JAMES BROOKE AND MAKING
NORTHERN BORNEO PART OF THE BRITISH
EMPIRE
JAMES BROOKE AND BORNEO IN THE NINETEENTH CENTURY
Sarawak, Sabah and Brunei were all once part of the powerful
kingdom of Brunei. From the sixteenth to the early nineteenth centuries,
developments in Borneo were generally separate from those on the peninsula of
Malaysia, partly because of more limited European involvement in Borneo. The
Dutch had a presence in southern Borneo but never established themselves on the
north coast of Borneo.The eastern part of this region (now Sabah) was under the
nominal control of the Sultan of Sulu, a vassal of the Spanish Philippines. The
rest was the territory of the Sultanate of Brunei.
That situation
changed in 1839 when James Brooke, an independently wealthy former British East
India Company officer, arrived in Borneo. Brooke helped the sultan put down a
tribal rebellion and emerge victorious in a power struggle with other Brunei
elites. In return, the sultan allowed Brooke to govern a territory (called
Sarawak) in exchange for small annual payments.
In 1841, Brooke
received the title of raja and the right to govern the Sarawak River District.
In 1846 his title was recognised as hereditary, and the "White
Rajahs" began ruling Sarawak as a recognised independent state. Through good
relations and payments to the Brunei sultan, Brooke and his descendants
expanded Sarawak’s territory and governed it with substantial autonomy from
Britain. The Brookes expanded Sarawak at the expense of Brunei. The ‘Rajah
Brookes’ in Sarawak begged British authorities to take over the huge area of
Sarawak from them for decades and were ignored.
Eventually, the
British government became concerned that Sarawak’s growth could destabilize
Brunei and render Borneo vulnerable to seizure by rival powers. In 1888 the
British agreed to provide protection to Sarawak, Brunei, and the British North
Borneo Company (which administered the territory of Sabah) in exchange for
control over their foreign policy. This contributed to the consolidation of
northern Borneo and its separation from the island’s southern areas, which were
governed by the Dutch.
In 1881 the British
North Borneo Company was granted control of the territory of British North
Borneo, appointing a governor and legislature. It was ruled from the office in
London. Its status was similar to that of a British Protectorate, and like
Sarawak it expanded at the expense of Brunei. The Spanish Philippines never
recognised this loss of the Sultan of Sulu’s territory, laying the basis of the
subsequent Filipino claim to Sabah. In 1888 what was left of Brunei was made a
British protectorate, and in 1891 another Anglo-Dutch treaty formalised the
border between British and Dutch Borneo.
The Raja Brooke
dynasty lasted 100 years. The British government eventually acquired Sarawak
after WWII when the third Raja Brooke realised he couldn’t afford the area’s
up-keep. In the early 20th century the British brought in Chinese and Indians,
which radically changed the country’s racial make-up.
James Brooke on Borneo
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of Piracy”:
By looking at the map, it will be seen that the island of Borneo extends over
11 degrees of latitude and as many of longitude, from 4̊ n. to 7̊ s., and 108̊
to 119̊ e. The n.w. coast is but thinly populated; and the natives who inhabit
the banks of some of the beautiful rivers differ, as has been already stated,
from each other in manners and customs, and have but little communication among
themselves. The s., e., and northeast coasts of Borneo are also but thinly
inhabited, and very little known. There are various divisions of Malays, as
well as different tribes of Dyaks, who live in an unsettled state, and
occasionally make war on one another: their principal occupation, however, is
piracy. The north part of the island was once in the possession of the East
India Company, who had a settlement and factory on the island of Balambangan,
which was attacked in 1775, when in a weak and unguarded state, by a powerful
piratical tribe of Sooloos, who surprised the fort, put the sentries to death,
and turned the guns on the troops, who were chiefly Buguese (or Bugis) Malays.
Those who escaped got on board the vessels in the harbour, and reached the
island of Labuan, near the mouth of the Borneo river; whilst the booty obtained
by the pirates was estimated at 375,000. From that time to this these atrocious
pirates have never been punished, and still continue their depredations.
[Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of
Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“The remainder of the
coast on the n.w. is now called Borneo Proper, to distinguish it from the name
that custom has given to the whole island, the original name of which was
Kalamantan, and Bruni that of the town now called Borneo. The latter was
probably the first part of the coast ever visited by Europeans, who
consequently extended the appellation to the island itself. The town of Borneo,
situated on the river of that name, was, until the last few years, a port of
some wealth, and carrying on an extensive trade, which has been ruined entirely
by the rapacity of the Malay chiefs, who have now but little control over that
part of Borneo Proper which lies to the northward of the river.*-*
James Brooke on Sarawak
The province of
Sarawak is situated at the southwest end of Borneo Proper, and was formally
ceded in perpetuity by the Sultan in 1843 to Mr. Brooke, who, indeed, had
possessed the almost entire management of the district for the two previous
years.*-*
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: Sarawak “extends from Tanjong Datu to the entrance of the Samarahan
river, a distance along the coast of about sixty miles in an e.southeast
direction, with an average breadth of fifty miles. It is bounded to the
westward by the Sambas territory, to the southward by a range of mountains
which separate it from the Pontiana river, and to the eastward by the Borneon
territory of Sadong. Within this space there are several rivers and islands,
which it is needless here to describe at length, as the account of the river of
Sarawak will answer alike for the rest. There are two navigable entrances to
this river, and numerous smaller branches for boats, both to the westward and
eastward; the two principal entrances combine at about twelve miles from the
sea, and the river flows for twenty miles into the interior in a southerly and
westerly direction, when it again forms two branches — one running to the
right, the other to the left hand, as far as the mountain range. [Source: “The
Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry
Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“Besides these
facilities for water- communication, there exist three other branches from the
easternmost entrance, called Morotaba, one of which joins the Samarahan river,
and the two others flow from different points of the mountain range already
mentioned. The country is diversified by detached mountains, and the mountain
range has an elevation of about three thousand feet. The aspect of the country
may be generally described as low and woody at the entrance of the rivers,
except a few high mountains but in the interior undulating in parts, and part
presenting fine level plains. The climate may be pronounced healthy and cool, though
for the six months from September to March a great quantity of rain falls.
During my three visits to this place, which have been prolonged to eight
months, and since residing here, we have been clear of sickness, and during the
entire period not one of three deaths could be attributed to the effects of
climate. The more serious maladies of tropical climates are very infrequent;
from fever and dysentery we have been quite free, and the only complaints have
been rheumatism, colds, and ague; the latter, however, attacked us in the
interior, and no one has yet had it at Sarawak, which is situated about
twentyfive miles from the mouth of the river.*-*
“The soil and
productions of this country are of the richest description; and it is not too
much to say, that, within the same given space, there are not to be found the
same mineral and vegetable riches in any land in the world. I propose to give a
brief detail of them, beginning with the soil of the plains, which is moist and
rich, and calculated for the growth of rice, for which purpose it was formerly
cleared and used, until the distractions of the country commenced. From the
known industry of the Dyaks, and their partiality to rice-cultivation, there
can be little doubt that it would become an article of extensive export,
provided security were given to the cultivator and a proper remuneration for
his produce. The lower grounds, besides rice, are well adapted for the growth
of sago, and produce canes, rattans, and forest-timber of the finest
description for ship -building and other useful purposes. P The Chinese export
considerable quantities of timber from Sambas and Fontiana, particularly of the
kind called Balean by the natives, or the lion-wood of the Europeans! and at
this place it is to be had in far greater quantity and nearer the place of
sale. The undulating ground differs in soil, some portions of it being a
yellowish clay, whilst the rest is a rich mould; these grounds, generally
speaking, as well as the slopes of the higher mountains, are admirably
calculated for the growth of nutmegs, coffee, pepper, or any of the more
valuable vegetable productions of the tropics. Besides the above-men tioned
articles, there are birds-nests, bees-wax, and several kinds of scented wood,
in demand at Singapore, which are all collected by the Dyaks, and would be
gathered in far greater quantity provided the Dyak was allowed to sell them.*-*
“Turning from the
vegetable to the mineral riches of the country, we have diamonds, gold, tin,
iron, and antimony-ore certain; I have lately sent what I believe to be a
specimen of lead-ore to Calcutta; and copper is reported. It must be
remembered, in reading this list, that the country is as yet unexplored by a
scientific person, and that the inquiries of a geologist and a mineralogist
would throw further light on the minerals of the mountains, and the spots where
they are to be found in the greatest plenty. The diamonds are stated to be
found in considerable numbers, and of a good water; and I judge the statement
to be correct from the fact that the diamond- workers from Sandak come here and
work secretly, and the people from Banjarmasim, who are likewise clever at this
trade, are most desirous to be allowed to work for the precious stone. Gold of
a good quality certainly is to be found in large quantities. The eagerness and
perseverance of the Chinese to establish themselves is a convincing proof of
the fact; and ten years since a body of about 3000 of them had great success in
procuring gold by their ordinary mode of trenching the ground.*-*
“The quantity of gold
yearly procured at Sambas is moderately stated at 130,000 bunkals, which,
reckoned at the low rate of 20 Spanish dollars a bunkal, gives 2,600,000
Spanish dollars, or upwards of half a million sterling. The most intelligent
Chinese are of opinion, that the quantity here exceeds that at Sambas; and
there is no good reason to suppose it would fall short of it, were once a
sufficient Chinese popidation settled in the country.*-*
"Antimony-ore is
a staple commodity, which is to be procured in any quantity. Tin is said to be
plentiful, and the Chinese propose working Viti but I have had no opportunity
of visiting the spot where it is found. Copper, though reported, has not been
brought; and the iron-ore I have examined is of inferior quality. The specimen
of what I supposed to be lead-ore has been forwarded to Calcutta, and it
remains to be seen what its value may be. And besides the above-mentioned
minerals, there can be little doubt of many others being discovered, if the mountain
range was properly explored by any man of science. Many other articles of minor
importance might be mentioned; but it is needless to add to a list which
contains articles of such value, and which would prove the country equal in
vegetable and mineral productions to any in the world.*-*
On British Development of Island Off of Borneo
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: Labuan. An island of about fifty feet high; twenty-five miles in
circumference; woody; timber good; water from wells and a few small streams,
which, after a drought, are dry; natives say, water never fails. Anchorage good
for the climate; well protected from the northeast; not extensive; situation of
contemplated town low; climate healthy, i. e. the same as Borneo; soil, as far
as seen, sandy or light sandy loam. Coal found near the extreme northeast
point: by native reports it is likewise to be found in many other places;
traces of coal are frequent in the sandstone strata. Anchorage not difficult of
defence against an European enemy; entrance sufficiently broad and deep between
two islands, with a shoal: vide chart. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of
H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke
(1847)*-*]
“The island of
Labuan, for the purposes of refuge for shipwrecked vessels, of a windward post
relative to China, for the suppression of piracy, and the extension of our
trade, is well suited; it is no paradise; and any other island, with good
climate, wood, and water, would suit as well. Its powerful recommendation is
its being in the neighbourhood of an unwarlike and friendly people. There is no
other island on the n.w. coast; and the abandoned Balambangan, to the northward
of Borneo, is the only other place which could by possibility answer. The
comparison between Balambangan and Labuan may be stated as follows.
