IN THE vibrant tapestry of Singapore’s history, Sentosa Island stands out with its transformation tale.
Once bearing a name that hinted at ominous tales of the past, this island has transitioned into a modern haven of leisure and entertainment.
Could it really be true that this vibrant island was once called Pulau Blakang Mati?
Verdict:
TRUE
Sentosa Island has indeed gone by the name Pulau Blakang Mati in the past.
The Malay words “Blakang Mati” translate to roughly “Island of Death from Behind,” and there have been many interpretations into why it has that name.
Ranging from tales of pirate ambushes to the island’s association with disease or superstitions on it being haunted, this foreboding name set the stage for its intriguing history that would evolve over the years.
During the British colonial era, the island underwent a transformation into a strategic military base, primarily due to its advantageous location guarding the southern approach to Keppel Harbour.
The British fortified the island with coastal artillery batteries with notable installations which included Fort Siloso, Fort Connaught, and Fort Serapong, that defended Singapore’s coast against potential threats.
World War II marked a significant chapter in the island’s history; as tensions rose in the region, Pulau Blakang Mati played a crucial role in Singapore’s defence with Fort Siloso in particular becoming a key component in Singapore’s overall coastal defences.
Despite these preparations, Singapore fell to Japanese forces in 1942, and the island was occupied, with its fortifications repurposed by the Japanese military during the occupation.
After the war, the island continued to host military sites into the post-war years, but its strategic military significance gradually declined.
By 1967, as Singapore charted its path of development post-independence, plans were set in motion to transform the island from a military stronghold into a recreational destination.
In 1972, the island was renamed Sentosa, meaning “peace and tranquillity” in Malay, marking the beginning of a new era.
This new Sentosa Island was the result of land reclamation programmes that merged the then Pulau Blakang Mati with several smaller islands around its periphery.
Since then, Sentosa has developed into a bustling resort island featuring theme parks, beaches, luxury resorts and even a casino to become a key attraction in Singapore’s tourism landscape.
References:
1. Victor R Savage, Brenda S A Yeoh (2003), Toponymics — A Study of Singapore Street Names, Eastern Universities Press, ISBN 981-210-205-1
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