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SIKH Heritage Museum Malaysia, Ipoh (2026)

14/04/2026

The Making of Nanyang Volunteers documentary.

During the Sino-Japanese War, businessman Tan Kah Kee rallied over 3,000 Nanyang volunteers, Chinese, Malay, and Indian, to drive and maintain supply convoys along the treacherous 1,150-kilometre Burma Road, China's last lifeline to the outside world.

Among them were three Sikh brothers from Taiping, Perak: Dara Singh, Kartar Singh and Sardara Singh.

From 1939 to 1942, nine batches made the perilous journey, with nearly half perishing from disease, accidents, or Japanese air attacks.

Their names are preserved today at memorials in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, a lasting tribute to their courage and sacrifice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqUVn_91JpI&t=49s

08/04/2026

Harchand Singh Bedi, the curator of the Sikh Heritage Museum, Malaysia, is presenting a historic photograph of the former Military Reception Centre to Captain Dr Raj, the head of the Medical Unit. In attendance is Sdr. Sukhdev Singh, a retired Warrant Officer and the President of the Greentown Sikh Temple in Ipoh (Gurdwara Sahib Greentown, Ipoh).

The Military Medical Reception Centre (M.R.S. Ipoh) was located at Ashby Road, Ipoh, Perak. (Jalan Hospital, Present Day)
These rare photograph were taken in 1952.

Today, this building is known as the "702 Pusat Perubatan Angkatan Tentera”, Jalan Hospital, Ipoh.

Photo courtesy of Sikh Heritage Museum Malaysia.

31/03/2026

Did you know that guarding the British Garrison's ammunition stores on Stonecutters Island in Hong Kong was a sacred responsibility entrusted to the Army Depot Police, consisting of a dedicated unit of 32 Sikhs?

This remarkable group was chosen for their steadfast commitment to discipline and loyalty, as their way of life, which prohibits smoking and drinking alcohol, aligned perfectly with the serious nature of their duties.

Throughout the British era, the Army Depot Police (ADP) served continuously on the island, embodying a unique blend of tradition and trust. Their service came to a poignant end in 1997, marking the disbandment of the last all-Sikh unit in the British Armed Forces. While they were classified as civilian employees, their identity as a dedicated Sikh unit was clear. They were specially recruited to safeguard the British Forces Ammunition Depot on Stonecutters Island, fulfilling a mission that began in 1949 after a series of unfortunate fires prompted the establishment of this important role.

This transition marked the conclusion of a remarkable 45-year legacy, one that brought together unity, honour, and a deep sense of duty within the Sikh community.

29/03/2026

72 YEARS ON, MEMORIES OF SEMPORNA HERO COPS SLAIN BY PIRATES LIVE ON.

Did You Know that a brave little band of six policemen, led by Sergeant Sagar Singh, made a heroic stand against overwhelming odds on March 29, 1954, at Semporna?

This was a true story, yet today, their heroism remains little known.
The story of 'Bukit Kepong' has been embellished over the years. It is a tale of courage in the face of extreme danger, fighting against overwhelming odds, but the story of the pirates' attack on Semporna in March 1954 remains little known. It is worth remembering.

March 29, 1954, will always be a day to remember for the family members of the late Sergeant Sagar Singh. It was on this day that Sergeant Sagar Singh was killed by a band of pirates from the Sulu Sea who raided the small town of Semporna, British North Borneo (present-day Sabah, Malaysia).

The pirates pillaged shops and escaped with gold, cash, large stocks of ci******es and cloth. They also took with them arms and several thousand rounds of ammunition from the Police Station armoury. They left Semporna after firing farewell salvoes into the air.
The pirates killed six people and wounded many others. Sgt. Sagar Singh, P.C. Jambuan & P.C. Gimor died in the course of duty.

Sergeant Sagar Singh was awarded the Colonial Police Medal for Gallantry posthumously.

The memories live on until today through his family.

25/03/2026

Sikh Heritage Museum Malaysia mengucapkan selamat Hari Polis yang ke-219. Semoga sambutan ini menjadi pemangkin semangat buat seluruh warga pasukan untuk terus berbakti, berintegriti dan sentiasa bersedia untuk memastikan Malaysia kekal aman, harmoni dan sejahtera.

16/03/2026

Black Beret, Sergeant Mahinder Singh (T202973) joined the Reconnaissance Corps in 1958. He received his training in Lulworth Camp, Dorset, England. He served the Corps in Sabah, Sarawak, Pahang & Kroh during the Malayan Emergency. He was based at the Royal Armoured Corps, Sungala Camp, Port Dickson.

The Black Beret represents the esteemed pride of the Royal Armour Corps. This distinctive headgear serves not merely as a symbol of affiliation but must be accompanied by the responsibilities and duties inherent to its wear. The black beret embodies the pride and dignity of the Royal Armoured Corps, which must be preserved throughout its tenure of use.

