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(Singapore, 6 February 2002) Reflections at Bukit Chandu, a World War II interpretative centre, relates the stories of the World War II battles fought in the defence of Singapore, with special reference to one of the last and fiercest battles on Pasir Panjang Ridge (now known as Kent Ridge). The battle at Bukit Chandu (Opium Hill) was led by the Malay Regiment, made up of British, Australian and Malay soldiers who were assigned to defend the western and southern shores of Singapore during the 1942 Japanese invasion.
The centre is the newest heritage project by the National Heritage Board. It is part of a larger plan by the National Parks Board to establish a Pasir Panjang World War II Historic District comprising Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Park.
Completed at a cost of S$4.8 million, the centre is located at 31K Pepys Road, in a refurbished bungalow near the site of the battle. This bungalow was used as an ammunition store by the British during the war.
Mr Lim Siam Kim, Chief Executive Officer of the National Heritage Board said, ”We salute the men who died defending our country some 60 years ago. The centre will be a reminder to ourselves and our children of the lessons learnt from World War II.”
Reflections at Bukit Chandu is made up of five galleries, a hands-on room and an audio-visual room. Each one is distinct in its depiction of the battles fought and provides different sensory experiences for visitors. The various exhibits and artefacts, as well as multi-media effects invite contemplation and reflection about the war and the magnitude of the sacrifices that these brave men made sixty years ago.
The centre will be officially opened on February 15, 2002, by Dr Tony Tan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence. The public will be able to visit the centre from 17 February 2002, onwards, from 9 a.m to 5 p.m, Tuesdays to Sundays. The centre will close on Mondays.
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