A moment of silence: Representatives from the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet paying their respects at the Western Road Cemetery in George Town during the 110th anniversary ceremony of the sinking of ‘Zhemchug’ during WWI. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
Russian navy returns to pay tribute to their late WWI comrades
GEORGE TOWN: Tributes and salutes to past heroes filled the 110th anniversary ceremony of the sinking of Zhemchug, a Russian cruiser that went down off the coast of Penang during World War I.
The annual ceremony held at the Western Road Cemetery was special this year as it was graced by the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet for the first time in about two decades.
The personnel stood in solemn salute to the fallen heroes.
Zhemchug, which means pearl in Russian, sank after it was attacked by a German ship in October 1914.
Eventually, a memorial was erected here in remembrance of the Russian sailors.
Yesterday’s ceremony also featured a prayer and the laying of flowers at the monument dedicated to those who lost their lives.
Ambassador of Russia to Malaysia Naiyl Latypov said this year’s event was particularly special as it marked the first time in over 20 years that representatives from the Russian Navy were present.
“We have a yearly ceremony here, but this time, it is special because there are three Russian corvettes and a supply ship docked here in Penang,” he told reporters at the cemetery ground here yesterday.
Latypov said the monument at the cemetery was built in 1940 and rebuilt in 1976.
“We are preserving it, with the Penang Island City Council graciously assisting us in its care,” he said.
Latypov reflected on the events from 110 years ago, noting that the ship was part of an allied unit alongside vessels from Britain and France when it sank.
“They were fulfilling their duties to protect international trade routes at the time of the tragedy.
“Tragically, 89 sailors lost their lives and over 130 were injured.
“The toll could have been greater, but many local people, including fishermen, bravely stepped in to assist,” he said.
Latypov expressed gratitude to the people of Penang, highlighting how sailors and fishermen worked tirelessly to rescue the wounded and transport them to Penang Hospital.
“Local doctors provided crucial care, saving many lives,” he said.
Latypov said the history was a testament to the ties between Russia and Penang.
“This visit of our military ships represents not just the sailors but also symbolises our enduring relationship as trusted partners,” he said.
During the ceremony, Royal Malaysian Navy’s Kapt Yusman Darmawan said the event was not merely a remembrance of loss, but a tribute to the bravery, sacrifice and enduring spirit of the Russian sailors who gave their lives in service to their nation.
“As we pay our respects to the brave souls who perished aboard the Zhemchug, let us be inspired by their courage.
“Let their sacrifices serve as a beacon of the values we hold dear – duty, honour and loyalty.
“Let us reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that such sacrifices are never in vain, as we continue to work together for a more peaceful and secure world,” said the Naval Region 3 Base chief of staff.
Kapt Yusman said the visit by the Russian Pacific Fleet was a testament to the friendship and mutual respect that had grown over the years between the Malaysian Navy and its Russian counterpart.
“As we commemorate the past, we look toward the future of continued collaboration and partnership on the high seas.
“These ties are built on a shared commitment to preserving peace, upholding maritime security, and, most importantly, honouring the sacrifices of those who have come before us,” he said in his speech.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Khaled Nordin had earlier said that three Russian Navy ships from the Pacific fleet were making a port call in Penang until tomorrow.
Khaled said it was a common practice across the world for naval vessels to make temporary stops at various ports before continuing to other destinations.
