Singapore’s War Heritage

Part 3: The Battle for Pasir Panjang

Recap: This series details the lead-up to and beginning of the Battle of Singapore in WWII, highlighting British overconfidence and strategic failures. Despite believing Singapore was an impenetrable fortress due to its naval base and perceived natural defenses, the British were unprepared for the speed and innovative tactics of the Japanese, who successfully invaded by land and quickly overwhelmed defenses, ultimately leading to a swift surrender.

Previous posts in this series:

1. Ancient Roots
2. British Fortress
3. Colonial Defense
4. December 1941
5. Entry into Malaya
6. Fall of Sarimbun
7. Gap in Defense

8/26: Heroism of Malay Regiment

Pasir Panjang Ridge holds an important place in Singapore’s WWII history. In the 1910s, the British established an opium packaging factory at the foot of Pasir Panjang Hill, earning it the name “Opium Hill” (Bukit Chandu in Malay). Opium, along with tin, rubber and tea, was a key revenue source for the British crown in Asia.

Today, Reflections at Bukit Chandu, a WWII interpretation center, occupies a former “black and white” bungalow that once housed the British officer managing the opium plant. While some believe it served as a defensive point during the war, its role remains debated.

C Company, led by Major Rix, was stationed at Pasir Panjang, consisting of approximately 150-200 soldiers. They faced a significant challenge from the much larger 18th Division of Japanese soldiers. They were the one landed in Sarimbun, as I wrote earlier. See: Fall of Sarimbun

Lieutenant Adnan Saidi, 7th platoon commander, played a crucial role when Japanese troops disguised themselves as Punjabi soldiers to infiltrate C Company. Adnan correctly identified them as Japanese and ordered his men to open fire, a key moment in the battle.

After Major Rix and other officers were incapacitated, Adnan likely assumed command of the remaining soldiers.

Despite being inexperienced in combat, C Company bravely defended their position for two days.

“Biar Puteh Tulang” (Death before dishonor) was the motto of the Malay Regiment, embodied by Adnan and his men. Though isolated and eventually running low on ammunition, they refused to surrender, engaging in fierce hand-to-hand combat.

On February 14, 1942, C Company remained steadfast, refusing to retreat even as other troops withdrew, and were among the last organized forces to fight before the overall surrender.

The battle at Bukit Chandu stands as a testament to the sacrifice of hundreds of soldiers, including Captain Rix and Lieutenant Adnan. Their courage in an unequal fight has transformed the site into a monument to bravery.

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This post is a part of BlogchatterA2Z Challenge 2026 http://www.theblogchatter.com/

This 26-post series for the 2026 A2Z challenge explores Singapore’s WWII heritage, from the initial invasion to the liberation of Changi Prison. Using concise storytelling, I try to connect historical lessons of sacrifice and the need for peace all around the world.