When the Japanese attacked on 8 Feburary, the Malay Regiment was stationed to protect the south-western area in Singapore, where Bukit Chandu was located.
10 Feb - The four companies were the A, B, C, and D companies in the 2nd battalion . The first line of defence, Company B led by Captain R.A. Monks came under heavy fire by the Japanese, killing the soldier manning the six inch guns.
Forced to retreat after successive hits from the Japanese from their planes, the B company retreated among Jurong road. The Japanese also forced through Company C, and the entire 2nd Battalion was forced towards Jurong River.
11 Feb - The next day, they were yet again attacked by the Japanese in tanks. Undeterred by traps set by the British, such as mines, barbed wire, and obstructions they advanced through Clementi and Jurong road.
12 Feb - The next day, the Japanese had started to attack from all areas to force the troops further back. The 2nd battalion clashed with the Japanese, but with such confusion, yet again the 2nd Batallion retreated.
13 Feb - The battle that featured Adnan bin Saidi occurred, the Battle of Pasir Panjang Ridge. The B company came under huge fire, but this time, before they could retreat, the Japanese broke through their position. They had to fight with Japanese soldiers with hand to hand combat. They suffered heavy losses.
14 Feb - Company C went to the next point of defence at Bukit Chandu. During the battle for Bukit Chandu, the Malay Regiment fought bravely as their last stand, and discovered a ploy – Japanese disguised as Indian soldiers. The war hero Lt. Adnan and the defenders fought bitterly with the Japanese, but failed to hold the ridge. Adnan bin Saidi motto was in simple words, death before dishonor, and it is remembered until this day.
By now the D company had been separated from the C company, by a canal. They were unable to retreat any longer, and were trapped. Like this, they fought to their last. Many were killed and injured. The few that survived were sent to be POWs.
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