World War II sites in Labuan

World War II came to Labuan on 3 January 1942 when it was occupied by the Empire of Japan. For history buffs, Labuan offers a treasure trove of intrigue, mystery and, most importantly, answers. Here are a number of World War II sites to visit in Labuan.

Labuan War Cemetery

The largest memorial in Malaysia, Labuan World War II Memorial is the final resting place of 3,908 soldiers who have perished in World War II. The World War II Memorial is the prime venue for Remembrance Day, an annual ceremony conducted in full military tradition to honour these war heroes.

Surrender Point

Surrender Point is a landmark World War II memorial in Labuan, marking the site where Australian forces on behalf of the Allies accepted Japan’s surrender in 1945. Surrender Point is well-maintained with some very informative signs and has a very pleasant beachside location.

Peace Park

The beautifully landscaped area Peace Park serves as a memorial and a renunciation of the war. A bronze plaque stands at the entrance, commemorating the Japanese surrender. This serene park features a large raised mound with two arched walls, gazebos as well as Japanese inspired bridges and ponds. Labuan’s Peace Park is the only one-of-its-kind in the country, built for peace and harmony.

Ramsey Point

This is the spot where Allied forces landed in Labuan on 10 June 1945 to liberate Labuan and Borneo from the Japanese army occupation. Look out for the plaque on the beach commemorating this occasion.

Gedung Ubat

Located along the popular Tanjong Kubong hiking trail, Gedung Ubat is a storage warehouse for artillery and explosives used by the Japanese army during World War II.

Wreck diving

Labuan offers divers an underwater window into World War II history with two shipwrecks, SS De Klerk and USS Salute, sunk during the war’s many fierce battles.