YMCA Building
1, Orchard Road, Singapore 238824
Civic District Trail 2, Marker 16

This landmark belongs to the Christian community in Singapore. The Japanese Military Police used to crush any resistance from the citizens during World War II. However, people of all races are united, and being educated of the courage of our forefathers, who went through much torture, helps us understand the need of unity during times of war.

The old YMCA building (which once stood here) was the East Branch of the Kempeitai (Japanese Military Police).

The Kempeitai were ordered to crush all civilian resistance against the Japanese rule. They carried out Sook Ching (mass screening), which was responsible for the deaths of many Chinese suspected of such resistance.

They recruited informers from the various resistance groups and this caused mistrust among their members. Many suspects were arrested and tortured for information. One such prisoner recalls, "I don't think hell could be worse that this."

If you like to know more about YMCA Singapore, visit http://www.mymca.org.sg/