Bukit Chandu, Opium Hill in Malay, is a historical site where the brave battle between the Japanese and British took place in Singapore during World War II. The Malay Regiment, which fought together with the British, was led by Lt Adnan Bin Saidi, a man known amongst Singaporeans for his valour during the war.
The battle at Bukit Chandu was fierce and unfortunate, for the defenders had lesser soldiers and weapons to start out with. The Japanese successfully launched several heavy attacks which managed to shatter the defence line. By this point, many lives were already lost, and the Malay Regiment leader was badly injured.
Nonetheless, the fighting spirit in Lt Adnan spurred him and his men to keep fighting. Instead of surrendering to the Japanese, who were getting frustrated by their defiance, Lt Adnan continued to battle hard, and encouraged his men to do the same. The prospect of surrendering was shameful – they would not be able to live with the guilt, knowing that they did not fight to the last man, nor would they be able to face their families, who were patiently waiting for them at home with much faith.
Due to the far contrast in strength of soldiers and weapons, the Japanese eventually won the battle. Many defending soldiers were taken as Prisoners of War, while Lt Adnan was captured and tortured ruthlessly under a rubber tree, before bayoneted to death. His body was never found and it is believed that the tree can found at Pepys Road, Carpark B. Many have sought to look for this infamous tree during their trip to the War World II-themed museum, Reflections at Bukit Chandu nearby.
A short video about the history of Bukit Chandu ( Pasir Panjang). (language in malay. with sub)
Our war hero, Lieutenant Adnan bin Saidi
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