Dr Sim and Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) councillor Amy Tnay placing a wreath at the WWII Memorial for Sarawak Volunteer Mechanics and Drivers.
KUCHING: Yesterday marked the first anniversary of the establishment of the World War II (WWII) Memorial for Sarawak Volunteer Mechanics and Drivers at Zu Tze Temple in Tabuan Laru here.
Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian and Chinese Consul-General in Kuching Fu Jijun were among the distinguished guests present at the memorial to pay respect to the fallen heroes.
“The memorial recognises the contribution made by the heroes who had sacrificed for peace, where around 100 Sarawak volunteer drivers and mechanics were among those who travelled to Kunming in support of China’s war against the Japanese invasion.
“This memorial is indeed a fitting tribute and will serve as a reminder to our future generations on that historic moment and sacrifices made by the courageous Sarawak volunteer mechanics and drivers,” said Dr Sim.
Meanwhile, Fu said the volunteer mechanics and drivers had dedicated themselves to China “with heart and soul.”
“Their heroic stories show the solidarity and compatriot connection between the Chinese at home and abroad. They made remarkable contributions to the victory of the Chinese people’s war against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war.
“On behalf of the Consulate General of China in Kuching, I would like to extend our utmost gratitude to the volunteer mechanics and their families. The Chinese government and people will never forget their sacrifice,” he expressed.
The WWII Memorial for Sarawak Volunteer Mechanics and Drivers was realised last year following years of planning and preparation, as well as assistance from the board of management of Zu Tze Temple and the Association of Sarawak Chinese Academic Research which is supported by people from all walks of life.