Ikeda Memorial Park Earthworks Commencement Ceremony

On 5 January 2026, SGM held a ceremony marking the commencement of earthworks for the Ikeda Memorial Park at the SGM Negeri Sembilan Culture Centre. General Director Koh Sia Feai attended the ceremony, alongside representatives from the four divisions, architects, engineers and representatives of the main contractor.

SGM president Johnny Ng subsequently convened a working meeting, in which he stated SGM began planning for the memorial park in 2018 and acquired a 96-acre site two years later. The project was officially named Ikeda Memorial Park after being consented to by President Ikeda before his passing.

The first phase of the development involves 16 acres, with the Eternal Flame Foundation established to oversee its management. Mr Ng emphasised that the project embodies the Buddhist principle of the oneness of life and death, and represents an important initiative in serving SGM members. It is envisioned as an open memorial park integrating scenic landscapes with facilities such as a youth activity centre.

During the meeting, the architect presented the Phase One facilities, including burial areas, floral burial zones, a columbarium and a lake as part of the natural landscape, and outlined plans for the future youth activity centre. The meeting also confirmed communication arrangements and project timeline. Construction will commence after the earthworks, which are scheduled to be completed by 5 May 2026.

In his concluding remarks, Mr Koh encouraged all parties to work closely, ensure a safe and accident-free worksite, and maintain good relations with neighbouring communities. Following the meeting, participants visited the site located at Port Dickson, formally launching the earthworks and marking the first step in the development of the Ikeda Memorial Park.

Reported by Chia Kok Peng, photographed by Lum Heng