KUCHING: Lest we forget the lives of the soldiers and ordinary people who fought bravely in the defence and liberation of Sarawak during World War II.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said that Sept 11 is a significant date when Sarawak was liberated in 1945.
The date, which is today, marked the end of the Japanese occupation in Sarawak and the beginning of peace and rebuilding.
“We are here to remember and honour all those who fought bravely in the defence and liberation of Sarawak in the Second World War.
“We also remember the people who suffered during those difficult years. We remember the prisoners of war, including those held at the Batu Lintang Prisoners of War Camp.
“We remember the ordinary people of Sarawak who went through fear, hardship and loss. Many have lost their homes and loved ones.
“Families were separated. Some gave their lives and never returned home. Their courage and sacrifice must never be forgotten.”
He said this in his speech at the wreath laying ceremony at the Sarawak World War II Liberation Monument, near the Pending Hawker Centre this morning.
Wee also said that this is a tribute to Brig-Gen Thomas Eastick and all those who played a part in bringing the war in Sarawak to an end.
Eastick had accepted the surrender of Japanese General Hiyoe Yamamura abroad the Australian naval vessel HMAS Kapunda on Sept 11, 1945, which paved the way for Sarawak’s liberation, including the release of prisoners and civilians at the Batu Lintang POW and Civilian Camp.
Moreover, Wee also urged Kuchingites to remember this day and the monument as a reminder that this is where peace begun in Sarawak.
“We build this monument here for a very simple reason – we want the people of Kuching to remember and know that a history was made here at this jetty.
“Most importantly, we want our younger generation to know the sacrifices made by the people before us,” he said.
The mayor noted that this ceremony is significant to pay tribute and honour those who fought for Sarawak’s freedom as it is today.
“We are not here to bring back hatred from the past. We are here to learn from the past.
“History should teach us not to repeat the same mistakes.
“Today, countries that once fought against each other have become friends and partners
“This shows us that we can move forward through friendship, understanding and cooperation,” he said.