The Royal Armoured Corps, known in Malay as Kor Armor Diraja (K.A.D.), constitutes the armoured forces of the Malaysian Army. The origins of the Royal Malaysian Armoured Corps can be traced back to the establishment of two army units by the British administration under General Sir Gerald Templer, who initiated their formation during the Malayan Emergency. On 1 September 1952, the 1st Battalion Federation Regiment, affiliated with the Royal Irish Fusiliers, along with the Federation Armoured Car Regiment, which was associated with the 13th/18th Royal Hussars (QMO), known as The Light Dragoons, were established. These regiments marked the inception of the first multi-racial infantry and armoured units in Malaya.

On 1 January 1960, a merger occurred between the Federation Regiment and the Federation Armoured Car Regiment, resulting in the formation of the Federation Reconnaissance Corps. The units initially formed under the Corps included the 1st Regiment Federation Reconnaissance Corps and the 2nd Regiment Federation Reconnaissance Corps, commonly referred to as 1 Recce and 2 Recce, respectively. In Malay, these units are designated as Rejimen Pertama Kor Peninjau Persekutuan (1 Peninjau) and Rejimen Kedua Kor Peninjau Persekutuan (2 Peninjau). Both units were outfitted with scout vehicles, such as the Ferret scout car, the Daimler scout car, and various other British-manufactured armoured vehicles.

Photo Captions:

1) Members of the Armoured Corps posing in front of the Gurdwara Sahib in Kuching in 1968. Sergeant Mahinder Singh is standing on the right.

2) Sikh Temple Kuching. Sergeant Mahinder is positioned on the right.

3) Personnel from the 1st Recce standing in front of their camp in Port Dickson. Sergeant Mahinder Singh standing on the far right.

4) Sergeant Mahinder is standing on the left in front of the scout car.

02/03/2026

Did you know that there were Sikh commandos who served in VAT 69?

The VAT 69, formally recognised as Very Able Troopers 69, is a distinguished special forces unit within the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP). Established in 1969, as indicated by the number 69, this unit is modelled on the British 22nd Special Air Service Regiment and was created as a specialised combat unit to counter the strategies and methods employed by communist insurgents. The unit's elite personnel received training from the renowned Special Air Service (S.A.S.).

This elite group is entrusted with vital high-risk operations, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, intelligence gathering, and counter-insurgency activities within Malaysia.

Before 1989, this exceptional unit was primarily dedicated to battling communist insurgents entrenched in the thick jungles of Malaysia. Among its remarkable members was Sardar Dhaljirt Singh, who joined the forces in 1975 and embarked on a journey marked by unwavering commitment and resilience. After successfully navigating the demanding training program, he earned his tan beret in 1976, making history as one of the few Sikh representatives within this elite force.

His very name instilled fear in the hearts of communist terrorists. As a highly respected member of VAT 69, he participated in nearly every perilous mission undertaken by this unit, contributing significantly to the preservation of peace and security.

From 1987 to 1999, he served on the security team for both the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the nation's safety. Notably, he played a vital role in ensuring the security of world dignitaries during the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998, an event that brought together people from diverse backgrounds.

With a heavy heart, we remember Sardar Dhaljirt Singh, a devout Sikh whose unwavering faith and dedication to his community touched the lives of many. He departed for his heavenly abode on 1st February 2025. His remarkable contributions to both the nation and the Sikh community will forever echo in our hearts, and we hold his memory close with deep respect and gratitude for his selfless service.

His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

18/02/2026

Did you know that a remarkable young woman, Miss Amarjit Kaur, a 17-year-old Form Four student, captured the title of “MISS BRUNEI”?
She triumphed over five talented finalists in an exciting contest held in Brunei Town, celebrating the Sultan’s birthday in 1966. A proud student of Sir Omar Ali Saifuddin College, Amarjit’s achievements not only highlight her beauty but also her dedication and talent.

13/02/2026

“SINGA” ORGANISATION.

Did You Know that there was an organisation working behind Japanese lines in Malaya during the Second World War?

The "Singa" organisation consist of groups of local people of all nationalities and walks of life, ranging from doctors, teachers and police officers to ordinary Policemen. The groups were divided into three units - Propaganda, Intelligence and Sabotage.

At the beginning, the whole organisation consisted of Gurchan and two of his brothers, Gurdial and Gurbachan. But gradually the organisation grew, as trusted friends and associates were brought into the movement and Gurchan Singh's sphere of influence widened from the immediate neighbourhood of Kuala Lumpur and extended over a large part of Malaya.

The Japanese were convinced that "Singa" was the name of a highly organised band with jungle headquarters and in constant touch with the Allies. To the Japanese military, "Singa" was a thorn on their side for the removal of which they were prepared to pay a huge reward.

