Enquiries 2014
Escape from Blakan Mati - Cpl. P. G. Clarke Selangor Btn., FMSVF
I am researching the escape of Corporal P. G.( or P.J.) Clarke (pre 1941 described as Euro reporter, Federal Council, and post War the Assistant Commissioner for Roads, Malaya) of the FMSVF from the island of Blakan Mati ( now Sentosa in Singapore ) on 16.2.42 after the Surrender “ ... with eight others (including L/Cpl. Bobby Peacock, CA, Accounts dept., Guthries Ltd. , Singapore) ... in a leaky lifeboat ... with four oars.. their goal was Sumatra... “ [ source is the diary of Charles Thornton Selangor Btn and also Guthries Ltd] both men reached Bombay and Peacock apparently reached Sydney. I am trying to identify who were the other men in the lifeboat and what happened to them. Any information would be valued.
Michael Pether, Auckland, New Zealand [email protected]
Johore Planter 1930s Clarence Edward Binns
I'm looking for some information of my grandfather's life in Malaya. He planted at Ulu Remis Plantation in Layang-layang Johore during the 1930s. If anyone has got photographs or any kind of information about him or the estate where he was working kindly contact me. Your kind assistance wil be highly appreciated. Thank you.
Raja Segran [email protected]
Jack Armstrong (John Ryan on official documentation)
Did anyone know Jack Armstrong an engineer who worked /lived in Sandakan North Borneo from 1950 till sometime in the 60s after he was taken ill. He returned to the UK and lived for a short time in Wiltshire, then moved to Gosport in Hampshire. Sadly he died in 1966. I am trying to trace him as he was my stepfather and my Mother has now passed away. so any information would be really valuable to me. Unfortunately I do not know the company he worked for in Borneo.
Jane Kirby [email protected]
Information about my Great Grandmother Elizabeth Rodrigues, Singapore
I am looking for information about my great grandmother Elizabeth Rodrigues, she was an Eurasian lady and had her daughter in 1919. She was married to a British RAF serviceman. They were both bayoneted by the Japanese. If anyone knew them, please email me.
Joanne Carolyn Conceicao [email protected]
Tracing Family History
My great grandmother Mrs Mary Edgar aged 31 and her daughter Majorie E Edgar aged 7 left Liverpool 1937, both were natives of Northern Ireland to join husband/father in the Federated Malay States. They landed at Penang. Marjorie speaks little of her time there except to say her father was shot in the back trying to evacuate the hospital when the Japanese invaded. He was known as David Edgar and was an Army Officer. Marjorie does mention a lovely house with a child minder, servants, etc. I was told that she and her mother saw some terrible sights so they may have been in a camp, however, they both ended up in Australia and eventually made their way back to London and then returned to Ireland in the 1960s. I would be grateful for any information.
Many thanks
Julie Morris [email protected]
HMS Kedah
I am researching my family tree and trying to find information regarding my Aunt Dorothy Brewster who I understand left Singapore aboard the HMS Kedah along with her two sons.
Thanks. Tony Dow [email protected] [email protected]
Note: IN our MVG records we have BREWSTER. Mrs Dorothy wife of CQMS W.G.G. Brewster, Gordon Highlanders POW. Evacuated aged 28 on the Duchess of Bedford with sons James Scott, aged 4 and William, aged 2, arriving Liverpool 4.4.42 to Downpatrick, Co. Down.
Royce Douglas Hawkesworth Chava
I am trying to trace any relations I might still have living. My father was born in Ceylon in 1909 in Kandy. I believe his family went to live in Java before the Second World War. His father was a tea planter. Father's name was Richard T Chava and mother was Ann Mary Hawkesworth. I believe that there were other siblings as my father was the younger son. The last my father heard, the family was in Java.
Margaret Rushworth [email protected] [email protected]
Patrick Campbell Fisher MSVR 1915, RAOC FEPOW
I am trying to find information about Patrick Campbell Fisher who was manager of Spynie Rubber Plantation in the Perak region.Does anyone know where he was imprisoned by the Japanese or have any info about him at all please?
He managed to get his wife and daughters Janet, Jean and Paddy out on Charon and stayed to fight. He was captured and survived the war but never spoke of his experiences. I would love to be able to fill in some gaps for future generations. Thank you for your help.
Sarah Ariss [email protected]
Thomas M(a)c Murdo-Spencer
My mother born 1923 to a Siamese mother. She was orphaned in 1935. Raised in Catholic convent in Ipoh. and was later interned by the Japanese. Her father was Thomas M(a)cMurdoch-Spencer (Spenser?)
I am trying to trace the family tree.
Anne Carter [email protected]
Malacca Volunteer Force Records: Pte Lee Kum Moon 4SSVF
My late father served in the Malacca Volunteer Force during the Second World War. He passed away in 1958 when I was just 14 years of age. I remember him telling me that the CorpS was mobilised and dispatched to Singapore in 1941 just after he got married to my mom. He reportedly walked and made his way back to Malacca after the fighting stopped. I remember he had some medals after the war but they were unfortunately lost after he passed away.
My children and I are now in the midst of compiling a family history and I will like to seek your assistance for any information of his service in the MVF, the battalion he served in (4th Battalion) and also if you have any pictorial records.
My father's name : LEE KUM MOON. (surname LEE) He was 24 years of age in 1941.
Thank you for your kind attention and assistance.
E.C.Lee [email protected]
John Willibold Meiers FMSVF Armoured Cars
I would love to find some information and/or photos about John Willibold Meiers. According to some family letters, he worked on a tin dredge in Malaya [Malayan Tin Dredging, Batu Gajah] and then joined the Malayan Volunteers when war broke out. He served with the Armoured Car Regiment He worked on the Burma Railway, only to die just before liberation. Our family records state he died on the Mergui Road Party, 8 August 1945, at 31 years, but official records say he died in June 1945.
Any assistance would be gratefully received.
Sonya [email protected].
Kobus / Reid Family
I have been on the Malayan Volunteers Group Website and have found a message from Vincent Elgey.
I believe that there is connection with his family and my mother. I am currently tracing the history of my Grandmother Clara Henrietta Fredericka Kobus, who was born in 1909 in Sumatra.
She married a Lieutenant, James M Burke of the 32nd FIeld Hospital, Royal Army Medical Corps in 1940 at the Garrison. Her father was Dirk A Kobus but was deceased at the time of her marriage.
My Mother was born in Singapore in 1940. Her name was Marie Burke and the Reid family were her cousins.
They were evacuated to Australia on Orion and my Grandfather was put into a Japanese Prisoner of War camp and survived. The Burke family later returning to England.
I am interested in finding information on my Grandmother - Clara, any relatives and any information connected with the Reid Family. Also any information on my grandfather James
Burke as an RAMC POW.
Mark Bradly [email protected]
Neva Irene Helmrich Miles
I am seeking information and photos of my grandmother,Neva Irene Helmrich (later Miles). My grandmother and her parents lived in Malim Nawar. My great grandfather was Arthur Edward Helmrich and my great grandmother Priscilla Helmrich. My grandmother's family and her husbands family were all involved in the tin mines. My grandmother was evacuated from Singapore. Any information would be gratefully received.
