by Ezzat Amier
Mat Salleh was born in Inanam. His
father was Datu Bulu, a traditional leader in Inanam and a member of the Suluk community.
His mother was of Bajau descent. He had three siblings: Ali,
Badin and Bolong. The family moved to Sugut, which unlike Inanam, was in the
Company's concession but since the abandonment of its tobacco estates, it had
reportedly been "left largely to its own devices", and enjoyed relative autonomy. There,
Datu Bulu assumed a local leadership position along part of the Sugut River on
the eastern coast of North Borneo.
Mat Salleh was often physically
described as slender and tall, with pockmarked features. He was also well known
as a mysterious and intelligent man, with a commanding personality
and presence. He was well-respected and his great tactical skills were renowned
among the local communities.
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