Kota Kinabalu: There are plans to build a replica of the Nomad aircraft involved in the 1976 Double Six tragedy at Prince Philip Park, Tanjung Aru, as part of its redevelopment, says Tanjung Aru Eco-Development (TAED) Chairman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia.
He said the intention is not to relocate the existing memorial in Sembulan but to create an additional site of remembrance within the redeveloped Prince Philip Park.
“This is about helping the public, especially younger people, understand the importance of the June 6, 1976 tragedy, which took the lives of several State leaders, including former Chief Minister Tun Fuad Stephens,” he told reporters after attending the 49th anniversary commemoration at the crash site in Sembulan on Friday (June 6).
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Pandikar said the park’s redevelopment will also include elements that highlight Sabah’s historical journey, such as a museum-like archive showcasing the State’s path to independence.
“People might not go out of their way to visit formal archives, but if we place educational elements in a park they already enjoy, it becomes a space for everyday learning,” he said.
The Double Six memorial component is expected to cost between RM100,000 and RM200,000, forming part of the larger RM35 million park redevelopment project.
Pandikar expressed concern that many Malaysians, especially those from Peninsular Malaysia, are still unaware of the tragedy.
He said during a recent talk most attendees had never heard of the incident.
He supports the idea of incorporating the Double Six tragedy into the national school syllabus and was encouraged by the high turnout of young people at the recent remembrance ceremony.
“While the Sembulan site remains the official memorial, we support establishing more access points nearby to help more people, including foreigners, understand this important part of our history,” he said.
The revitalisation of Prince Philip Park is part of a broader eco-tourism initiative under the Tanjung Aru Eco-Development plan.
“Our goal is to turn the park into a space that preserves memories, promotes learning and reflects our identity as Sabahans,” Pandikar said.