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Study ancient Santubong-China trade to uncover Sarawak’s maritime role, says Premier

China steps up preservation of Flying Tigers relics

Rick Peterson, son of a Flying Tigers pilot, visited China to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. He toured sites related to the Flying Tigers, a group of American volunteer pilots who fought alongside the Chinese against Japan. Peterson was deeply moved by the meticulously preserved relics and photos, showcasing the shared history and sacrifices made by both nations during the war.

Uncovering 2,200-yr-old inscription at 4,306 meters: Chinese history carved in stone

Archaeologists in China's Qinghai Province discovered a 2,000-year-old Qin Dynasty inscription on a rock face near Gyaring Lake. The inscription, dating back to 221-207 BC, documents an imperial tour by officials searching for the 'elixir of life' on behalf of Emperor Qinshihuang. This discovery provides valuable insights into the Qin Dynasty's political and cultural activities, demonstrating their presence on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and contributing to the understanding of China's unified civilization.

The ‘Flying Scotsman’: From Paris Olympics Gold medalist to wartime hero in China

Eric Liddell, the "Flying Scotsman" famed for his 1924 Olympic gold medal, is remembered in Scotland and China. Born to missionary parents in Tianjin, he returned there after his Olympic triumph to teach and promote sports. The Eric Liddell Community in Edinburgh preserves his legacy, showcasing his life as an athlete, missionary, and prisoner of war during the Second Sino-Japanese War. He died in a Japanese internment camp, leaving a lasting impact on both nations.

Keningau Oath Stone: A significant symbol in Malaysia’s formation

The Keningau Oath Stone, a symbol of Sabah's agreement to join Malaysia, embodies promises to protect Sabahans' rights, including customary rights, religious freedom, and land ownership. Erected in 1964, it signifies Sabah's commitment to a united, diverse nation while preserving its identity. Efforts are underway to officially recognize the Oath Stone as a national heritage site, ensuring its protection and reminding future generations of the agreement's significance.

Premier: Sarawak to set up new museum on state’s administrative history

Sarawak Premier Abang Johari announced a new museum in Kuching dedicated to the state's administrative history. It will cover the Brunei Sultanate era, Brooke administration, colonial period, and formation of Malaysia. The museum will complement existing museums focusing on culture, natural history, communism, and peace, and will be linked to a new state archives facility. The project is expected to take five years due to the extensive research required.

Historian Lynette Silver talks with Borneo Post columnist

Joseph Tek met with Australian historian Lynette Silver, author of "Runway to Hell: The Sandakan Death Marches Remembered," to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender. Silver's work has been instrumental in preserving the memory of the Sandakan Death Marches. Tek's article in The Borneo Post prompted Silver to reach out, leading to a meeting in Sandakan where they discussed the tragic events.

Sabahan marks birthday with pride in grandfather’s role in Malaysia’s formation

Lawyer Yannik Mohd Anuar shares his unique connection to Malaysia Day, as his birthday coincides with the national holiday. He reflects on his grandfather, the late Tan Sri Ghani Gilong, a key figure in Sabah's inclusion in the Malaysian Federation. Yannik recalls stories of his grandfather's efforts to convince Sabahans to join Malaysia, including jungle treks and visits to Felda settlements. He expresses pride in sharing his birthday with such a significant day in Malaysian history.

What Batu Lintang means to you?

Edward Lakin presented the history of Batu Lintang Campus, highlighting its connection to the WWII POW camp and its significance to Sarawak's history leading up to the formation of Malaysia. Born in 1942 to a Japanese-Bidayuh mother and an English father executed by the Japanese, Lakin emphasized the importance of knowing local history. He discussed Sarawak's contributions to Britain's war efforts during WWI and WWII, and Britain's subsequent responsibility for Sarawak's defense, leading to the deployment of the 2nd Battalion 15th Punjab Regiment.

World War II monument unveiled in Pending to mark 80th anniversary of Sarawak’s liberation from Japanese occupation

A new World War II Liberation Monument was unveiled at Pending Point, Kuching, Sarawak, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the state's liberation from Japanese occupation. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian officiated the ceremony, highlighting the monument as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Allied forces and Sarawakians. The monument marks the surrender of Japanese forces on September 11, 1945, and serves as a lesson for future generations about the cost of freedom.

Historical Brooke-era Sarawak flag from WWII back in Kuching

A Brooke-era Sarawak flag, rescued from destruction during World War II by Brigadier General Sir Thomas Eastick, has been returned to Kuching by his family. Eastick, an Australian Army officer involved in the Japanese surrender in Sarawak, preserved the flag after it flew at the Astana. His grandson, Michael Eastick, led a family delegation to donate the flag and other artifacts to the Sarawak Museum Department. The return of these historical items is a significant contribution to preserving Sarawak's wartime heritage.

