18 may 2006, we visited the Changi Museum .We were greeted by a gust of cold air as we entered the Changi Museum. We were led by a knowledgeable tour guide who made history somewhat comical and relaxed way. First, we learnt about the feud between the Chinese and the Japanese during the early years, of how the chinese had to give up some of their land to the Japanese who were ambitious anhd wanted more land, oil and raw materials for their industrial needs. The ambitious Japanese have long targeted at various countries who were rich in oil, food and other essentials. However, as they tried to obtain more land, they were barred from international trade. Angry and desperate due to their minimal oil supply which could last for one year, they set their mind and cunningly conquered Malaysia in only 70 days, a great feat for the Japanese. Later, we also learnt of the various tortures used by the brutal Japanese on the uncooperative people and how they treated the POWs. They were either shot or sent to build the death railway, which resulted in many deaths. The Japanese also imposed heavy punishments such as beheading and slapping if they were caught looting and not willing to bow if they saw Japanese soldiers respectively. We also found out that the POWs had also created some monuments such as the cross, made from a gun shell, in Changi Chapel made by a British called Harold and the famous Changi murals at Robert’s Barracks by Stanley Warren. We also learnt about the people suffered from the Japanese. I feel that the museum is very effective as it reflects its job as it plays an important part in Singapore’s history. It is a reliable primary source of information for students or historians or people who are interested in the history of Singapore.
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