The government should introduce annual World War II commemorative programmes in schools to educate young Malaysians about the sacrifices made by past generations, said Cheras Member of Parliament Tan Kok Wai.
Tan said remembrance activities such as exhibitions and the sharing of wartime stories would help students understand the horrors of war and appreciate the peace they enjoy today.
“We must educate the younger generation about the tragedies, killings and sacrifices during World War II so that they will treasure peace and be grateful for the good life they have today,” he said.
Tan was speaking at the 81st Malaysian World War II Remembrance Day ceremony, organised by the Malaysian World War II History Society and the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH), held yesterday at the KL Hokkien Cemetery.
He stressed that Malaysia’s wartime experiences should not be forgotten simply because the country was under colonial rule at the time.
Although several monuments have been preserved, Tan noted that remembrance efforts are largely driven by community organisations rather than national initiatives.
“What we want are annual events, not just occasional museum exhibitions,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including KLSCAH president Ngan Teng Ye, British High Commission defence adviser Colonel James Green, Australian High Commission assistant defence adviser Lieutenant-Colonel Glenn Sheridan, Chinese Embassy first secretary Wang Jun, and veterans’ representative Lieutenant-Colonel (Rtd) Wong Ah Jit.
Tan recalled that Japanese forces, led by the Fujiyama Kikan unit, entered Kuala Lumpur on Jan 11, 1942. In early March that year, thousands of civilians were arrested and sent to Pudu Prison, where many died due to inhumane treatment.
“Civilians were arrested, imprisoned and subjected to torture, resulting in many deaths,” he said.
Despite the brutality, Tan said anti-Japanese resistance efforts continued, with many paying the ultimate price through combat, detention or interrogation.
“Their sacrifices remain an enduring part of Malaysia’s wartime history,” he added.
About 800 civilians and more than 500 resistance fighters are buried at the KL Hokkien Cemetery, where a monument stands in their honour.
