By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 11: Today marks the anniversary of Sarawak’s liberation following the formal surrender of the Japanese Armed Forces at Pending Jetty on Sept 11, 1945, a historic turning point that ended years of occupation and ushered in a new chapter of peace and rebuilding in the State.
Speaking during a wreath-laying ceremony at the Sarawak World War II Liberation Monument at Pending Jetty this morning, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the occasion honoured both the servicemen who fought for Sarawak’s liberation and the civilians whose lives were profoundly affected by the war.
“We are here to remember and honour all those who fought bravely in the defence and liberation of Sarawak during the Second World War,” he said.
Wee also paid tribute to prisoners of war, including those held at the Batu Lintang Prisoner of War (POW) Camp, as well as civilians who endured hardship, displacement and loss during the Japanese occupation.
Highlighting the significance of Pending Jetty, he noted that it was here that Brigadier-General Thomas Eastick accepted the surrender of Japanese General Hiyoe Yamamura aboard the Australian naval vessel HMAS Kapunda at 2.45pm on Sept 11, 1945.
The surrender paved the way for Sarawak’s liberation, including the release of prisoners and civilians at the Batu Lintang POW and Civilian Camp by the Australian 9th Division the following day.
“That historic moment marked the end of the Japanese occupation in Sarawak and the beginning of peace and rebuilding for our people,” he said.
Wee said the Sarawak World War II Liberation Monument, unveiled last year to mark the 80th anniversary of liberation, was established to ensure the events that unfolded at Pending remain part of the State’s collective memory.
“This is more than just a hawker centre and a jetty. This is also a place where history was made. That is why we put up this monument. We do not want this important part of Sarawak’s history to slowly disappear and be forgotten,” he said.
He expressed hope that parents, schools and community groups would use the monument as an educational site to help younger generations better understand the sacrifices made during the war and the value of the peace enjoyed today.
Noting that many people have grown up without experiencing conflict, Wee said peace and stability should never be taken for granted.
“Peace did not come easily. It came through the courage and sacrifice of those before us. That is why ceremonies like today are important. We are not here to bring back hatred from the past. We are here to learn from the past,” he said.
He added that the transformation of former wartime adversaries into friends and partners demonstrates the importance of friendship, understanding and cooperation in building a peaceful future.
As Kuching continues to develop, Wee said safeguarding the city’s history and heritage must remain a priority alongside physical development.
“Kuching will continue to grow. Our city will continue to develop. But no matter how much we develop, we must never forget where we came from. Our history is part of who we are,” he said.
Wee urged the public to continue honouring those who fought, suffered and lost their lives during the war, saying their sacrifices laid the foundation for the freedoms and stability enjoyed today.
He added that the monument should continue to remind every Kuchingite and visitor that peace is precious, history must be remembered, and the sacrifices of past generations must never be forgotten. — DayakDaily
