By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 28: The Sarawak Chinese community has expressed its deep gratitude to veterans from Australia, New Zealand and the Gurkhas whose sacrifices during the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation (Konfrontasi) helped secure the peace that paved the way for Malaysia and Indonesia to forge close ties in trade, economic cooperation, culture and people-to-people exchanges, enabling both nations to prosper together.
The tribute was conveyed during a Sarawak River Cruise tonight in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the Malaysia–Indonesia Peace Agreement of 1966, attended by more than 80 veterans and representatives from the National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association Australia Inc, South Australia and Northern Territory Branch, New Zealand, and the Royal Gurkha Rifles.
Federation of Chinese Associations of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions president Dato Sri Richard Wee said the anniversary was a significant occasion to reflect on the lessons of history and appreciate the hard-won peace achieved after the end of the Confrontation.
“Today, we gather here to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the signing of the peace agreement between Malaysia and Indonesia. This is a significant day in history — a day for us to reflect on the lessons of the past, understand the present, and cherish the peace we enjoy today,” he said.
Wee noted that the proposal for the formation of Malaysia, against the backdrop of post-Second World War geopolitical changes and the Cold War, eventually led to the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation, bringing instability and uncertainty to the region, particularly Borneo.
He said residents living in Sarawak’s border areas more than six decades ago experienced fear and anxiety as political tensions escalated, with some families forced to leave their homes and communities.
“Therefore, today, we are not merely commemorating a historical event; we are also remembering a lesson from history. Through this commemoration, we hope to remind more people of the importance of cherishing the peace we have today,” he said.
Addressing the visiting veterans and their families, Wee conveyed the Sarawak Chinese community’s appreciation for their service and sacrifice.
“Representing the Chinese community in Sarawak, we would like to express our deep appreciation and gratitude for the sacrifice from you and your family in contributing to the peace we are enjoying today in our region,” he said.
He added that the peace agreement signed in 1966 transformed relations between Malaysia and Indonesia, allowing the two countries to build strong partnerships and share in regional prosperity.
“As we look back on history, we must never forget the contributions of our heroes,” he said, paying tribute to servicemen and all those who made sacrifices to protect communities during the conflict.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, said the peace agreement marked the end of the Confrontation and opened a new chapter of peace, friendship and cooperation between Malaysia and Indonesia.
“For Sarawak, this is an important part of our history. Sarawak was directly affected during the Confrontation. Many servicemen and local communities played their part during those difficult years,” he said.
Dr Sim said the anniversary was an opportunity to remember the courage and sacrifices of servicemen from Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the Brigade of Gurkhas, as well as the contributions of Sarawakians and Sabahans.
“Looking back 60 years, one thing is clear in that peace is not something we should take for granted. It takes courage, understanding and, sometimes, difficult decisions to bring an end to conflict and build better relations,” he said.
He highlighted Sarawak’s close relationship with Indonesia today, noting the shared border and longstanding historical, cultural and economic links that continue to contribute to the state’s development and regional stability.
Reflecting on the evening’s river cruise, he said it was a fitting opportunity to consider how far the region had progressed since the difficult years of the Confrontation.
“We should remember the sacrifices of those who came before us, appreciate the peace we have today, and continue to build good relations with our neighbours and friends,” he said.
In attendance was Senator Robert Lau, National Malaysia and Borneo Veterans Association Australia Inc. South Australia and Northern Territory Branch president ajor (Ret’d) Paul Rosenzweign, New Zealand Malayan Veterans’ Association Inc senior vice president W. (Bill) Russell, and the 2nd Batallion The Royal Gurkha Riffles warrant officer Sunil Galami. – DayakDaily
