[7] Fundraising was slow and the total collected amounted to $12,513.52, with additional interest of $64.24, only covering the costs after the memorial's construction.

Wreaths were laid for 15 minutes by public representatives, including an Italian in Blackshirt attire who gave the Fascist salute.

A total of 184 intact dressed granite blocks and all of the bronze decorations were dismantled and kept in storage for future reconstruction.

[15][16][17] Following the British recapture of Penang, a flagstaff was temporarily placed at the spot where the Cenotaph once stood for Remembrance Day observances in 1946 and 1947.

[18][19][20] In 1948, the Ex-Services Association of Malaya (Penang Branch), led by chairman W. I. Legg, petitioned the Malayan Union government to rebuild the Cenotaph.

Designed by Charles Geoffrey Boutcher, the new cenotaph had a slightly altered appearance from the original since it was constructed using the remaining granite blocks that were available.

In addition, the Penang Veterans Association erected a memorial plaque to commemorate those killed in later conflicts in Malaysia.

[24] The structure was 8 by 20 feet high slightly tapered, flanked on three sides by plain panels with a niche and a Stone of Remembrance in front.

These plaques face the front and back of the Cenotaph and show at the sides scenes typical of each of these four services, executed in low relief.

Provisions had been made for four flags to be hung at the corners, consisting of the Union Jack, and White, Red and Blue ensigns on poles ornamented with bronze spear heads, cords and tassels.

The intended inscription on the Stone of Remembrance was initially "PAX", but it was changed after the Ex-Services Association deemed it inappropriate.