Balambangan, as a windward post relative to China, is superior; and it commands
in time of war the inner passage to Manilla, and the eastern passages to China
by the Straits of Makassar. Of its capabilities of defence we know nothing. It
was surprised by the Sooloos. Its climate was not well spoken of. The island is
larger than that of Labuan, and, as far as we know, has no coal. The great, and
to me conclusive consideration against Balambangan is, that it is in the very
nest of pirates, and surrounded by warlike and hostile people; and that to
render it secure and effective, at least double the force would be necessary
there that would suffice at Labuan. If Labuan succeeds and pays its own
expenses, we might then take Balambangan; for the next best thing to a location
on the main is to influence the people thereon by a succession of insular
establish- ments. Yesterday we made an agreeable excursion to the n.e point of
Labuan; near the point it is picturesque, the cliffs are bold and cave-worn;
the trees hang over the cliffs, or encroach on the intermediate sands, till
they kiss the wave. Near a small cavern we discovered a seam of coal, which
afforded us employment whilst Captain Bethune and Mr. Wise walked to obtain a
view of the southern coast of the island.*-*
“On Proposed British
settlement on the north-west coast of Borneo, and occupation of the island of
Labuan. John Crawford, an early governor of Singapore wrote: " I am of
opinion that a settlement on the north-west coast of Borneo, — that is, at a
convenient point on the southern shore of the China Sea — would be highly
advantageous to this country, as a coal-depot for steam - navigation; as a
means of suppressing Malayan piracy; as a harbour of refuge for ships disabled
in the China Sea; and finally, as a commanding position during a naval war.*-*
“The island of Labuan
has been pointed out for this purpose; and as far as our present limited
knowledge of it will allow me to judge, it appears to possess all the necessary
qualities for such a settlement. "The requisite properties are, salubrity
of climate, a good harbour, a position in the track of steam-navigation,
conveniency of position for ships disabled in typhoons, conveniency of position
for our cruisers during war, and a locality strong and circumscribed by nature,
so as to be readily capable of cheap defence.*-*
"Labuan lies in
about 6̊ of north latitude, and consequently the average heat will be about 83̊
of Fahrenheit; the utmost range of the thermometer will not exceed ten degrees.
In short, the year is a perpetual hot summer. It is, at the same time, well
ventilated by both monsoons; and being near twenty miles from the marshy shores
of the Borneo River, there is little ground to apprehend that it will be found
unhealthy, even if those shores themselves had been ascertained to be so,
which, however, is not the case; for, in proof of their salubrity, it may be
stated, that the town of Borneo is healthy, although it stands, and has stood
for centuries, on the flooded banks of the river; the houses being built on
posts, and chiefly accessible by boat.*-*
"With respect to
harbour, a most essential point, I do not perceive that the island is indented
by any bay or inlet that would answer the purpose of one. The channel, however,
which lies between it and the mainland of Borneo, is but seven miles broad, and
will probably constitute a spacious and convenient harbour. The name of the
island itself, which means ' anchorage, I have no doubt is derived from the
place affording shelter to native shipping, and those probably, in most cases,
fleets of pirate prahus. This channel is again further restricted by four
islets, and these, with four more lying to the south-west, will afford shelter
in the southwest or mild monsoon; protection is given in the north-east, the
severest monsoon, by Labuan itself: and I may add, that the island is, by four
degrees of latitude, beyond the extreme southern limit of the typhoons of the
Chinese Sea.*-*
"In the channel
between Labuan and the main, or rather between Labuan and the islets already
mentioned, the soundings on the Admiralty chart shew that vessels drawing as
much as eighteen feet water may anchor within a mile of the shore, and the
largest vessels within a mile and a half; a convenience for shipping which
greatly exceeds that of Singapore. One of the advantages of Labuan will be,
that it will prove a port of refuge for shipping disabled in the storms of the
Chinese Seas.*-*
Proposal for a Colony in Borneo
On the establishment
of a colony on the island of Labuan. John Crawford, an early governor of
Singapore wrote: "Labuan lies nearly in the direct track both of steam and
sailing navigation from India to China, during the north-east, the worst and
severest of the two monsoons; and is as intermediate a position between
Singapore and Hong Kong as can be found, being 700 miles from the former, and
1000 from the latter. The insular character and narrow limits of Labuan will
make it easily and cheaply defensible. The extreme length of the island appears
to be about six miles, its greatest breadth about four and a half, and probably
its whole area will not be found to exceed thirty square miles.*-*
"From the rude
tribes of the immediate vicinity no hostile attack is to be apprehended that
would make the present erection of forts or batteries necessary. No Asiatic
enemy is at any time to be feared that would make such defences requisite. In
five-and-twenty years it has not been found imperative to have recourse to them
at Singapore. It is only in case of war with a naval power that fortifications
would be required; but I am not informed what local advantages Labuan possesses
for their erection. A principal object of such fortifications would be the
defence of the shipping in the harbour from the inroads of an enemy's cruisers.
At one point the soundings, as given in the Admiralty chart, are stated nine
fathoms, within three quarters of a mile of the shore: and I presume that
batteries within this distance would afford protection to the largest class of
merchantmen. In Singapore Roads no class of shipping above mere native craft
can lie nearer than two miles of the shore; so that in a war with an European
naval power, the merchant shipping there can only be defended by her Majesty's
navy.*-*
“One of the most
striking national advantages to be expected from the possession of Labuan would
consist in its use in defending our own commerce, and attacking that of
opponents, in the event of a naval war. Between the eastern extremity of the
Straits of Malacca and Hong Kong, a distance of 1700 miles, there is no British
harbour, and no safe and accessible port of refuge; Hong Kong is, indeed, the
only spot within the wide limits of the Chinese Sea for such a purpose,
although our legitimate commercial intercourse within it extends over a length
of 2000 miles. Everywhere else, Manilla and the newly opened ports of China
excepted, our crippled vessels or our merchantmen pursued by the enemy's
cruisers, are met by the exclusion or extortion of semibarbarous nations, or in
danger of falling into the power of robbers and savages.*-*
“Labuan fortified,
and supposing the Borneon coal to be as productive and valuable in quality as
it is represented, would give Great Britain in a naval war the entire command
of the China Sea. This would he the result of our possessing or commanding the
only available supply of coal, that of Bengal and Australia excepted, to he
found in the wide limits which extend east of the continents of Europe and
America.*-*
“The position of
Lahuan will render it the most convenient possible for the suppressing of
piracy. The most desperate and active pirates of the whole Indian Archipelago
are the tribes of the Sooloo group of islands lying close to the north shore of
Borneo, and the people of the north and north eastern coast of Borneo itself;
these have of late years proved extremely troublesome both to the English and
Dutch traders; both nations are bound by the Convention of 1824 to use their
best endeavours for the suppression of piracy, and many efforts have certainly
been made for this purpose, although as yet without material effect in
diminishing the evil.*-*
"From Labuan,
these pirates might certainly be intercepted by armed steamers far more
conveniently and cheaply than from any other position that could be easily
pointed out: indeed, the very existence of a British settlement' would tend to
the suppression of piracy. " As a commercial depot, Labuan would have
considerable advantages by position; the native trade of the vicinity would of
course resort to it, and so would that of the north coast of Borneo, of the
Sooloo Islands, and of a considerable portion of the Spice Islands. Even for
the trade of the Philippines and China, it would have the advantage over Singapore
of a voyage by 700 miles shorter; a matter of most material consequence to
native commerce.*-*
"With all the
countries of the neighbourhood lying west of Labuan I presume that a
communication across both monsoons might be maintained throughout the year.
This would include a portion of the east coast of the Malay peninsula, Siam,
and part of Cochin China. " Labuan belongs to that portion of the coast of
Borneo which is the rudest. The Borneons themselves are of the Malay nation,
originally emigrants from Sumatra, and settled here for. about six centuries.
They are the most distant from their original seat of all the colonies which
have sprung from this nation. The people from the interior differ from them in
language, manners, and religion, and are divided into tribes as numerous and as
rude as the Americans when first seen by Europeans.*-*
“From such a people
we are not to expect any valuable products of art or manufacture, for a British
mercantile depot. Pepper is, however, produced in considerable quantity, and
the products of the forests are very various, as bees- wax, gum-benjamin, fine
camphor, camphor oil, esculent callows' nests, canes and rattans, which used to
can the staple articles of Borneon import into Singapore. The Borneon territory
opposite to Labuan abounds also, I believe, in the palm which yields sago, and
indeed the chief part of the manufactured article was thirty years ago brought
from this country. The Chinese settlers would, no doubt, as in Singapore and
Malacca, establish factories for its preparation according to the improved
processes which they now practise at those places.*-*
“There may be reason
to expect, however, that the timber of the portion of Borneo referred to may be
found of value for ship-building; for Mr. Dalrymple states that in his time,
above seventy years ago, Chinese junks of 500 tons burden used to be built in
the river of Borneo.; As to timber well suited for boats and house -building,
it is hardly necessary to add that the north-west coast of Borneo, in common
with almost every other part of the Archipelago, contains a supply amounting to
superfluity.*-*
“I may take this
opportunity of stating, as evidence of the conveniency of this portion of
Borneo for a commercial intercourse with China, that down to within the last
half century a considerable number of Chinese junks were engaged in trading
regularly with Borneo, and that trade ceased only when the native government
became too bad and weak to afford it protection. With out the least doubt this
trade would again spring up on the erection of the British flag at Labuan Not a
single Chinese junk had resorted to the Straits of Malacca before the
establishment of Singapore, and their number is now, of one size or another,
and exclusive of the junks of Siam and Cochin China, not less than 100.*-*
" From the
cultivation of the land I should not be disposed to expect any thing beyond the
production of fresh fruits and esculent vegetables, and, when the land is
cleared, of grass for pasture, 'The seas, in this part of the world, are
prolific in fish of great variety and great excellence; and the Chinese
settlers are found every where skilful and industrious in taking them.*-*
“Some difficulty
will, in the beginning, be experienced with respect to milk, butter, and fresh
meat: this was the case at first in Singapore, but the difficulty has in a good
measure been overcome. The countries of the Archipelago are generally not
suited to pasture, and it is only in a few of them that the ox and buffalo are
abundant. The sheep is so no where, and, for the most part, is wanting
altogether. Cattle, therefore, must be imported.*-*
"As to corn, it
will unquestionably be found far cheaper to import than to raise it. Rice will
be the chief bread-corn, and will come in great abundance and cheapness from
Siam and Cochin China. No country within 700 miles of Singa pore is abundant in
corn, and none is grown in the island: yet, from the first establishment of the
settlement to the present time, corn has been both cheap and abundant, there
has been wonderfully little fluctuation, there are always stocks, and for many
years a considerable exportation. A variety of pulses, vegetable oil, and
culinary salt, will be derived from the same countries, as is now done in
abundance by Singapore.*-*
“The mines of
antimony are 300 miles to the south-west of Labuan, and those of gold on the
west and the south coasts; and I am not aware that any mineral wealth has been
discovered in the portion of Borneo immediately connected with Labuan, except
that of coal — far more important and valuable, indeed, than gold or antimony.
