The National Heritage Board (NHB) is inviting the public to step beyond textbook narratives and immerse themselves in the visceral reality of Singapore’s World War II experience through its annual Battle for Singapore program, running from February 21 to March 8, 2026. This year, the two-week event places a critical focus on the often-overlooked and terrifying maritime evacuations of 1942, allowing participants to retrace the perilous sea journeys undertaken by civilians fleeing the devastating Japanese bombardment. With over 30 unique programs, the initiative promises to unlock submerged history and offer compelling, on-site perspectives of the island’s wartime legacy.
Sailing into a Dark History
The signature offering of this year’s program is “Passages at Last Light: Singapore’s WWII Maritime Evacuation Routes.” This moving experience transports attendees onto the water to chart the very paths taken by thousands of men, women, and children hastily seeking refuge by boat in February 1942.
The voyage begins at the Singapore Maritime Gallery and sails past significant landmarks like St. John’s Island before docking at the larger Sisters’ Island. While onboard, historians and storytellers recount dramatic tales of the chaotic evacuations, naval skirmishes, and the sheer desperation that defined those final weeks before the fall of Singapore. For many, this maritime perspective offers a profound, tangible connection to an unimaginable period of immense suffering and resilience.
Uncovering Hidden Front Lines on Land
While the sea takes center stage, the NHB ensures that key terrestrial battlefields and command centers are also accessible through guided experiences. History buffs can enroll in “Exploring Pasir Panjang: A Heritage Trail,” which navigates participants through critical battle sites, including the area where the Malay Regiment fought its last stand.
The trail also exposes secret wartime infrastructure, such as the secluded Faber Fire Command post hidden deep within Mount Faber. These explorations offer insight into the logistics and intense ground conflicts that occurred across the island, supplementing the understanding of the naval withdrawal. For younger participants, the Changi Chapel and Museum offers an engaging, age-appropriate activity where children can reconstruct iconic WWII buildings using Lego bricks, providing a creative entry point into history.
Accessing the Full Lineup
The Battle for Singapore program emphasizes accessibility, offering a mix of free and paid events. Several workshops and tours are eligible for redemption using SG Culture Pass credits, encouraging wide public participation.
The series aims to challenge conventional memorization of dates by providing a physical, emotional encounter with the past. By activating historical sites, the NHB hopes participants develop a deeper appreciation for the courage and tragedy inherent in Singapore’s wartime heritage.
Full detailed program schedules, registration information, and any associated fees are available on the official National Heritage Board website (https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/sector-development/museum-roundtable/2026-battle-for-singapore). Given the unique nature of the specialized tours, interested individuals are advised to secure reservations promptly, particularly for popular programs like the maritime evacuation route retracement.