IN MEMORY OF THOSE MEN OF THE AUSTRALIAN ARMED FORCES

WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE DEFENCE OF SABAH (BRITISH NORTH BORNEO)

DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR 1939-1945

---

PRESENTED BY

RETURNED SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA

Australian Armed Forces Memorial

The Australian Armed Forces Memorial in Kota Kinabalu honours Australian soldiers and servicemen who were part of the Allied forces during World War II, particularly those who suffered or perished in Borneo under Japanese occupation.

Key Highlights

• Historical Context: The memorial commemorates events such as the Sandakan Death Marches, a tragic chapter in WWII history where over 2,400 Allied prisoners of war (mainly Australians and British) were subjected to brutal forced marches and inhumane conditions. Most of them perished.
• Location: It is located within City Park, a serene and reflective spot with landscaped gardens, designed to provide a peaceful setting for visitors to remember the sacrifices made.
• Design and Features: The memorial includes plaques inscribed with dedications, historical details, and lists of Australian servicemen who lost their lives in Sabah. The site serves as both a tribute and a reminder of the shared wartime history between Malaysia and Australia.
• Significance: This memorial is part of broader efforts to remember and honour the strong historical ties between Malaysia and Australia during WWII, as well as the ultimate sacrifices made for freedom in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Annual Ceremonies: Commemorative services, such as ANZAC Day (April 25), are sometimes held at the memorial, attracting local and international visitors.

If you're in Sabah, this memorial provides a reflective moment to learn about an important part of WWII history while acknowledging the profound human cost of war.