The existence of a coal-field has been traced from Labuan to the islands of
Kayn-arang — which words, in fact, mean coal-island — to the island of Chermin,
and from thence to the mainland, over a distance of thirty miles. With respect
to the coal of Labuan itself, I find no distinct statement beyond the simple
fact of the existence of the mineral; but the coal of the two islands in the
river, and of the main, is proved to be — from analysis and trial in
steam-navigation — superior to nearly all the coal which India has hitherto
yielded, and equal to some of our best English coals. This is the more
remarkable, as it is known that most surface-minerals, and especially coals,
are inferior to the portions of the same veins or beds more deep-seated.*-*
“Nearly as early as
the British flag is erected, and, at all events, as soon as it is permanently
known to be so, there may be reckoned upon with certainty a large influx of
settlers. The best and most numerous of these will be the Chinese. They were
settled on the Borneo river when the Borneo government, never very good, or
otherwise than comparatively violent and disorderly, was most endurable.*-*
“The distance of Hong
Kong is about 1000 miles, and that of the island of Hainan, a great place for
emigration, not above 800; distances which to the Chinese junks — fast sailers
before the strong and favourable winds of the monsoonsdo not make voyages
exceeding four or five days. The coasts of the provinces of Canton and Fokien
have hitherto been the great hives from which Chinese emigration has proceeded;
and even Fokien is not above 1400 miles from Labuan, a voyage of seven or eight
days. Chinese trade and immigration will come together. The northwest coast of
Borneo produces an unusual supply of those raw articles for which there is
always a demand in the markets of China; and Labuan, it may be reckoned upon
with certainty, will soon become the seat of a larger trade with China than the
river of Borneo ever possessed.*-*
“I by no means
anticipate the same amount of rapid advance in population, commerce, or
financial resources for Labuan, that has distinguished the history of
Singapore, a far more centrical position for general commerce; still I think
its prospect of success undoubted; while it will have some advantages which
Singapore cannot, from its nature, possess. Its coal-mines, and the command of
the coal-fields on the river of Borneo, are the most remarkable of these; and
its superiority as a postoffice 1 station necessarily follows. Then it is far
more convenient as a port of refuge; and, as far as our present knowledge will
enable us to judge, infinitely more valuable for military purposes, more
especially for affording protection to the commerce which passes through the
Chinese Sea, amounting at present to probably not less than 300,000 tons of
shipping, carrying cargoes certainly not under the value of 15,000,000.
sterling.*-*
"Labuan ought,
like Singapore, to be a free port; and assuredly will not prosper if it is not.
Its revenue should not be derived from customs, but, as in that settlement,
from excise duties: upon the nature of these, as it is well known, it is
unnecessary to enlarge. They covered during my time, near twenty years ago, and
within five years of the establishment of the settlement, the whole charges of
a small but sufficient garrison (100 Sepoys), and a moderate but competent
civil establishment.*-*
"The military
and civil establishments have been greatly increased of late years; but the
revenue, still in its nature the same, has kept pace with them. During my
administration of Singapore, the municipal charges fell on the general fund;
but they are at present amply provided for from a distinct source, chiefly an
assessment on house-property. If the military and civil charges of Labuan are
kept within moderate bounds, I make no doubt but that a similar excise revenue
will be adequate to cover the charges of both, and that in peace at least the
state need not be called on to make any disbursement on its account; while
during a naval war, if the state make any expenditure, it will be fully
compensated by the additional security which the settlement will afford to
British commerce, and the annoyance it will cause to the enemy.*-*
"As to the
disposal of the land, always a difficult question in a new and unoccupied
colony, the result of my own inquiries and personal experience lead me to offer
it as my decided conviction, that the most expedient plan — that which is least
troublesome to the government, most satisfactory to the settler, and ultimately
most conducive to the public prosperity — is to dispose of it for a term of
years, that is, on long leases of 1000 years, or virtually in perpetuity; the
object in this case of adopting the leasehold tenure being, by making the land
a chattel interest, to get rid of the difficulties in the matter of inheritance
and transfer, which, under the administration of English law, and in reference
more particularly to the Asiatic people who will be the principal landowners,
are incident to real property. Town allotments might be sold subject to a
considerable quit-rent; but allotments in the country for one entirely nominal.
Those of the latter description should be small, proportionate with the extent
of the island, and the time and difficulty required in such a climate to clear
the land, now overgrown for the most part with a stupendous forest of evergreen
trees, and the wood of which is too abundant to be of any value, certainly for
the most part not worth the land-carriage of a couple of furlongs.*-*
A charter for the administration of justice should be
as nearly as possible contemporaneous with the cession. Great inconvenience has
resulted in all our Eastern settlements of the same nature with that speculated
on at Labuan, from the want of all legal provision for the administration of
justice; and remembering this, it ought to be guarded against in the case of
Labuan.*-*
“Whether in preparing
for the establishment of a British settlement on the coast of Borneo, or in
actually making one, her Majesty's ministers, I am satisfied, will advert to
the merits and peculiar qualifications of Mr. Brooke. That gentleman is unknown
to me, except by his acts and writings; but, judging by these, I consider him
as possessing all the qualities which have distinguished the successful
founders of new colonies; intrepidity, firmness, and enthusiasm, with the art
of governing and leading the masses. He possesses some, moreover, which have
not always belonged to such men, however otherwise distinguished; a knowledge
of the language, manners, customs, and institutions of the natives by whom the
colony is to be surrounded; with benevolence and an independent fortune —
things still more unusual with the projectors of colonies. Towards the
formation of a new colony, indeed, the available services of such a man,
presuming they are available, may be considered a piece of good fortune.*-*
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: We find the piratical Pangeran Usop put down, and Muda Hassim
exercising the sovereign power in the name of his imbecile nephew, who still
retains the title of Sultan. The principal chiefs, and men distinguished by
talent and some acquaintance with foreign affairs, are now on our side; and it
only requires to support them, in order that civilisation may rapidly spread
over the land, and Borneo become again, as it was one or two centuries ago, the
abode of an industrious, rich, pacific, and mercantile people, interchanging
products with all the trading nations of the world, and conferring and reaping
those blessings which follow in the train of just and honourable trade
wheresoever its enterprising spirit leads in the pursuit of honest gain. As the
vain search for the philosopher's stone conducted to many a useful and valuable
discovery; so may we be assured that the real seeking for gold through the
profitable medium of commerce has been, is, and will be the grand source of
filling the earth with comfort and happiness. [Source: “The Expedition to
Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James
Brooke (1847)*-*]
“Among the numerous
visions of this kind which open to our sense whilst reflecting on the new
prospects of this vast island — so little known, yet known to possess almost
unbounded means to invite and return commercial activity — is the contemplation
of the field it presents to missionary labours. When we read Mr. Brooke's
description of the aboriginal Dyak, and observe what he has himself done in one
locality within the space of four or five short years, what may we hot expect
to be accomplished by the zeal of Christian missions, judiciously directed to
reclaim such a people from utter barbarism, and induce them to become true
members of a faith which teaches forbearance and charity between man and man,
and inculcates, with the love and hope of heaven, an abhorrence of despotism
and blood, and a disposition to live in good will and peace with all our
fellow-creatures? There are here no prejudices of caste, as in India, to impede
the missionaries' progress. Mr. Brooke has pointed out what may be effected in
this way; and we have only to say amen to his prayer, with an earnest
aspiration that it may be speedily fulfilled.*-*
“Having enjoyed the
pleasure of communicating to the public this satisfactory description of the
status quo in Borneo to the latest period (September 1845), I venture to
congratulate them upon it. Thus far all is well, and as it should be, and
promising the happiest issue. But I hope I may not be charged with presumption
in offering an opinion from my experience in this quarter, and respectfully
suggesting that, in addition to a permanent British settlement at Labuan, it
will be absolutely necessary to proceed with the suppression of Malay piracy,
by steadily acting against every pirate-hold. Without a continued and
determined series of operations of this sort, it is my conviction that even the
most sanguinary and fatal onslaughts will achieve nothing beyond a present and
temporary good. The impression on the native mind is not sufficiently lasting.
Their old impulses and habits return with fresh force; they forget their heavy
retribution; and in two or three years the memory of them is almost entirely
effaced. Till piracy be completely suppressed, there must be no relaxation: and
well worth the perseverance is the end in view, the welfare of one of the
richest and most improvable portions of the globe, and the incalculable
extension of the blessings of Britain's prosperous commerce and humanising
dominion.*-*
“In looking forward
to the certain realisation of these prospects, I may mention the important
circumstance of the discovery of coal in abundance for the purposes of steam
navigation. The surveys already made afford assurance of this fact; and the
requisite arrangements are in progress for opening and working the mines. It is
generally known that the Dutch assert very wide pretensions to colonies and
monopolies in those seas. And although that important document contains no
reference whatever to Borneo, it is most desirable for the general extension of
commerce that no national jealousies, no ideas of conflicting interests, no
encroaching and ambitious projects, may be allowed to interfere with or prevent
the beneficial progress of this important region.*-*
“With such a man as
Mr. Brooke to advise the course most becoming, disinterested, and humane for
the British empire to pursue, it is not too much to say that, if the well-being
of these races of our fellow-creatures is defeated or postponed, the crime will
not lie at our door. The sacrifices we have made to extinguish Slavery
throughout the world are a sure and unquestionable pledge that we will do our
utmost to extirpate the horrid traffic in those parts, and to uproot the system
of piracy that feeds it. It is the bounden duty of both Holland and Great
Britain to unite cordially in this righteous cause. The cry of nature is
addressed to them; and if rejected, as surely as there is justice and mercy in
the Providence which overrules the fate of nations, no blessing will prosper
them, but wealth, and dominion, and happiness will pass away from them for
ever. Mr. Brooke invokes their co-operation; and his noble appeal cannot be
withstood.*-*
Visiting the Rajah in James Brooke’s Sarawak
Henry Keppel wrote in
“Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of Piracy”: May 16th.
