2 days ago
Queen Elizabeth Hospital to showcase royal letter in new historical gallery
KOTA KINABALU: The 68-year-old Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) will showcase a significant historical document from the British Royal Family at its second-floor lobby.
This was revealed by Commonwealth Association for Leadership Malaysia (Calm) president Yap Li Ling, who referred to an official letter sent by Princess Anne, Elizabeth Alice Louise, through Buckingham Palace. The letter expressed her support for the hospital's initiative to create a gallery dedicated to the historical ties between Sabah and the British monarchy.
Yap had presented the idea to Princess Anne during a meeting at Windsor Palace in April. Princess Anne had previously visited QEH alongside the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1972.
The letter forms part of an initiative between Calm and the Sabah Health Department to transform the hospital into a cultural and educational landmark, attracting both local and international recognition.
"The hospital was built during the colonial era at a cost of £2 million, equivalent to £56 million (RM320.8 million) today, and has stood as a pillar of public health for nearly seven decades.
"Preserving its name and legacy is both a tribute to our past and a reflection of Sabah's progress," Yap told reporters after the launch of the hospital's new historical gallery and commemorative signboard.
The project is a result of strategic collaboration between the Sabah Health Department (JKNS) and CALM, aimed at preserving the hospital's deep historical roots and contributions since its establishment in 1957.
Yap added that what began as a modest signboard project evolved into a comprehensive archival preservation initiative following the discovery of valuable historical materials from the Sabah State Archives and the Information Department.
The newly installed signboard traces key milestones in QEH's journey, including its official opening by the Countess of Perth in 1957 and the historic visit by Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne in 1972.
Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, who officiated the launch, highlighted the broader significance of the project.
"The effort to document this history is crucial so that future generations do not forget the roots of our struggle in building the healthcare system we have today.
"The gallery displays various documents, photographs and historical artefacts, making it a valuable reference for students, researchers and the public.
"A hospital is not merely a place for treatment, it is a symbol of hope, dedication and the progress of a society.
"This gallery honours our healthcare frontliners and ensures that future generations never forget the foundation upon which our system is built."
