SANDAKAN: In conjunction with Warriors’ Day on July 31, Sandakan Heritage Trail (SHT) Founder and Chairman, Lai King Hang, together with members of his team, paid solemn tribute to the victims of the Sandakan Massacre at the Sandakan Massacre Monument during an annual wreath-laying ceremony organised by the Sandakan Chinese Chamber of Commerce.
The ceremony was attended by Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President Datuk Walter Kenson, Sandakan Chinese Chamber of Commerce Chairman Chia Hock Ak, community leaders, and family members of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident towards the end of the Second World War.
“Honouring the fallen heroes of World War II is a deeply significant act of remembrance,” said Lai.
He noted that the Sandakan Massacre Monument is recognised as an optional point of interest along the Sandakan Heritage Trail after visitors descend the historic 100 Steps.
During the ceremony, Lai and his committee members met with prominent local lawyer Datuk Alex Khoo and his wife, Datin Winnie Khoo, a respected Girl Guides leader. The couple have long been regular participants at war memorial commemorations, as Datuk Alex’s father was among the 28 civilians executed on 27 May 1945, whose names are engraved on the monument.
Datuk Alex’s father, Yau Kam Chung, also known as Khoo Kam Chung, was Chairman of the China Relief Fund established by the Sandakan Chinese Chamber of Commerce following Japan’s invasion of China in 1937. He was taken from his home under the pretext of attending a meeting with the Japanese authorities but was later found executed alongside other civilians. The killings are believed to have taken place at the Kempeitai headquarters at Mile 1½, North Road.
Following the war, a monument was erected near the Chinese cemetery to honour those who had perished. The present monument was upgraded and officially commemorated on 31 July 2004.
Lai said documenting the stories of these forgotten heroes is vital in preserving history and instilling empathy and appreciation in future generations.
“We must ensure that these historical facts and the sacrifices made by our local communities in defending our homeland are included in our school syllabus,” he said. – James Leong
RESPECT … (3rd from left), Walter Kenson, Alex Khoo, Winnie Khoo with SHT committee members at the Warriors’ Day commemoration on Friday.