DCaldere [email protected]
Fate of relatives P.J. Madge [FMSVF] & R. Madge [civilian internee]
My uncle Patrick John Madge and Great Uncle Raymond Madge were captured by the Japanese when Singapore fell. I would be grateful to receive any information of their fate (POW Camps, Date of Capture and release etc). I look forward to hearing from you.
Patrick Armitage [email protected]
My Grandfather Alfred Gee, Malayan Mining Engineer
I am seeking information about Alfred Gee, my mother's father. My Grandfather worked in (perhaps owned) a tin mine in Malaya in the late 19th/early 20th century. My mother, who was conceived during his infrequent trips home, was born on July 30th 1901. I have a photograph of my Grandfather taken in the Federal Photographic Studio, No. 39 Sultan Street, Kuala Lumpor (numbered 6170). I can email a copy if this helps. I would very much appreciate any information. I had a photo of him on his yacht out here but unfortunately that is lost.
Owen Christopher Pegg [email protected]
Raymond Hugo Clibborn
I am looking for information on my great uncle Hugo, born 1910, who is believed to have lived in Malaya from 1932 until the Japanese invasion. He is the brother in law of Neil George Ferguson who was a captain in the Malayan Volunteers and in Johore in 1942. Hugo was an ex-merchant sailor, died a bachelor in 1960 and family history says that he was in either tin or rubber. We don't know if he became a Volunteer during his time in Malaya. He is believed to have been sunk twice during the Japanese invasion of the Far East. We don't know whether he was on board as a civilian or had re-enlisted in the navy at the time of the evacuation. Any information would be gratefully received.
Jenny Davies [email protected]
Singapore Evacuees Helen Wills & George Wills
I am trying to find out more information about my mother's evacuation from Singapore with her brother and aunt, uncle (Livingstone) and 2 cousins. Her name was Helen Wills and her brother, George Wills. I believe they were on board one of the last ships to leave Singapore and they ended up in South Africa. Many thanks.
Karen Williams [email protected]
Any information about Hitam bin Ja'afar 4FMSVF [Pahang Battalion]
In December 1941 Hitam bin Ja'afar left home for training in Kuala Kubu Baru. I understand he was in the transport company. Just before the Japanese landed in Kota Baru, Kelantan, the following year the Batallion was moved in a convoy through Gua Musang to Kota Baru to intercept the Japanese. He was said to have driven a truck of soldiers; but when before they reached Kota Baru the Japanese had landed and the Battalion was commanded to return south and go to Singapore which was already under Japanese attack. By the time the Forces arrived Bahau in Negeri Sembilan, the Japanese had taken over Singapore and the British Forces were about to surrender. The Battalion at Bahau was demobbed, and the Volunteers were ordered to return to their hometowns on their resources. They were allowed to take with them weapons for their protection. Hitam bin Ja'afar with his company, said to be led by Hamid Bidin, went into the jungle towards Rompin and Pekan. The company split into small groups. Hitam bin Ja'afar and his group joined forces in the jungle fighting the Japanese. He did not reach home in Mentekab, Pahang, until weeks after the surrender of the Japanese and the return of the British in Pahang in 1946. He never related to any member of his family as to what happened to him between the time he was called to Kuala Kubu Bharu in 1941 and his return to Mentekab in 1946. He was given the Pacific Medals which he quietly discarded soon after receiving them. He passed away in 1998. I would appreciate it very much if any of his friends or superiors would be able to shed some light on those dark days in the life of Haji Hitam bin Ja'afar's. May I wish the MVP sucess in making the struggle for the independence of Malaysia as meaningful and colourful as it has been.
Mohd Yusof bin Hitam, PSM, DIMP, JMN,PPM, MCS/JPM [email protected]
Roderick Boe Stuart
My Grandad was in the Malayan Emergency conflict during the 1950s. I know there was a pictures of him at one of the Sultan of Johore's parties. I would love any photos or memories that anyone can recall. He came from Inverness and served in the 11th Hussars. He may have been known as Rod. My nana Sheila was also there, My grandparents often went to Raffles Hotel. It is really sad because no one knows who his birth mother is! If someone could email us back with any information that would be great.
Thanks
Natasha Condy [email protected]
Civilian Internees - Muntok - Palembang - Loebok Linggau
I am trying to find out Information regarding the Reid Family who were internees at the following camps from 1942 onwards : Muntok - Palembang - Loebok Linggau The family consisted of Mrs Marie Reid, her 5 children and her mother Mrs Kobus, Erica, Jane, James, Dirk, Roy All the family survived the camp apart from Mrs Kobus. Jane Reid later to be married and take the name Jane Elgey is my mother, she is now in 83yrs old and wishes to find if there are any other survivors of the camps mentioned still alive who she may contact. Jonathan Moffatt has kindly passed my details onto a number of people already and also sent me some interesting documents pertaining to my Grandfather who managed to escape Singapore and reach Perth Australia, which I've passed to my mother Jane. She's also asked about the "Mata Hari" as this was the ship the family attempted to escape Singapore on and were eventually captured on. I myself am also interested in any information that anyone might have on the Reid Family before the war, as I was very young when my Grandfather died and know very little about the Reid families life in Malaya. Thank you in advance to anyone who can help and should they wish to contact me or my mother about the please feel free to.
Kind regards
Vincent Elgey [email protected]
Edward Clyne FMSVF
I am looking for any information about a relative of mine, Edward Clyne. At one time he was the manager of the Rosevale Estate in Selangor, and during the Second World War served in 2nd (Selangor) Battalion FMSVF. He survived both the war and the railway, and returned to Selangor after the war. Any information that anyone has would be most welcome.
Tim Sewell timsewell99@gmail,com
Missing memorials in St George's Church, Penang
St. George's Church in Penang, the oldest Anglican church built in SE Asia, is preparing to celebrate its bicentenary in 2019. While many historic memorials in the church were lost or destroyed during the Second World War, several post-war plaques and memorial inscriptions have disappeared from the church in recent years. If anyone has photographs showing the the church interior or other records that might help identify the missing memorials, please let me know.
