Chinese Embassy in PNG Marks Qingming with Tribute in Rabaul

The Chinese Embassy in Papua New Guinea held a solemn ceremony in Rabaul, East New Britain, on April 4, one day before China’s Qingming Festival, to honour those who perished during World War II under Japanese occupation. Minister Counsellor Pang Hanzhao led the observance, attended by Chinese business representatives, community members, and PNG friends.

 Chinese Embassy in PNG Marks Qingming with Tribute in Rabaul/Photo supplied

The event took place at the Cemetery of War Veterans and Victims of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, where the embassy paid tribute to fallen Chinese compatriots who suffered in internment camps during the Japanese occupation of Rabaul. According to the Chinese Embassy, this annual visit is part of the Qingming tradition to remember and honour those who sacrificed their lives.

During the war, Japanese forces detained local Chinese and brought about 1,600 Chinese prisoners of war to Rabaul, forcing them into harsh labour. Nearly 700 died due to torture or execution in these camps. Several cemeteries in Rabaul today preserve their memory.

The ceremony also remembered other nationalities, including Australians, British, Americans, and Southeast Asians, who were enslaved by the Japanese and lost their lives in the same camps.

The embassy continues this annual tradition as part of the Qingming Festival, reflecting Chinese custom and reverence for those who sacrificed their lives.

“Cherish the memory of history and value peace!”