SINGAPORE: WWII

We took a tour focusing on the fall of Singapore during World War II. As I mentioned in my earlier summary, the British surrendered after just a week of fighting in February 1942. The Japanese had strategically outmaneuvered them, despite having only a third of the troops. They also launched their attack on Singapore from Thailand, which was unforeseen. The formal surrender took place at what used to be a Ford factory.

We visited the Kranji War Memorial and Cemetery. Gravestone after gravestone listing all the young men and women (nurses) who died.

The British soldiers were primarily held at Changi, which is now where the airport is located.

The conditions were appalling, as were all prison camps during WW2, regardless of location.

While touring with our guide, an unrelated observation was about transportation. Owning a car in Singapore is quite costly. A car buyer must first obtain a 10-year certificate of entitlement, the price of which fluctuates in bi-monthly auctions and can reach up to $84,000, depending on the car. Car prices are also about double what we currently pay (this blog is being written as new tariffs are being introduced, so it's uncertain). Singapore implemented this program in the early 1990s to reduce air pollution and street congestion.

Considering the island is smaller than NYC, mass transit is generally the better choice for most Singaporeans, yet there were still numerous luxury cars driven around by the affluent.