History of the Sabah State Railway

The Sabah State Railway, formerly known as the North Borneo Railway, is the oldest railway system in Malaysia. Built during the British colonial period, it was originally designed to transport tobacco, rubber, and timber from the interior of North Borneo to the coast for export. Over time, it evolved into a vital mode of transportation for both passengers and goods.

Construction of the railway began in 1896, initiated by the British North Borneo Chartered Company (BNBCC). British engineer Arthur J. West oversaw the project, with the first section opening between Bukau (near Beaufort) and Weston. Weston, a small port town, was intended as the main export hub, but its limited harbour capacity led to Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu) becoming the railway’s northern terminus. By 1903, the railway had extended inland to Tenom and Melalap, key agricultural regions producing tobacco and rubber. Another railway line, built in 1905, ran from Jesselton to Papar, a town that became a critical railway junction.

Papar station was one of the earliest and most important stops along the line. Strategically located along the west coast, it served as a centre for trade, agriculture, and passenger movement. Farmers from surrounding areas relied on the railway to transport rice, rubber, and other goods to Kota Kinabalu and beyond. Over the years, the station became more than just a transport hub—it played a key role in shaping the town’s growth, with businesses and markets developing around it. Even today, the railway station remains a focal point of Papar, connecting rural communities with the state capital.

The railway played a significant role under British rule, particularly in facilitating the export of agricultural products. However, its importance was tested during World War II, when Japanese forces took control of North Borneo in 1942. The railway suffered extensive damage due to Allied bombings in 1945, targeting key infrastructure such as bridges and locomotives. After the war, North Borneo became a British Crown Colony, and efforts to rebuild the railway began with British financial support. By the early 1950s, operations had resumed, and the railway remained a key mode of transport.

Following Sabah’s entry into Malaysia in 1963, the railway continued operations under the state government. However, as roads became the dominant form of transportation, certain sections of the railway saw a decline in usage. The Melalap branch, once a crucial link for agricultural exports, was closed in 1970. Despite these challenges, the railway remained in operation, albeit with limited services and aging infrastructure.

Modernization efforts began in the early 2000s, leading to a major rehabilitation project between 2007 and 2011. This included track upgrades and the introduction of modern diesel railcars on the Tanjung Aru – Beaufort route. The Beaufort – Tenom section retained its older diesel-hauled trains, continuing to serve local communities and adventure-seeking travellers. The railway also saw a resurgence in tourism with the North Borneo Railway, a heritage steam train operating between Tanjung Aru and Papar. Using restored British-built Vulcan steam locomotives, this service offers visitors a nostalgic journey along one of Borneo’s most historic railway routes.

Today, the Sabah State Railway continues to serve both locals and tourists. While it no longer dominates transportation as it once did, it remains an important link for communities along its route. The Papar station, with its deep historical roots, still functions as a key stop, preserving its legacy as an essential part of Sabah’s railway history.