Leslie A K James [email protected]
Kanchanaburi War Grave
I have a photo of a war grave at Kanchanaburi in Thailand. The soldier in question has my mothers maiden name and i am looking to see if he is a relative. the details are as follows : PRIVATE W.D.CAMP NO/ 5835466 CAMBRIDGESHIRE REGIMENT DATE OF DEATH 30TH NOVEMBER 1943 AGE 34 YEARS. If you could help me i would be very grateful regards
Mrs Hazel Hoyle [email protected]
Civilian Evacuees captured in Sumatra
Greetings! My grandparents George Basil Warburton Gray and Ruth Gray were civilian evacuees on the Mata Hari that was subsequently captured and the passengers imprisoned on Bangka Island and then Palembang in Sumatra. My grandmother Ruth survived the war and returned to Malaya (Port Dickson), but my grandfather George died in captivity. My great Aunt Marjory Gray was, I believe, also captured on the Mata Hari and she likewise died in captivity in Sumatra. Marjory was the wife of French Eric Anderson Gray who was a civilian internee at Sime Road camp in Singapore, where he died in captivity. My father was Donald StGeorge Warburton Gray of Ulu Remis Estate, Layang Layang Johore, who was on home leave in Tasmania at the time of the Jap invasion. He subsequently enlisted and was sent to Ceylon and India for special operations training with the Inter Services Liaison Department (MI6), in a section commanded by another ex-Malayan planter, Boris Hembry. My father was subsequently parachuted into Malaya (in a blind drop near Ipoh) in January 1945 with a group of agents. His group's drop was spotted by the Japs, but the group was just able to escape capture with the help of local chinese who led the group to join up with another group in the jungle. My father received a Mentioned in Despatches award for gallantry and, after the war, returned to planting with Guthries at Linggi Estate, near Rantau in Negri Sembilan, until he retired to Sussex in 1959. Can anyone tell me, is there in existence somewhere a comprehensive list of the civilian evacuees from Malaya who were held in captivity in Bangka or Sumatra (both those who died in captivity and those who survived)? If so, can you point me towards where I can obtain a copy of such a list? Thank you to all the people who have contributed information to the very worthwhile Malayan Volunteers Group Web site.
Kind regards, Robert Gray [email protected]
Donald Vanrenen
I am trying to discover where my father, Donald Vanrenen, was imprisoned during the war. Donnie was manager of Rubana Estate near Teluk Anson and friends with Mamie and Andy Robertson, Bob & Helen Milner-Moore and and Doreen and Bill McLaughlin among others. My mother, Anne, & I along with Helen Milner-Moore and Doreen McLaughlin and their children, escaped to Australia in Dec.'41/January '42. I believe my father was captured soon after the fall of Singapore. We have discovered a lot about his brother, Frank, in the past year but nothing about him. I'd be grateful for any news of him during the war years if there is anyone still living who might have known/met/ been imprisoned with him. Thank you.
Philippa (Pippa) Schmiegelow (nee Vanrenen) [email protected]
Sgt later Lieutenant Robert George Vergette MSVR later attached to Singapore Volunteer Corps
My Grandfather Robert George Vergette was a member of the Colonial Auxiliary Forces in around 1927 - I know no details about his service, or when it started or ended. If there is any way that you could help me - perhaps by just pointing me at the right location to look, I would be very grateful Thanks in advance
Mark Humphreys
[email protected]
St John B Jonklaas and Walter O J Jonklaas
I'm trying to trace any pictures or information regarding my Grand Uncles, both of whom died during WWII at the hands of the Japanese. Also of interest is what happened to Sinjun's wife Catherine 'Kate' Jonklaas.
James J Jonklaas [email protected]
Jennifer Rouse and Segma Tobacco Estate
I was born in Kuching on 13th December 1947. My father (Henry "Patsy" Church Ward) worked on The Segama Estate which was a tobacco estate near Lahad Datu. Also on the estate was Yvonne Rouse, who gave birth to a daughter, Jennifer, on the same day ie. 13th December 1947. The Rouses left Borneo and, as far as I've been able to track down, went to live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia in the early 1950s. I'd like to find Jennifer who was my playmate at the Segama Estate from 1947 to 1954.
My father, Henry Church Ward, went to British North Borneo to work for Imperial Tobacco on the Segama Estate in 1934. He was interned by the Japanese at Lintang Camp in Kuching and was released in September 1945. He went to Australia and married Olive Emily Delohery in December 1945 and returned with her to the Segama Estate. They had 4 daughters while they were living on the estate. They left in 1954. I'd like to know something about the history of the estate. I've learned that it was the Darvel Bay Syndicate taken over by Imperial Tobacco in 1934. Was it closed down when the English were interned? When was it taken over by the Chinese? Why was it closed down in 1960?
Annette Minter (nee Ward) [email protected]
George Rettie Burns - attempting to find where he is buried
We are attempting to find out where George Rettie Burns is buried. He is my husband's father and my husband was at boarding school in England when his father died and his mother never discussed his father's death nor advised of his burial ground. We are due to visit Borneo and surrounding areas in September of this year and are desparate to find out this information as my husband wants to pay his last respects to his father by attending his grave. We would be grateful if anyone could give us information regarding George if they remember him or have knowledge of him. We have a copy of an obituary in the Aberdeen grammar School Magazine which states that George Rettie Burns born 8th December, 1912 in Rangoon educated at Aberdeen University, Scotland -died aged 48 at Tawau, North Borneo on 19 May, 1960 He was appointed to one of Thomas Barlow Bros, Malayan Rubber Estates in 1935 and worked there until the outbreak of war with Japan. He was a member of the FMSVF and escaped with a party of sixty-six others just before Singapore fell to the Japanese. The escapees had a 50 foot launch powered by twin diesel engines. they had no navigator, charts or tide tables, etc their only aids being a school map of the East Indies (1inch=100miles) and a pocket compass. They had only a slight knowledge of the inner minefields and no knowledge at all of the outer fields. They succeeded eventually in reaching Sumatra, when Burns went by Dutch ship to Java and then to Perth, WA. While in Australia he served for a short time with the U.S. Navy at Fremantle. He later worked his passage as an engineer on a Norwegian boat to Freetown, Sierra Leone, arriving there in August, 1942. He later moved to Tanga West Africa. Burns returned to Malaya after the war. For some time following 1949 he was in business at Seremban, Negri Sembilan, and Malaya and for the last few years was in Borneo. We have a hand written copy of a log George wrote as they escaped which is very interesting and precious to my husband.
Katie Burns [email protected]
Ian Greig Maitland, Kedah Volunteer Force to FMSVF
I wish to find more information on my father Ian Greig Maitland who was a planter in Kedah & Perak [Sabrang Rubber Estate, Telok Anson then Badenoch Estate] and played cricket for Perak. He served in the Kedah Volunteer Force then FMSVF Armoured Car Regiment and also a POW of the Japanese. He was sent to Thailand with D Battalion on October 12th 1942. Ian Maitland is survived by his five adult children who are very interested in any information on him and his fellow Volunteers. I have obtained a copy of the book "Bamboo Doctor" and would like to take this further.
Kind regards and respect
Sue Davies (nee Maitland) [email protected]
Artwork painted by Desmond Bettany as a Changi POW
Hi all, Just to let you know that dad painted well over 300 images in Changi, which we have now put onto a website. This includes 100 theatre programs and inserts with actors names; a page a caricatures and portraits and many more. The site is www.changipowart.com
Keep up the fantastic work.
Keith Bettany, Australia [email protected]
Birth Certificate
I am having trouble tracing my birth record. GRO tell me they cannot find it, even though I obtained a passport many years ago with a copy which I think came from Somerset House. Do you have any idea who I should contact? I was born in Kuching, Sarawak in 1947 of British parents (my father was District Officer there for 6 years) Thank you very much in advance!
