our-gurkhas: Even after independence, Singapore could not escape the spillover effect of the 1969 racial riots in Malaysia.
Also known as the May 13 Incident, it was the worst case of communal violence in Malaysia's history. The government decided to declare a state of emergency and suspended Parliament until 1971.
Retired staff sergeant Prem Bahadur Limbu remembers that fateful week in Singapore when news of the Malaysian riots had spread home.
Violence broke out in areas along Jalan Ubi and Jalan Kayu he said.
"Parangs and spears were used in the clashes," he said, highlighting the seriousness of the conflict.
The communal riots left four dead and 80 wounded, in a span of seven days.
The Gurkhas were called upon for 24-hours vigilance duty. Throughout, the Gurkhas worked hard to restore the peace.