Historial Brooke-era Sarawak flag from WWII back in Kuching

A Sarawak flag from the Brooke era, rescued during World War II by Brigadier General Thomas Eastik, has been returned to Kuching by his family. Eastik saved the flag, which flew at the Astana, from destruction. His grandson, Michael Eastik, brought the flag and other artifacts to Sarawak. The family has agreed to donate some items to the Sarawak Museum Department. The return of these historical items is a significant contribution to preserving Sarawak's wartime heritage.

Governor proposes Sarawak establish war museum for deeper understanding of state’s history

Sarawak's Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, proposed establishing a war museum to showcase artefacts from WWII, the Communist Insurgency, and the Confrontation. The museum aims to honor local and foreign veterans and educate younger generations about Sarawak's history. The proposal followed a meeting with Michael Eastick, grandson of WWII Kuching Force commander, who presented the original 1945 Japanese surrender document, a significant historical artefact marking the end of Japanese occupation in Borneo.

Public invited to Malaysia Day Exhibition in Kota Kinabalu

The Sabah State Archives Department is hosting a Malaysia Day Exhibition from September 9-13, showcasing historical artifacts, documents, and photographs related to Sabah's role in Malaysia's formation. The free exhibition aims to educate the public, especially younger generations, about the nation's history and foster patriotism. Activities include a pop quiz, food stalls, singing and gaming competitions, and a scavenger hunt. The exhibition culminates with the Sabah Malaysia Day ceremony on September 16 at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu.

Remembering George Hogg, heroic British journalist supporting Chinese in WWII

Residents of Harpenden, UK, commemorated journalist George Hogg, who died 80 years ago in China during WWII. Hogg, born in Harpenden, documented Japanese atrocities and rescued Chinese youth. His nephew, Mark Aylwin Thomas, author of Hogg's biography, spoke at the memorial, highlighting Hogg's dedication to China. Hogg's work alongside figures like Rewi Alley and Edgar and Helen Snow showcased international solidarity against Japanese aggression.

Hong Kong people preserve, perpetuate WWII memories

Hong Kong communities are striving to preserve the memory of the resistance against Japanese occupation during World War II. Initiatives include the restoration of the Lo family home in Sha Tau Kok, which served as a base for the Dongjiang Column, a CPC-led guerrilla force. The museum highlights the family's contribution, with 11 members joining the resistance. Local efforts also incorporate modern technology like chatbots to share these historical narratives and ensure they are passed down to future generations.

South Australian veterans to join WWII 80th anniversary events in Kuching

A delegation of South Australian veterans, including Don Cameron and Major (ret'd) Paul Rosenzweig, are in Kuching for World War II 80th anniversary events. Cameron, who served near Kampung Gumbang in 1965, and Rosenzweig, the state president of the National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association of Australia (NMBVAA), will plan a 2026 commemorative service at the Sarawak Heroes Memorial Park marking the 60th anniversary of the end of Confrontation. The visit also aims to strengthen existing friendships with local figures like Datuk Dr Philip Ting and Dato Lim Kian Hock.

S’wak welcomes family of WWII commander Sir Thomas Eastick ahead of 80th liberation anniversary

The Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) hosted a welcome dinner for the family of Brigadier General Sir Thomas Eastick, commander of the Kuching Force who accepted Japan's surrender 80 years ago. The visit coincides with the 80th anniversary of Sarawak's liberation from Japanese occupation, marked by events including the unveiling of a Surrender Monument and a re-enactment of the surrender. The 17-member delegation, led by Eastick's grandson, will also tour Kuching's tourist sites.

Australian Malaya-Borneo veterans honour fallen comrades in Adelaide, set to return to Sarawak for 80th anniversary events

Australian Malaya and Borneo war veterans held a commemorative service in Adelaide to honour fallen comrades from the Malayan Wars and those who served and died defending Sarawak. Tributes were paid to Commonwealth forces, including Iban trackers. Don Cameron honoured Iban trackers he served with, while Paul Bayliss laid a wreath for fallen police members. Major Paul Rosenzweig acknowledged the 11 Australians who died defending Sarawak, emphasizing their sacrifice in upholding Sarawak's sovereignty.

Legacy of WWII ‘wild goose feather team’ still shines in China’s city of future

Baiyangdian Lake, a scenic wetland in Xiong'an New Area, China, has a history intertwined with the Chinese resistance against Japanese aggression during World War II. Once a battleground, it's now a popular tourist destination. Local resident Huai Qiaoping's father, Huai Zemin, documented the heroic efforts of the Yanlingdui, a guerrilla force composed of hunters and fishermen who used their tools as weapons against the Japanese invaders.