By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 14: A Red Ribbon Memorial Pavilion has been officially unveiled at the Malaysia-China Friendship Park in Jalan Song, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics from Malaysia — including Chinese Sarawakians — who risked their lives to support China’s wartime resistance during a pivotal moment in 1939.
These volunteers journeyed to China’s Yunnan Province to help maintain the Burma Road, a vital supply line that kept China’s war effort alive during the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
Gracing the unveiling ceremony today were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Secretary of the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of Yunnan Province Wang Ning, Deputy Minister for Tourism Datuk Sebastian Ting, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, and Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kuching Xing Weiping.
In his speech, Dr Sim described the occasion as a proud and emotional moment, marking long-overdue recognition for the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics — courageous men from Sarawak and across Southeast Asia who served selflessly during one of history’s darkest times.
“Many Chinese Sarawakians volunteered to support China’s resistance against Japanese invasion — a little-known but powerful chapter of shared history and sacrifice.
“This pavilion is not just a physical structure. It stands as a symbol of remembrance, respect, and recognition for their contributions. It gives descendants, the younger generation, and visitors a place to reflect and remember,” he said.
He emphasised that the project underscores the deep-rooted friendship between Sarawak and Yunnan, cultivated over decades through people-to-people ties, cultural exchange, and shared values.
“Sarawak is proud to be part of this initiative through the Yunnan Hand-in-Hand Programme — a testament to our historical connection and mutual respect,” he said.
Dr Sim noted that the memorial also reflects the strong relationship between Kuching City South and Kunming under the international friendship cities framework, which has fostered collaboration in culture, education, youth development, business, and sustainable urban development.
“Honouring the Nanyang Volunteers not only acknowledges the past, but also strengthens present and future cooperation between our regions. Through acts of shared remembrance like this, we deepen mutual understanding and solidarity.
“Let this Memorial Pavilion stand as a beacon of friendship, peace, and gratitude — linking our shared past to our shared future,” he added.
Meanwhile, Wang highlighted that the pavilion forges a new bridge to champion the volunteers’ indomitable spirit and advance the long-standing friendship between China and Malaysia.
“As China’s crucial gateway to South and Southeast Asia, Yunnan is ready to collaborate with Sarawak to implement the strategic consensus reached by our national leaders.
“Through shared historical symbols like this pavilion, we will continue to strengthen our enduring friendship — flowing like an unceasing river,” he added.
He reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, education, culture, and tourism with Sarawak, contributing to the growth of a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future.
Yunnan was not only the frontline where the Nanyang Volunteers served courageously but now also stands as the enduring guardian of their legacy. In honour of their sacrifices, China has also erected a memorial monument at the Western Hills in Kunming and established a commemorative museum in Wanding Town, Dehong Prefecture, ensuring that the memory of these heroes lives on.
The Burma Road, opened in late 1938 amid relentless aerial bombardment, became China’s most critical wartime supply route. Faced with a shortage of drivers and mechanics, over 3,200 young overseas Chinese — including more than 100 mechanics from Sarawak — returned to China to support the war effort.
These volunteers braved artillery fire and perilous mountain terrain, working tirelessly along the Burma Road. Over three years, they transported more than 500,000 metric tonnes of military supplies, 15,000 vehicles, and countless civilian provisions — writing extraordinary stories of sacrifice and valour in the face of grave danger.
The Red Ribbon of the pavilion symbolises the iconic 24-Turns of the Yunnan-Burma Road — a testament to both the hardships endured and the enduring friendship between China and Malaysia.
Designed by Kuching-based INTODESIGN Lab, the Memorial Pavilion embodies gratitude and historical reflection. Its dynamic form celebrates life, joy, resilience, and vitality. The red ribbon extends symbolically toward Yunnan, serving as a poignant reminder of shared heritage and the lasting bond between the two nations. — DayakDaily
