Decaying Japanese Zero Wreckage From 1945 Discovered

Near the Sabah-Sarawak border in Lawas, a decaying Japanese “Zero” fighter plane from World War II has been discovered. Locals from Kampung Pa Puti believe this aircraft dates back to around 1945, during the conflict between Allied forces and the Imperial Japanese army.
84-year-old resident Sinawat Tandem shares stories from elders about an emergency landing due to a fire onboard. Witnesses reported seeing two pilots escape the aircraft, but their fates remain unknown.
Sinawat noted that the community moved the wreckage to its current location. Once well-preserved, the plane has suffered deterioration, with some parts removed over the years. He hopes the Sarawak museum will take steps to conserve the remaining pieces.
The rusting relic has already attracted a significant number of visitors, sparking interest in its history. “This plane could become a tourist attraction,” Sinawat added.
On September 29, Sabah’s Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew announced plans for the Sabah Museum Department to investigate the site before making any future decisions regarding its preservation.