau kemudian dilatih sebagai pengakap mortar logistik dan banyak lagi latihan yang diberikan oleh Tentera Diraja. Selepas konfrontasi antara Malaysia dan Indonesia berakhir, komanwel British meninggalkan negara ini dan divisyen Renjer ke-2 diletakkan di bawah tentera Darat Malaysia. Pada pertengahan tahun 1967, beliau kemudian dihantar ke Kem Lundu Sarawak dan ditempatkan di Batang Air di mana beliau menyertai lebih daripada seratus operasi untuk memindahkan orang awam dalam misi pembersihan parti komunis Sarawak di bawah Kapten Ling di Batang Air, Lundu dan di sempadan Malaysia dan Indonesia. Dua tahun di Kem Lundu dengan pelbagai kisah sedih di mana beliau kehilangan beberapa rakan yang terkorban pada ketika itu.

Kisah tragis, suatu pagi yang cerah, satu platun dari 2nd Renjer RMD sedang dalam perjalanan dari Kem Lundu untuk mengagihkan Ransum kepada platun lain, jarak kira-kira 100km dari kem utama telah diserang hendap(ambush) oleh pemberontak komunis yang mengakibatkan 15 tentera 2nd Renjer RMD terkorban. Antara yang terkorban ialah sarjan Basri dari Semenanjung Malaysia, koperal Salman dan Renjer Ugging dari Kuala Penyu mati di tempat kejadian. 12 lagi rakannya turut terkorban akibat tembakan militan Komunis yang kejam. Militan komunis menggunakan hulu senapang untuk memecahkan kepala setiap anggota platun 2nd Renjer. 

Ayah saya mendapat berita bahawa Sarjan, Koperal, pemandu dan Juru Isyarat telah dibunuh kejam di tempat kejadian dan mereka bergegas ke tempat itu tetapi tidak ada yang tinggal kecuali mayat dan bendera yang ditinggalkan oleh militan Komunis yang mengatakan “Hancurkan Kerajaan Tun Razak”. Kisah lain yang diceritakannya adalah mereka melakukan operasi di Batang Air di mana empat militan komunis berjaya dibunuh semasa mengambil makanan dari penduduk kampung. 

Kor Risikan tentera mendapat maklumat dari penduduk kampung bahawa terdapat banyak aktiviti komunis di Batang Air dan platun diperintahkan untuk misis pembersihan komunis di kawasan tersebut. Platun Pertama (2nd Renjer) diperintahkan untuk tinggal di belakang untuk membuat perimeter untuk mengepung supaya musuh tidak dapat meninggalkan kawasan itu sementara platun kedua diperintahkan untuk menyerang, menembak dan membunuh(taktikal). Semasa platun kedua menghampiri rumah yang dipercayai tempat tentera komunis sedang berehat, salah seorang telah melepaskan tembakan dan mencederakan seorang tentera, sebagai tindakbalas platun kedua melepaskan tembakan dan pengawal PKM mati serta-merta akibat tembakan bertubi-tubi. Tiga lagi terbunuh semasa cuba meninggalkan rumah tersebut. 

Pegawai yang memimpin operasi ini adalah Kapten Sabdin. Mayat militan komunis dipamerkan untuk umum di Balai Polis Batang Air selama tiga hari menunggu untuk dituntut oleh saudara-maranya dan sebagai peringatan kepada parti komunis untuk meletakkan senjata mereka. Beliau dianugerahkan pingat, PPA dan PPM “Pingat Perkhidmatan Malaysia” atas jasa semasa pertempuran tersebut. 

Sources:  My late father and brother Harry George

• Cpl (R) George Gutok, P.P.A & P.P.M
  21 Feb 1942 - 19 Sept 2015
  Former Royal Malaysian Army, Renjer 7. 
  SABAH 2nd Ranger.

The beauty of Kundasang, Sabah!

Welcome to Sabah, Malaysia, a land of natural beauty and endless adventure. Kundasang, a charming town in the district of Ranau, is known for its scenic beauty, fresh produce, and proximity to Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in Malaysia.

