KUCHING: A memorial ceremony was held during the Qing Ming Festival to pay tribute to the 126 Sarawakian Chinese who travelled to China during World War II to serve as mechanics and drivers, supporting the resistance against Japanese forces.
The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian at the Zhu Sze Kung Temple, Tabuan Laru today.
During the event, flower wreaths were placed on the monument dedicated to the Nanyang volunteers, a solemn gesture that paid tribute to their invaluable contributions.
“This is a time not only to remember our ancestors but also to commemorate the bravery of the Nanyang Volunteers — the mechanics and drivers who played a crucial role in ensuring that supply lines remained open during the war,” Dr Sim said.
He reflected on the challenging conditions during WWII, when Japanese forces occupied coastal regions, and how the Nanyang Volunteers became indispensable for logistics, helping to transport supplies through difficult routes, including Yunnan province and Myanmar.
“These men weren’t just technicians, they were patriots who showed incredible resilience in the face of adversity,” he said.
He also addressed the broader historical context, urging the community to learn from the past.
“Memorials alone are not enough. We must continue to educate future generations about the values of sacrifice, peace, and unity that these memorials represent.”
Dr. Sim commended the efforts of the Chinese Consulate General in Kuching, local community leaders, and the organising committee for their dedication in ensuring that the legacy of the Nanyang Volunteers is preserved and passed on.
“This ceremony is more than a tribute to those who served — it is an affirmation of the values they stood for,” he said.
“The spirit of the Nanyang Volunteers continues to inspire us in Sarawak today. It is a reminder of the sacrifices that were made, and the friendship between Sarawak and China that has endured since the war.”
He also noted that, as the 80th anniversary of WWII is commemorated, the memorial’s significance goes beyond the recognition of the past as it serves as a crucial symbol of the enduring connection between the two nations.