— We proceeded up the river twelve miles further into the interior of this
interesting county and with my friend Mr. Brooke on board, approached Sarawak,
his seat of government in the reach before you near which, and off the right
bank of the river, is a long and dangerous shelf of rocks. The deep channel
which lies between the bank and the rocks is not more than sixty or seventy
feet wide, and required some little care in passing; but, with the exception of
the flying jib- boom, which got nipped off in the branch of a magnificent
overhanging tree, we anchored without accident in six fathoms water, and
greatly astonished the natives with a royal salute in honour of Muda Hassim,
the Rajah of Borneo. During the whole morning large boats, some carrying as
many as two hundred people, had been coming down the river to hail Mr. Brooke's
return; and one of the greatest gratifications I had was in witnessing the
undisguised delight, mingled with gratitude and respect, with which each head
man welcomed their newly-elected ruler back to his adopted country. Although
many of the Malay chiefs had every reason to expect that in the Dido they saw
the means by which their misdeeds were to be punished, they showed their
confidence in Mr. Brooke by bringing their children with them — a sign peculiar
to the Malay. The scene was both novel and exciting; presenting to us, just
anchored in a large fresh-water river, and surrounded by a denselywooded
jungle, the whole surface of the water covered with canoes and boats dressed
out with their various-coloured silken flags, filled with natives beating their
tom-toms, and playing on their wild and not unpleasant-sounding
wind-instruments, with the occasional discharge of fire-arms. To them it must
have been equally striking and extraordinary (as few of them had ever seen any
larger vessel than their own war-boats, or a European, until Mr. Brooke's
arrival,) to witness the Dido, anchored almost in the centre of their town.
[Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of
Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“The next business
was my visit of ceremony to the Rajah, which was great fun, though conducted in
the most imposing manner. The band, and the marines, as a guard, having landed,
we (the officers) all assembled at Mr. Brooke's house, where, having made ourselves
as formidable as we could with swords and cocked hats, we marched in procession
to the royal residence, his majesty having sent one of his brothers, who led me
by the hand into his presence. The palace was a long low shed, built on piles,
to which we ascended by a ladder. The audience-chamber was hung with fed and
yellow silk curtains, and round the back and one side of the platform oc cupied
by the Rajah were ranged his ministers, warriors, and men-at-arms, bearing
spears, swords, shields, and other warlike weapons. Opposite to them were drawn
up our royal marines; the contrast between the two body-guards being very
amusing. Muda Hassim is a wretched-looking little man; still there was a
courteous and gentle manner about him that prepossessed us in his favour, and
made us feel that we were before an individual who had been accustomed to
command. We took our seats in a semicircle, on chairs provided for the
occasion, and smoked cigars and drank tea. His majesty chewed his sirih-leaf
and betel-nut, seated with one leg crossed under him, and playing with his
toes. Very little is ever said during these audiences; so we sat staring at one
another for half an hour with mutual astonishment; and, after the usual
compliments of wishing our friendship might last as long as the moon, and my
having offered him the Dido and every thing else that did not belong to me in
exchange for his house, we took our leave.*-*
“Rajah's visit to the
Dido, abqut which he appeared very anxious, although he had seldom been known
to go beyond his own threshold. For this ceremony all the boats, guns,
tom-toms, flags, and population were put in requisition; and the procession to
the ship was a very gorgeous and amusing spectacle. We received him on board
with a royal salute. He brought in his train a whole tribe of natural brothers.
His guards and followers were strange enough, and far too numerous to be
ad-mitted on the Dido's deck...There was much distress depicted in the royal
countenance during his visit, which I afterwards ascertained was owing to his
having been informed that he must not spit in my cabin. On leaving the ship,
whether the cherry-brandy he had taken made him forget the directions he had
received, I do not know, hut he squirted a mouthful of red betel-nut juice over
the white deck, and then had the temerity to hold out his hand to the first
lieutenant, who hastily applied to him the style (not royal) of "a dirty
beast," which not understanding, he smiled graciously, taking it as some
compliment peculiar to the English.*-*
“This farce over, I
had now some time to look about me, and to refit my ship in one of the
prettiest spots on earth, and as unlike a dockyard as any thing could be. Mr.
Brooke's then residence, although equally rude in structure with the abodes of
the natives, was not without its English comforts of sofas, chairs, and
bedsteads. It was larger than any of the others, but being, like them, built on
piles, we had to mount a ladder to get into it. It was situated on the same
side of the river (the right bank), next to, but rather in the rear of, the
Rajah's palace, with a clear space of about 150 yards between the back and the
edge of the jungle. It was surrounded by palisades and a ditch, forming a
protection to sheep, goats, pigeons, cats, poultry, geese, monkeys, dogs,
ducks, and occasionally bullocks. The house consisted of but one iioor. A large
room in the centre, neatly ornamented with every description of fire-arms, in
admirable order and ready for use, served as an audience and mess-room; and the
various apartments round it as bed-rooms, most of them comfortably furnished
with matted floors, easy chairs, pictures, and books, with much more taste and
attention to comfort than bachelors usually display. In one corner of the
square formed by the palisades were the kitchen and offices. The Europeans with
Mr. Brooke consisted of Mr. Douglas, formerly in the navy, a clever young
surgeon, and a gentleman of the name of Williamson, who, being master of the
native language, as well as active and intelligent, made an excellent prime
minister. Besides these were two others who came out in the yacht, one an old
man-of-war's man, who kept the arms in firstrate condition, and another worthy
character who answered to the name of Charlie, and took care of the accounts and
charge of every thing. These were attended by servants of different nations.
The cooking-establishment was perfect, and the utmost harmony prevailed. The
great feeding-time was at sun-set, when Mr. Brooke took his seat at the head of
the table, and all the establishment, as in days of yore, seated themselves
according to their respective grades. This hospitable board was open to all the
officers of the Dido; and many a jovial evening we spent there. All Mr.
Brooke's party were characters — all had travelled; and never did a minute flag
for want of some entertaining anecdote, good story, or song, to pass away the
time; and it was while smoking our cigars in the evening, that the natives, as
well as the Chinese who had hecome settlers, used to drop in, and, after
creeping up according to their custom, and touching the hand of their European
Rajah, retire to the further end of the room and squat down upon their
haunches, remain a couple of hours without uttering a word, and then creep out
again. I have seen sixty or seventy of an evening come in and make this sort of
salaam. All the Malays were armed; as it is reckoned an insult for one of them'
to appear before a Rajah without his kris. I could not help remarking the manly
independent bearing of the half-savage and nearly naked mountain Dyak, compared
with the sneaking deportment of the Malay.*-*
Audience with the Sultan of Brunei
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: Borneo, or Bruni city. Left the Driver at 9 a.m. in the gun-boat, with
the pinnace and cutter in company: a fine breeze carried us to Pulo Chermin,
and nearly the whole way to Pulo Combong, where we met with the state-boat
bearing the letter. We entered the town straggling, and the letter having been
received with firing of guns, banners displayed, and all the respect due to a
royal communication, we were dragged in haste to the audience; the Sultan on
his throne, Muda Hassim, and every principal Pangeran waiting for us — Pangeran
Usop to boot. The letter was read; twenty-one guns fired. I told tbem in all
civility that I was deputed by her Majesty the Queen to express her feelings of
good will, and to offer every assistance in repressing piracy in these seas.
The Sultan stared. Muda Hassim said, "We are greatly indebted; it is good,
very good." Then, heated, and sunburnt, and tired, we took our leave, and
retired to the house prepared for us. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of
H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke
(1847)*-*]
"March 1st. — A
long conference with Budrudeen, when, I believe, we exhausted all the important
topics of Borneo politics: subsequently we visited Muda Hassim and the Sultan.
The latter was profuse in his kind expressions, and inquired of the interpreter
when the English would come to Labuan adding, " I want to have the
Europeans near me," On this head, however, he gained no information. The
presents were given to the Sultan and Rajah.*-*
"5th. — In the
evening visited Muda Hassim, and heard news from Malludu, which, divested of
exaggerations, amounted to this: that Seriff Houseman was ready to receive us;
was fortified, and had collected a fleet of boats and that if the English did
not come and attack him, he would come and attack Borneo, because they were in
treaty with Europeans. After leaving Muda Hassim, paid the Sultan a visit.*-*
Captain Mundy visited
the Sultan in state on the 19th of September, and thus describes the interview:
"Early on that morning I despatched all the boats, armed, under Lieutenant
Heath, taking with him the detachment of marines, and gave him orders to moor
the force in line of battle in front of the Sultan's new palace, and land the
marines on the platform commanding the entrance of the hall of audience, and
there wait my arrival. I left the Iris at 7 h 30 m a.m., and pulling the
seventeen miles in three hours and a half, found all ready for my reception. As
I stepped on shore I was received under a salute of fifteen guns by Pangeran
Mumim, and the Sultan met me at the threshold of the hall. Here the marines
were drawn up, directly enfilading the divan; and as they presented arms, I
observed the old monarch tremble in his slippers; for he evidently entertained
some slight suspicion that, as he well merited punishment, I would act as his
highness would certainly have done in my place — namely, kidnap him by
treachery. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the
Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“The Sultan appeared
about sixty years of age, his countenance denoting imbecility, not untinctured
with hypocrisy. He has two thumbs on his right hand, is five feet five inches
in height, thin, and meagre of limb. He was well dressed, and his manner and
deportment thoroughbred; and he was treated with gre tt respect by the numerous
princes and magnates who thronged the salle. After presenting my officers, I
told him that I had words for his private ear, and must speak with him alone.