Here are some must-visit spots:

• Kundasang War Memorial: Commemorates the World War II prisoners of war who died on the Sandakan Death Marches.
• Kinabalu Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with a diverse range of flora and fauna.
• Poring Hot Springs: Located in the nearby town of Poring, featuring natural hot springs, a butterfly farm, and a canopy walk.
• Kundasang Market: Known for its fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
• Mount Kinabalu: Hike to the top for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Note that this is a challenging climb and requires a permit.

Come and explore the wonders of Sabah, Kundasang, and Ranau. Your adventure awaits!

Begin your journey in Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital, where you can explore the city's rich culture and enjoy island hopping at Manukan, Mamutik, and Gaya islands. Don't miss a stroll through the Sabah Museum, a visit to the Clock Tower, and a relaxing time at Tanjung Aru beach.

For adventure seekers, head to Tuaran and Tamparuli. Explore the crocodile farm, Borneo Ant House, Sabandar Cowboy Town, and cross the iconic Tamparuli suspension bridge. In the Kundasang district of Ranau, visit the Desa Dairy Farm, Strawberry Farm, Ranau Rabbit Farm, Fish Spa at Bombon, and Mensilau.

You can explore the vibrant culture and enjoy island hopping at Manukan, Mamutik, and Gaya islands.

• Gaya Island Resort: Nestled in a marine park, surrounded by rainforest and the South China Sea. Enjoy elegant villas, five dining options, a private beach, outdoor pool, spa treatments, yoga classes, and nature exploration. The resort is committed to eco-friendly practices.
• Manukan Island Resort: Located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. Enjoy water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. The resort offers various types of rooms and villas, a restaurant with diverse food options, and stunning sunsets at Sunset Point.
• Mamutik Island Resort: A serene getaway just a 15-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. The resort offers hillside villas, beach suites, and larger villas for families. Enjoy Malaysian and international cuisine at Arang Restaurant, water sports, and special experiences like private dinners on the beach.

Don't forget to relax and rejuvenate at the Ranau Hot Spring, the perfect destination for families and nature lovers. Come explore Sabah, Malaysia, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your tour today!

Tragedy at Tamparuli Bridge in 1960

All these photographs are copyrighted, but permission has been granted for Muhammad Suhaily to use them for a video or blog – Anthony Catherall, Ex 11 Independent Squadron RE.

The tragedy at Tamparuli Bridge in 1960 is a poignant and memorable event in the history of North Borneo (now Sabah, Malaysia). On May 18, 1960, two British soldiers, Pte Hall and Cooper, from the Royal Army Service Corps and the Royal Army Medical Corps, were assisting and transporting a severely injured Dusun woman from Sayap village to the hospital in Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu). As they reached the Tamparuli Bridge, they found that the river had flooded the main route to the hospital.

Despite the dangerous conditions, the soldiers attempted to cross the bridge in a military Land Rover. Tragically, the strong currents swept the vehicle away, and all three passengers drowned. This heartbreaking incident claimed the lives of two British soldiers and a local woman.

A monument was erected on September 6, 1961, to commemorate the bravery of the soldiers involved in the incident. The monument still stands strong and is well-maintained by the authorities. This tragedy remains a significant part of the local history and is remembered for the soldiers' courage and sacrifice.

Tamparuli Low Level Bridge

Jambatan Tamparuli (Low Level Bridge) Built circa 1932

Gambar asli Jambatan Tamparuli tahun 1938. Anak saudara kepada salah seorang jurutera jambatan tamparuli 30-an telah memberikan kepada Admin sebagai rujukan dan sumber kajian bersama.

Gambar diatas tahun 1938 dimana pembinaan bermula pada tahun 1932. Jika dilihat hari ini jambatan ini masih kekal kukuh dengan bahan buatan yang berkualiti dan kaedah pembinaan yang sangat teliti dan keadaan persekitaran dengan pandangan jauh ke hadapan.

 

Tahun 1954 hujung jambatan (menghala ke KK/Kiulu) dibina semula apabila beberapa kali rosak akibat banjir dan pembinaannya hampir sama dengan yang asal oleh jurutera British dan tempatan.

