Honouring Heroes, Anzac Tribute to WWII POWs and Sabah Saviours

25 April 2026

SANDAKAN: Anzac Day pays tribute not only to the prisoners of war (POWs) who suffered and perished during the Second World War (WWII) but also to countless others, including local Sabahans, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

"Today, as we reflect on the shared histories of Australia, Britain, and Malaysia, we recognise that the bonds between our peoples were forged not only through conflict but also through compassion."

"The legacy of those who suffered in Sandakan remains inseparable from the legacy of those who helped them survive, even if only a little longer," he said at the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Sandakan Memorial Park on Saturday.

His speech was delivered by Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee.

Hajiji noted that thousands of Australian and British POWs endured brutal conditions in camps across South-east Asia during WWII, including in Sandakan.

"The camps in Sandakan and Ranau became symbols of Suffering , cruelty, starvation, forced labour, and the infamous death marches that claimed nearly all captives.

"Yet even in the darkest times, humanity prevailed. Villagers and their families risked their lives to aid the prisoners."

"We remember with pride the brave locals who offered shelter and care. Each survivor owed his life to those who protected and supported him until rescue was possible."

"Helping these men was a grave offence, punishable by beatings or death, yet these villagers acted because it was the right thing to do," he said.

The Chief Minister described the villagers' courage as proof that, even in profound darkness, anyone can make a difference.

"Today, we honour the service and sacrifice of those POWs. The humanity shown by locals was a ray of light in an unimaginably grim era. Their memory forges a lasting bond between our peoples," he added.