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The Japanese were the only colonial power that challenged British hegemony in Sabah, then known as “North Borneo”. In 1941 they attacked and defeated the British North Borneo Company (BNBC) and assumed governance of the land for the remainder of the war. Although their presence was temporary, it was enough to fundamentally alter the course of the history of Sabah. This paper explores the effects of the Japanese occupation during the years 1942 to 1963, concentrating on economic, political, and social progress. This includes two distinctive periods: the invasion and occupation (1942-1945) and over the longer term, including both positive and negative effects for local peoples. This study is important to understand the reasons for the transition of Sabah from a British Protectorate to a Crown Colony, set against its role in the framework of the Japanese “Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere”. Studies of the history of Sabah in general are lacking, particularly concerning the important years of British colonialism, the Japanese occupation, and the decolonization period. This study draws on archival and library resources to find that the Japanese occupation brought problems to certain parties and fields, alongside some tangible benefits for some groups. It is hoped that this study will open up historical understanding and investigation of the significance of Japanese influence in Sabah. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior to his renewed incumbency, as the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad (b. 1925) was able to remain in power for a more prolonged period compared to his predecessors. He was actively involved in galvanizing political action immediately after the independence of Malaysia and did not abandon active politics until his 2003 resignation. Under Mahathir's leadership and guidance, Malaysia made remarkable economic and political progress. He oversaw many innovations in the fledgling democracy and was able to develop the country due to his exceptional leadership qualities. His style and attitude towards engaging with problems, particularly his stance during the Asian Monetary Crisis in 1997, was highly criticized by some, and labelled as dictatorial. This stigma did not detract him from the path he considered right for Malaysia, and under his leadership he garnered worldwide appreciation for his national efforts and success in overcoming the economic crisis. Mahathir is undeniably an excellent case study as a prime minister, as well as a highly productive person. He contributed to a better understanding of modern Malaysia and his own tenure as PM in a series of books and articles. One of the significant aspects of his political heritage is his influential charisma and leadership. In all of his undertakings he has attracted both passionate support and hatred from friends and foes, but his political footsteps have always been certain and directed toward Malaysia's national wellbeing. Mahathir is a politician with sharp views on many issues and he was profoundly brave in verbalising them in the public arena, within Malaysia and internationally. His clear posture and speeches without fear made him a world-embracing political personality. This descriptive research study adopts a qualitative approach to analyse historical information, documents, memoirs and articles, and books to better understand the leadership of Mahathir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]