SANDAKAN : In conjunction with Warriors’ Day, Lai King Hang, founder and chairman of the Sandakan Heritage Trail, and his team paid solemn tribute at the Sandakan Massacre Monument in a ceremony organised by the Sandakan Chinese Chambers of Commerce.
The event was attended by Datuk Walter Kenson, President of the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS), and Chia Hock Ak, chairman of the Sandakan Chambers of Commerce, together with other community leaders and relatives of those killed in the tragic events shortly before the end of the Second World War.
“Honouring the fallen heroes of the Second World War is a deeply significant act of remembrance,” Lai said at the annual wreath‑laying ceremony.
The Sandakan Massacre Monument is listed as an optional site on the Sandakan Heritage Trail after visitors descend the 100 Steps.
At the ceremony, Lai and his committee met Datuk Alex Khoo, a prominent local lawyer, and his wife Datin Winnie Khoo, a respected Girl Guides leader.
The Khoos have been regular participants at war memorials over the years: Datuk Alex Khoo’s father was one of 28 civilians killed on 27 May 1945, his name engraved on the monument.
Yau Kam Chung, also known as Khoo Kam Chung, served as chairman of the China Relief Fund established by the Sandakan Chinese Chambers of Commerce after Japan’s invasion of China in 1937.
He was seized from his home for a meeting with the Japanese authorities and later found executed with other civilians.
The killings are believed to have taken place at the Kempetai headquarters on Mile 1.5 North Road.
After the war a monument was erected near the Chinese cemetery to honour those who fell. The present monument was upgraded and rededicated on 31 July 2004.
Documenting the stories of these forgotten heroes is a powerful way to preserve history and instil empathy in future generations.
“We must ensure that these historical facts and the sacrifices of local communities in defending our homeland are included in our school syllabus,” Lai added.-BNN
