BARIO: A meaningful ceremony was held in Bario Subdistrict on Saturday to commemorate the services and sacrifices of veterans and families of Kelabit community fighters who once worked hand in hand with the Z-Semut special forces in resisting Japanese colonialism during World War II.

The Commemorative Token Presentation Ceremony was organised by the Sarawak Kelabit RURUM Association in collaboration with the Mulu Service Centre, and officiated by the Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) and Mulu Assemblyman, Datuk Gerawat Gala.

In his speech, Datuk Gerawat explained that Z-Semut, a special unit under the Allied-operated Z Force, carried out secret operations in the interior of Sarawak in 1945 with the full support of locals, especially the Kelabit community.

"The courage and close cooperation between this special force and the local community were the basis for the success in liberating the region from the clutches of the Japanese colonialists," he said.

Explaining further, Datuk Gerawat said that the success of the operation was not only military, but also brought significant changes in the social and cultural landscape of the Kelabit community.

"Interaction with the outside world has opened up new opportunities and inspired the younger generation of Kelabit to serve in the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Malaysian Police after the war," he added.

The ceremony was not just to commemorate the services, but also to provide historical education to the younger generation so that they would appreciate the struggle and understand the important role of the local community in defending the homeland.

Also present at the ceremony were Miri City Councilors, Councilor Lilla Raja and members of the local community.-UKASnews