Tipped to be one of the most intriguing highlights in Singapore’s engaging tourist landscape the Old Ford Motor Factory is a one of a kind attraction that is not just reserved for motor vehicle enthusiasts. As one of the first motor vehicle assembling plants of its kind to be established in Southeast Asia the iconic factory was built back in 1941 by the British automaker.
Declared a national monument the locale has transformed in to a museum and repository of World War II artefacts dubbed “Memories at Old Ford Factory”. Conveniently located within close proximity to the Malay Railway Line the Old Ford Motor Factory served as a fully operational manufacturing apparatus of Ford Motor Works. Ford vehicles assembled at this plant were exported to countries across the globe during what was a turbulent period in the history of the world. The Singaporean involvement in World War II began when Japan invaded the country and the Royal Air Force occupied the Old Ford Motor Factory grounds and employed its revolutionary machinery to assemble fighter planes while fighter jets were crafted from scratch using materials that were shipped to the plant. The factory’s location near Bukit Timah Road (connecting Singapore mainland to Malaya and other neighbouring countries) and the Tanjong Pagar docks also made it a key battle ground during the Japanese invasion. The final surrender of British forces to the Japanese also took place at the factory when British Lieutenant-General signed the documents of submission in front of Japanese Imperial Army Chief General Tomoyuki Yamashita. Thus began the Japanese occupation period of Singaporean history which is explored in detail in the museum’s exhibition galleries which are divided in to 6 sections. Must-see exhibits at the museum include the Talking Map with a Ford Cortina MKII windshield as well as the Syonan Race, a World War II style snakes and ladders competition space. The Syonan Garden is another feature that explores the food cultivated during Japanese occupation when food shortages were common while the theatre at the factory also showcases documentaries on the period on a regular basis.
Visitors in search of the best hotel in Sentosa Island should look no further than the stylish W Singapore Sentosa Cove. Providing guests with a wider range of modern amenities this elegant rest is one luxury resort Singapore counts among its finest accommodation providers.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
