KUCHING: The final rehearsal for the 80th commemoration of the Operations Semut 1945 Parachute Landing at Padang Merdeka went smoothly ahead of the event tomorrow (Mar 27).
Conducted in three sessions, the rehearsal ensured that all aspects of the ceremony were in place for the event, which will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Four paratroopers from the Special Airborne Squadron (PASKAU) will make a jump from an altitude of 6,000 feet from a CN235 aircraft, piloted by Lieutenant Colonel Ahmad Syazwan Mohamed and Major Mohd Zafril from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM).
The reenactment marks an important event involving a special mission carried out by the Australian Special Unit during World War II in 1945.
Eighty years ago, this team parachuted into Bario to join the local community in their efforts to resist the Japanese forces.
Road closures will also take place on tomorrow, affecting Jalan Wawasan to Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg towards Padang Merdeka (Old Court), and Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg from 8.30 am to 11.00 am.
