Think 14 February and Valentine’s Day comes to mind. But did you know that was also the very day the Malay Regiment soldiers fought the Japanese in the Battle of Pasir Panjang – one of the last significant battles before Singapore was surrendered to the Japanese?

Keen to find out all about the Battle of Pasir Panjang? Reflections at Bukit Chandu (RBC) – a World War II interpretative centre managed by the National Heritage Board – is the place to visit.

Housed at Bukit Chandu in a restored colonial bungalow built for British senior officers at the start of the 20th century, RBC commemorates the gallantry and sacrifice of the 1,400 men from the Malay Regiment who defended the western sector of Singapore in 1942 against a 13,000-strong Japanese army. That somehow reminded me of the famous Battle of Thermopylae where a small army led by the mighty Spartans held their own against a massive Persian army.

And if you didn’t know, ‘Bukit Chandu’ means ‘Opium Hill’ in Malay, named after an opium-processing factory once located at the foot of the hill.

As I entered the museum, I was greeted by an array of exhibits – photographs, artefacts and storyboards – depicting the Battle of Pasir Panjang.

the storyboard at gallery I

An air siren used to warn residents staying at the foot of the hill of the oncoming battle

A multimedia presentation depicting the various battles leading up to the British surrender was also displayed in Gallery II.

the multimedia presentation at gallery II

Here, you can choose from a range of short clips illustrating the various events which happened, such as the Battle of Pasir Panjang and the massacre at Alexandra Hospital. The clip of the Alexandra Hospital massacre, though rather disturbing, was an eye-opener.

The Japanese were filmed storming into the hospital, killing medical officers and patients along the way. Those who survived the first round of killings were eventually executed as well. It’s hard to imagine how the Japanese could be so brutal.

What intrigued me the most was the 3D model of the Battle of Pasir Panjang at Gallery III. It was certainly something different from what other museums have to offer.

3d model of Battle of Pasir Panjang at Gallery III

I was amazed by how real everything looked. The bombings by the aircrafts, in particular, were especially realistic. The virtual host, Corporal Din, was also an excellent narrator, animated and engaging. This was definitely an interesting way to learn more about the legendary battle.

At the second level, there were more artefacts on show, such as the different weapons used by soldiers during the war and their uniforms.

some artefacts at the second level of RBC

One interesting thing to note was the mathematical puzzles found on the wall.

one of the mathematical puzzles on the wall

These were specially designed for students visiting RBC. Aside from touring the centre, students get to play ‘soldiers’ for the day. Their mission – to save the lives of their fellow ‘comrades’ by solving mathematical puzzles before time runs out. This is an excellent example of how history doesn’t have to be limited to textbooks.

Luck was on my side and I was just in time to catch one of the documentary screenings. It depicted the disbelief of many at how swift the Japanese were in their attack. One of the war heroes highlighted in the documentary was Lieutenant Adnan. Determined not to surrender to the Japanese, he fought bravely despite being wounded. His never-say-die attitude is truly admirable.

I left the theatre feeling for all who sacrificed their lives in the battle. They, in my opinion, are heroes in their own right. Though there is no denying the valiant contributions of famous war heroes like Lim Bo Seng and Lieutenant Adnan, we should never forget the ordinary acts of bravery exhibited by the soldiers of the Malay Regiment, and the thousands more who died in service of their country. Here, I salute them for their courage.