We re-visit old military camps and iconic buildings with a fascinating past, and discover stories and memories from our history
By Pamela Chow
Our country may be a relatively young nation, but it has numerous sites scattered around with hidden stories detailing our eventful history.
Set off on your own journey of rediscovery with Weekender’s short guide on some of the most intriguing World War II sites and secrets of our island, and find out why we were once feted as an “impregnable fortress”.
LG Yamashita (seated, centre) demanding unconditional surrender in Ford Factory, as LG Percival sits with clenched hand to his mouth. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)
Former Ford Factory
Established in October 1941, Ford Factory was Southeast Asia’s first motorcar assembly plant. During WWII, this factory played a key role in the surrender of Singapore as the forward headquarter of a Japanese commander. It was here that the Japanese forces had demanded unconditional surrender from the British – resulting in the largest capitulation in British military history.
This marked the start of the Japanese Occupation, during which the Ford Factory was used to manufacture motor vehicles for the Japanese army. After the war, Ford Motor Works operated here until 1980. In 2006, the site re-opened as a gazetted national monument called Memories at Old Ford Factory, and now houses a WWII exhibition gallery.
ADVERTISEMENTS