By Nancy Nais
KUCHING, Sept 11: Young generations must learn and understand the lessons of war to ensure the horrors of the past are never repeated.
Quoting the famed adage, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”, Deputy Minister for Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting called on everyone to uphold the solemn duty of remembering that today’s freedom and stability came at an immense cost.
Speaking at the 80th anniversary of Sarawak’s liberation from Japanese Occupation during World War II on Sept 11, 1945, at the Batu Lintang Prisoner of War (POW) camp, Ting reflected on the lives lost, families torn apart, and communities devastated during that dark period.
Prisoners and internees at Batu Lintang endured harsh conditions under Japanese Occupation, facing forced labour, brutal treatment, food shortages, and inadequate living conditions that led to widespread sickness and death. The camp was ultimately liberated by the Australian 9th Division on Sept 11, 1945, following Japan’s unconditional surrender.
Today, the site, now the Batu Lintang Teachers’ Training Institute, features a memorial square where annual ceremonies, including wreath-laying, are held to foster remembrance and promote peace.
“By remembering and honouring those who served, the survivors, their families, and their communities, we strengthen our resolve to preserve peace, promote tolerance, and uphold mutual respect among all people.
“Eighty years ago, within these very walls, soldiers, civilians, and families, Australians, New Zealanders, British, Canadians, and Sarawakians alike endured unimaginable hardship. Yet, in the face of cruelty, they held on with remarkable resilience, courage, and hope for liberation. Many paid the ultimate sacrifice,” he said.
Ting emphasised that the commemoration goes beyond remembering history; it is also a reminder of enduring values.
“The story of Batu Lintang teaches the importance of resilience in the darkest of times, the strength of unity in the face of oppression, and the priceless gift of peace.
“Your courage, your sacrifices, and your stories will be etched forever in our collective memory. They remind us of the true cost of freedom and the strength that emerges when nations and peoples stand united against tyranny. May this inspire us all to work together so that such tragedies never again darken our world. Lest we forget,” he added.
The event was attended by family members of former prisoners, as well as representatives from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the Northern Territory National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association.
Batu Lintang POW survivor, 85-year-old Jeli Abdullah @ Michael Tiong, the only remaining survivor to witness the 80th anniversary, was present.
Speaking to reporters, Jeli, who has four children and more than 10 grandchildren, expressed his gratitude.
“I am very honoured, thankful, and happy to be part of such a memorable event, especially in my situation. I hope everyone understands the hardships we endured as POWs.
“It is not easy to recall those times. Others are gone; they have passed away. Being the only survivor left, I am grateful to Allah for this long and healthy life,” he said.
Among the dignitaries laying wreaths at the Batu Lintang Memorial Square were Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri, Deputy High Commissioner of Australia in Malaysia Simon Fellows, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and a 17-member delegation from Brigadier General Sir Thomas Eastick’s family, the commander of the Kuching Force who accepted the surrender of Japanese General Yamamura 80 years ago. — DayakDaily
