Hugh Fraser (colonial administrator) facts for kids

Hugh Fraser (1891–1944) was a British government official. He worked in countries that were part of the British Empire. He was the last acting Colonial Secretary of the Straits Settlements. This was a very important job in Singapore just before it was taken over by Japan in 1942. After the Japanese arrived, he was held in Changi Prison. Sadly, he passed away in Outram Road Prison in 1944.

Early Life and Education

Hugh Fraser went to school at Wellington College. He then studied at Exeter College, Oxford, which is a famous university.

Career in Government

Fraser began his career in 1917. He worked as an Assistant Secretary in the Federated Malay States (FMS). This was a group of states in Malaysia that were under British control. He also served as a Private Secretary.

Over the years, he took on different roles. He became a District Officer in various areas. He also worked in Kedah as an Acting Assistant Adviser. Later, he became an Assistant Treasurer for the FMS.

By 1936, Fraser was the Secretary to the High Commissioner of Malaya. This was a very senior position. In 1937, he became the Acting Federal Secretary of the FMS. This showed how much he had risen in his career.

On January 27, 1942, Hugh Fraser took on his final role. He became the Acting Colonial Secretary of the Straits Settlements. This was a key leadership position in Singapore. Just a few weeks later, on February 15, 1942, Singapore fell to the Japanese forces.

Imprisonment and Death

After Singapore was taken by Japan, Hugh Fraser was captured. He was held as a prisoner in Changi Prison. This was a camp where many people were kept during the Japanese occupation.

On October 10, 1943, a secret British operation called Operation Jaywick took place. After this event, the Japanese secret police, known as the kempeitai, raided the prison camp. They arrested Fraser and many others. He was then moved to Outram Road Prison. Hugh Fraser died there in 1944 while still a prisoner.