Kanowit got its name from a minor ethnic group called 'Kanowits' who stayed here a long time ago. This group is considered strong and brave but they aren't found today. Kanowit District Council (named Kanowit Sea Dayak Local Authority) was established in 1949. It’s located at Shop No. 50 Kanowit town, more commonly known as a ‘Bilik Tukang Kambuh’. 

In 1950, the Council office moved to Kanowit Clinic Building where ‘Market Serbaguna’ is now. In 1957, the Council got its new name 'Kanowit District Council' under Sections 6 & 7, State Elections Ordinance (Cap.7). 

On 5 October 1967, the Council office moved to the present site (Jalan Kubu, opposite Ford Emma) after the new office was completed. 

Initially, the Council’s Chairman was appointed by the State Government or Representatives through elections. Since 1980, the District Officer was automatically appointed as the Council’s Chairman and Secretary as the Head of Department. 

Below is the list of Chairman and Secretaries who have served in the Kanowit District Council: