SANDAKAN: Anzac Day 2025 was commemorated at the Sandakan Memorial Park on Friday, honouring prisoners of war (POWs) who suffered and died in Sandakan, Ranau, and other parts of Borneo under harrowing conditions.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, in a speech delivered by Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee, emphasised the enduring sorrow and bravery of Australian and British POWs during their captivity.
He said the memorial symbolised a partnership between nations to ensure that the sacrifices of the fallen will never be forgotten.
Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Danielle Heinecke, who attended the ceremony with senior officials, noted that Anzac Day is a national holiday in Australia and commended the presence of students and POW families in Sandakan.
Following the dawn service, Wong and Heinecke officiated the newly rebuilt Sandakan Memorial Park Interpretive Pavilion, rededicated in remembrance of all who suffered and died, including locals who courageously helped the POWs.
