In 1841, James Brooke arrived in Borneo, seizing control over the territory of Sarawak after assisting in local conflicts. He established himself as the White Rajah and ruled as both a monarch and a colonial administrator. His governance was characterized by an emphasis on law, order, and economic stability amid the complex web of local tribal politics. Over the decades, the Brooke dynasty continued to strengthen its hold, but as the British Empire expanded throughout Southeast Asia, the policies toward colonial territories evolved.

By the late 19th century, the shifting political landscape, marked by growing European influences in the region, pressured the White Rajahs to cede certain powers to the British. On June 14, 1888, an agreement was formalized, marking Sarawak as a British protectorate. This arrangement allowed Britain to oversee foreign relations and defenses, while retaining much of the internal governance under the White Rajahs. This protectorate status was viewed both as a means to safeguard local interests and as a method for Britain to assert its influence without direct annexation.

The move came amid the backdrop of increasing European interest in Asia's resources, with the British aiming to ensure stable governance in Sarawak. Although the White Rajahs continued to rule nominally, the treaty significantly altered the power dynamics in the region. The British protectorate laid the groundwork for further colonial activities and eventually contributed to the formal establishment of British North Borneo. This transition symbolized a critical shift in Southeast Asian colonial practices and the relationship between local rulers and imperial powers.