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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