KOTA KINABALU: Every year, Sabah observes Anzac Day to commemorate not only prisoners of war but also locals who risked their lives to help these victims, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
"Today, as we reflect on the shared histories of Australia, Britain, and Malaysia, we recognise that the bonds between our peoples were forged not only through conflict, but also through compassion.
"The legacy of those who suffered in Sandakan remains inseparable from the legacy of those who helped them survive," the Chief Minister said at the Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Sandakan Memorial Park on Saturday (April 25).
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Sandakan Member of Parliament, Vivian Wong Shir Yee.
In his remarks, he said thousands of Australian and British prisoners of war endured brutal conditions in camps across Southeast Asia during WWII.
"The camps in Sandakan and Ranau became a symbol of suffering brought about by atrocities - cruelty, starvation, forced labour and the infamous death marches, which took the lives of nearly all who were held captive.
"Yet even in the darkest circumstances, humanity endured. Villagers and their families risked their lives to help the prisoners,” said Hajiji.
He said Sabah remembered with pride the brave locals who took on the risks of offering shelter and care.
"Helping these prisoners was a serious offence, punishable by beatings or death, but these villagers acted because it was the right thing to do.
"Today, we honour the service and sacrifice of the men who were prisoners of war here. Their memory endures as a lasting bond between our peoples," Hajiji said, adding that the humanity shown by the villagers was an example that everyone had the capacity to make a difference.
Anzac Day, observed on April 25 every year, pays tribute to those who fought and died in major conflicts in Australia and New Zealand.
The Sandakan Memorial Park commemorates the death of more than 2,400 Australian and British prisoners of war in Sandakan, on the death marches, and in Ranau.
