The Changi Chapel and Museum (CCM) was revamped and opened in May 2021. It features new content and artefacts presented in an intimate and engaging format to tell the story of the prisoners of war and civilians interned in Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. As part of the revamp, the National Museum of Singapore which manages CCM has been collecting stories and personal objects from families of former internees that emphasise their personal experiences. The museum’s narrative is centred on remembrance and reflection, encouraging visitors to contemplate both the hardships that the internees underwent, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of difficulties.
The Changi camp was a collection of a few camps that were home to civilians, soldiers, and volunteers during World War Two. Of the site, which spanned approximately 25 square kilometres, only a few barracks buildings remain today, while the entrance gate and wall of the original Changi Gaol can still be seen. The chapel that greets visitors as they enter the museum is a replica of St George’s Church, which was one of the chapels and places of worship that were built in Changi.
