Kundasang War Memorial | Kota Kinabalu

The Kundasang War Memorial is a significant historical site located in Kundasang, in the Sabah region of Malaysia, near Mount Kinabalu. It serves as a memorial to honor the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during World War II, particularly those who died as part of the Sandakan Death Marches and in the Sandakan POW Camp.

Overview

• Location: The memorial is situated in the Kundasang Highlands, about 90 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, making it a popular stop for visitors traveling to the region. The site is located at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level, offering a cool and tranquil atmosphere with beautiful views of Mount Kinabalu.
• Established: The memorial was established in 1962, designed by the Australian Government and the people of Sabah to honor the sacrifices made during the war.

Key Highlights

Historical Significance:

• The Kundasang War Memorial is primarily dedicated to the memory of Australian and British prisoners of war (POWs) who were forced to march from the Sandakan POW Camp to Ranau in 1945. Known as the Sandakan Death Marches, these forced marches resulted in the deaths of more than 2,400 POWs, and only six men survived.
• The memorial also commemorates the civilians of Sabah who suffered during the occupation of Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945.

Memorial Gardens:

• The memorial features beautifully landscaped gardens divided into four sections, each representing different aspects of the history and the sacrifices made during the war. These sections are:
  1. The Australian Garden: Dedicated to the Australian soldiers who perished during the death marches. The garden features Australian plants, with a central memorial plaque listing the names of the fallen soldiers.
  2. The Borneo Garden: This section commemorates the people of Borneo, especially the indigenous groups, who also suffered during the Japanese occupation.
  3. The British Garden: Honors the British soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Like the Australian Garden, it has plaques and landscaping that reflect the heritage of the British forces.
  4. The Memorial Wall: A large wall inscribed with the names of those who died in the Sandakan POW Camp. It provides a place for reflection and remembrance.

The Memorial Building:

• The central feature of the Kundasang War Memorial is the Memorial Building, which contains a hall of remembrance. The building showcases various wartime artifacts, including photos, documents, and a detailed history of the Sandakan Death Marches.
• Inside the memorial hall, you will find historical displays that explain the events surrounding the Sandakan Death Marches, the Japanese occupation of Borneo, and the experiences of POWs.
• Visitors can view diagrams, photographs, and personal stories from survivors that offer a deeply moving insight into the hardships and resilience of those who endured the brutality of war.

Panoramic Views of Mount Kinabalu:

• The Kundasang War Memorial is set in a picturesque location, with Mount Kinabalu visible from the site. The cool, misty atmosphere, combined with the stunning backdrop of the mountain, makes it a peaceful place to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war.

Educational Experience:

• The memorial serves as an educational center, where visitors can learn about the history of the Sandakan Death Marches and the Japanese occupation of Borneo. It offers a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and is a place for remembrance and reconciliation.
• Guided tours are available, where visitors can learn more about the historical events and the significance of the memorial. Local guides often provide detailed accounts of the historical context and personal stories associated with the site.

Memorial Services and Ceremonies:

• The Kundasang War Memorial holds annual commemorative services on important dates, such as ANZAC Day (April 25) and Remembrance Day (November 11), where people gather to pay their respects to those who died in the conflict.
• During these services, a moment of silence is observed, and wreaths are laid at the memorial to honor the fallen soldiers.

How to Get There

• By car: The memorial is approximately a 2 to 3-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu. The route takes you through scenic landscapes and small towns, making the journey an enjoyable experience.
• By taxi or private tour: Many tourists opt for taxis or organized tours from Kota Kinabalu to visit the memorial as part of a broader sightseeing trip to the Kundasang area.
• Public transport: While public buses do not go directly to the memorial, you can take a bus to Kundasang and then hire a local taxi or minivan to the memorial site.

Best Time to Visit

• The Kundasang War Memorial can be visited year-round. However, the cooler months (from November to February) are ideal for enjoying the gardens and the views of Mount Kinabalu without the heat of the lower altitudes.
• The memorial can get crowded during public holidays and special commemorative days, so visiting on a regular weekday is a good way to experience it in peace.

Conclusion

The Kundasang War Memorial is not only a site of historical importance but also a serene and reflective space set amidst one of the most scenic parts of Sabah. Whether you are interested in World War II history or simply seeking a peaceful place to reflect, the memorial provides a powerful experience. With its stunning gardens, informative exhibits, and educational opportunities, it serves as an important reminder of the sacrifices made during wartime and a tribute to those who lost their lives in the Sandakan Death Marches and other WWII-related events in the region.