As Japanese forces advanced on Singapore in early 1942, residents faced a difficult decision: remain and resist the invasion, or attempt to evacuate. Many chose to flee by ferry to Sumatra, Indonesia, with the Sisters’ Islands marking the last sight of Singapore for those undertaking the perilous journey.
Remembering the Evacuation of 1942
More than 80 years later, the route taken by those fleeing the conflict is being commemorated with a new public program. From February 21 to March 8, 2026, participants can trace the WWII maritime evacuation routes as part of “Passages at Last Light: Singapore’s WWII Maritime Evacuation Routes,” the anchor program of the 2026 Battle for Singapore initiative.
The 150-minute tour, led by Dr. John Kwok, who has been involved with Battle for Singapore programs since 2015, will commence at the Singapore Maritime Gallery and travel to the waters near St John’s Island and the Sisters’ Islands, with a disembarkation at the larger of the Sisters’ Islands. While evacuees did not land on the islands themselves, a visit will provide context to the surrounding area.
Dr. Kwok noted the universal relevance of the choices faced by those in Singapore during the war, stating, “There is no right or wrong answer – it is just your decision at that time.”
The tour will cost $55 per participant, or $50 with an early bird discount available from February 12 to 20. The 2026 Battle for Singapore initiative, a collaboration between the National Heritage Board (NHB) and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), will include over 30 programs over two weeks, including a heritage trail and a tour of Bukit Brown Cemetery.
Additional events include Lego building stations at Changi Chapel and Museum, where young visitors can recreate iconic WWII sites, and a free lecture led by historian Jeya Ayadurai on the role of sport in Japanese-occupied Singapore.
Registration for all tours and programs opens at noon on February 12, with Singaporeans able to use their SG Culture Pass credits for paid events. More information and registration details are available at
www.museums.com.sg
.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the situation in Singapore in early 1942?
As Japanese forces closed in, people in Singapore had to decide whether to stay and fight or attempt to evacuate.
What does the maritime tour involve?
The 150-minute tour, led by Dr. John Kwok, will take participants from the Singapore Maritime Gallery to the waters near St John’s Island and the Sisters’ Islands.
When does registration for the Battle for Singapore events open?
Registration opens at noon on February 12, and is on a first-come, first-served basis.
How do these historical events resonate with contemporary challenges and the difficult choices people face in times of conflict?
