Peace is vital, war is destructive - Hajiji

15 August 2023

By Wartawan Nabalu News

SANDAKAN: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor urged the people to cherish peace and harmony, and honoured the heroes of World War II at the Sandakan Day Memorial today.

He said that the allied soldiers and local communities who fought and died in the war had made great sacrifices for Sabah, and that their courage should be remembered.

Hajiji stated that annually holding the memorial will bring Australia, Britain, and Sabah closer together.

“Sabah and specifically Sandakan will always welcome you and your families. This will be your place of remembrance,” he said this in his speech which was read by Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

The memorial, held at the Memorial Park here, commemorated the 78th anniversary of the end of the war in 1945.

"Let us reflect on the deeper understanding of peace and that war and conflicts do nothing but destroy. Both must not happen," Hajiji said.

"We are grateful and we will always remember them for their sacrifices and contributions to keeping the peace in our homes," he added.

Hajiji also praised the Sandakan Municipal Council, Sabah Tourism Board, and the organising committee for their efforts in preserving the history and honouring the fallen heroes.

He said that it is important to educate the younger generation about the past and the freedom that was gained.

He also acknowledged the support of the Australian and British High Commissions in Malaysia for their participation in the commemoration.