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The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848-1954) (about)
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Cite: http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article967200
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NEGOTIATING WITH JAPS IN BORNEO
Interview on Catalina
From GRAHAM JENKINS
Labuan, Borneo
Negotiations for the surrender of Kuching, North Borneo, were con- tinued on a RAAF Catalina yester- day, when Brigadier T. C. Eastick, who will command the Australian occupation forces, had a three-hour interview with two Japanese senior staff officers at a rendezvous at the mouth of the Sarawak River.
Spotlessly dressed, with their top boots shining brilliantly, and carry- ing leather brief cases, the Japanese officers came aboard the Catalina without swords or pistols. They smoked brown paper Japanese cigarettes, one of which was offered to Sgt Masao Terai, of California, interpreter with the Australian Army. They answered Brigadier Eastick's numerous questions politely but formally, delving often into their brief cases for answers. They agreed to a date for the occupation to begin subject to Lieutenant-General Baba, the Japanese Commander, from whom no further advice has been received, first formally signing the surrender, and issuing the necessary instruction.
When the interview ended, Colonel Suga, commander of Kuching POW compound, came aboard for five minutes, and in hesitant English said he would be glad to co-operate in the liberation of Allied prisoners.
Today another interview will take place, and three medical officers from the 9th Australian Division will go to the compound to assist in caring for the POW's. This is at present being done by one senior Australian
and one British medical officer.
The Japanese agreed today to evacuate their force of between 4,000 and 5,000 to an area about eight miles from the capital.
Colonel Suga brought with him a partly completed nominal roll of POW's, and promised to produce a complete roll today.