KOTA KINABALU: Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), one of Sabah’s oldest medical institutions, marked a historic milestone today with the unveiling of its new signboard and a dedicated historical gallery that commemorates the hospital’s rich legacy.
The project, initiated by the Commonwealth Association of Leadership Malaysia (CALM), was carried out in collaboration with the Sabah Health Department and the hospital administration. It aims to preserve QEH’s institutional memory and recognise the invaluable contributions of healthcare personnel throughout the decades.
Sabah Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun, who officiated the handover ceremony, said the initiative was a meaningful gesture of appreciation for QEH’s role in shaping the state’s healthcare landscape.
“Queen Elizabeth Hospital has long stood as a pillar of Sabah’s healthcare system. This initiative ensures that the hospital’s legacy and the dedication of its staff, past and present, will not be forgotten,” he said.
The new signboard, prominently installed at the hospital’s entrance, highlights QEH’s colonial origins, including its official opening in 1957 by the Countess of Perth. It also commemorates the 1972 visit by Queen Elizabeth II, which led to the hospital’s renaming in her honour.
Meanwhile, the historical gallery houses a curated collection of archival photographs, official documents and artefacts showcasing the hospital’s evolution over the years. Open to the public, the gallery serves as an educational resource for students, researchers, and the broader community.
Masidi also extended his gratitude to CALM for spearheading the project and praised the fruitful cooperation between CALM, the State Health Department and QEH’s management team.
“This effort sets a commendable example. I encourage other hospitals across Sabah and Malaysia to consider similar initiatives to document and celebrate their histories,” he added.
The ceremony concluded with a tour of the new gallery, which is expected to become a key point of interest for visitors and a source of inspiration for current and future healthcare professionals.
