Our grandfather and his role in the first World War (1914 to 1918)

- February 25, 2026

Our late father cut out this 1995 report of a Chinese-language book “Who’s Who In The Chinese Community” launched at that time by Acting Environment Minister Mr Teo Chee Hean - because he believed his father was mentioned within its pages. We have now been able, with the great assistance from the National Library Board staff, to procure a page that mentions our grandfather, Mr Tan Piah Eng, one of the 1,175 listed Chinese community leaders in Singapore then. With the aid of DeepSeek AI, and thanks to our cousin’s husband, we were able to have page 418 which mentions him, highlighting his contributions during World War I (1914 to 1918) translated and transposed into a tribute for him, on the 71^st anniversary of his death on 27 February 1955.

Tan Piah Eng and his legacy

During the challenging years of the First World War which started in 1914, Tan Piah Eng, who was 36 years of age then, played a vital yet often unseen role in supporting the community through one of the most difficult periods in regional history. As global conflict disrupted supply lines and strained local resources, he emerged as a dependable figure who balanced heavy responsibilities with quiet determination and a deep sense of duty.

With wartime shortages escalating, particularly in areas such as Penang, essential goods—including rice, vegetables, fuel, and kerosene—became increasingly scarce. Tan Piah Eng was entrusted with overseeing procurement and distribution of these critical supplies. In this capacity, he served as a crucial link ensuring that those under his care continued to receive the necessities required to sustain daily operations. His work was especially demanding because he carried multiple roles simultaneously, including serving as assistant manager of the Bukit Timah Rubber Estate. Managing both estate affairs and wartime logistics required discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

At the height of the shortages, the ration allowance provided to Penang amounted to only 27 cents per day, a level far too low to meet basic needs. Seeing the hardship faced by the community, the Chinese organisations in Singapore initiated fundraising drives. Tan Piah Eng responded wholeheartedly. Through his efforts, he helped collect about $3,000, which was promptly sent to Penang to alleviate the crisis. As the situation worsened, another small round of contributions - an additional three dollars - was also gathered and forwarded, reflecting the community’s willingness to help with whatever they could offer.

While the authorities eventually increased the ration allowance to roughly three times its original amount, the severity of the wartime shortages meant that all donated funds were fully utilised before the conflict ended. Throughout those years, Tan Piah Eng remained steadfast, ensuring that supplies reached the right places and that operations continued despite the difficult circumstances.

Although he did not serve on the battlefield, his contributions were indispensable. People who lived through the war relied on individuals like him - people who shouldered heavy responsibilities quietly, consistently, and with great integrity. His efforts helped sustain families, support community organisations, and uphold essential services during a time when stability was fragile and resources were scarce.

For his family and descendants, the life of Tan Piah Eng is a lasting testament to resilience, responsibility, and service. His story reminds future generations that courage is not only found in dramatic acts, but also in steadfast dedication to helping others through long, trying years. His legacy remains a meaningful part of our family’s heritage.