SANDAKAN: Anzac Day commemorations at Sandakan Memorial Park honoured World War II prisoners of war and the bravery of local Sabahans who risked their lives to help them, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said.
In a speech delivered by MP Vivian Wong, Hajiji highlighted the suffering endured in Sandakan and Ranau camps, including the deadly death marches, and stressed that the compassion shown by locals forged lasting ties between Malaysia, Australia and Britain.
He urged the public to remember the sacrifices and draw lessons of humanity and resilience, while officials also noted that the annual event strengthens international friendship and supports heritage tourism in Sandakan.