By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Sept 11: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) will revive the World War II Memorial Clock Tower and create a Heritage War Trail linking Batu Lintang, Padungan and Pending to ensure Sarawak’s war history is remembered and shared with future generations.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced the initiatives during the unveiling of the World War II Sarawak Liberation from Japanese Occupation Monument at Pending Point today, held in conjunction with the 80th anniversary of Sarawak’s liberation from Japanese rule.
He stressed that MBKS is not merely a council that collects rubbish or repairs roads but also custodians of memory, builders of identity and guardians of culture.
“Take for example the Padungan Clock Tower, built as a World War II Memorial, where wreaths once lay and silence once spoke louder than words.
“Over time, its meaning blurred, reduced to just a clock. But we will revive its original role, anchoring it once more in remembrance,” he said in his speech.
He also said MBKS will weave a Heritage War Trail, from Batu Lintang to Padungan, and onwards to Pending, so that every step tells a story and every path honours sacrifice.
“This complements our murals, our monuments and our cultural spaces that transform ordinary streets into living history, drawing tourists, strengthening businesses and keeping Sarawak’s soul alive,” he added.
Among those present were Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Deputy State Secretary (Operations) Datu Hii Chang Kee; and Deputy High Commissioner Simon Fellows, representing the High Commissioner of Australia. – DayakDaily