He led me immediately to an antechamber commanding a view of the river. He then
ordered a large wax taper to be lit and placed before us, explaining that this
light was witness of the purity of his heart, and of the oath which he was
ready to make of his good-will towards his sister the Queen of England. I then
gave him, through my interpreter, the following information: that England would
insist upon his ministers being good men, favourable to Europeans and to lawful
commerce, exact in the observance of treaties, and active in discountenancing
piracy; that a grave outrage had been committed by firing on the British flag,
and that I could not say what redress would be considered sufficient. The
Sultan assured me in reply, that he was ready to submit to any terms which the
Admiral might dictate; that he would deliver up four of the princes who had
been active in the late hostilities against us; and that for the future his
government should be strictly just. I told him he was sure to receive justice
from our government, and that all depended upon his own conduct; and I ended by
remarking that it would be much more agreeable for me to protect his new palace
and capital, than to receive orders to inflict upon it the same chastisement
with which we had visited Tampassok, Pandassar, and Mamhacoot.*-*
“The Sultan again
swore by the Prophet, in honour of whom he had just fasted thirty days, that
his heart was in the right place; that he had never forgotten the kindness of
the Admiral to him last year; and that he had given positive orders to Hadgi
Samod, who commanded the forts, not to fire on us, but that that chieftain
would not obey him.*-*
“After a few more
words I took my leave, and re-embarked; and I will now only add, that it is my
firm opinion that he will hereafter submit to any demands made by Mr. Brooke,
who is, indeed, de facto, sultan of the whole territory from Point Api to
Malludu, a coast of seven hundred miles. What an extraordinary position for an
English gentleman to be placed in ! And how has he managed to receive the
homage of so vast a population? By unremitting kindness and attention to the
natives of every description, during a six years' residence. What could be more
extraordinary than the gathering of the Kajahs off Kimanis, last month, just
before we attacked Mambacoot? people who had never seen him, and who had only
heard from others of his benevolence and good government at Sarawak. Then how
romantic his march against the Sultan into the interior! — ending by the total
submission of the most ancient Mahomedan sovereign of the East, who, I forgot
to mention, told me that his family had supplied the last twentyfive reigning
princes, of whom his highness was exceedingly proud, and which he hoped would
be considered by our government as a reason for supporting him on the
throne."
Looking for Pirates Off of Borneo
Henry Keppel wrote in
“Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of Piracy”: I had long
felt a desire to explore the Island of Borneo, which the few travellers who
have called there describe as not only one of the largest and most fertile in
the world, but one of the most productive in gold and diamonds, and other rich
minerals and ores; one from which the finest camphor known is brought into
merchandise, and which is undoubtedly capable of supplying every kind of
valuable spice, and articles of universal traffic and consumption. Yet, with
all these capabilities and inducements to tempt the energetic spirit of trade,
the internal condition of the country, and the dangers which beset its coasts,
have hitherto prevented the interior from being explored by Europeans; and to
prove how little we are acquainted even with its shores, I actually sailed by
the best Admiralty chart eighty miles inland, and over the tops of mountains!”
[Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of
Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“May 4tth 9 1843. —
Passed through the Tambelans, a beautiful group of between 100 and 150 small
islands. They are very extensive, and but thinly inhabited. There is good
anchorage near some of them; but we had nothing less than twenty fathoms. They
are placed so close together that, after passing the first, we were to all
appearance completely land-locked in a magnificent and capacious harbour. The
following morning we an-chored off the mouth of the Sambas river, and sent the
boats away to examine the creeks, islands, and rivers along the coast for
traces of pirates — which were discovered by the remains of their fires on different
parts, although no clue could be obtained as to the direction in which they had
gone.*-*
“On the morning of
the 8th I again sent the pinnace and two cutters, Mr. Partridge, Messrs. D'Aeth
and Jenkins, with a week's provisions, the whole under the command of
Lieutenant Wilmot Horton, Mr. Brooke kindly offering his assistance, which,
from his knowledge of the Malay language, as well as of the kind of vessels
used by the pirates, was thankfully accepted. I directed them to proceed to the
island of Marundum, and, after visiting the South Natunas, to rejoin the Dido
at Sarawak. In the mean time I proceeded leisurely along the coast, anchoring
where convenient, and finding regular soundings all the way in from four to ten
fathoms — weather remarkably fine, and water smooth. On the morning of the 9th,
on rounding Tanjong Datu, we opened suddenly on a suspicious-looking boat,
which, on making us out, ran for a small deep bay formed by Gape Datu and the
next point to the eastward. Standing a little farther on, we discovered a
second large boat in the offing, which likewise stood in shore; and afterwards a
third at the bottom of the bay. From the description I had received, I easily
made these out to be Illanuns, an enterprising tribe of pirates, of whose
daring adventures I had heard much. They inhabit a small cluster of islands off
the northeast coast of Borneo, and go out in large fleets every year to look
for prahus bound to Singapore or the Straits; and, after capturing the vessels,
re duce their crews to slavery. It is of a cruel nature.*-*
Mr. Brooke observes:
"Nor is the slavery of that mild description which is often attributed to
the Asiatics; for these victims are bound for months, and crowded in the bottom
of the pirate-vessels, where they suffer all the miseries which could be
inflicted on board an African slaver." Having fairly pinned these worthies
into a corner, and knowing that the only two small boats I had left on board
would stand no chance with them in pulling, to make sure of my prizes I loaded
the two foremost guns on each side, and, having no proper chart of the coast,
proceeded under easy sail, feeling my way into the bay with the lead. When just
within musket-range, I let go the anchor, which was no sooner done than the
three boats commenced making a move. I thought at first they were coming
alongside to sue for pardon and peace: and my astonishment was great when I
discovered that nothing was farther from their intention. One pulled away,
close in shore, to the eastward, and the other two to the westward. They were
rowed by about forty oars each, and appeared from their swiftness to be flying,
and that too from under my very nose; and what rendered it still more
ridiculous and disagreeable, owing to a strong ebb-tide, the ship remained
exactly in a position that no gun could be brought to bear on either side. The
dingy and jolly-boat gave chase; but the pirates had the start, and it was
useless; for although a few men were seen to drop from their oars in
consequence of our fire of musketry from the forecastle, still their pace never
slackened; and when they did come within the bearing of our guns, which they
were obliged to do for a minute or two while rounding the points that formed
the bay, though our thirty-two pound shot fell thickly about their heads,
frequently dashing the spray all over them, not a man flinched from his oar.*-*
“ We could not help
admiring their plan of escape, and the gallant manner in which it was effected.
I saw that it would be quite unavailing to attempt to catch the boats that had
pulled to windward; but we lost no time in slipping our cable and making all
sail in chase of the one that had gone to leeward. But the " artful
dodger" was still too fast for us; we lost sight of him at dusk close off
the mouth of a river, up which, however, I do not think he went; for our two
boats were there very shortly after him; and although they searched all night
and next morning, they could discover no traces of the fugitive. Besides, these
pirates have no friends among the inhabitants of the province of Sarawak who
would have screened them from us; on the contrary, they would have put them to
death if once in their power. I certainly never made so sure of any thing in my
life as of capturing the three prahus after I had seen them safe into the
bottom of the little bay at Tanjong Datu: but " there is many a slip between
the cup and the lip." We returned the following day to pick up the anchor
and cable, and observed that it was a place well adapted as a rendezvous for
pirates. The bay is studded with rocks; and to my horror, I found that I had
run her Majesty's ship Dido inside two that were a-wash at low water ! A
mountain-stream of most delicious water runs into the bay between two rocks,
and the coast abounds with oysters.*-*
Capture of a Pirate Off Borneo
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: " August 8th. — Off Ujong Sapo, at the entrance of Borneo river.
The time since I last added to my most desultory journal is easily accounted
for. I have been at Singapore and Malacca, and am now anchored off Borneo
Proper, with seven vessels, and an eighth is hourly expected. It is difficult
with such a force to be moderate; and with Sir Thomas Gochrane's other duties
and engagements, it is probably impossible to devote any length of time on this
coast; yet moderation and time are the key-stones of our policy. I have settled
all the ceremonial for a meeting between the Sultan and the Admiral. [Source:
“The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by
Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“The Pangeran
Budrudeen came on board H.M.S. Agincourt, with every circumstance of state and
ceremony, and met the Admiral, I acting as interpreter. , It was pleasing to
witness his demeanour and bearing, which proved that in minds of a certain
quality the power of command, though over savages, gives ease and freedom. The
ship, the band, the marines, the guns, all excited Budrudeen's attention. On
the 9th it is arranged that the Admiral shall meet the Sultan and the Rajah.*-*
"9th In the
course bf the day, after the audience had terminated, the Admiral made his
demand of reparation on the Sultan and Muda Hassim for the detention and
confinement of two British subjects subsequent to their agreement with the
British government. Of course the Sultan and the Rajah replied that they were
not in fault, that the act was Pangeran Usop's, and that he was too powerful
for them to control by force. If Sir Thomas Cochrane would punish him, they
should he much obliged, as they desired to keep the treaty inviolate.*-*
“10th. — Pangeran
Usop had to be summoned; come he would not; and yet I was in hopes that when he
saw the overwhelming force opposed to him, his pride would yield to necessity.
About 2 p.m. the steamers took up their positions; the marines were landed,
every thing was prepared — yet no symptom of obedience. At length a single shot
was fired from the Vixen by the Admiral's order through the roof of Usop's
house, which was instantly returned; thus proving the folly and the temper of
the man. In a few minutes his house was tenantless, having been overwhelmed
with shot. Usop was a fugitive; the amount of mischief done inconsiderable, and
no damage except to the guilty party. Twenty captured guns the Admiral
presented to the Sultan and the Rajah; two he kept, from which to remunerate
the two detained men. So far nothing could be more satisfactory. Usop has been
punished severely, the treaty strictly enforced, and our supremacy maintained.
No evil has been done except to the guilty; his house and his property alone
have suffered; and the immediate flight has prevented the shedding of blood.*-*
Battle of Malludu
James Brooke wrote in
his journal in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of
Piracy”: " 19th On the 19th August was fought the celebrated battle of
Malludu; the boats, 24 in number, and containing 550 marines and bluejackets,
having left the previous afternoon. As I was not present, I can say only what I
heard from others, and from what I know from subsequently viewing the position.
