The annual ceremony will be held on August 15 at the Sandakan Memorial Park, built on the site of the original prisoner-of-war (POW) camp where thousands of Allied soldiers were held during World War II.
Today, it stands as a place of quiet remembrance, surrounded by forest and preserved in honour of those who perished.
Australians are welcome to partake in the service, whether in person at the memorial site or virtually via live stream at Sabah Tourism Board’s official social media platforms: Facebook page Sabah, Malaysian Borneo and YouTube channel @SabahTourismOfficial
This year marks 80 years since the Sandakan-Ranau Death Marches.
More than 2,400 Australian and British POWs were held in Sandakan between 1942 and 1945. Many died in the harsh conditions of the camp.
Over 1,000 others were forced to march through more than 260 kilometres of dense jungle toward Ranau.
Only six Australian soldiers lived to tell the story. Their survival was made possible by the quiet courage of local villagers who risked their safety to help.
During this period, countless Sabahans also lost their lives, executed or tortured for their resistance or support of the prisoners.
The Sandakan Day is a moment not only to remember the fallen but also to acknowledge the enduring friendship between Sabah and Australia, forged in sacrifice and compassion.
For those making the journey to Sabah, Sandakan offers much more than its wartime past. This quiet coastal town is renowned for its charm, rich heritage, and diverse biodiversity.
Visitors can explore the Agnes Keith House, a restored colonial residence rich in history, or stroll through the lively Sandakan Central Market to soak in local culture.
Nature lovers can visit the world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the adjacent Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
A scenic river cruise along the Kinabatangan River offers the chance to see proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and Bornean elephants, among others.
Meanwhile, a visit to Turtle Islands Park highlights Sabah’s efforts in marine conservation to protect nesting green turtles.
These experiences offer a gentle reminder that while the past holds sorrow, the present carries resilience, and Sabah remains a place where life, memory, and nature coexist in harmony.
As part of this year’s tribute, the Sabah Tourism Board also invites Australians to leave a personal message of remembrance, gratitude, or reflection on the online tribute wall.
LEAVE MESSAGE ON TRIBUTE WALLLet us honour them, lest we forget.
