By WU VUIDE
SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Day Memorial fosters a living bridge of understanding, friendship and trust between Sabah, Australia and Britain, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“As Chief Minister of Sabah, I assure you that this legacy will be preserved, ensuring it is honoured and passed on to future generations,” he said during the Sandakan Day Memorial at the Sandakan Memorial Park.
Hajiji’s speech was read by Sandakan MP Vivian Wong.
He said this year marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and yet, for many families, especially those who have journeyed here from Australia, the United Kingdom and beyond, the memories of loved ones lost in Sandakan remain vividly alive.
“Our gathering this morning goes beyond mere remembrance. It’s a tribute with purpose. Sandakan isn’t just a site of tragedy. It’s where the human spirit shone brightly amidst cruelty.
“It is a place where bonds were forged from adversity, where the noble actions of local Sabahans shone alongside the struggles of Allied soldiers. Here and now, we reaffirm our dedication to peace, unity and memory,” he said.
He said the Sandakan Death Marches and the horrors of the prisoner of war camps have been etched into history, not only because of the atrocities but also due to the moments of shared humanity, such as the quiet acts of kindness and the persistent hope of those who clung to the idea of freedom against all odds.
“To the families of the fallen, your presence here means everything. Your loved ones, whether soldiers or Sabahans who risked everything to save them, are not forgotten.
“We honour their strength, their sacrifice and their profound humanity. In Sabah, you will always find a sanctuary to remember them. Sandakan is sacred ground for you, too.
“Let us also acknowledge the quiet heroes among us, the local Sabahans whose families’ endured loss and violence. Many gave their lives to shelter or assist Allied soldiers. Their bravery endures in the stories shared through generations and forms an indelible part of our shared history,” he said.
He called upon everyone to pause momentarily and reflect on the true cost of conflict and the priceless treasure of peace.
In attendance were British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma, New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh, senior officials from the Australian High Commission and the United States Embassy, as well as officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment and local authorities.