A narrow river with two forts mounting 11 or 12 heavy guns (and defended by
from 500 to 1000 fighting men), protected by a strong and well-contrived boom,
was the position of the enemy. Our boats took the bull by the horns, and indeed
had little other choice; cut away part of the boom under a heavy fire;
advanced, and carried the place in a fight protracted for fifty
minutes.[Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression
of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“The enemy fought
well, and stood manfully to their guns; and a loss of six killed, two mortally
and fifteen severely wounded, on our side, was repaid by a very heavy loss of
killed and wounded on theirs. Gallant Gibbard 1 of the Wolverine fell mortally
wounded whilst working at the boom, axe in hand. In short, the engagement was
severe and trying to our men from the fire they were exposed to. At two minutes
to nine, aboard Vixen, we heard the report of the first heavy gun; and it was a
time of anxiety and uneasiness till the first column of black smoke proclaimed
that the village was fired.*-*
“I may here mention,
that before the fight commenced, a flag of truce came from the enemy, and asked
for me. Captain Talbot (in command) offered to meet Seriff Houseman either
within or without the boom, provided his whole force was with him. Seriff
Houseman declined; but offered (kind man !) to admit two gigs to be hauled over
the boom. No sooner was this offer declined, and the flag returned the second
time with a young Seriff, son of Seriff Layak of Bruni, than the enemy opened
fire, which was promptly returned. Had Captain Talbot entered as proposed, I
deem it certain he would never have quitted the place alive; for the Seriff and
his followers had made themselves up to fight, and nothing but fight. Many
chiefs were killed; two or three Serifls in their large turbans and flowing
robes; many Ulanuns in their gay dresses and golden charms; many Badjows; many
slaves — amongst them a captive Chinaman; many were wounded; many carried away;
and many left on the ground dead or dying.*-*
“20th — On the
evening of the 19th a detachment of ten boats, with fresh men and officers,
quitted the Vixen, and arrived at the forts shortly after daylight. I
accompanied this party; and the work of destruction, well begun yesterday, was
this day completed. Numerous proofs of the piracies of this Seriff came to
light. The boom was ingeniously fastened with the chain-cable of a vessel of
300 or 400 tons; other chains were found in the town; a ship's long-boat; two
ship's bells, one ornamented with grapes and vine-leaves, and marked ' Wilhelm
Ludwig, Bremen and every other description of ship's furniture. Some
half-piratical boats, Illanun and Balagnini, were burned; twentyfour or
twenty-five brass guns captured; the iron guns, likewise stated to have been
got out of a ship, were spiked, and otherwise destroyed. Thus has Malludu
ceased to exist; and Seriff Houseman's power received a fall from which it will
never recover.*-*
“Amid this scene of war
and devastation was one episode which moved even harder hearts than mine.
Twenty-four hours after the action, a poor woman, with her child of two years
of age, was discovered in a small canoe; her arm was shattered at the elbow by
a grape-shot; and the poor creature lay dying for want of water in an agony of
pain, with her child playing around her, and endeavouring to derive the
sustenance which the mother could no longer give. This poor woman was taken on
board the Vixen, and in the evening her arm was amputated. To have left her
would have been certain death; so I was strongly for the measure of taking her
to Sarawak, where she can be protected. To all my inquiries she answered, ' If
you please to take me, I shall go. I am a woman, and not a man; lama slave, and
not a free woman: do as you like. She stated too, positively, that she herself
had seen Seriff Houseman wounded in the neck, and carried off; and her
testimony is corroborated by two Manilla men, who, amongst others, ran away on
the occasion, and sought protection from us, who likewise say that they saw the
Seriff stretched out in the jungle, but they cannot say whether dead or
wounded. The proof how great a number must have been killed and wounded on
their part is, that on the following day ten dead men were counted lying where
they fell; amongst them was Seriff Mahomed, the bearer of the flag of truce,
who, though offered our protection, fought to the last, and in the agonies of
death threw a spear at his advancing foes.*-*
"The remnant of
the enemy retired to Bungun; and it will be some time before we learn their
real loss and position. It is needless here to say any thing on the political
effects to be expected from the establishment of a government in Bruni, and the
destruction of this worst of piratical communities. When I return to Bruni, and
see how measures advance, I may mention the subject again; but I will venture
here to
Mission Against Pirates in Borneo in 1846
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: On the 4th of July, the Admiral, accompanied by Mr.
Brooke, arrived off Mooarro island, at the entrance of the Bruni River, where
they learned several particulars respecting the recent murders, and found that
rumour, instead of exaggerating the reality, had fallen far short of it. The
Bajah Muda Hassim, one of his sons, Pkngeran Budrudeen, seven brothers, one
sister, other relations, and about a similar number of other persons, had
perished simultaneously. Two of the remaining princes were subsequently put to
death upon its being discovered that Si Japper had fled to Mr, Brooke with
information of what had occurred; and of the whole family there remained in
existence only two brothers, and the son and heir of the Rajah. These three
owed their safety to the protection of the most powerful remaining Pangeran,
named Mumim, who, although son-in-law of the Sultan, disapproved of the deed,
but confined his interference to the protection of those parties. [Source: “The
Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry
Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“In one of his
despatches to the Admiralty, Sir Thomas Cochrane says: " The cause of this
sudden change of conduct on the part of the Sultan (who, their Lordships are
already aware, is a very weak as well as illconditioned character) was the fate
that had attended Pangeran Usop, whom, their Lordships will remember, I, at the
Sultan's request, last year attacked and drove from the city, and who was
subsequently taken and put to death by Budrudeen, in consequence of an attack
he made upon it after my departure. It would appear that the Sultan's reputed
son, a man of worthless character, Pangeran Hassim, had married Usop's
daughter; and, partaking of his father-in-law's hostility to the English, and
disposition to piracy, as well as deeply resenting his fall, and exercising the
very great influence he had over the mind of the Sultan, he, in conjunction
with a very clever and artful man, named Hadgi Samod, at last brought his
Highness to consent to this deed of revenge.*-*
"Our informants
further stated, that so soon as this crime had been perpetrated, the Sultan
began to place the river and city in a state of defence; and Commander Egerton,
of the Hazard, corroborated the statement that a trap had been laid for him to
get him to the city, and, as alleged by the informants, with the view of
putting him to death. "Under all the foregoing circumstances, and those
considerations alluded to in my letter, No. 95, before referred to, there did
not appear to me the shadow of a doubt as to my right, with reference to those
principles which govern European states under similar circumstances, to proceed
with an armed force, and demand an explanation of these hostile deeds."
“When off the island
of Chermin, at the mouth of Bruni River, the Admiral received a sort of
apologetic letter from the Sultan, offering a vague explanation of the
treatment complained of by Commander Egerton, of the Hazard, and requesting in
general terms that "his friend should not believe any thing Si Japper
might have stated." The letter contained no more explicit allusion to the
recent transactions, nor did it prohibit an approach by an armed force, or
threaten resistance.*-*
Fighting with Borneo Pirates in 1846
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: “On the 8th of July the fleet passed the bar and
ascended the river, the Phlegethon leading the way, and sounding. On
approaching Pulo Bangore, five forts opened to view, admirably placed for
denying a passage beyond them. A gun was fired from one of the forts, and the
largest of them hoisted a flag, which Mr. Brooke recognised as that of his
murdered friend, Muda Hassim. For a while some doubt was felt on board the
flag-ship as to whether this was not intended as an intimation that the English
should be received as friends. But they were not long left in suspense upon the
subject, as the moment the Fhlegethon had passed the narrows, the battery
commenced a spirited fire, which was promptly returned. The five forts were
stormed, the guns destroyed, and the magazine blown up. [Source: “The
Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry
Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“Higher up the river
there was a heavy battery, afleur (Feau, consisting of eight brass and two iron
guns, from 68 to 9 pounders, supported by five other heavy works on hills not
far in the rear. The main battery pointed directly down to a bend of the river,
from which it was distant about 800 yards, and round which the fleet had to
turn. As soon as the ships appeared in sight, all these batteries commenced a
sharp and extremely well-directed fire upon them, seconded by a play of
musketry from the woods on the right, to which the Spiteful, the flag-ship, was
obliged to submit without retaliation. Her position was for a while very
critical, with the beach but a few yards beyond her paddle-boxes, the Royalist
in tow, and the boats filled with the whole of the landing force. The utmost
silence and attention were required to prevent the whole being thrown on shore.
But the Phlegethon soon put an end to the crisis. The fire from her ship -guns,
from the battery of field -pieces placed round her bows, and from the brigade
of rockets planted upon her bridge, together with the now rapid progress of the
whole force directly up the river, so astonished and dismayed the enemy that
they fled before the steamers could reach their works, or the storming party
carry out the service intended for it. The marines under Captain Hawkins
immediately took possession of the heights that command the town. These
operations were not accomplished without loss; two men having been killed, and
seven wounded.*-*
“The city was found
entirely deserted by the inhabitants, and the Sultan had fled into the
interior. A force of nearly 500 men, under Capt. Mundy, was sent in pursuit of
him on the 10th. Mr. Brooke accompanied the expedition, which was directed
against Damuan, a village SO miles from Bruni, where the Sultan was supposed to
have determined on making a stand. On their way they arrived at the village of
Kabran, where they found a large house deserted by its owners, but full of
valuable property secured in massive chests; also arms, ammunition, &c.
both for great guns and small arms, and several tin cases of fine English
powder, all of which belonged to Hadgi Hassim. The magazines, ammunition, and
property were destroyed, and six Spanish brass guns of considerable size and
great beauty, which we found on an adjacent eminence, were carried off.*-*
“After two
ineffectual attempts to continue its march to Damuan, under heavy rain and
through a deeply flooded country, the expedition returned to Bruni; whence it
started again to take a new route on the morning of the 13th. This time it
succeeded in reaching Damuan; but too late to capture the Sultan, who had
already fled further inland. The destruction of some household furniture
belonging to the Sultan, magazines of powder, ammunition for guns of different
calibre, and a considerable quantity of cartridges, admirably made, for
musketry, was all that could be effected.*-*
“At Bruni the Admiral
managed, through Tapper, to open a communication with those of the dispersed
inhabitants who were friendly to the British; and on the day following the
occupation of the city, he was visited by Pangerans Mumim, Buher, and Muda
Mohammed. As the Sultan had fled, and they were, in fact, without a government,
the Admiral " invited them to come to some determination as to the course
they would pursue for the well-being of their country;" but they appeared
to be entirely paralysed. " Pangeran Mumim," the Admiral observes
" although condemning the Sultan's proceedings, and himself very
respectable in character, yet was most timid, and seemed to have an aversion to
setting the Sultan aside; and the others, although very violent against him,
had neither talent nor weight to undertake the formation of a new government."
