Changi Chapel and Museum | Eastern Region

Changi Chapel and Museum – A Reverent Tribute to History

The Changi Chapel and Museum is a significant historical site located in the eastern part of Singapore, within the grounds of the former Changi Prison. The museum offers a poignant and educational experience, focusing on the turbulent history of World War II and the Japanese occupation of Singapore. The site is a place of remembrance for those who suffered and died during that period and serves as an educational tool for future generations.

Historical Background

During the Japanese occupation of Singapore from 1942 to 1945, Changi Prison became infamous for being a detention center for prisoners of war (POWs), along with civilians who were subjected to harsh conditions and brutal treatment. Many of these POWs and civilians were forced into labor, including the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway (also known as the Death Railway), where thousands lost their lives due to disease, malnutrition, and physical abuse.

The Changi Chapel is a symbol of the resilience and strength of the people who endured these horrific conditions, and it stands as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the war.

Key Features of the Changi Chapel and Museum

1. Changi Chapel

• The Changi Chapel is a replica of one of the many chapels built by prisoners of war during their time in Changi Prison. The original chapels were constructed using makeshift materials, such as wooden planks, cardboard, and other available supplies.
• The chapel symbolizes the prisoners’ spiritual endurance and was used by them for worship, prayer, and solace amidst the suffering they faced. The replica chapel that stands today was erected to preserve this important aspect of Changi's wartime history.

2. Museum Exhibits

• Historical Exhibits: The museum houses a range of artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight the experiences of those who were held in Changi Prison during the Japanese occupation. The exhibits include personal belongings, diaries, and documents that tell the stories of the men and women who endured unimaginable hardships.
• Survivor Accounts: One of the museum’s key features is the first-hand accounts of POWs and civilians, presented through interviews, letters, and photographs. These testimonies provide a human perspective on the impact of the war and the resilience of the human spirit.
• Interactive Displays: The museum includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the history of Changi Prison, Japanese occupation, and the suffering of the prisoners. These displays provide valuable context about the prisoners' lives and the larger events of World War II.

3. Memorial Wall

• The Memorial Wall features the names of over 1,000 prisoners of war who died during their imprisonment or as a result of forced labor. It serves as a solemn reminder of the human cost of war.

4. The Death Railway Exhibit

• The museum also offers an exhibit dedicated to the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway, where many of the POWs were forced to work. The exhibit details the conditions they endured and the immense toll the labor took on their health and lives.

The Changi Museum's Role in Preservation and Education

• The Changi Chapel and Museum is not only a place for remembrance but also for education. It plays a critical role in helping both locals and visitors understand the events of World War II and the history of the Japanese occupation of Singapore.
• It is an important resource for educators, students, and researchers seeking to learn more about the wartime history of Singapore and the experience of POWs in Changi Prison.
• The museum helps to ensure that the memories of those who suffered during this dark period in history are preserved for future generations.

Visitor Information

• Location: 1000 Upper Changi Road North, Singapore 507707 (near Changi Prison and Changi Village)
• Opening Hours: The Changi Chapel and Museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It is closed on public holidays.
• Admission Fees: There is an entrance fee to visit the museum, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and students.
• Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours and educational programs that provide a more in-depth look at the exhibits and the history of the site.

Why Visit the Changi Chapel and Museum?

• Historical Significance: The Changi Chapel and Museum offers a deep insight into Singapore’s wartime history and the experiences of POWs during the Japanese occupation.
• Emotional Experience: Visitors can reflect on the suffering, courage, and resilience of the people who lived through one of the darkest periods in history.
• Educational Value: The museum provides valuable lessons about the costs of war, the importance of peace, and the resilience of the human spirit, making it an important place for reflection and learning.

The Changi Chapel and Museum is a deeply moving and educational site that serves as a tribute to the strength of those who suffered in Changi Prison. It is a place of remembrance, and through its exhibits and history, it ensures that the sacrifices and experiences of the past are never forgotten.