Unveiling the Untold Stories of Singapore’s Heroes
Singaporeans often remember Dr. Ee Peng Liang as the “father of charity” for his philanthropic endeavors and establishment of various charity organizations, including the Community Chest. However, a lesser-known fact about this iconic figure is his heroic role during World War II, where he faced imminent execution by the Kempeitai, the Japanese military police force.
Dr. Ee Peng Liang: A War Hero’s Legacy
Dr. Ee Peng Liang was a World War II hero who was nearly executed during that time by the Kempeitai, the Japanese military police force.PHOTO: ST FILE
Before his philanthropic contributions, Dr. Ee bravely served in the Straits Settlements Volunteer Force (SSVF) to defend Singapore during the Japanese invasion in 1942. His resilience and sacrifice as a prisoner of war in Japanese camps shaped his dedication to community service and philanthropy in post-war Singapore.
Author Shawn Seah, in his latest series of books titled “Our Amazing Heroes,” sheds light on the remarkable stories of not just Dr. Ee Peng Liang, but also Mrs. Elizabeth Choy and Captain Ho Weng Toh, who exhibited extraordinary courage and resilience during challenging times.
The Valor of Mrs. Elizabeth Choy and Captain Ho Weng Toh
Mrs. Elizabeth Choy showed fortitude when captured and tortured by the Japanese.PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SINGAPORE, NATIONAL HERITAGE BOARD
Mrs. Choy’s bravery shone through as she risked her life to help prisoners of war at Changi Prison by smuggling in essential supplies. Even in captivity and under torture by the Japanese, she remained steadfast in her commitment to serving others. Post-war, she continued her legacy as a pioneering educator and advocate for social welfare and women’s rights in Singapore.
Captain Ho Weng Toh worked alongside the Flying Tigers, which fought against Japanese forces in China during World War II.PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO FILE
Captain Ho’s valor extended beyond wartime as he contributed significantly to Singapore’s civil aviation industry post-war, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s aviation landscape.
Preserving Heroic Legacies for Future Generations
Through “Our Amazing Heroes,” author Shawn Seah aims to instill values of determination, grit, courage, charity, kindness, and resilience in young readers. These stories not only honor the past but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for the future.
Illustrated by local artist Patrick Yee, each book in the series encapsulates pivotal moments in the lives of these pioneers, accompanied by thought-provoking questions for reflection.
Supported by the Genealogy Society Singapore (GSS), the project underscores the importance of passing on the legacies of these remarkable individuals to inspire acts of courage, compassion, and leadership across generations.
Embracing Heritage and Community Stories
In a time where local writers face challenges amidst bookstore closures, Shawn Seah remains steadfast in his mission to celebrate Singapore’s rich history and heritage. By sharing the stories of past heroes, he hopes to nurture a society where shared heritage and community narratives are cherished and celebrated.
The books are available for purchase online and offer a glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary individuals who shaped Singapore’s history and values.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the courageous acts of Dr. Ee Peng Liang, Mrs. Elizabeth Choy, and Captain Ho Weng Toh, we are reminded of the enduring power of resilience, compassion, and leadership. Their stories serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Singaporeans and the importance of preserving our shared heritage for future generations.
FAQ
Where can I purchase the “Our Amazing Heroes” books?
The books are available for purchase on World Scientific’s website, Shopee, Lazada, and Amazon.
What values do the stories of Dr. Ee Peng Liang, Mrs. Elizabeth Choy, and Captain Ho Weng Toh exemplify?
The stories showcase values of determination, grit, courage, charity, kindness, and resilience.