SANDAKAN: Anzac Day is a tribute not only to the prisoners of war (POWs) who suffered and perished during the Second World War (WWII) but also to the countless others, including Sabahans, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said thousands of Australian and British POWs endured brutal conditions in camps across Southeast Asia during WWII, including in Sandakan.
“The camps in Sandakan and Ranau became a symbol of suffering brought about by atrocities, cruelty, starvation, forced labour and the infamous death marches, which took the lives of nearly all who were held captive, yet even in the darkest circumstances, humanity endured.
“The villagers risked their lives to help the prisoners; they offered shelter and care. Helping those prisoners was a serious offence, punishable by beatings or death, but these villagers acted because it was the right thing to do,” he said.
Hajiji said this in his speech at Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Sandakan Memorial Park, here, Saturday, which was delivered by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee.
Also present were Commander of the Australian Army’s 1st Division, Major General Ash Collingburn, Australian Deputy High Commissioner in Kuala Lumpur, Simon Fellow, Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Kuala Lumpur, David Wallace, Honorary Consul for Australia, Datuk Andrew Sim, Senior Assistant Secretary, Norita Tani, representing Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environmental, and Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit.
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Reflecting on the shared histories of Australia, Britain and Malaysia, Hajiji said the bonds between these peoples were forged not only through conflict but also compassion.
“The legacy of those who suffered in Sandakan remains inseparable from the legacy of those who helped them survive, even if only for a little longer,” Hajiji added.
As the world continues to face modern challenges, he urged all to draw inspiration from the past.
“Even in the darkest moments, each of us has the capacity to make a difference in the lives of others.
“The sacrifice and humanity shown during that time remain a lasting bond between our peoples,” he said.
He stressed that the service and sacrifice of the prisoners of war, as well as the courage of local communities, must never be forgotten.
“Together, we will ensure they are not forgotten,” he added.
Earlier, in his speech, Ash Collingburn said it is a great honour to be at the annual Anzac Day which marked April 25 each year at the Sandakan Memorial Park where families and friend or the prisoners of war gather together to commemorate them.
On Thursday, the welcoming dinner of Anzac Day 2026 Sandakan was held at Kapalai Hall, Ormond Hotel.
Hajiji, in his speech delivered by Vivian, said the annual commemorations serve a purpose beyond memory alone.
“They remind us the value of peace, the strength of international friendship and our shared responsibility to build a more understanding and harmonious world.
“Sabah cherishes its longstanding relationships with Australia and New Zealand. These bonds continue to deepen through tourism, trade, education, environmental cooperation and genuine people-to-people connections.
“We are grateful for visitors who come to Sandakan – to pay tribute, to learn our history and to experience our hospitality,” he said.
