BY RASHEEQA BAHIDA & NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS
KUCHING: The 80th anniversary of Sarawak’s liberation from Japanese occupation was marked with a poignant ceremony at the historic Batu Lintang camp, bringing together local leaders, international representatives and descendants of war heroes in a spirit of remembrance and unity.
Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) President, Audry Wan Ullok, in her address, said the commemoration was not only about recalling the hardship endured at Batu Lintang prisoner of war (POW) camp during World War II, but also about celebrating the resilience of those who lived through it and the peace that followed.
“This place stands as a solemn reminder of a painful chapter in the history.
“However, it is also a place that teaches us the importance of hope and humanity,” she said, referring to the site’s transformation into a teachers’ training college in 1948.
Officiated by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Acts, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew representing Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahmad Hamzah, the ceremony was attended by more than 20 descendants of Brigadier General Sir Thomas Charles Eastick, who oversaw the liberation of Batu Lintang in 1945.
They travelled from Australia, Germany and the United Kingdom to honour the legacy of their ancestor and reconnect with Sarawak’s shared history.
Audry expressed appreciation for the support of the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, the Australian High Commission, Kuching South City Council, Sarawak ATM Veterans, Batu Lintang Teachers’ Training College, and the Royal Malaysia Police.
She said the continued collaboration between Malaysia, Australia and other international partners in preserving such historical sites reflects a shared commitment to peace and harmony.
“May this ceremony inspire in all of us the enduring spirit of resilience and remind us of the precious gift of peace,” she said.
