In a poignant message following his attendance at a grand military parade in Beijing, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong emphasized the importance of remembering the past while looking towards the future. On September 3, he took to social media to reflect on the heavy toll of violence and war that must never be forgotten.

"We must remember the sacrifices of millions of lives lost, yet we must also avoid being ensnared by history," DPM Gan posted on Facebook, stressing the need for vigilance regarding peace and prosperity.

His comments came after attending the monumental Victory Day parade at Tiananmen Square, honoring the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II. The event gathered leaders from over 20 nations, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and North Korea's Kim Jong Un, all of whom were present to mark this significant historical event.

Countries represented at the parade either experienced Japanese occupation during the war or aided China in its fight against Japan. Notably, Singapore played its part before succumbing to Japanese forces on February 15, 1942, with many citizens previously rallying to support China's resistance efforts.

The celebration was not just a commemoration; it showcased China's military might, featuring advanced weaponry and showcasing the People's Liberation Army as the Communist Party of China seeks to strengthen its political legitimacy by referencing wartime sacrifices.

After the parade, DPM Gan, alongside other world leaders, attended an extravagant gala lunch hosted by President Xi at the Great Hall of the People. Looking ahead, he is scheduled to meet with top Chinese leaders on September 4 to discuss ongoing collaborations for regional stability and prosperity.

DPM Gan's sentiments resonate as a crucial reminder that while history shapes us, it is the actions taken today that will define our future.