The Governor of the Crown Colony of North Borneo was appointed by King George VI, and later Queen Elizabeth II.

The governor customarily appointed unofficial members from lists of names put forward by a representative bodies.

The development of democratic institutions was much slower in North Borneo than it was in neighbouring Sarawak.

The district officer for the island of Labuan reported directly to the Chief Secretary.

District officers could also act in a magisterial capacity and had jurisdiction over civil actions, breaches of the laws of the colony, and offences against the penal code.

[11] An ordinance regarding urban government came into force on 1 July 1954 which allowed for the creation of township authorities, town boards, and municipal councils.