Sir Duncan George Stewart, serving as the governor of the Crown Colony of Sarawak, was assassinated by a member of the secret society known as Rukun 13. This group was known for its political maneuvering and was part of the larger milieu of post-war tensions in Southeast Asia. Stewart had been a prominent figure in Sarawak’s governance and his assassination underscored the volatile political atmosphere marked by nationalist sentiments and anti-colonial movements. The brutal attack occurred during a public function, illustrating the challenges faced by colonial administrations in maintaining stability amidst rising discontent.

Following the fatal incident, the British colonial government took immediate steps to enhance security protocols for its officials in Sarawak. There was an urgent need to assess the influence of local groups such as Rukun 13 and their opposition to British rule. The assassination sparked a wider investigation into the activities of secret societies in the region and brought heightened scrutiny to the colonial administration's role in local politics. Stewart’s death incited public debates regarding the effectiveness and future of colonial governance in Southeast Asia in a post-war context.

Additionally, the assassination had ramifications beyond Sarawak itself as it drew attention to the broader issues of decolonization occurring throughout the region. It served as a stark reminder to colonial powers that their hold on territories was increasingly being challenged by local movements that were gaining momentum. The violent nature of the attack indicated a significant breakdown in the relationship between colonial authorities and local populations, which would play a crucial role in shaping the future political landscape of Borneo and its relationship with Britain.