Sandakan Memorial Park | Sandakan

The Sandakan Memorial Park is a significant historical site located in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia. It commemorates one of the most tragic and somber chapters of World War II—the Sandakan Death Marches—and honors the lives of the Australian and British Prisoners of War (POWs) who suffered and died during their forced marches from Sandakan to the Ranau area in 1945.

Key Features of Sandakan Memorial Park

Commemoration of the Sandakan Death Marches:

• The Sandakan Memorial Park was established to honor the POWs who were forced to march under brutal conditions during the Sandakan Death Marches. Between January and August 1945, approximately 2,400 Australian and 600 British prisoners were transported from the Sandakan POW camp to Ranau, some 260 kilometers away, as part of the Japanese military's efforts to prevent them from falling into the hands of advancing Allied forces.
• Only six men survived the marches, and they did so by escaping. The memorial park marks the beginning of the march and the atrocities that took place during the journey.

Memorial and Monuments:

• The Memorial Park includes a memorial with an inscribed plaque listing the names of the men who died, providing a solemn reminder of the horrific events.
• A stone monument is dedicated to those who died, and visitors can see a replica of the original memorial plaque that was first erected in 1986.
• The Sandakan Memorial Park is an important site for remembrance and reflection, especially for those whose families were affected by the war.

Historical Exhibits:

• The park features an interpretive center that showcases a variety of artifacts, photos, and documents related to the Sandakan Death Marches and the broader history of the POW camps in Borneo.
• Exhibits focus on the lives of the POWs, the conditions of their imprisonment, the brutal treatment they endured, and the legacy of their sacrifice.
• The museum also highlights the role of the Japanese military in these events and the broader context of World War II in Borneo.

Peace Garden:

• The park includes a peace garden where visitors can reflect on the past and pay their respects to those who lost their lives. This garden features serene landscaping and provides a peaceful environment for contemplation.
• It serves as a symbol of reconciliation and healing, reminding visitors of the importance of peace and humanity.

Walking Trails and Historical Significance:

• The park is set in lush, tropical surroundings, and visitors can walk along designated trails that follow the path of the original Sandakan to Ranau death marches. These trails help to give a sense of the harsh conditions the POWs endured.
• The environmental setting is designed to evoke a sense of the jungle terrain where the POWs were forced to march, adding to the historical significance of the site.

Visitor Information and Educational Programs:

• The park offers educational tours and programs to help visitors understand the history of the Sandakan Death Marches. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who explain the events in detail and answer questions about the POWs' experiences.
• The Sandakan Memorial Park also hosts regular commemorative ceremonies and events to honor the memory of those who died, especially on significant dates such as Anzac Day (April 25) and the anniversary of the marches.

Things to Do at Sandakan Memorial Park

Explore the Interpretive Center:

• The museum and interpretive center at the Sandakan Memorial Park provide in-depth information about the Sandakan Death Marches, including photographs, maps, and first-hand accounts from survivors and witnesses.
• Visitors can learn about the history of the POW camps, the difficult journey of the death marches, and the impact of these events on the local population and the broader history of Borneo.

Visit the Memorial Plaques and Monuments:

• Take a moment to reflect at the memorial plaques, which include the names of the victims and commemorate their sacrifice. The plaques are often arranged around a central monument and are an important part of the memorial.
• The Stone of Remembrance is a particularly significant monument for visitors to pay their respects.

Walk the Trails of the Death March Route:

• The park features several walking trails that follow the path of the Sandakan to Ranau death marches. These trails help visitors understand the difficult conditions faced by the POWs during their forced march through the jungle. Some parts of the trail are guided and provide historical context.

Attend Commemorative Services:

• Participate in special services or ceremonies held throughout the year, particularly around Anzac Day and other significant anniversaries, to honor the memory of the soldiers who died during the death marches.
• The services often include wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches, and moments of silence for remembrance.

Reflect in the Peace Garden:

• Spend time in the peace garden, where visitors can meditate or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The garden provides a tranquil space for reflection on the suffering and sacrifice of the men who died during the death marches.

Best Time to Visit

• The dry season, from March to October, is generally the best time to visit the Sandakan Memorial Park, as it offers more favorable weather conditions for walking the trails and exploring the outdoor exhibits.
• The park is open year-round, and visitors can experience the exhibits, monuments, and peaceful atmosphere at any time of the year.

How to Get There

• The Sandakan Memorial Park is located about 12 kilometers from Sandakan Town. The park is easily accessible by car, taxi, or guided tour. It is a short drive from other historical sites in Sandakan, such as the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Sandakan War Cemetery.

Conclusion

The Sandakan Memorial Park is a place of deep historical significance and remembrance, paying tribute to the lives lost during the Sandakan Death Marches and offering visitors a chance to reflect on the horrors of war and the importance of peace. The park not only commemorates the suffering of the POWs but also serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought during World War II. Through its memorials, exhibits, and peace garden, the Sandakan Memorial Park plays an essential role in preserving this tragic chapter of history and educating future generations about the importance of tolerance and reconciliation.