From 1942, underground activities were carried on by these groups in various parts of Malaya. The organisation had agents in all important Government departments.

The legacy of the Singa Organisation serves as a poignant reminder that heroes often operate in the shadows, their contributions pivotal yet often unrecognised. It calls upon us to learn and honour those stories that are often forgotten and to appreciate the strength found in community and collaboration during challenging times.

Despite the lack of formal recognition in history textbooks, these heroes became the backbone of the resistance movement in Malaya, demonstrating that every person, regardless of their background or status, can make a significant difference. The diverse composition of the "Singa" Organisation, encompassing doctors, teachers, police officers, and ordinary citizens, showcases how collective action can arise from a shared sense of injustice and the desire for freedom.

Honours are due to all those in the "Singa" Organisation who voluntarily and independently worked for the cause of the Allies during the Japanese occupation of Malaya at extreme and real risk of torture and death. All rendered invaluable service and stood loyal and true under conditions of grave danger and hardship. Some sacrificed their comfort and happiness, and others gave up their lives. They all sincerely fought for freedom. In honour of them all, their names are given here.

Dr. Abdul Ghani, Anthony Ash, Arunasalem N., Aster Gunasekara, Augustin Lye Nyen Foo, Balakrishnan M., Sub Inspector Behara Singh, Bhagat Singh Gill, Sergeant Bughar Singh, Bhag Singh, Chanan Singh, Chong Tak Ngit, Gurdial Singh, Gurnam Singh Bull, John Sandasamy, Kehar Singh, Khem Singh, Dr. Kok Ho Teik, Leong Hew Meng, Leong Kai Swee, Madame Lau Peng Kim, Ramasamy Ganga, Ramasamy Pakry, Rodrigo, B. M., Sarjeet Singh, Inspector Sarmukh Singh, Suppiah P., Tan Beng Hock, Tan Beng San, Thirunalan M., Toh Chin Guan, Yap Ghim Hoe & Yeoh Chai Lye.

Roll of Honour.

They died that Freedom might live.

Inspector Dan Singh, Gurbachan Singh, Ismail De Silva, Lall Singh Bull ,Inspector Low Ghee Beng, Shanmugam M. & Teja Singh

Photo caption:

1) Standing from Left to Right :Gurnam Singh Bull , M. Thirunalan , M. Balakrishnan. Sitting .Gurchan Singh
2) Lall Singh Bull.
3) John Sandasamy

07/02/2026

Did you know that Dato Narander Singh, the most senior Sikh officer in the Malaysia Prisons Department, was appointed as a commissioner in 2018? Before this role, he served as the Director of the Prisons College Malaysia in 2017. Additionally, he held the position of Director of the Professional Development Department within the Prisons in 2022.

Dato Narander Singh has also previously headed the Taiping, Sungei Buloh, and Kajang Prisons. He joined the prison department in 1988.

Narander Singh diligently fulfilled his responsibilities during his tenure, consistently upholding the standards and values of the institution. His efforts had a profound impact on the environment within the prison, underscoring the significance of responsibility, accountability, and professionalism among all staff members.

31/01/2026

UNITY ABOVE ALL!

The Central Police Station in Ipoh serves as a historical reference point for the years 1927 and 1946. An inspection of the archived photographs reveals a diverse assembly of police personnel representing various races and backgrounds, including British, Malays, Chinese, Sikhs, Punjabi Muslims and other Indian ethnic groups. This close physical proximity among individuals of different ethnicities naturally cultivated a sense of community and mutual trust.

However, the sense of communal harmony that characterised those periods is increasingly being challenged in contemporary society. The memories of that era underscore the significance of fostering inclusive communities and the necessity of uniting to achieve shared objectives.

The Sikh Heritage Museum Malaysia expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Murali Dharan of Ipoh for his generous donation of historical photographs. These invaluable pieces will help us safeguard and celebrate the rich and diverse history of Malaysia for future generations, ensuring that this heritage is cherished and remembered. Your kindness in sharing these artefacts plays a crucial role in preserving the legacy of our past, and we truly appreciate your support.

24/01/2026

Did you know that there is a road named after Utam Singh in Seremban?

Utam Singh, a pioneer in establishing pre-war public transport in Negeri Sembilan, founded the Utam Singh Omnibus Company Ltd. in 1936. The bus service known as ” Brown Line” runs between Seremban and Kuala Pilah, Bahau and Ladang Geddes.

His significant contributions to the road transport industry in the region have had a lasting impact.

Photo Caption:
1) Road sign ' Jalan Utam Singh'
2) Utam Singh Bus Transport.
3) Central Bus Stand, Seremban.

SIKH Heritage Museum Malaysia

14/04/2026

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31/03/2026

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25/03/2026

16/03/2026

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