Peace must prevail: Hajiji
Published on: Wednesday, August 16, 2023
By:
Mardinah Jikur, Winnie Kasmir
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai read his speech.
SANDAKAN: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the desire for peace must prevail because wars and conflicts do nothing but destroy.
“Let us reflect on the deeper understanding of peace and that war and conflicts do nothing but destroy.
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“Both must not happen,” he said, in conjunction with the Sandakan Day Memorial at the Sandakan Memorial Park here, Tuesday.
Hajiji and Ailsa
Hajiji said Sabah acknowledged the brave allied soldiers who fought in World War II (WWII).
“We are grateful and we will always remember their sacrifices and contributions to keeping the peace in our homes,” he said.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai read his speech.
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Also present were British High Commissioner (Designate) to Malaysia, Ailsa Terry, Senior Official assisting Australian High Commission Kuala Lumpur, Dr Steven Barraclough, Tanjong Papat Assemblyman, Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung, Sandakan Municipal Council President Henry Idol, local leaders and their representatives, family members of those who perished during WWII from Australia, British and Sabah.
“Today marks the 78th Anniversary of the end of the war in 1945. The loss of brave allied soldiers lives on in the minds of family members. This morning, let us take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices.
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“As we remember the long departed men of courage, we also recognise the local communities who risked and lost their lives in helping the allied soldiers. Let us honour them and the rest of the individuals as heroes,” he said.
The Chief Minister also said that annually holding this date in remembrance would bring Australia, Britain and Sabah closer.
“Sabah and specifically Sandakan will always welcome you and your families. This will be your place of remembrance,” he said
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Sandakan Municipal Council, Sabah Tourism Board, and the organising committee for their continued dedication to honouring these fallen men and keeping their stories alive.
“It is highly crucial that we, as well as our children, are reminded of this part of history to know what we have lost and the freedom that we have gained in return,” he said.
Hajiji thanked the Australian and British High Commissions in Malaysia for their continuous support in ensuring this parcel of history is remembered and commemorated together as well as Majlis Perbandaran Sandakan and Sabah Tourism Board.
Meanwhile, Alisa who was here for the first time, said it was a touching moment.
She hoped younger generations would not forget their great parents or grandparents sacrifices during the WWII.
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