Sabah's royal glow: A tribute to GRS government's historic achievement

Borneo Post

14-06-2025

Queen Elizebeth visited Sabah in 1972.
THE recent recognition of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) by Buckingham Palace is more than just a headline; it's a deeply resonant moment for Sabah. To stand alongside only Hong Kong and Perth, Australia, as one of the few hospitals globally granted the honor of bearing the Queen's name is a testament to Sabah's enduring legacy in healthcare excellence and, indeed, its unique position in international diplomacy. For many of us who call this land home, and for our visionary leadership, this is a moment of immense pride.
This significant milestone also spotlights the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) government, led by Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Their approach to this historic institution demonstrates a rare and commendable balance: honoring our past while resolutely investing in our future.
In an era where some prefer to erase colonial ties, the GRS government has chosen a different path. Their initiative to install historical signage, curate a dedicated gallery, and commission a documentary about QEH's 66-year journey is a masterclass in acknowledging our roots without being bound by them. Chief Minister Hajiji and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun have shown true wisdom here.
As Masidi eloquently put it, 'We cannot escape history, but we can learn from it. Instead of debating names, let us focus on making QEH the best hospital for Sabahans.'
This pragmatic, forward-thinking sentiment ensures that while we respect our past, we actively build upon it for a stronger, healthier Sabah. It's a refreshing departure from ideological debates, focusing instead on tangible improvement for our people.
The personal commendation from Princess Anne, recalling her 1972 visit with Queen Elizabeth II, is more than mere royal pleasantry. It's a global recognition of Sabah's significance within the Commonwealth. The fact that Buckingham Palace took notice of this local initiative speaks volumes about the GRS government's quiet, yet effective, ability to strengthen Sabah's international standing.
This achievement further reinforces Sabah's unique identity within Malaysia. While other states might shy away from their colonial heritage, Sabah, under GRS, has shrewdly turned it into an asset. It fosters goodwill with the UK and showcases our state's capacity for both global healthcare leadership and nuanced historical diplomacy. It's a subtle yet powerful statement about who we are.
For many of us who lived through the 1972 royal visit, this recognition evokes a rush of cherished memories. As a Form 1 student at SMK Tamparuli, I recall being part of the throng that welcomed the Queen and Princess Anne. The sheer excitement of riding a non-air-conditioned Tuaran United Transport (TUT) bus to Kota Kinabalu, flags waving, feeling the collective pride of Sabah being acknowledged by royalty – it was a moment that etched itself into our hearts and shaped our burgeoning love for this land.
Today, the GRS government has rekindled that very pride. By ensuring QEH remains a beacon of medical excellence and historical significance, they're not just preserving a hospital's name; they're preserving our shared memories and gracefully passing them on to future generations.
Beyond the powerful symbolism, the GRS administration has demonstrated a tangible commitment to healthcare. They've actively pushed for QEH's expansion, including a much-needed new block and multi-story parking to ease congestion. They've engaged federal leaders to fast-track funding, proving that Sabah's voice is indeed heard in Putrajaya. Crucially, they've also recognized our healthcare workers as the unsung heroes they truly are, especially after their immense sacrifices during the Covid-19 pandemic.
This is a government that doesn't just talk; it acts. It's a leadership that understands true progress stems from both honoring our heritage and making strategic investments in our collective future.
To the GRS government: Sabah salutes you! This accomplishment is compelling proof that when leaders govern with wisdom, courage and a deep love for Sabah's unique identity, great things indeed happen. Let this be the start of many more milestones. We look forward to seeing further upgrades for QEH, positioning it as the best hospital in Borneo, along with more initiatives celebrating Sabah's rich multicultural history, and stronger international partnerships that solidify Sabah's role as a bridge between East and West.
The recognition of Queen Elizabeth Hospital is not merely about a building; it is about Sabah's story, our people's resilience, and a government that dares to honor the past while boldly building the future. As someone who witnessed the exhilaration of the 1972 royal visit, I can say with heartfelt pride: the GRS government has brought back that same sense of dignity and hope for Sabah.
Well done, GRS! May this achievement inspire even greater things for our beloved state. Sabah Maju Jaya!