Melaka, 62 jaar geleden...

The photograph shows the lowering the Union Jack flag on the 30th August 1957 at 6.30pm at Padang Banda Hilir, Malacca. 

The flag was lowered by two sailors from a small warship, H.M.S. St. Bride's Bay, accompanied by the playing of the flutes. The Union Jack was then handed to the Resident Commissioner, Mr. H.G. Hammett.

Nutmeg Publishing had the pleasure of having Mr. Pincher Martin contact us with regards to the photograph. Mr. Martin identified himself as the signalman facing the camera.

In Mr. Martin's own words :

"Britain had been having a problem with communist terrorist movement on Malaysia and Mr Lee Quang Yu (Lee Kuan Yew) and Malaya gained its independence and that was why the Union flag was being lowered for the last time.

Memories are dimming with years and numerous commissions in the far flung but water polo and other water sports against local teams took place; also eating local village food. An enjoyable time was had by all."

(Credits Nutmeg Publishing)