The Story of Singapore’s Surrender

The momentous decision was to surrender Singapore to the Japanese on 15 February 1942 was made in the Battlebox, an underground command centre in Fort Canning Hill. It was part of the headquarters of Malaya Command, the army which defended Singapore in WWII.

the battlebox visitor centre

The surrender marked the beginning of the end of the British Empire, and the start of the darkest chapter in Singapore’s modern history.

Today, the Battlebox will be a museum that debunks the myths and unveils the true causes of defeat surrounding the “worst disaster and largest capitulation in British military history”.

battlebox visitor centre

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the Battlebox, an authentic World War II secret Command Centre built 9 metres underground in the late 1930s.

Explore the labyrinth of rooms and corridors and view amazing wartime artefacts. ​Watch the war unfold on land and on sea, follow the battles in the air, and discover the tension and drama behind the decision to surrender on the last day when Singapore fell on 15 February 1942.

The tours will not only introduce you to the Battlebox, but also Fort Canning Hill, a hill in the heart of Singapore City. It has a history of going back 700 years to the era of Malay Kings. Come and see how great empires rose and fell, and visit graves, forts and battles.

battlebox entrance singapore

Battlebox Facts:

  • 9 metres (3 storeys) underground
  • Bombproof during WWII
  • Constructed in the late 1930s
  • 29 rooms during WWII
  • Abandoned and forgotten over 40 years




How to Get to The Battlebox Singapore

Address: 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 4.30pm (Fridays to Sundays & Public Holidays)
Website: battlebox.com.sg
Admission: Charges apply.

Battlebox Price

Adult: S$20
Child (7 – 12 years old): $10

Get your tickets online via Klook or KKday.

Nearby places to check out:

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