Pay solemn, informed tribute at the site of WWII's most devastating episode on Australian and British soil — the Sandakan Death Marches of 1945 — with a specialist guide whose narration transforms a serene garden into a profound act of remembrance.
What to expect
The park occupies the former site of the Sandakan POW camp where 2,700 Australian and British prisoners were held. Shaded jungle pathways lead past the reconstructed POW hut, the air raid shelter, and poignant memorial stones. A small museum holds photographs, personal artefacts, and maps of the three death marches. The surrounding rainforest, birds singing overhead, creates a contemplative silence that amplifies the weight of what happened here.
Good to know
The Memorial Park is located at Mile 8, Labuk Road — approximately 15 minutes by private car from Sandakan Port. Entry is free. Open daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Combine with the Agnes Keith Heritage Trail and the Central Market for a full cultural morning. Dress respectfully. Book a private guide via shoreexcursions.asia or a local Sandakan guide through tourHQ (tourhq.com/malaysia/sandakan).
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Sandakan — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.