Sejauh mana jambatan ini masih bertahan?

Telah terbukti sehingga ke hari ini jambatan tamparuli masih kukuh dan kekal dengan reka bentuknya. Adakah semua ini benar mengikut kepercayaan turun temurun bahawasanya TOMBUAKAR yang menjaga jambatan sejak sekian lama? 

Apa yang jelas, pembinaan jurutera dan pakar tempatan tidak boleh diambil ringan. Dengan segala kemahiran, kepakaran teknikal dan bahan buatan memainkan peranan sehingga terbinanya jambatan yang kini hampir 100 tahun.

Beberapa pertanyaan telah diajukan kepada jurutera binaan seperti jalanraya, jambatan dan landasan. Maka dapat disimpulkan bahawa beberapa perkara wajib dititikberat seperti: 

a. Bahan binaan

b. Kelajuan/kederasan dan ketinggian air apabila berlakunya banjir.

c. Muatan banjir.

d. Kedalaman tiang konkrit.

e. Kemahiran jurutera dan pekerja.

1. Isi padu air

Semuanya memainkan peranan penting dari segi pembinaan infrastruktur agar tahan, kukuh dan stabil.

 

Ref:  Original photo & contents by Richard Rose UK. 

Anthony Catherall

 Biography

Anthony Catherall was born on 15th July 1940 in West Ewell, Surrey, UK. He joined the Royal Engineers in 1958 and underwent military training with the 6th Regiment RE in Cove, Hampshire. He was extended the opportunity to serve as a training instructor with the rank of Lance Corporal, but he graciously declined, aspiring instead for an overseas assignment. In 1959, he left Southampton with his unit for Singapore aboard the HMT Empire Fowey.

He was stationed in Malaya with the 11th Independent Field Squadron RE in Butterworth from 1959 to 1962. In December 1961, he qualified as a parachutist in Changi, Singapore. After serving in Germany for two years, he retired in 1964. Following his retirement, he joined the Surrey Fire Brigade in September 1964. Over the years, he was promoted and, by 1972, he retired as a Station Officer and Marketing Coordinator at the Surrey Fire Brigade headquarters in Wray Park International Training Centre, Reigate, Surrey. He fully retired from full-time work in October 1990. Additionally, he spent nine years working part-time with Age Concern Doncaster in South Yorkshire, focusing on the welfare of veterans.

In 1960, their unit was sent to North Borneo, based at Camp Paradise in Kota Belud. Their main task was to repair and build roads connecting Kota Belud and Tamparuli, as well as other areas. This was not easy due to the hilly and rocky terrain, and the winding roads caused several accidents, making it difficult to repair the bulldozers.

One unforgettable event was the tragic drowning of two British soldiers and a severely injured local woman, who had been attacked by her husband in Sayap village. On their way to Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu), they had to cross the Tamparuli Bridge, which was flooded at the time.

With no other route to Jesselton, the two British soldiers, Cooper and Hall, had to cross the bridge in a military Land Rover with the injured woman. Despite their careful and anxious efforts, a sudden surge of water swept the vehicle away. Cooper tried to save his comrade and the woman trapped in the back, but all three were lost to the raging waters. This heartbreaking incident claimed the lives of two British soldiers and a local woman.

Three days later, the soldiers' bodies were found, but the woman's body was never recovered. This tragedy, which occurred over 60 years ago, remains fresh in the memory of one of their comrades, now 80 years old. To honour and remember their service and experiences in Malaya-North Borneo, a blog is being written by Muhammad Suhaily and Anthony Catherall, a former British Army veteran (Ex 11 Independent Squadron Field RE), titled 'Surprise!'. In shaa Allah, this pages will be a valuable historical resource for future generations, capturing the essence of their journey and the tears shed at Tamparuli Bridge. Stay tuned for its release. In shaa Allah.

Sources: Mr Anthony Catherall

• 11 Independent Squadron Royal Engineer RE at Kota Belud North Borneo 1958-64