The Kundasang War Memorial, located in the town of Kundasang, stands as a tribute to the bravery of Australian and British soldiers who perished in Sandakan during World War II. Built and funded by the people of Sabah and expatriates in the 1950s, many of whom had served to defend the country during the war, this memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the past. At one time, the memorial fell into neglect, but it was later restored by Mr. Sevee Charuruks, an expatriate residing in Sabah, who took the initiative to revive the structure and the entire site.
Honoring Courage Amidst Breathtaking Landscapes
Stunning Views and Historical Significance
Perched on a hill, the memorial offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding village and the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. The entrance fee is affordable, with adult Malaysian citizens (MyKad holders) charged RM 3.00, while foreign tourists pay RM 10.00. School students in uniform and children under 12 (MyKid holders) can enter for just RM 2.00. The ticket sales contribute towards the maintenance and upkeep of this historic site.
The memorial features newspaper clippings, World War II memorabilia related to Sabah, accounts of Memorial Day, and letters from former soldiers displayed along the garden walls. Visitors can also watch an informative video presentation in the on-site theater for RM 10.00 per person.
A Beautifully Landscaped Memorial
Beyond its historical displays, the Kundasang War Memorial is adorned with vibrant gardens, offering a serene setting that adds to its reflective atmosphere. The site comprises four distinctive gardens, each symbolizing the homelands of the soldiers who fought during the war: the Australian Garden, the English Rose Garden, the Borneo Garden showcasing wildflowers from Kinabalu, and the Contemplation Garden with a Reflection Pond and Pagoda.
The Kundasang War Memorial is open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
