Source: New Straits Times
Date: 24.8.2009
Datuk Wong Foon Meng (fifth from right) paying his respects to fallen Malayan heroes during the Japanese Occupation at a memorial ceremony in Nilai Memorial Park here, yesterday. - Bernama picture |
NILAI: Malaysia's heroes who died during World War 2 were remembered yesterday by over 400 family members and friends at the Peace Memorial Garden at the Nilai Memorial Park.
More than 50,000 freedom fighters lost their lives during the Japanese occupation of Malaya 67 years ago.
A ceremony was held in front of an eight metre-high monument.
The solemn ceremony began with a speech followed by a minute's silence, as those gathered prayed for their loved ones. In a symbolic gesture, more than a thousand helium balloons were released by families and friends of the deceased.
President of the Dewan Negara Senator Datuk Wong Foon Meng said it was important for present and future generations to know about the sacrifices made by their ancestors.
"These are important lessons and experiences in the country's history which should be remembered by all Malaysians.
"They should know about our ancestors' struggles to defend the country against invaders."
He expressed hope that more Malaysians, especially the younger generation, would visit the memorial as it was part of Malaysia's history and also theirs.
"I hope more teenagers would come here to see the monument for themselves.
"History lessons should not be limited to the classroom or by reading textbooks."
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