Liz Brynin (nee Waine) [email protected]
Sergeant Keyt
I am researching Operation Minerva, a landing by five men on the south coast of Sumatra on 20 December 1942. Having been delivered by Dutch Navy Catalina, they were never seen nor heard from again. Three were British officers (one RAF, two Army) and one was a Malayan Chinese sergeant who had been recruited in Hong Kong. I have identified and researched those four, but the fifth is a complete mystery. All I know about him is the entry "SERGEANT KEYT" in the aircraft passenger manifest. At a guess, he was the radio operator, but this is only a guess. The surname Keyt appears in Malaya, Singapore, Ceylon, India and the UK, so it is proving difficult to pin him down. Can anyone help to identify this man, please?
David Miller [email protected]
Husband's Birth Certificate
I am searching for my husbands birth certificate and am at a loss as to where to search. He was born in Perak North Taiping on the British Army Base to an Australian Officer and His Australian wife on the 25th May 1956. I have all the hospital notes on his birth but do not have his birth certificate which our children need. Please can you help me or direct me to somewhere where we can get a copy of his birth certificate. His parents are elderly and only tell us that he has three nationalities, British, Australian and Malaysian. I would be grateful if you could help me in any way.
Regards
Kim Rickards [email protected]
Diamond Jubilee Rubber Estate & James Taylor
I'm researching my family history and am looking for any information and/or photos from 1923 - 1942 in relation to the Diamond Jubilee Estate which my Grandfather, James Taylor, managed. As far as I can ascertain he was the manager at the Tamok Estate, Mergui when he married my Grandmother in 1923. At some point after then he became the manager at the Diamond Jubilee Estate. My late Mother, Frances Jean Gibson Taylor, went to school in the Cameron Highlands. I don't know the name of the school but if anyone has info regarding this I would love to hear from them.
Patricia Purdom [email protected]
Information about my Late Uncle
My uncle Company Quarter Master Sergeant Alexander Scott Anderson F.M.S.V.F. was killed in Singapore in February 1942. I understand he was a rubber planter but I do not know where. As a starting point are there any service records I can access on-line?
Ann Walker [email protected]
Singapore Residents 1930's/1940's
I am seeking information on Mr Harold William Leyden, Mrs Denezia Matthews [nee Light) & daughters Rossie Matthews , Winifred Matthews , Elaine Matthews, Ivy Matthews. Thank you.
Eleanor Leyden [email protected]
Tracing My Great Grandfather George Green
Tracing my Great Grandfather All I know of my great grandfather was that he was a British based in Sabah and was captured during WWII. His name was George Green. I was told that he worked on the Sabah Railway and was evacuated to Labuan immediately during the 2nd war, got married in Labuan Sabah. Details may not be accurate. Any information about this is much appreciated. Thanks.
Nelly Green [email protected]
Federated Malay States Volunteer Force 1st Perak Battalion
Wilfred Stokes was my uncle and died on the 6th August 1944 Labuan, Borneo. I am trying to do a family tree and want to know if he had any relatives and the circumstances of his death.
Laura Selfe [email protected]
Looking to find more information on Dan Daniel Wright, Kedah Volunteer Force
I'm currently working to compile some family history on my grandfather Richard Barry Duke, who died as a prisoner of war in 1943. He was in the Kedah Volunteer Force. I'm trying to find more info on his friend Dan Wright who was a volunteer with him. I believe he survived the war and was originally from Durham England? Married to Hannah? I have amazing letters he wrote to my grandmother about my grandfather and about the night he died. I would love to see if he has any living grandchildren.
Kind regards
Jenni Barry Duke [email protected]
Information re. 13534 Corporal Roy Alexander MOULTON FMSVF
Any information regarding Roy Moulton in Changi Prison or on Burma-Thai Railway. Roy died Friday 28th April 1944 aged 34. (Note:- Also a Photo of Grave / A Cross with date 28/2/44 ). I have some basic information about his life in Malaya prior to War, but very little after that except photos of the grave at Kanchanaburi and a photograph of his unit, the FMSVF.
Roy.G. Moulton [email protected]
Aaron Victor Cohen, Tapah, Perak 1920's
Can you help me I have been researching my family tree, I cannot find my uncle Aaron Victor Cohen, born in Manchester 1901. He always used the name Victor or Vic. It was said in the family, that he went down with his ship. After many searches this was found not to true. I have now found a photograph of him in tropical white suit with this address on the back,
TAPAH, PERAK F.S.M. (dated 6th October 1921)
Could any of your members help? They might have known him or know what happened to him.
Norma Nurney [email protected]
John Dickenson
I am trying to trace my Great Grandfather John Dickenson who was a Tea planter I'm not too sure where we think Burma between 1890-1940. The surname Dickenson could have been spelt Dickinson or Dickerson. I haven't got much more information and would be grateful for any help.
Karen Allan [email protected]
Reginald de Payen DALLIN
I have a medal in my collection to a Lt Reginald de Payen DALLIN. His WW1 medal index card shows that he was a Pte in the Malaya Volunteer Rifles (Reg No. 1502). Later Commissioned in to Durham Light Infantry. He was a planter in Negri Sembilan. How can I find out about his service in the Malaya Volunteer Rifles?
Thanks, David Jones [email protected]
Rupert Faulkner (Mick) Vaughan
I am looking for information on my great great uncle who was captured by the Japanese in North Borneo(Kuching). He was an accountant with the British Borneo Timber Company, Sandakan. He must have been a fair age by the time he was released ( I have been told that he had a local girlfriend who use to feed him through the wire at the prison camp]. After the war he visited his sister Mrs Wheeler in New Zealand but returned to Borneo. Any information about him would be good.
Jill Erridge [email protected]
George 'Ginger' Anderson KVF
Could anyone please assist us. We are trying to trace details of George (Ginger) Anderson, a rubber planter of Kuala Muda Estate, Sungi Patani, Kedah, who fought against the Japanese until his capture. He subsequently survived the Burmese Railway, and after the war, returned with his family to the estate. We believe he was a member of the KVF. He was married to Margaret (Meg) Anderson who, we believe, was evacuated from Singapore on the SS Duchess of Bedford Any news or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Michael & Eileen Jowett [email protected]
Evacuees in 1942 from Singapore to Bombay : Le Cain and Kronenburg
I am writing the biography of Errol Le Cain, the illustrator and artist, who was evacuated with his mother, grandmother and maybe his aunts just before the Japanese invasion of Singapore, in February 1942. Errol was a baby of 11 months. If you remember Minnie Le Cain or her mother Mrs Kronenburg, I would be very grateful to hear from you. We do not know the vessel, though it might have been the FELIX ROUSSELL. They landed in Bombay and went on to spend the war years in Agra. Thank you very much.
Denyse Tessensohn [email protected]
Webb Family
In 1942 I was evacuated to a manor house [the hostel] in Bilborough, Yorkshire, where fellow evacuees were a Mrs Webb, daughter Dawn and son Tyrone from Malaya.Two older sons went to Australia, one called Lance. Mr Webb, manager of a tin mine, [likely J.P. Webb of Kepong Tin who was interned in Changi] stayed behind. Any news of this family. After the war I went with my family to Australia where I still am. Pleased to hear from anyone on this.
