The Indonesian Revolution and the Singapore Connection: 1945-1949

This book explores a phase in the history of both Indonesia and Singapore that is little known. It is a narrative analysis of how the dynamics of the Indonesian revolution (1945-1949) overflowed into Singapore. In turn, Singapore was a base for the Indonesian nationalists, the British, the Dutch, and Chinese traders, with each group exploiting prevailing circumstances for their own interests. Indeed, the author argues that the success of Indonesia’s struggle against the Dutch was due in no small measure to the opportunities available in Singapore to advance Indonesia’s strategic aims. The Singapore connection during these years was a vital link.

Yong Mun Cheong, educated and trained in Singapore and the United States, has research experience in both the Netherlands and Indonesia. He is an associate professor at the National University of Singapore, where he has taught courses on Southeast Asia. Concurrently, he is also vice-dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. His earlier publications include H.J. van Mook and Indonesian Independence: A Study of His Role in Dutch-Indonesian Relations, 1945-48 (Nijhoff, 1982).