Jingkai Reflections: Bukit Chandu and Old Ford Factory

Comparing the National Museum to the above-mentioned places, I guess the museum is more general in giving visitors the overview of Singapore History. On the other hand, Bukit Chandu was a previous battle site at Pasir Panjang, where soldiers such as Lt. Adnan fought bravely. Although the Bukit Chandu museum is rather inaccessible, the visit was worthwhile.

Upon entering the place, it was gloomy and dark. The use of films and videos made the trip more memorable as the animation brought life to the invasion by the Japanese. Besides the films, there were also the traditional artefacts such as the weapons used, and also several battle strategies used by both British and Japanese.

On the second level, we were once again brought to watch a short film regarding the Battle of Pasir Panjang and the bravery of the soldiers. There were also 4 oral interviews which could be listened to through the use of a old-school telephone. Rather creative. Furthermore, there were brainy questions posed to visitors after they contextualized it with the Japanese Occupation. That sums up the visit to Bukit Chandu.

Old Ford Factory was definitely my personal favorite. The irony was that I never knew its exact location even though I often pass by that place. The place was well categorized in chronological order, and also sorted according to ethnicity. It consisted of many artefacts and also overwhelming amount of interviews and factual reports. Furthermore, there were views and perspectives not commonly found elsewhere. This was very helpful in the understanding of the different treatment of locals during the Occupation. In particular, the information and details were extremely relevant to my presentation. Therefore, I had the urge to revisit the ford factory once more, but time did not permit me to.

In conclusion, the heritage trail indeed opened up my eyes regarding the Japanese Occupation. Such visits are really beneficial in the thorough understanding of the Occupation. I have to admit I gained and benefited greatly from the visits.