Regards
Tony Maw [email protected]
I am researching the escape of Corporal P. G.( or P.J.) Clarke (pre 1941 described as Euro reporter, Federal Council, and post War the Assistant Commissioner for Roads, Malaya) of the FMSVF from the island of Blakan Mati ( now Sentosa in Singapore ) on 16.2.42 after the Surrender “ ... with eight others (including L/Cpl. Bobby Peacock, CA, Accounts dept., Guthries Ltd. , Singapore) ... in a leaky lifeboat ... with four oars.. their goal was Sumatra... “ [ source is the diary of Charles Thornton Selangor Btn and also Guthries Ltd] both men reached Bombay and Peacock apparently reached Sydney. I am trying to identify who were the other men in the lifeboat and what happened to them. Any information would be valued.
Michael Pether, Auckland, New Zealand [email protected]
Johore Planter 1930s Clarence Edward Binns
I'm looking for some information of my grandfather's life in Malaya. He planted at Ulu Remis Plantation in Layang-layang Johore during the 1930s. If anyone has got photographs or any kind of information about him or the estate where he was working kindly contact me. Your kind assistance wil be highly appreciated. Thank you.
Raja Segran [email protected]
Jack Armstrong (John Ryan on official documentation)
Did anyone know Jack Armstrong an engineer who worked /lived in Sandakan North Borneo from 1950 till sometime in the 60s after he was taken ill. He returned to the UK and lived for a short time in Wiltshire, then moved to Gosport in Hampshire. Sadly he died in 1966. I am trying to trace him as he was my stepfather and my Mother has now passed away. so any information would be really valuable to me. Unfortunately I do not know the company he worked for in Borneo.
Jane Kirby [email protected]
Information about my Great Grandmother Elizabeth Rodrigues, Singapore
I am looking for information about my great grandmother Elizabeth Rodrigues, she was an Eurasian lady and had her daughter in 1919. She was married to a British RAF serviceman. They were both bayoneted by the Japanese. If anyone knew them, please email me.
Joanne Carolyn Conceicao [email protected]
Tracing Family History
My great grandmother Mrs Mary Edgar aged 31 and her daughter Majorie E Edgar aged 7 left Liverpool 1937, both were natives of Northern Ireland to join husband/father in the Federated Malay States. They landed at Penang. Marjorie speaks little of her time there except to say her father was shot in the back trying to evacuate the hospital when the Japanese invaded. He was known as David Edgar and was an Army Officer. Marjorie does mention a lovely house with a child minder, servants, etc. I was told that she and her mother saw some terrible sights so they may have been in a camp, however, they both ended up in Australia and eventually made their way back to London and then returned to Ireland in the 1960s. I would be grateful for any information.
Many thanks
Julie Morris [email protected]
HMS Kedah
I am researching my family tree and trying to find information regarding my Aunt Dorothy Brewster who I understand left Singapore aboard the HMS Kedah along with her two sons.
Thanks. Tony Dow [email protected] [email protected]
Note: IN our MVG records we have BREWSTER. Mrs Dorothy wife of CQMS W.G.G. Brewster, Gordon Highlanders POW. Evacuated aged 28 on the Duchess of Bedford with sons James Scott, aged 4 and William, aged 2, arriving Liverpool 4.4.42 to Downpatrick, Co. Down.
Royce Douglas Hawkesworth Chava
I am trying to trace any relations I might still have living. My father was born in Ceylon in 1909 in Kandy. I believe his family went to live in Java before the Second World War. His father was a tea planter. Father's name was Richard T Chava and mother was Ann Mary Hawkesworth. I believe that there were other siblings as my father was the younger son. The last my father heard, the family was in Java.
Margaret Rushworth [email protected] [email protected]
Patrick Campbell Fisher MSVR 1915, RAOC FEPOW
I am trying to find information about Patrick Campbell Fisher who was manager of Spynie Rubber Plantation in the Perak region.Does anyone know where he was imprisoned by the Japanese or have any info about him at all please?
He managed to get his wife and daughters Janet, Jean and Paddy out on Charon and stayed to fight. He was captured and survived the war but never spoke of his experiences. I would love to be able to fill in some gaps for future generations. Thank you for your help.
Sarah Ariss [email protected]
Thomas M(a)c Murdo-Spencer
My mother born 1923 to a Siamese mother. She was orphaned in 1935. Raised in Catholic convent in Ipoh. and was later interned by the Japanese. Her father was Thomas M(a)cMurdoch-Spencer (Spenser?)
I am trying to trace the family tree.
Anne Carter [email protected]
Malacca Volunteer Force Records: Pte Lee Kum Moon 4SSVF
My late father served in the Malacca Volunteer Force during the Second World War. He passed away in 1958 when I was just 14 years of age. I remember him telling me that the CorpS was mobilised and dispatched to Singapore in 1941 just after he got married to my mom. He reportedly walked and made his way back to Malacca after the fighting stopped. I remember he had some medals after the war but they were unfortunately lost after he passed away.
My children and I are now in the midst of compiling a family history and I will like to seek your assistance for any information of his service in the MVF, the battalion he served in (4th Battalion) and also if you have any pictorial records.
My father's name : LEE KUM MOON. (surname LEE) He was 24 years of age in 1941.
Thank you for your kind attention and assistance.
E.C.Lee [email protected]
John Willibold Meiers FMSVF Armoured Cars
I would love to find some information and/or photos about John Willibold Meiers. According to some family letters, he worked on a tin dredge in Malaya [Malayan Tin Dredging, Batu Gajah] and then joined the Malayan Volunteers when war broke out. He served with the Armoured Car Regiment He worked on the Burma Railway, only to die just before liberation. Our family records state he died on the Mergui Road Party, 8 August 1945, at 31 years, but official records say he died in June 1945.
Any assistance would be gratefully received.
Sonya [email protected].
Kobus / Reid Family
I have been on the Malayan Volunteers Group Website and have found a message from Vincent Elgey.
I believe that there is connection with his family and my mother. I am currently tracing the history of my Grandmother Clara Henrietta Fredericka Kobus, who was born in 1909 in Sumatra.
She married a Lieutenant, James M Burke of the 32nd FIeld Hospital, Royal Army Medical Corps in 1940 at the Garrison. Her father was Dirk A Kobus but was deceased at the time of her marriage.
My Mother was born in Singapore in 1940. Her name was Marie Burke and the Reid family were her cousins.
They were evacuated to Australia on Orion and my Grandfather was put into a Japanese Prisoner of War camp and survived. The Burke family later returning to England.
I am interested in finding information on my Grandmother - Clara, any relatives and any information connected with the Reid Family. Also any information on my grandfather James
Burke as an RAMC POW.
Mark Bradly [email protected]
Neva Irene Helmrich Miles
I am seeking information and photos of my grandmother,Neva Irene Helmrich (later Miles). My grandmother and her parents lived in Malim Nawar. My great grandfather was Arthur Edward Helmrich and my great grandmother Priscilla Helmrich. My grandmother's family and her husbands family were all involved in the tin mines. My grandmother was evacuated from Singapore. Any information would be gratefully received.
