Four World War 2 pillboxes were found when the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) were carrying out upgrading works in Teluk Kumbar, Penang recently.

For the uninitiated, pillboxes are concrete dug-in guard posts used during war times.

“The four World War 2 pillboxes were found along Jalan Cikgu Abu, Permatang Damar Laut, along the roadside of Jalan Teluk Kumbar which is opposite Sekolah Kebangsaan Teluk Kumbar and along the Sungai Batu seaside,” said Yeoh Soon Hin state exco for Tourism and Creative Economy.

He was accompanied by the state assemblyman for Bayan Lepas, Azrul Mahathir Bin Aziz and Dr. Ang Ming Chee, General Manager of George Town World Heritage Incorporated as well as the JPS engineers.

Yeoh added that the World War II pillboxes are miniature fortresses or fortifications built by the British to check the advancement of troops.

“There were a number of pillboxes all over Penang and they should be well conserved as the legacy left for the next generation,” he added.

He also said that he will call for a coordination meeting with the related agencies soon to find ways to conserve these pillboxes in Penang.

Meanwhile, George Town Heritage Incorporated will also provide the necessary technical support.