John Orman Gilbert
John Orman Gilbert CMG POAS | |
|---|---|
Gilbert, c. 1958 | |
| 18th British Resident to Brunei | |
| In office June 1953 – July 1958 | |
| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Preceded by | John Barcroft |
| Succeeded by | Dennis White |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 21 October 1907 London, England |
| Died | 16 September 1995 (aged 87) |
| Spouse |
Winifred Mary Harris
(m. 1935) |
| Education | Felsted School Pembroke College, Oxford |
| Occupation | Colonial administrator |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | British Army |
| Years of service | 1942–1946 |
| Rank | Major |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
Major John Orman Gilbert (21 October 1907 – 16 September 1995) was a British colonial administrator who served as the British resident to Brunei from 1953 to 1958.
Gilbert served as the British resident to Brunei during a period of significant political transition. Initially, he played a key role in overseeing constitutional reforms and managing Brunei's evolving political landscape. He worked closely with the sultan but gradually lost influence as the sultan asserted greater authority, particularly through the State Council. Gilbert faced challenges in balancing British interests with local demands, especially as the Partai Rakyat Brunei (PRB) gained momentum. His tenure was further complicated by labour strikes, political tensions, and the British government's cautious approach to governance. By 1958, his inability to enforce British constitutional plans led to his removal, marking a shift in Brunei's path toward self-governance.