DCaldere [email protected]
Fate of relatives P.J. Madge [FMSVF] & R. Madge [civilian internee]
My uncle Patrick John Madge and Great Uncle Raymond Madge were captured by the Japanese when Singapore fell. I would be grateful to receive any information of their fate (POW Camps, Date of Capture and release etc). I look forward to hearing from you.
Patrick Armitage [email protected]
My Grandfather Alfred Gee, Malayan Mining Engineer
I am seeking information about Alfred Gee, my mother's father. My Grandfather worked in (perhaps owned) a tin mine in Malaya in the late 19th/early 20th century. My mother, who was conceived during his infrequent trips home, was born on July 30th 1901. I have a photograph of my Grandfather taken in the Federal Photographic Studio, No. 39 Sultan Street, Kuala Lumpor (numbered 6170). I can email a copy if this helps. I would very much appreciate any information. I had a photo of him on his yacht out here but unfortunately that is lost.
Owen Christopher Pegg [email protected]
Raymond Hugo Clibborn
I am looking for information on my great uncle Hugo, born 1910, who is believed to have lived in Malaya from 1932 until the Japanese invasion. He is the brother in law of Neil George Ferguson who was a captain in the Malayan Volunteers and in Johore in 1942. Hugo was an ex-merchant sailor, died a bachelor in 1960 and family history says that he was in either tin or rubber. We don't know if he became a Volunteer during his time in Malaya. He is believed to have been sunk twice during the Japanese invasion of the Far East. We don't know whether he was on board as a civilian or had re-enlisted in the navy at the time of the evacuation. Any information would be gratefully received.
Jenny Davies [email protected]
Singapore Evacuees Helen Wills & George Wills
I am trying to find out more information about my mother's evacuation from Singapore with her brother and aunt, uncle (Livingstone) and 2 cousins. Her name was Helen Wills and her brother, George Wills. I believe they were on board one of the last ships to leave Singapore and they ended up in South Africa. Many thanks.
Karen Williams [email protected]
Any information about Hitam bin Ja'afar 4FMSVF [Pahang Battalion]
In December 1941 Hitam bin Ja'afar left home for training in Kuala Kubu Baru. I understand he was in the transport company. Just before the Japanese landed in Kota Baru, Kelantan, the following year the Batallion was moved in a convoy through Gua Musang to Kota Baru to intercept the Japanese. He was said to have driven a truck of soldiers; but when before they reached Kota Baru the Japanese had landed and the Battalion was commanded to return south and go to Singapore which was already under Japanese attack. By the time the Forces arrived Bahau in Negeri Sembilan, the Japanese had taken over Singapore and the British Forces were about to surrender. The Battalion at Bahau was demobbed, and the Volunteers were ordered to return to their hometowns on their resources. They were allowed to take with them weapons for their protection. Hitam bin Ja'afar with his company, said to be led by Hamid Bidin, went into the jungle towards Rompin and Pekan. The company split into small groups. Hitam bin Ja'afar and his group joined forces in the jungle fighting the Japanese. He did not reach home in Mentekab, Pahang, until weeks after the surrender of the Japanese and the return of the British in Pahang in 1946. He never related to any member of his family as to what happened to him between the time he was called to Kuala Kubu Bharu in 1941 and his return to Mentekab in 1946. He was given the Pacific Medals which he quietly discarded soon after receiving them. He passed away in 1998. I would appreciate it very much if any of his friends or superiors would be able to shed some light on those dark days in the life of Haji Hitam bin Ja'afar's. May I wish the MVP sucess in making the struggle for the independence of Malaysia as meaningful and colourful as it has been.
Mohd Yusof bin Hitam, PSM, DIMP, JMN,PPM, MCS/JPM [email protected]
Roderick Boe Stuart
My Grandad was in the Malayan Emergency conflict during the 1950s. I know there was a pictures of him at one of the Sultan of Johore's parties. I would love any photos or memories that anyone can recall. He came from Inverness and served in the 11th Hussars. He may have been known as Rod. My nana Sheila was also there, My grandparents often went to Raffles Hotel. It is really sad because no one knows who his birth mother is! If someone could email us back with any information that would be great.
Thanks
Natasha Condy [email protected]
Civilian Internees - Muntok - Palembang - Loebok Linggau
I am trying to find out Information regarding the Reid Family who were internees at the following camps from 1942 onwards : Muntok - Palembang - Loebok Linggau The family consisted of Mrs Marie Reid, her 5 children and her mother Mrs Kobus, Erica, Jane, James, Dirk, Roy All the family survived the camp apart from Mrs Kobus. Jane Reid later to be married and take the name Jane Elgey is my mother, she is now in 83yrs old and wishes to find if there are any other survivors of the camps mentioned still alive who she may contact. Jonathan Moffatt has kindly passed my details onto a number of people already and also sent me some interesting documents pertaining to my Grandfather who managed to escape Singapore and reach Perth Australia, which I've passed to my mother Jane. She's also asked about the "Mata Hari" as this was the ship the family attempted to escape Singapore on and were eventually captured on. I myself am also interested in any information that anyone might have on the Reid Family before the war, as I was very young when my Grandfather died and know very little about the Reid families life in Malaya. Thank you in advance to anyone who can help and should they wish to contact me or my mother about the please feel free to.
Kind regards
Vincent Elgey [email protected]
Edward Clyne FMSVF
I am looking for any information about a relative of mine, Edward Clyne. At one time he was the manager of the Rosevale Estate in Selangor, and during the Second World War served in 2nd (Selangor) Battalion FMSVF. He survived both the war and the railway, and returned to Selangor after the war. Any information that anyone has would be most welcome.
Tim Sewell timsewell99@gmail,com
Missing memorials in St George's Church, Penang
St. George's Church in Penang, the oldest Anglican church built in SE Asia, is preparing to celebrate its bicentenary in 2019. While many historic memorials in the church were lost or destroyed during the Second World War, several post-war plaques and memorial inscriptions have disappeared from the church in recent years. If anyone has photographs showing the the church interior or other records that might help identify the missing memorials, please let me know.
