25/2/2010-Dan Teoh

Today we have decided to continue discussing the happenings after Singapore was taken, during the Japanese Occupation. Resources were scarce during the occupation. The prices of basic necessities increased drastically due to hyperinflation. For example, the price of rice increased from $5 per 100 catties(about 60 kg) to $5000. . The Japanese issued ration cards to limit the amount of resources received by the civilian population. Adults also could purchase 4.8kg of rice per month and 2.4kg for children. The amount of rice for adults was reduced by 25% as the war progressed. Food quality and availability decreased greatly. Tapioca, sweet potatoes and yam became the staple food of most diets of Singaporeans because it was considerably cheaper than rice and could also be grown in gardens. It was then turned into a variety of dishes, as both dessert, and all three meals of the day. The nutrients helped stave off starvation, and new ways of consuming tapioca with other produce were regularly invented in order to stave off the monotony. Both the British and Japanese authorities encouraged the population to grow their own food if they had even the smallest amount of land, the encouragement and produce were similar to what occurred with Victory Gardens in the Western nations during World War II. Ipomoea aquatica, which grew relatively easy and flourished relatively well near the water, became a popular crop, as did other vegetables. Many Chinese victims became victims of Japanese atrocities. The Japanese perceived the Chinese as a threat to their rule. This was because when Japan invaded China in 1937, they met with strong Chinese resistance, including those from outside China. Therefore, soon taking control of Singapore, the Kempeitai carried out “Sook Ching” which aimed to identify and eliminate suspected anti-Japanese elements among the Chinese community. All chinese men between 18 and 50 years of age were told to report at certain centres such as the YMCA building at Stamford Road and the Central Police Station at South Bridge Road. They were “examined” by the Japanese. At some centres, informers wearing hoods or masks would simply point out certain people as anti-Japanese elements. The lucky ones who were not identified were given a small piece of paper, with the Chinese word “Examined” rubber-stamped on them. They were then allowed to go home. The Japanese also punished the Chinese by making them contribute money towards Japan's war effort. The Chinese community were forced to collect and pay Japan $50 million. Indians and Malays were disregarded as a threat to their rule. They tried to win the support of the Malays and convince them that Japan would free them from British rule. They also persuaded the Indians that Japan would help free India from the British. However, because anyone who disobeyed or displeased the Japanese would still be punished. Some Malays were also drafted forced labour at “Death Railway” camps.

For the next time, we will further discuss some daily work that the Japanese tried to promote to the Singaporeans the Japanese Spirit and the Japanese Language and advertisements.