On Malaysia Day, Malaysians in Singapore 'reflect' on sacrifices of Lt Adnan and friends

SINGAPORE: Several Malaysians among the many stranded in Singapore today celebrated Malaysia Day, reflecting on an important episode during World War II (WWII) - through a visit to Bukit Chandu in the republic.

The place is where Lieutenant Adnan Saidi died, defending against the advancing Japanese soldiers during the Battle of Pasir Panjang.

Adnan is seen a national hero in Singapore and Malaysia due to his courageous and valiant actions in the battle.

After being away from their families and motherland due to the border closure between the two countries following the COVID-19 pandemic, those present on the hill today felt melancholy - with tears rolling down the cheeks of some, without them realising it.

"I am here to remember Lt Adnan and his comrades' sacrifice to Singapore and the country at that time," Sulaiman Abd Samad told Bernama when met at the compound of a 100-year old bungalow, which is also closely linked to the bloody episode of 1942.

The bungalow was built in 1930, along with a group of other bungalows, for senior British staff of the Opium Packing Plant.

In the 1990s, this colonial bungalow was preserved and handed over to the National Archives of Singapore for use as the Second World War Interpretation Center "Reflections at Bukit Chandu", which opened on Feb 15, 2002.

"I admire his courage...who is highly motivated and died in the end without giving up," said Sulaiman, who decided to continue working here since the border was closed in March last year.

"I think the sacrifices I made for my family are nothing compared to Lt Adnan and his comrades," said Sulaiman, who chose to celebrate Malaysia Day in Singapore by visiting the historic site.

Another Malaysian, Saiful Abd Wahab, also chose to be in Bukit Chandu today with his compatriots by cycling uphill.

Donning sports attire with the colors of the Malaysian flag, they did not miss the opportunity to walk around the remnants of WWII.

"I want to be here at Bukit Chandu in conjunction with Malaysia Day. I can't describe what happened 80 years ago here," he said while looking around the bungalow, which is said to be closest to Point 226, the Malay Regiment's last position against the advancing Imperial Japanese Army on Feb 14, 1942.

-- BERNAMA