Roland Evelyn Turnbull

Sir Roland Evelyn Turnbull (9 June 1905 – 23 December 1960) was a British colonial administrator who served as the British Resident to Brunei from 1934 to 1937 and governor of British North Borneo from 1954 to 1959.

As British Resident in Brunei from 1934 to 1937, Turnbull where he mentored the future Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and encouraged his early involvement in government. He also proposed plans for agricultural and economic development, though these were limited by budget constraints. As colonial secretary and acting governor in Cyprus between 1945 and 1950, Turnbull managed political tensions during a sensitive period, particularly regarding the movement for union with Greece, which he believed lacked popular support.

From 1954 to 1959, Turnbull served as governor of North Borneo. He advocated for Brunei's autonomy, opposed efforts to merge the Bornean territories under a single authority, and negotiated Filipino immigration to address labour shortages. He also developed strong ties with emerging local leaders like Fuad Stephens. Turnbull was known for his close relationship with local rulers and his understanding of regional politics. His cautious approach helped navigate complex political transitions in Southeast Asia.