Leslie A K James [email protected]
Kanchanaburi War Grave
I have a photo of a war grave at Kanchanaburi in Thailand. The soldier in question has my mothers maiden name and i am looking to see if he is a relative. the details are as follows : PRIVATE W.D.CAMP NO/ 5835466 CAMBRIDGESHIRE REGIMENT DATE OF DEATH 30TH NOVEMBER 1943 AGE 34 YEARS. If you could help me i would be very grateful regards
Mrs Hazel Hoyle [email protected]
Civilian Evacuees captured in Sumatra
Greetings! My grandparents George Basil Warburton Gray and Ruth Gray were civilian evacuees on the Mata Hari that was subsequently captured and the passengers imprisoned on Bangka Island and then Palembang in Sumatra. My grandmother Ruth survived the war and returned to Malaya (Port Dickson), but my grandfather George died in captivity. My great Aunt Marjory Gray was, I believe, also captured on the Mata Hari and she likewise died in captivity in Sumatra. Marjory was the wife of French Eric Anderson Gray who was a civilian internee at Sime Road camp in Singapore, where he died in captivity. My father was Donald StGeorge Warburton Gray of Ulu Remis Estate, Layang Layang Johore, who was on home leave in Tasmania at the time of the Jap invasion. He subsequently enlisted and was sent to Ceylon and India for special operations training with the Inter Services Liaison Department (MI6), in a section commanded by another ex-Malayan planter, Boris Hembry. My father was subsequently parachuted into Malaya (in a blind drop near Ipoh) in January 1945 with a group of agents. His group's drop was spotted by the Japs, but the group was just able to escape capture with the help of local chinese who led the group to join up with another group in the jungle. My father received a Mentioned in Despatches award for gallantry and, after the war, returned to planting with Guthries at Linggi Estate, near Rantau in Negri Sembilan, until he retired to Sussex in 1959. Can anyone tell me, is there in existence somewhere a comprehensive list of the civilian evacuees from Malaya who were held in captivity in Bangka or Sumatra (both those who died in captivity and those who survived)? If so, can you point me towards where I can obtain a copy of such a list? Thank you to all the people who have contributed information to the very worthwhile Malayan Volunteers Group Web site.
Kind regards, Robert Gray [email protected]
Donald Vanrenen
I am trying to discover where my father, Donald Vanrenen, was imprisoned during the war. Donnie was manager of Rubana Estate near Teluk Anson and friends with Mamie and Andy Robertson, Bob & Helen Milner-Moore and and Doreen and Bill McLaughlin among others. My mother, Anne, & I along with Helen Milner-Moore and Doreen McLaughlin and their children, escaped to Australia in Dec.'41/January '42. I believe my father was captured soon after the fall of Singapore. We have discovered a lot about his brother, Frank, in the past year but nothing about him. I'd be grateful for any news of him during the war years if there is anyone still living who might have known/met/ been imprisoned with him. Thank you.
Philippa (Pippa) Schmiegelow (nee Vanrenen) [email protected]
Sgt later Lieutenant Robert George Vergette MSVR later attached to Singapore Volunteer Corps
My Grandfather Robert George Vergette was a member of the Colonial Auxiliary Forces in around 1927 - I know no details about his service, or when it started or ended. If there is any way that you could help me - perhaps by just pointing me at the right location to look, I would be very grateful Thanks in advance
Mark Humphreys
[email protected]
St John B Jonklaas and Walter O J Jonklaas
I'm trying to trace any pictures or information regarding my Grand Uncles, both of whom died during WWII at the hands of the Japanese. Also of interest is what happened to Sinjun's wife Catherine 'Kate' Jonklaas.
James J Jonklaas [email protected]
Jennifer Rouse and Segma Tobacco Estate
I was born in Kuching on 13th December 1947. My father (Henry "Patsy" Church Ward) worked on The Segama Estate which was a tobacco estate near Lahad Datu. Also on the estate was Yvonne Rouse, who gave birth to a daughter, Jennifer, on the same day ie. 13th December 1947. The Rouses left Borneo and, as far as I've been able to track down, went to live in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia in the early 1950s. I'd like to find Jennifer who was my playmate at the Segama Estate from 1947 to 1954.
My father, Henry Church Ward, went to British North Borneo to work for Imperial Tobacco on the Segama Estate in 1934. He was interned by the Japanese at Lintang Camp in Kuching and was released in September 1945. He went to Australia and married Olive Emily Delohery in December 1945 and returned with her to the Segama Estate. They had 4 daughters while they were living on the estate. They left in 1954. I'd like to know something about the history of the estate. I've learned that it was the Darvel Bay Syndicate taken over by Imperial Tobacco in 1934. Was it closed down when the English were interned? When was it taken over by the Chinese? Why was it closed down in 1960?
Annette Minter (nee Ward) [email protected]
George Rettie Burns - attempting to find where he is buried
We are attempting to find out where George Rettie Burns is buried. He is my husband's father and my husband was at boarding school in England when his father died and his mother never discussed his father's death nor advised of his burial ground. We are due to visit Borneo and surrounding areas in September of this year and are desparate to find out this information as my husband wants to pay his last respects to his father by attending his grave. We would be grateful if anyone could give us information regarding George if they remember him or have knowledge of him. We have a copy of an obituary in the Aberdeen grammar School Magazine which states that George Rettie Burns born 8th December, 1912 in Rangoon educated at Aberdeen University, Scotland -died aged 48 at Tawau, North Borneo on 19 May, 1960 He was appointed to one of Thomas Barlow Bros, Malayan Rubber Estates in 1935 and worked there until the outbreak of war with Japan. He was a member of the FMSVF and escaped with a party of sixty-six others just before Singapore fell to the Japanese. The escapees had a 50 foot launch powered by twin diesel engines. they had no navigator, charts or tide tables, etc their only aids being a school map of the East Indies (1inch=100miles) and a pocket compass. They had only a slight knowledge of the inner minefields and no knowledge at all of the outer fields. They succeeded eventually in reaching Sumatra, when Burns went by Dutch ship to Java and then to Perth, WA. While in Australia he served for a short time with the U.S. Navy at Fremantle. He later worked his passage as an engineer on a Norwegian boat to Freetown, Sierra Leone, arriving there in August, 1942. He later moved to Tanga West Africa. Burns returned to Malaya after the war. For some time following 1949 he was in business at Seremban, Negri Sembilan, and Malaya and for the last few years was in Borneo. We have a hand written copy of a log George wrote as they escaped which is very interesting and precious to my husband.
Katie Burns [email protected]
Ian Greig Maitland, Kedah Volunteer Force to FMSVF
I wish to find more information on my father Ian Greig Maitland who was a planter in Kedah & Perak [Sabrang Rubber Estate, Telok Anson then Badenoch Estate] and played cricket for Perak. He served in the Kedah Volunteer Force then FMSVF Armoured Car Regiment and also a POW of the Japanese. He was sent to Thailand with D Battalion on October 12th 1942. Ian Maitland is survived by his five adult children who are very interested in any information on him and his fellow Volunteers. I have obtained a copy of the book "Bamboo Doctor" and would like to take this further.
Kind regards and respect
Sue Davies (nee Maitland) [email protected]
Artwork painted by Desmond Bettany as a Changi POW
Hi all, Just to let you know that dad painted well over 300 images in Changi, which we have now put onto a website. This includes 100 theatre programs and inserts with actors names; a page a caricatures and portraits and many more. The site is www.changipowart.com
Keep up the fantastic work.
Keith Bettany, Australia [email protected]
Birth Certificate
I am having trouble tracing my birth record. GRO tell me they cannot find it, even though I obtained a passport many years ago with a copy which I think came from Somerset House. Do you have any idea who I should contact? I was born in Kuching, Sarawak in 1947 of British parents (my father was District Officer there for 6 years) Thank you very much in advance!
