Australian Veterans Recall Role in Confrontation Era During Keningau Visit

25 August 2025

KENINGAU: A group of veterans from the Royal Australian Engineers returned to Keningau on 20 and 21 August to commemorate their contribution during the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation (1963–1966).

The Confrontation began when Indonesian President Sukarno opposed the formation of Malaysia on 16 September 1963, which brought together Malaya, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah.

In response, the Australian Government deployed the Royal Australian Engineers to help defend Sabah and to ensure the continuation of essential infrastructure development.

Among their most significant contributions was the construction of a 123.2-kilometre road linking Keningau and Sepulot. Initially a strategic defence route, it has since become a vital driver of development for Sabah’s interior.

Local historian Abednego Chow has played a key role in reconnecting the veterans with the Keningau community, organising visits since 2014. He has also documented their contributions in Chapter 5 of his book on Keningau’s history and supported the establishment of the Ansip Ferry Memorial in 2016 as a tribute to the Royal Australian Engineers.

The latest visit was marked by a dinner hosted by the Yong family of Mee Woo and a luncheon hosted by the Akut Foo family, following the veterans’ visit to the Ansip Ferry Memorial.

Rod Bramich (middle) in 1966 while serving in the interior of Sabah.

With the 60th anniversary of the end of the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation approaching in 2026, another commemorative visit is expected, further strengthening the bonds of friendship between Australia and Keningau , a relationship forged in conflict but flourishing in peace.