SANDAKAN, April 25 (Bernama) -- 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 today, which was delivered by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee.
Reflecting on the shared histories of Australia, Britain and Malaysia, Hajiji added that 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.
-- BERNAMA
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