Did you know that Pasir Panjang has its very own Machine-Gun Pillbox? You may have walked or driven by many times without noticing this cuboid structure sitting at the intersection of Pasir Panjang Road and Science Park Road. This Pillbox is one of very few remaining military structures in Singapore from the Second World War (1941-1945). At the time, there were more than 60 such pillboxes stationed around Singapore.

Small and nondescript, it is made up of 4 concrete walls with a small dome-like structure sitting atop. The concrete walls are designed to protect the soldiers within from small arms and artillery fire; while small viewing slits along the dome and sides of the walls allow for the return of fire.

Standing there imagining the soldiers huddled inside this very box and fighting for their lives, was a transportive and slightly eerie experience. Such is the power of history!