Liz Brynin (nee Waine) [email protected]
Sergeant Keyt
I am researching Operation Minerva, a landing by five men on the south coast of Sumatra on 20 December 1942. Having been delivered by Dutch Navy Catalina, they were never seen nor heard from again. Three were British officers (one RAF, two Army) and one was a Malayan Chinese sergeant who had been recruited in Hong Kong. I have identified and researched those four, but the fifth is a complete mystery. All I know about him is the entry "SERGEANT KEYT" in the aircraft passenger manifest. At a guess, he was the radio operator, but this is only a guess. The surname Keyt appears in Malaya, Singapore, Ceylon, India and the UK, so it is proving difficult to pin him down. Can anyone help to identify this man, please?
David Miller [email protected]
Husband's Birth Certificate
I am searching for my husbands birth certificate and am at a loss as to where to search. He was born in Perak North Taiping on the British Army Base to an Australian Officer and His Australian wife on the 25th May 1956. I have all the hospital notes on his birth but do not have his birth certificate which our children need. Please can you help me or direct me to somewhere where we can get a copy of his birth certificate. His parents are elderly and only tell us that he has three nationalities, British, Australian and Malaysian. I would be grateful if you could help me in any way.
Regards
Kim Rickards [email protected]
Diamond Jubilee Rubber Estate & James Taylor
I'm researching my family history and am looking for any information and/or photos from 1923 - 1942 in relation to the Diamond Jubilee Estate which my Grandfather, James Taylor, managed. As far as I can ascertain he was the manager at the Tamok Estate, Mergui when he married my Grandmother in 1923. At some point after then he became the manager at the Diamond Jubilee Estate. My late Mother, Frances Jean Gibson Taylor, went to school in the Cameron Highlands. I don't know the name of the school but if anyone has info regarding this I would love to hear from them.
Patricia Purdom [email protected]
Information about my Late Uncle
My uncle Company Quarter Master Sergeant Alexander Scott Anderson F.M.S.V.F. was killed in Singapore in February 1942. I understand he was a rubber planter but I do not know where. As a starting point are there any service records I can access on-line?
Ann Walker [email protected]
Singapore Residents 1930's/1940's
I am seeking information on Mr Harold William Leyden, Mrs Denezia Matthews [nee Light) & daughters Rossie Matthews , Winifred Matthews , Elaine Matthews, Ivy Matthews. Thank you.
Eleanor Leyden [email protected]
Tracing My Great Grandfather George Green
Tracing my Great Grandfather All I know of my great grandfather was that he was a British based in Sabah and was captured during WWII. His name was George Green. I was told that he worked on the Sabah Railway and was evacuated to Labuan immediately during the 2nd war, got married in Labuan Sabah. Details may not be accurate. Any information about this is much appreciated. Thanks.
Nelly Green [email protected]
Federated Malay States Volunteer Force 1st Perak Battalion
Wilfred Stokes was my uncle and died on the 6th August 1944 Labuan, Borneo. I am trying to do a family tree and want to know if he had any relatives and the circumstances of his death.
Laura Selfe [email protected]
Looking to find more information on Dan Daniel Wright, Kedah Volunteer Force
I'm currently working to compile some family history on my grandfather Richard Barry Duke, who died as a prisoner of war in 1943. He was in the Kedah Volunteer Force. I'm trying to find more info on his friend Dan Wright who was a volunteer with him. I believe he survived the war and was originally from Durham England? Married to Hannah? I have amazing letters he wrote to my grandmother about my grandfather and about the night he died. I would love to see if he has any living grandchildren.
Kind regards
Jenni Barry Duke [email protected]
Information re. 13534 Corporal Roy Alexander MOULTON FMSVF
Any information regarding Roy Moulton in Changi Prison or on Burma-Thai Railway. Roy died Friday 28th April 1944 aged 34. (Note:- Also a Photo of Grave / A Cross with date 28/2/44 ). I have some basic information about his life in Malaya prior to War, but very little after that except photos of the grave at Kanchanaburi and a photograph of his unit, the FMSVF.
Roy.G. Moulton [email protected]
Aaron Victor Cohen, Tapah, Perak 1920's
Can you help me I have been researching my family tree, I cannot find my uncle Aaron Victor Cohen, born in Manchester 1901. He always used the name Victor or Vic. It was said in the family, that he went down with his ship. After many searches this was found not to true. I have now found a photograph of him in tropical white suit with this address on the back,
TAPAH, PERAK F.S.M. (dated 6th October 1921)
Could any of your members help? They might have known him or know what happened to him.
Norma Nurney [email protected]
John Dickenson
I am trying to trace my Great Grandfather John Dickenson who was a Tea planter I'm not too sure where we think Burma between 1890-1940. The surname Dickenson could have been spelt Dickinson or Dickerson. I haven't got much more information and would be grateful for any help.
Karen Allan [email protected]
Reginald de Payen DALLIN
I have a medal in my collection to a Lt Reginald de Payen DALLIN. His WW1 medal index card shows that he was a Pte in the Malaya Volunteer Rifles (Reg No. 1502). Later Commissioned in to Durham Light Infantry. He was a planter in Negri Sembilan. How can I find out about his service in the Malaya Volunteer Rifles?
Thanks, David Jones [email protected]
Rupert Faulkner (Mick) Vaughan
I am looking for information on my great great uncle who was captured by the Japanese in North Borneo(Kuching). He was an accountant with the British Borneo Timber Company, Sandakan. He must have been a fair age by the time he was released ( I have been told that he had a local girlfriend who use to feed him through the wire at the prison camp]. After the war he visited his sister Mrs Wheeler in New Zealand but returned to Borneo. Any information about him would be good.
Jill Erridge [email protected]
George 'Ginger' Anderson KVF
Could anyone please assist us. We are trying to trace details of George (Ginger) Anderson, a rubber planter of Kuala Muda Estate, Sungi Patani, Kedah, who fought against the Japanese until his capture. He subsequently survived the Burmese Railway, and after the war, returned with his family to the estate. We believe he was a member of the KVF. He was married to Margaret (Meg) Anderson who, we believe, was evacuated from Singapore on the SS Duchess of Bedford Any news or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Michael & Eileen Jowett [email protected]
Evacuees in 1942 from Singapore to Bombay : Le Cain and Kronenburg
I am writing the biography of Errol Le Cain, the illustrator and artist, who was evacuated with his mother, grandmother and maybe his aunts just before the Japanese invasion of Singapore, in February 1942. Errol was a baby of 11 months. If you remember Minnie Le Cain or her mother Mrs Kronenburg, I would be very grateful to hear from you. We do not know the vessel, though it might have been the FELIX ROUSSELL. They landed in Bombay and went on to spend the war years in Agra. Thank you very much.
Denyse Tessensohn [email protected]
Webb Family
In 1942 I was evacuated to a manor house [the hostel] in Bilborough, Yorkshire, where fellow evacuees were a Mrs Webb, daughter Dawn and son Tyrone from Malaya.Two older sons went to Australia, one called Lance. Mr Webb, manager of a tin mine, [likely J.P. Webb of Kepong Tin who was interned in Changi] stayed behind. Any news of this family. After the war I went with my family to Australia where I still am. Pleased to hear from anyone on this.
Regards
Tony Maw [email protected]