The “Old Lady”: Engineering Hope in a Prisoner of War Camp

Abstract

In a global effort to bridge generations and preserve history, Victory in 80 Objects is a project commemorating the 80th anniversaries of VE Day (Victory in Europe) and VJ Day (Victory over Japan). It focuses on telling the stories of these victories through 80 objects curated from leading military museums, each narrating tales of courage, sacrifice, and human experience during the conflicts. Launched on May 6, 2025, the project includes an online exhibition, a book, and community outreach initiatives.

Among these significant items is Object Number 32, simply titled “Secret POW radio,” a relic with a profound connection to the Batu Lintang Teacher’s Training Institute in Kuching, Sarawak. This unassuming object represents the crucial, often life-saving, role of information for prisoners of war.