KUCHING: The Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has proposed the establishment of a War Museum to preserve key materials from the Second World War, the communist insurgency, and the Indonesian Confrontation.
He said the museum would serve as a platform to honour local and foreign veterans while documenting the sacrifices of those who fought and died during these periods.
He also welcomed the contribution of historical publications from both local and international authors to further enrich the museum’s future collection.
“The museum should display books, photographs, journals, military uniforms, documents, and related items so that the younger generation can understand Sarawak’s history,” he said after receiving a courtesy call from the delegation of the late General Sir Thomas Eastick at the Astana Negeri Sarawak today (Sept 9).
The delegation, led by Eastick’s grandson Michael Eastick, presented the original “1945 Japanese Surrender” document, which marked the end of Japanese occupation in Borneo on Sept 11, 1945.
Sir Thomas Eastick, who commanded the Kuching Force, received the surrender of Japanese General Yamamura 80 years ago before serving as Military Governor of Kuching.
The Governor said the handover of this historic Second World War document further enriches the state’s heritage and strengthens essential records that will serve as a valuable reference for future generations.
Wan Junaidi and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi later viewed a collection of old medals and British-era Sarawak flags displayed in conjunction with the visit.
They also expressed their gratitude to the delegations from Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany, who are descendants of war veterans that once served alongside Sarawakians in the struggle to liberate the state.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak Museum Director Nancy Jolhi, and other representatives were also present.
