List of British representatives in the Raj of Sarawak facts for kids

Flag of the Raj of Sarawak from 1870 to 1946.

Map of the Raj of Sarawak, 1920s.

This article tells you about the people who represented Britain in a place called the Raj of Sarawak. Sarawak was a special kingdom on the island of Borneo. From 1888 to 1946, Sarawak was a "British protectorate." This means Britain offered protection and helped with some things, but Sarawak still largely ruled itself. These British representatives made sure Britain's interests were looked after. Eventually, in 1946, Sarawak became a Crown Colony of Sarawak, which meant it was directly ruled by the United Kingdom.

Britain's Role in Sarawak

From 1888, the Raj of Sarawak was a British protectorate. This agreement meant that Britain would protect Sarawak from outside attacks. In return, Sarawak agreed to let Britain handle its foreign affairs. It was like having a big friend looking out for you on the world stage.

Who Represented Britain?

During the protectorate period, different British officials worked to represent Britain's interests in Sarawak. These people were important links between the British government and the rulers of Sarawak, known as the White Rajahs.

Early Representatives: The Governors of the Straits Settlements

For a long time, from 1888 to 1941, the British representatives were actually the governors of the Straits Settlements. The Straits Settlements were British territories like Singapore. These governors were based in Singapore and looked after British interests in Sarawak from afar.

The Liaison Officer: Walter Evelyn Pepys

Later, in 1940, a special person named Walter Evelyn Pepys became the Liaison Officer. His job was to be a direct link between Britain and Sarawak. However, his work was cut short. In December 1941, during World War II, the Japanese army invaded and occupied British Borneo. Walter Evelyn Pepys became a prisoner of war until 1945. During this time, there was no official British representative in Sarawak.

The Final Representatives Before Colony Status

After the Japanese occupation ended in 1945, new British representatives were appointed.

• In 1946, John Coleraine Hanbury Barcroft served as the British Resident. A "Resident" was a British official who lived in the territory and advised its ruler.
• Soon after, Christopher William Dawson became the British Representative. He held this role until July 1, 1946.

On July 1, 1946, the Raj of Sarawak officially became a British Crown Colony. This meant it was no longer a protectorate but was directly governed by Britain. The role of British representatives changed, as Sarawak was now part of the British Empire.

See also

• White Rajahs
• List of heads of government of the Raj of Sarawak
• History of Sarawak