2 days ago
Double Six memorial proposed at Prince Philip Park to broaden public awareness
Pandikar and the Sunduvan team at the Double Six memorial site in Sembulan.
KOTA KINABALU (June 6): Tanjung Aru Eco Development (TAED) chairman Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia has unveiled plans to establish a Double Six memorial as part of the redevelopment of Prince Philip Park in Tanjung Aru.
Pandikar said the proposal will be included in the park's redevelopment blueprint but will not be categorized as part of the general beautification efforts. The project is estimated to cost over RM200,000.
One of the key features of the memorial includes a realistic replica of the Nomad aircraft crashing into the South China Sea, symbolizing the tragic event of June 6, 1976.
'We want to portray what really happened on that fateful day,' Pandikar said at a press conference today, held at the current Double Six Monument in Sembulan alongside members of the NGO Sunduvan Sabah.
The proposal also includes the installation of a replica of the Keningau Oath Stone and other elements that represent significant historical moments in Sabah's past, such as the Merdeka parade in Kota Kinabalu on August 31, 1963.
'The idea is that most people don't normally visit the Sembulan site as it is relatively secluded. In contrast, Prince Philip Park sees many visitors. If this plan materializes, more people — locals and tourists alike — will be exposed to the history of the Double Six tragedy and other important events in Sabah's history,' he said.
Pandikar acknowledged that some family members of the Double Six victims have expressed objections, as they prefer not to be reminded of the tragedy.
'I respect their feelings, but these individuals were also national leaders. The public has a right to know what happened. I plan to meet the families personally to explain our intentions and hopefully gain their blessings,' he added.
While emphasizing that the Sembulan memorial remains the official site of the incident, Pandikar stressed the importance of having complementary installations in more accessible locations.
'The Double Six tragedy was a pivotal moment in Sabah's history. Expanding awareness through educational and symbolic displays at places like Prince Philip Park would help both Malaysians and international visitors understand the significance of that era,' he said.
