S’pore: Memorial service to commemorate civilian victims of Japanese occupation

SINGAPORE: Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) yesterday held the 50th war memorial service to commemorate civilian victims of the Japanese occupation, reports China's Xinhua news agency.

Feb 15 is Singapore's annual Total Defence Day. Before the beginning of the service, Singapore Civil Defence Force sounded the “All Clear” signal through its public warning system to commemorate the fall of Singapore in 1942.

Singapore's Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu, together with over 1,200 representatives from government organs, uniformed services, diplomatic corps, business associations, religious organizations, veterans and families of the victims, as well as students attended the memorial.

Speaking to media, Fu said that it is important for Singaporeans to remember this part of the dark history of Singapore. Stressing sovereignty is priceless, she also encouraged young Singaporeans to dedicate themselves to protect their country.

SCCCI said they will continue to support the ‘ NeverAgain Movement', initiated by the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defense (ACCORD), which aims to raise awareness of the fall of Singapore on Feb 15, 1942, and to garner family and community support for national security.

During World War II, the Japanese captured Singapore and occupied it for over three and a half years. According to incomplete statistics, at least 50,000 Singaporeans were killed. On Feb 15, 1967, the memorial monument was built by SCCCI and memorial service is held each year ever since. — Bernama