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

11 Independent Squadron Field Royal Engineer RE.

This story is told by an 80-year-old former British Royal Engineer who now lives in London, UK. It recounts the journey of a British soldier from London who was sent to Malaya from 1959 to 1962.

He and his unit sailed on the HMT ship and arrived in Singapore in 1959. They then took a train to Prai and carried out tasks in various locations such as Butterworth, Gerik, and Camp Terendak in Malacca. They were part of the 11th Independent Squadron Field Royal Engineers.

Their main task was to repair infrastructure like roads and bridges, especially those damaged during the Japanese occupation and attacks in 1945. There was a lot of destruction at that time, and they worked hard to build new roads in rural areas for better land connections. Some units were also sent to assist the Malaysian government forces in clearing Communist insurgents.

The photo on the left shows their temporary camp in Tapong, Perak, where they stayed for six weeks. They upgraded and built new roads, especially in Gerik, to provide alternative routes connecting villages and military jeep tracks.