A Splendid Little Colony: British Singapore 1819 - 1963


Sikh Policemen in Singapore


Sikhs from the Punjab, India, were often recruited as policemen in Singapore in the 19th century. The Chinese were often reluctant to join the force, fearing any confrontation with their compatriots in the gangs.

Source: Gretchen Liu. Singapore: A Pictorial History
In 1871, the Indian population on the island was some 11,000. By 1901, it was 16,000. These migrants came from all over the sub-continent to find jobs in Singapore, especially as labourers, merchants, traders, money-lenders and policemen.


A Splendid Little Colony: British Singapore 1819 - 1963 | Singapore


Armed Forces | Art and Culture | Articles | Biographies | Colonies | Discussion | Glossary | Home | Library | Links | Map Room | Sources and Media | Science and Technology | Search | Student Zone | Timelines | TV and Film


by Stephen
Luscombe