Mustapha’s house

The state government has not said anything about our former Chief Minister, Tun Mustapha’s house in Tanjung Aru , which had been bought over by a West Malaysian buyer with the intention of turning it into a restaurant.

There have been many suggestions in the local press whether the State Government should do something about it.

Some people think the State Government should let it be, because they still hold grudges against the late Mustapha for some of his policies.

Some are quite open to the idea of saving the house.

UPKO Putatan Member of Parliament, Dr Marcus Mojigoh, was quoted as saying the house is worth saving as Mustapha played an important role in the early days of independence.

“If nothing is done, the intrinsic historical value related to Tun Mustapha and his heydays as among the earliest leaders and independent Sabah would be lost forever,” he said.

Those who grew up during the Mustapha’s era would remember the house as a hive of activities. The same could be said of the other Chief Minister, Fuad Stephens’ residence in Kampung Likas.

Simply put, Mustapha’s house is so rich in historical value that it will be a waste to let it turn into a restaurant.

By restoring it, the future generations will have some understanding and a sense of their own early history .

Countries abroad generally preserve former homes of their famous historical figures to honour their contributions or to educate their people.

When Cory Aquino was the President of the Philippines, she opened to public a section of the Malacanang Palace to show the world the extravagant life styles of the Marcos family. Imelda Marcos’ shoes were a big hit with the visitors!

England is so full of history that it is virtually a living museum. Everywhere you go, you are reminded of their great historical figures.

Even little Brunei has a Churchill museum!

The current Sabah administration must have a sense of history, and take the necessary action to preserve not only Mustapha’s house, but other assets associated with the early politicians like Stephens and many others and convert them into living museums.

Sabah Museum must be the driver in preserving our political heritage now that Rais Yatim, the Federal Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage has said in collaboration with the National Heritage Department will be submitting a proposal to the state government to consider setting up mini museums in several strategic areas.

If Agnes Keith house in Sandakan can be restored by the Musuem in collaboration with the Federal Department of Museums and Antiquities, and considered as a heritage house and a tourist product, why not Mustapha’s house?

I might not agree with some of his policies, but, Mustapha was a native son who played a crucial role in our history.

They don’t make politicians like him any more.