Appreciation of the English After the Fight with Borneo
Pirates in 1846
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: " Mr. Brooke landed on the following day, and at
Mumim's house had a meeting on an enlarged scale, and stated to it my readiness
to assist them in any measure that would have the effect of putting an end to
the existing anarchy, or that might give permanent security to life and
property. But on this and subsequent occasions he found the same timidity and
irresolution to prevail as at their conference with me. In point of fact, the
massacre had been of that sweeping character, as to cut off every man of weight
or intelligence, and leave the survivors in an irrecoverable state of
helplessness and dismay. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For
the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“In the mean time,
the common people had recovered from their panic, and commenced returning to
the town; and by the fourth or fifth day nearly every house was inhabited, and
the same busy scene presented itself as on ordinary occasions, the boats
flocking round the ships to sell or exchange their produce, with as much
confidence as in any English port; and I am persuaded nothing would have been
more gratifying to them than to have learned from me that I was authorised to
establish an Englishman (such a one, for instance, as Mr. Brooke) as their
governor and chief, under whom they would have felt confident of the undis
turbed enjoyment of the produce of their industry, and of protection from
uncertain and despotic exactions."
“Having remained
eleven days at the city without any prospect of securing a definite and
satisfactory arrangement, the Admiral, with Mr. Brooke's concurrence, addressed
a proclamation to the chief person actually in the place, to be given to the
Sultan on his return, detailing the whole of the proceedings between him and
the British authorities during the past twelve months; pointing out the
unprincipled conduct of the Sultan; shewing how entirely he and his subjects
were at the Admiral's mercy, and threatening him with the most vigorous
retaliation should he ever again evince hostility towards Great Britain. The
document was read to the assembled authorities, merchants, &c, who seemed
perfectly pleased with its contents, and no less so with the intimation that a
ship of war was to be left with them until Mr. Brooke's return. The meeting
having broken up, the Admiral sailed northward, taking Mr. Brooke with him.*-*
Mission Against Pirates in Northern Borneo in 1846
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: The Admiral's next visit was to the Ulanun pirates, on
whom he inflicted severe punishment, including the destruction of their
strongholds on the rivers Tampassok and Fandassar. He then left Capt. Mundy of
the Iris to finish the work so well begun, by settling accounts with some of
the pirates who had not yet been made to feel our force; and who, under the
directions of Hadgi Samod, the Sultan's general, were still carrying on
hostilities against the native tribes that were friendly to the English.
Nothing could exceed the glee with which our sailors engaged in this service.
[Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of
Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
“A very animated
description of the operations is given by Capt. Mundy in a letter dated August
28, 1846, from which the following is an extract: " On the 7th instant, I
parted company with the Commander-in-Chief; and no sooner was the squadron out
of sight than I sent Lieut. Little away with my boats and five days'
provisions, with orders to cruise that time along the coast and join me 100
miles to the southward. The Admiral's orders to me were to carry on the war
against the Illanun rascals by sea and land, according to my discretion, and to
look after the Sultan's first chieftain, Hadgi Samod, who had been the
principal adviser of the Sultan in the hostile measures against us; and who, it
was now reported, had sought refuge somewhere amongst the piratical tribes.*-*
“On the 12th I
anchored at Amhong, and Lieut. Little joined me. He had captured and destroyed
one piratical prahu, and had burnt a large Illanun village, after sustaining an
attack from a large body of pirates, who threw spears from the banks at the
boats, but were eventually driven off with the loss of several killed and
wounded. No one was injured on our side, though the spears stuck into the sides
of our boats — these fellows rushing down within ten yards of the pinnace,
hurling their darts, and holding up their large wooden shields to protect them
from musketry.*-*
“On the 14th we
anchored off Kimanis, where Mr. Brooke received information that Hadgi Samod
had fortified himself in the Mambacoot river, distant only six miles; and that
nine gun-boats, which had been sent from Borneo to attack him, had found his
position too strong, and had therefore decided to remain off Kimanis till the
arrival of the frigate. I gave directions therefore to Mr. Little to be ready
with all the boats of the Iris at daylight the. following morning, assisted by
the Phlegethon cutters, and to proceed to attack this noted chief wherever he
might be found. Mr. Brooke and I commenced business by sending a messenger to
the Dyak chief, desiring him to give up Hadgi Samod, and enter into friendly
communication with us. The return message was an insolent bit of bravado,
desiring us to come and take him, and that they were not afraid of our shot,
which they would catch in their hands and throw back at our boats.*-*
“Neither Mr. Brooke
nor myself had intended to take any active part in the expedition; but the
unlooked-for, and, I may add, extraordinary circumstance of the sudden arrival
of thirty war prahus, carrying twenty guns and about four hundred men, under
their chiefs, inhabiting districts for twenty miles round, for the purpose of
paying their respects to the English Eajah, and to assure him of their anxiety
for legitimate commerce, and their wish to be friends of England, entirely
altered the position of affairs. Mr. Brooke, with his accustomed decision,
after a lengthened discussion with their chieftains, declared it to be his
bfelief that they were honest men, and that it would be very impolitic on our part
to refuse the offer of their aid, and that he should wish to accompany them. Of
course I acquiesced immediately, and it was arranged that we should go together
in the gig, thus putting implicit confidence in their faith, whilst Lieutenant
Little could always keep his force compactly together, ready to act on the
first semblance of treachery.*-*
Fighting Against Pirates in Northern Borneo in 1846
Capt. Mundy wrote in
in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the Suppression of Piracy”: "
At five a.m. on the 18th, the boats were in movement. At eight I crossed the
bar in a beautiful new gig the Admiral gave me, the principal Pangeran of our
new allies shewing the channel. Lieutenant Little's force came next, and about
a quarter of a mile in the rear the large fleet of prahus. It was a picturesque
scene; boat after boat dashing through the surf with their gaudy flags and long
streamers, and then shooting into the unruffled stream beyond, and taking up
their assigned positions, which were well under command of my guns and
rockets.Our force now commenced pulling up against a strong ebb; and, after
three good hours at the oars, the first attempt to oppose our progress appeared
in large rafts floating down, and soon afterwards the report of guns in the distance
was heard. On pulling swiftly round a point to clear one of the rafts, the gig
being then about fifty yards ahead of the main division, we came suddenly upon
a long line of thick bamboo stakes fixed across the stream, with an immense
boom attached to them, but which, owing to the freshes, had swung athwart.
Facing these defences, only eighty yards distant, a fort had been erected,
which, as soon as our boats came into view, opened fire. Before the enemy could
reload, I fell back upon the gun-boats, and ordered Mr. Little to give way and
'at them.' He was soon followed by the barge and cutter, and the action became
general — shot, rockets, and 'musketry; but, owing to the strength of the tide,
it was ten minutes before my first lieutenant could get over the short
distance; and when he finally captured the fort, he found it had been armed
with small swivel-guns only, which the defenders had managed to carry into the
jungle. One of our native allies recognised Hadgi Samod and his Bornean
subofficers in the battery. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido
For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke (1847)*-*]
"Having
demolished the fort and destroyed the magazines, ammunition, &c, we pushed
on without losing time; and observing, as we passed a narrow creek, a prahu
endeavouring to escape, we dashed at her and captured her; the crew, who
escaped, leaving behind their spears, krises, and sumpitans, i. e. quivers of
poisoned arrows. The country was' now extremely beautiful. The interior of the
houses was extremely neat — mats, threshing and knitting machines, ordinary
implements, and other furniture, in capital order; and had it not been for the
numerous human skulls suspended from the ceiling in regular festoons, with the
thigh and arm bones occupying the intervening spaces, and other ornaments
peculiar to the wildest class of Dyaks, I should have fancied myself in a
civilised land.*-*
“At three p.m., on
coming to a turn of the river, a magnificent mansion presented itself to our
view, the verandah of which gave a frontage of 200 feet by 20 in breadth. It
was close to the river, and partially concealed by cocoanut-trees. One of these
had been cut down, and of it a kind of abatis was made, from behind which, as
our boats advanced, a masked battery was opened. These guns were quickly
silenced, and I was not long in jumping on terra Jirma, rifle in hand. The
enemy were driven into the interior, carrying off their killed and wounded. The
house was soon in flames; and amongst the internal decorations consumed were
fifty human skulls, and as many packages of human bones — many of them
evidently the. latest gifts of the Dyak gentlemen to their lady-loves; for you
must know that no aristocratic youth dare venture to pay his addresses to the
fair one unless he throws at the blushing maidens feet a net full of skulls at
the same time that he offers his hand and heart.*-*
"At four p.m. we
bivouacked for the night; and early in the morning of the 17th a deserter from
Hadgi Samod swam across the river to our camp, and informed us that his chief
had retreated in despair to the houses at the head of the river. At early dawn,
therefore, we were on his track, and in half an hour a cheer from the headmost
boats signalised that the last refuge of the enemy was in sight. A few strokes
more and our guns and rockets were in play; and after a vain endeavour of the
resolute chief by musketry and sumpets to oppose our steady advance, he was
compelled to abandon his fortress and retreat into the wilderness. Having burnt
all the buildings of those inhabitants who had taken an active part against us,
we returned down the river, and were on board the ship by sunset. Our loss was
one seaman of the Iris killed, and four wounded; two of the Phlegethon's, and
eight of our native allies wounded.*-*
“The native chiefs
rendezvoused at the Phlegethon, where we entertained them till a late hour,
each of them swearing to protect the persons and property of all shipwrecked or
distressed Europeans who might be driven upon their iron-bound coast; and I
really hope we have made a commencement in the good work of rendering these
seas secure for the peaceful trader. The wonderful effect of our Congreve
rockets gave them an idea of our power; whilst our uniform kindness to all the
unpiratical tribes plainly bespoke our anxiety to be friendly with the
good."
