SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Day Memorial will stand as a living bridge to forge understanding, friendship and trust between Sabah, Australia and Britain, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, 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 in his speech read out by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee during the Sandakan Day Memorial held at the Sandakan Memorial Park, Friday.
Hajiji 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 moments of shared humanity, as the quiet acts of kindness and 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. 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 added.
Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia Danielle Heinecke, British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma and New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Wehi Mailetonga Walsh were in attendance, along with senior officials from the Australian High Commission and the United States Embassy.
Sandakan Day is held each year on Aug 15. 15.08.2025
Earlier, on Thursday, a welcoming dinner of the event was held at Sabah Hotel and graced by Vivian, representing Hajiji. Also launched was the Sandakan Death Marches Trail Map.
Garry Rose and Georgia Rose of Australia made a special performance with Sandakan song as well as Japanese students (Yakusoku Tabi Group) with their special performance.
In his speech, Hajiji said it is important to strengthen historical education in schools so that every child knows the story of Sandakan’s heroes.
“We need to preserve our historical sites and natural heritage as living memorials, promote unity across all communities, inspired by the shared legacy of sacrifice.” he added.
Sandakan was once the capital of British North Borneo — a city of promise, prosperity and diversity.
Known as Elopura, the “Beautiful Town,” it was a hub of commerce and culture. But war changed everything.
Yet from the ashes of destruction, Sandakan rose again.
“Today, we are known as The Nature City, a place where heritage and biodiversity coexist, and where people of all backgrounds live in harmony,” he said.
