Peaceful, solemn, and deeply moving — the Labuan War Cemetery stands as one of Malaysia’s most significant World War II memorials. Located on Labuan Island, this beautifully maintained resting place honours nearly 3,900 soldiers from Australia, Britain, India, and New Zealand who lost their lives during the turbulent years of the war. For anyone visiting Labuan, this site offers a powerful window into the sacrifices made during the conflict in North Borneo.
Originally part of the British North Borneo Chartered Company territory, the region fell to the Japanese in 1942 after a brief yet fierce battle. Allied troops, including the 2/15th Punjab Regiment, fought valiantly to slow the Japanese advance while sabotaging key oil facilities. What followed was a brutal occupation marked by hardship for Prisoners of War, including the tragic Death Marches from Sandakan to Ranau, where many perished from exhaustion, starvation, or execution
After the war ended and Labuan was liberated by Australian forces in 1945, the remains of fallen troops from across Borneo — including those from Sandakan and Kuching camps — were respectfully relocated to the Labuan War Cemetery. Today, 3,922 burials lie here, though many remain unidentified due to the destruction of records by Japanese authorities before Allied forces regained control.
Despite its sombre history, the cemetery feels peaceful and serene. Its immaculate lawns, orderly rows of headstones, and gentle breeze create a sanctuary perfect for reflection. The site attracts visitors from around the world — families of the fallen, war veterans, history enthusiasts, and travellers seeking to understand Borneo’s wartime story. Every year on 11 November, a moving Remembrance Day ceremony is held here, complete with military honours — a tribute that preserves the legacy of the heroes who never returned home.
Designed with accessibility in mind, the cemetery offers wheelchair access at both entrances. Its location along Jalan Tanjung Batu, just four kilometres from Labuan’s town centre and airport, makes it easy to visit. Beyond being a memorial, the site holds immense educational value, shedding light on Labuan’s strategic wartime role and the broader history of World War II in the region.
Getting There
Travelling to the Labuan War Cemetery is convenient with several transport options from Labuan Airport:
- Taxi: Readily available for a direct and easy ride.
- Ride-sharing: Grab offers quick and affordable transfers.
- Car rental: Ideal if you want the flexibility to explore Labuan at your own pace.
Useful Tips
The cemetery’s open landscape means it can get hot or exposed in rainy weather — checking the forecast ahead of time is advisable. Snakes may occasionally appear on cloudy or wet days, so visitors should remain alert. After your visit, consider stopping by Mawilla Seafood Restaurant, just two minutes away, for a delicious and Muslim-friendly meal by the sea.
Visitor Information
- Address: Jalan Tanjung Batu, Labuan Island, 87000 Malaysia
- Contact: +60 16-28 634221
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:30 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
The Labuan War Cemetery stands not only as a memorial to those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also as a place to learn, reflect, and appreciate the profound cost of peace