“After the
termination of the proceedings against the Illanuns, Mr. Brooke returned to
Bruni to complete the task of re-establishing order there, which the Admiral
had confided to his experienced judgment. Then, having made a short stay in the
city, he returned to Sarawak, taking with him the remains of Muda Hassim's
family, among the rest his young son, the heir presumptive to the throne of
Borneo. Let us hope that the boy, thus early removed from contaminating
associations, and trained up under so kind and judicious a guardian, will one
day prove a compensation to his country for the disastrous loss it sustained in
the premature death of his brave, upright, intelligent, and docile uncle,
Budrudeen.*-*
“In his dealings
towards the humbled and fugitive Sultan, Mr. Brooke appears to have acted in
all respects as became his own high character and his station as a servant of
the British crown. Had he chosen, as Rajah of Sarawak, to pursue his righteous
quarrel to the uttermost against his delinquent feudal chief, he might easily
have found specious arguments to justify such a course, and precedents in
abundance as well in European as in Asiatic history. But he was not the man to
sacrifice a great opportunity of doing good to the satisfaction of a merely
personal vengeance. It was his duty, as British Agent, above all things to
uphold the fair fame of his country for equity and moderation; and from that
duty, he never swerved either in this or in any other instance. The Sultan was
no longer dangerous; his teeth had been drawn; the mass of his people both
feared and respected the English; and the presence of our ships on the coast
would effectually prevent any outbreak of a hostile spirit. Meanwhile, Bruni
was without a government, or the means of constructing one; so that it was
evidently both safe and expedient to permit Omar to return to his capital, in
order that the administrative routine might resume its ordinary course under
the sanction and prestige of his name. With the consent, therefore, of our
Agent, the Sultan re-entered Bruni within a month after his flight from it; and
he wrote Mr. Brooke a very humble letter, entreating forgiveness of the past,
and making strong promises of future good beha viour. He also addressed a
penitent letter to her Majesty, Queen Victoria, in which he renewed and
ratified his two former engagements.*-*
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: “Thus far events have fully justified the wise
forbearance manifested towards this weak and despicable offender by the British
Admiral, and by Mr. Brooke, acting under his authority. According to the last
accounts from Borneo Proper, the Sultan remained deeply impressed by the stern
lesson he had received; the people of the coast were quiet, and eager for
trade; and the Illanun pirates were said to have removed from their untenable
quarters on the Tampassok and the Fandassar to Tunka, a piratical place on the
eastern coast, remote from the broad commercial highway guarded by our ships.
And now at length we may confidently hope that this happy state of things will
be permanent. The crowning act has been put to the history of the initiatory
struggles for the establishment of British commerce and British influence in
the vast and teeming regions of the Indian Archipelago. After such long
disheartening delays, attended with such deplorable consequences, the flag of
Great Britain now waves over Labuan, a pledge of safety to the peaceful trader,
a terror to the pirate and the oppressor. [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of
H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke
(1847)*-*]
“The ceremony of
taking possession of the island and its dependencies was performed on the 24th
of Decemher last hy Captain Mundy. The Iris and Wolf, which had heen despatched
on this service, dressed ship; royal salutes were fired; marines and.
small-armed men landed; and Pangeran Mumim, the prime minister of Borneo, with
many chiefs, and a multitude of Malays and Dyaks, attended on shore. Their
picturesque prahus, anchored close to the heach, with flags and banners, had a
beautiful effect. Captain Mundy had on the 18th concluded a treaty with the
Sultan, by which the island was ceded for ever to her Majesty the Queen of
Great Britain, and stipulations were made for the suppression of piracy all
along the coast. These matters were explained to the assembled natives in a
short speech, delivered by Captain Mundy, and put into Malay by Lieutenant
Heath. The prospect of protection and peaceful trade delighted the Borneans;
and the only drawback to the satisfaction universally expressed by them was,
that they could not at once settle on the island. Numbers of persons had
repaired thither with that intention, and were with difficulty restrained from
so doing by the authority of the Admiral, until further instructions should
have been received from this country. A colony will of course be founded in
Labuan, nor can its existence be long held in abeyance; but it is right that
the basis should be laid without precipitation.*-*
“In order, therefore,
to avoid the mischiefs incident to crude and hasty measures of colonisation,
Captain Mundy was directed by his instructions to raise no fortifications, form
no establishments on shore, and allow no settlers. Labuan is for the present a
naval station, and no more; but the time is at hand when it will become a
second Singapore. Several merchants on the latter island have signified their
intention to remove their establishments to Labuan, whenever the place shall be
ready for their reception.*-*
“The gratification we
feel in recording an event of such high promise in the history of commerce and
civilisation is impaired by one unhappy circumstance. The officers and crews of
the two vessels suffered severely from sickness at Labuan; and Messrs. Gordon
and Airey, the commander of the Wolf and the master of the Iris, fell victims
to the jungle-fever. The former dying on the island, was buried there; the
latter expired a few days after his return to Singapore. The sickness that
prevailed among the sailors has been ascribed to their imprudent indulgence in
the wild fruits of the island, to over-exertion and needless exposure, &c.
These things may have done some hurt; but the main cause of the sickness is too
obvious to be mistaken. The ceremony of hoisting the flag was performed on a
large space, cleared of jungle, and levelled expressly for that purpose. It is
very strange that the officers engaged in the service should not have been
aware of the infallible consequences of such a proceeding. In all tropical
climates, deadly miasmata continue for a long while to hang over newly-made
surfaces of earth, and malignant fevers surely await the white men who are rash
enough to take up their abode on such spots before they have been sufficiently
exposed to wind and sun.*-*
“There is nothing,
therefore, in the unfortunate incidents that have marked our taking possession
of Labuan which should warrant a belief in the insalubrity of the island.
Probably there is no spot within the tropics where European life is exposed to
fewer risks from natural causes. The soil of the island is light -and porous;
it contains few or no morasses; and its situation exposes it to the action of
the prevailing winds, which sweep perpetually up and down those seas. For nine
months of the year it is supplied abundantly with water; and if during the
other three months this article of primary necessity be less plentiful, it is
still in no worse a predicament than Singapore itself. On the north of the island
there are several small runnels which would appear to be supplied by perennial
sources; and it will everywhere be easy to construct tanks and reservoirs.*-*
“Notwithstanding the
lively and hopeful interest now so generally felt in this country with regard
to our prospects in the far East, it is not perhaps superfluous to insist on
the great advantages which cannot but accrue to us from the step we have just
taken. In attempting to estimate the national importance of our new possession,
our conjectures are far more likely to fall short of the reality than to exceed
it. For a great commercial people we have certainly exhibited no extraordinary
sagacity or quickness of perception in this matter and others connected with
it. Thirty years of stolid indifference to an immense fortune that lay at our
feet cannot be thought of without humiliation. Happily, the present generation
of merchants, shipowners, and statesmen, appear to be heartily ashamed of the
blunders and the supineness of their predecessors, and eager to seize the
opportunities still open to them. The capabilities of-Labuan have been shrewdly
scanned by those who can best turn them to good account, and their value is
recognised in every great centre of trade throughout the empire. In the memorial
presented last year to the then First Lord of the Treasury by the Directors of
the Manchester Chamber of Commerce and Manufactures, we find the following
pregnant passage relating to Labuan: " It is most conveniently situated
for the prosecution and protection of our China trade; it would serve as a
point of refuge for our shipping in case of distress; it would form a bulwark
in case of war, and a restraining terror to pirates. It would establish a
centrical depot for trade, not only for the whole of the immense cluster of
prolific islands in its own vicinity, but for the more distant marts of Siam
and the Philippine Islands, and might open the unexplored regions of Japan.
Possessing coals itself, it also, by its geographical position, commands a
boundless supply of that commodity from the mainland of Borneo; whilst it is so
happily situated as to be but a few miles out of the best track to China during
the northeast monsoon.'
“In anticipation of
the extended trade which is about to spring up in the Indian Archipelago, her
Majesty's ministers have deemed it expedient to provide for its better
regulation by the appoint- ment of a general superintendent and protector. The
measure once resolved on, it was impossible that they should waver for a moment
in their choice of the individual to fill the office. The Queen's commission
has gone out to Sarawak, appointing Mr. Brooke " Her Majesty's
Commissioner and Consul-general to the Sultan and Independent Chiefs of
Borneo."
According to an
additional chapter in in “Expedition to Borneo of H.M.S. Dido for the
Suppression of Piracy”: The memorialists pointedly complain of the ob-stacles
that have hitherto prevented the extension and security of their trade in the
Asiatic Archipelago, making it always a precarious source of gain, and often an
occasion of heavy losses. Its uncertainty and irregularity, they say, have been
" greatly aggravated by the total absence of British influence throughout
the whole of the islands stretching from the Straits of Malacca almost to our
Australian possessions. Although the British Government has not yet thought fit
to create an influence in this important quarter, yet has the Dutch Government
been constantly and wisely vigilant in spreading its power there; and it is a
source of regret to your memorialists that a field for enterprise so useful and
so improvable should be abandoned to the grasp of a power of whose
interpretation of treaties (as in the case of Java), British merchants have so
much cause to complain, and whose general policy in those distant regions is
marked by exclusiveness and rapacity.’ [Source: “The Expedition to Borneo of
H.M.S. Dido For the Suppression of Piracy” by Henry Keppel and James Brooke
(1847)*-*]
“These very
significant hints have not been disregarded by the present Administration. It
seems bent on emulating the better part of the Dutch policy in the East, as the
Dutch on their part have begun to relax the restrictive rigour of their
commercial system in imitation of our example. They have seen in the prosperity
of Singapore the advantages which a total absence of commercial restrictions
can confer on a small island, destitute of internal resources adequate for the
support of its inhabitants, and situated at the embouchure of straits difficult
of navigation. Profiting by the lesson, they have declared Macassar a free port
from the first day of this year. In all sincerity we congratulate them on this
wise beginning of reformation. If they will fairly follow out the same
principle to all its consequences, they will find in the long-run that the
commercial rivalry which they seem to dread so intensely at our hands, is
really the most fortunate thing that could befall them. Already they partially
discern the erroneous nature of the theories which have hitherto presided over
their system in the East; and the more they divest themselves of their narrow
jealousies, the better will it be for themselves, as well as for us and others.
There is no grosser fallacy than the old trading maxim, that what one gains
another loses; on the contrary, in proportion as traffic is freed from the
factitious impediments with which ignorance and wilfulness have hitherto sur
rounded it, the comfortable truth will become apparent, that the gain of one is
the gain of all. The Dutch may be assured that there is room enough for them
and us in the vast regions which they have hitherto monopolised with such
inadequate result. It is manifest that they need our co-operation; for alone they
have been unable to clear the waters round their colonies of pirates, or to
develope the great natural resources of the countless shores over which they
affect to claim suzerainty. We will help them to do the work which has proved
too much for their unaided strength, and will seek no more than our fair share
in the profits of the enterprise. We will respect their rights of possession
wherever they can reasonably substantiate them, but elsewhere we will not
suffer them any longer to play the dog in the manger. Let them pay us the
moderate compliment to suppose that we too, like themselves, have grown wiser
by experience; and while they laugh at our expense over the egregious folly of
a colonial minister, who made them a present of Java, the most precious of all
their possessions, let them reflect that a new generation has arisen, which may
not be quite so gullible as their fathers, or so magnanimously indifferent to
their own interests.*-*
Source : factsanddetails.com
© 2008 Jeffrey Hays
Last updated June 2015
