Vietnamese Refugee’s Harrowing Journey to Singapore in 1981

In 1981, a young Vietnamese boy named Thao embarked on a perilous voyage to escape the aftermath of war. His story offers a poignant glimpse into the struggles faced by refugees seeking refuge, and their enduring hope for a better life.

Leaving Vietnam

At ten years old, Thao, the eldest of six, lived in southern Vietnam near Ho Chi Minh City. His parents worked as farmers. Faced with potential conscription, Thao’s parents decided to send him overseas, seeking a safer future for their son.

The plan involved Thao leaving first, with his family following later. He would act as a “pathfinder,” communicating back home after reaching safety. This led to a journey to Singapore, organized with a family friend.

The group of boys were instructed to meet in Saigon, then split into smaller groups to avoid attention, and use small boat taxis to the coast. From there, a bigger boat would take them further. However, the boat’s engine failed after only a day at sea.

“We were very conscious that a lot of young men were being conscripted. Fearing that that would be the future for me, they wanted me to go overseas,”

—Mr. Dinh, Survivor

After drifting for four days, a Dutch oil tanker rescued them during a fierce storm. The crew threw a rope to the small boat for towing until the storm passed. After the storm, the crew brought the passengers aboard. According to the UNHCR, by the end of 2022, there were 108.4 million people globally who had been forcibly displaced by conflict, violence, human rights violations, and persecution (UNHCR).

Life in the Hawkins Road Camp

Arriving in Singapore, Mr. Dinh was struck by the darkness. He was classified as an unaccompanied minor. But, the on-site orphanage was full. He slept next to a soccer field.

The camp functioned as a village with a grocery store, coffee shop, library, classrooms, and a hospital. Mr. Dinh attended English classes initially, but the constant turnover of residents made it chaotic. He received a daily allowance, which he used to buy apples and Coke.

The refugees were expected to resettle within three months. Mr. Dinh witnessed many departures. He found solace in missionaries and volunteers like Franciscan priest Father Taylor and Father PJ O’Neill.

Mr. Dinh also connected with a Singaporean volunteer, Mr. Gabriel Tan, who organized outings for the refugees, including trips to a shopping center and the bridge overlooking Malaysia.