Battle of Bukit Timah facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Bukit Timah
Part of the Battle of Singapore, Pacific War
Dead Japanese soldiers at Bukit Timah
Date 10–12 February 1942 Location Bukit Batok, Bukit Panjang and Bukit Timah, Singapore 1°20′55″N 103°46′37″E / 1.348689873°N 103.777022°E / 1.348689873; 103.777022 Result Japanese victory
Belligerents
British Empire  United Kingdom  India  Australia  Straits Settlements	Japan
Commanders and leaders
Ian Stewart Angus MacDonald	Masanobu Tsuji
Units involved
15th Indian Brigade 12th Indian Brigade 22nd Brigade 27th Brigade Dalforce	5th Division 18th Division

The Battle of Bukit Timah happened between February 10 and 12, 1942. It was a key part of the Empire of Japan's plan to take over Singapore during World War II. This battle was one of the last major fights before Singapore fell.

The Battle for Bukit Timah

On February 8, 1942, Japanese forces landed on the western side of Singapore Island. Over the next few days, more troops arrived. Heavy fighting broke out as they pushed back Australian soldiers. These Australian defenders were from the 22nd Brigade.

Japanese Advance

By February 10, more Japanese troops landed in the north. They attacked positions held by the 27th Brigade. This area was between the River Kranji and the Causeway. Slowly, British and Commonwealth forces were pushed back. They moved south-east towards the center of the island.

Fight for Vital Supplies

The Japanese then moved towards Bukit Timah. This area was very important because it had vital supplies. These included water and food. British, Indian, and Australian soldiers tried to stop the Japanese advance. They fought along the Bukit Timah Road.

Japanese troops assaulting Bukit Timah hill, under Allied fire.

The Japanese 5th Division had strong armored support. They advanced down the Choa Chu Kang Road. British troops and Chinese volunteers fought bravely. These volunteers were part of an irregular group called Dalforce. They fought hand-to-hand, but they were not well-equipped. They were forced to retreat. By midnight, the Japanese had taken control of Bukit Timah.

Counter-Attacks and Retreats

On February 11, two British brigades tried to attack back. However, their counter-attack was stopped. The next day, the Japanese Imperial Guards moved around the British positions from the north. This forced the British to pull back.

Dalforce fought again, causing many casualties for the Japanese. After the fighting, many Chinese civilians in the area faced harsh treatment.

See also

• History of Singapore
• Battle of Singapore
• Japanese order of battle during the Malayan Campaign
• Malaya Command