KUCHING: The story of the Batu Lintang Prisoner of War (POW) camp teaches the people on the importance of resilience in the darkest of times, the strength of unity in the face of oppression, and the priceless gift of peace.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, urged everyone to never forget that the freedom and stability they enjoy today came at an immense cost.
“Lives were lost, families torn apart, communities devastated. These sacrifices must not be in vain.
“Our solemn duty is to ensure that younger generations understand the lessons of war so that the horrors of the past are never repeated.
“As the saying goes ‘Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it’. By remembering, we strengthen our resolve to preserve peace, promote tolerance, and uphold mutual respect among all peoples,” he said.
He said this in his text speech, read by Deputy Minister, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, during the 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Liberation of Sarawak from Japanese Occupation World War II on September 11, 1945, at Brooke Hall and Memorial Square, Batu Lintang Teachers’ Training Institute today.
Abdul Karim also extended his deepest respect and gratitude to the survivors, their families, and the veterans who continue to keep the memories alive.
“We are especially honoured by the presence of representatives from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and other nations whose sons and daughters suffered and stood in solidarity with Sarawakians during those dark years.
“Your courage, your stories, and your sacrifices are etched forever in our collective memory.
“They remind us of the true cost of freedom and the strength that emerges when nations and people stand united in the face of tyranny,” he added.
Abdul Karim then asked everyone to look into the future, stating that the legacy of those who endured must guide them to build a society rooted in unity, resilience and peace.
“Let this 80th anniversary be not only a commemoration of liberation but also a rededication of our commitment.
“Commitment that we will stand united in diversity, cherish peace as our most precious inheritance, and ensure the sacrifices of the past light the path of the generations to come,” he added.
During the event, a memento was presented to the last survivor of the POW Camp Batu Lintang, Jeli Abdullah @ Michael Dandy Tiong, in addition to the POW remembrance choir performance at the Memorial Square.
Present during the ceremony were Women, Family and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, and Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) President, Audrey Wan Ullok.
