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Pragmatism over resentment: How Singapore makes sense of World War II
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At the unveiling of the Civilian War Memorial in 1967, Mr Lee Kuan Yew urged Singaporeans not to dwell on wartime grievances, but to look towards the future and cultivate "reliable and strong friends", including Japan.
ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
Follow topic:
- Singapore emphasises learning from WWII suffering and looking ahead, a pragmatic approach vital for a small nation's survival.
- Singaporeans significantly supported China's war efforts, facing brutal Japanese retaliation during the Sook Ching purge in 1942.
- Post-war, Singapore prioritised economic growth, reconciling with Japan and fostering strong ties despite past grievances.
AI generated
BEIJING – On Sept 3, the roar of fighter jets and thunder of goose-steps filled Changan Avenue as China marked its World War II victory with a grand military parade.
Nine days later, on Sept 12, Singapore will mark the same war in a lower key: with a ceremony at Kranji War Cemetery to honour the fallen.
