CO 947 — Cobbold Commission 1962

61 volumes

Commission of Enquiry in North Borneo and Sarawak regarding Malaysian Federation (Cobbold Commission, 1962)

The pivotal commission chaired by Lord Cobbold that investigated whether the people of North Borneo (Sabah) and Sarawak wished to join the Federation of Malaysia. Its findings — that a substantial majority were in favour — led directly to the formation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963.

This series contains the minutes, working papers, submissions, and correspondence generated by the commission’s proceedings.

Historical context

The Cobbold Commission was established in January 1962 by the British and Malayan governments. It conducted hearings across North Borneo and Sarawak, receiving oral and written submissions from communities, political parties, and civil society. The commission’s report, submitted in June 1962, was a foundational document of Malaysian nationhood.

For researchers: this series documents one of the most consequential consultative processes in Borneo’s modern history — the moment when the people of Sabah and Sarawak were asked whether they wished to join Malaysia.