SANDAKAN: Social media can play a key role in promoting Sandakan’s rich historical heritage to a global audience, inspiring more people to discover the town’s fascinating past.
“Heritage tourism is more than visiting historical buildings, monuments or landmarks. It is about understanding the stories, people, traditions and historical events that have shaped a community,” said Lai King Hang, founder and chairman of the Sandakan Heritage Trail.
He was speaking yesterday while introducing the World War II Monument to 11 key opinion leaders (KOLs), influencers and media representatives from Kuala Lumpur who were exploring part of the Sandakan Heritage Trail.
Erected in 1946 as Sandakan rebuilt after World War II, the monument serves as a reminder of the destruction and suffering the town endured during the war.
During its unveiling 80 years ago, the monument was associated with these powerful words:
“No town in the world wears the wounds of war more terribly and more honourably than does Sandakan… wherever we look, there is destruction far beyond mere repair.”
The words reflect the devastating impact of the war on Sandakan and its people, while highlighting the courage and resilience that helped the town rebuild.
Lai said social media could help bring these historical stories to life and make Sandakan’s heritage more accessible to people around the world.
“Through creative, engaging and informative content, we can present Sandakan’s historical sites in ways that appeal to younger generations, domestic travellers and international visitors,” he said.
He added that the visit by the media group was an opportunity to showcase Sandakan beyond its usual tourist attractions by sharing the stories behind its heritage sites.
“Sandakan has stories that deserve to be heard beyond our shores. With the right storytelling and the power of social media, we can bring these stories to the world and inspire more people to experience our heritage firsthand,” Lai said. – James Leong
The KOLs, social media influencers and media representatives with Lai King Hang (third right), during their visit.
