Key facts
- A Chinese-Malaysian woman found photos of her grandfather in a WWII exhibit in China.
- Her grandfather, Hau Say-huan, was honored with a medallion for his contributions.
- The exhibit celebrated overseas Chinese machinists who supported China during WWII.
- Three Malaysians received medallions on behalf of their ancestors.
- The awards were presented during the 80th anniversary of World War II Victory Day.
While traveling in Kunming, Yunnan province, a Chinese-Malaysian woman named Zhang Huiqing, also known by her social media handle @Huiching, unexpectedly discovered photos of her late grandfather, Hau Say-huan, in a public exhibit. The display recognized the significant role of overseas Chinese machinists in supporting China during World War II. Hau Say-huan was a patriotic overseas Chinese leader. Zhang Huiqing shared her discovery in a video released in mid-September.
Separately, Wong Shaw Ming, Datuk Richard Wee, and How Hwee Bee were among ten individuals who received special medallions from the Chinese government to commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II Victory Day. These awards were presented on behalf of their ancestors who made substantial contributions to China's resistance against Japanese occupation. Wong Shaw Ming's grandfather, Huang Zisong, was a community leader in Johor who organized volunteers for the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics Corps. The award ceremony took place in Beijing, with recipients attending a parade at Tiananmen Square.