Mr. Lee Kuan Yew 1923-2015
piece. It has been a dark week in Singapore. Our first Prime Minister and our founding father, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew passed away on the 23 March 2015, 3.18am at the old age of 91.
Mr. Lee was the architect and the leader of the founding team of Singapore. He led Singaporeans during turbulent times of independence. While other countries fought for independence, we were forced into independence. With no resources and a diverse population, he made a nation out of elements which proved it was impossible. He worked for the nation till the day before he was admitted to the hospital for the last time.
Every Singaporean, young and old, were waiting in anticipation to see him at our National Day Parade this August, marking the 50th year of independence in Singapore. However, it was not meant to be. As I sit listening to the eulogies being delivered at the state funeral for Mr. Lee, the reality fully sinks in that we will never see him again in our lifetime. A frugal man, who dedicated his life to building Singapore has taken his final leave. Yet, his legacy lives on in every element of a Singaporeans’ lives. From the time we wake up and switch on the light to turning the tap to get clean water. From the time we step out of the house onto clean pavements to taking the public transport that is efficient and safe.
One of the many attributes of Mr. Lee that fascinates me till today is how he had the ability to look into the future and take steps that would benefit Singapore not today but in the future. He foresaw the rise of China and the return of Russia and built bonds with them. When countries more established feared opening up their economies, Mr. Lee was sure that it was the only way Singapore would survive, and survive we did. He raised the status of this little red dot into a world renowned metropolis. Every single one of us living in Singapore are indebted to him for every aspect of our lives. Without his sacrifice, Singapore would not be here today.
This past week saw many, locals and foreigners, young and old, shed tears for the man who brought us here. For many overseas leaders, he was a dear friend and mentor. For Singaporeans, he was our founding father, grandfather and the iron fist who led us here. Without him, none of us would be here today. As Singaporeans all over the world watch the live telecast of the state funeral, we bid our goodbyes to the man who toiled hard for the nation. While we may say our goodbyes today, his legacy and his memory will live on as long as Singapore will live on.
To Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, 50 years ago, you braved the rain and shine to develop Singapore. Today, Singaporeans from all walks of life braved rain and shine to pay our final respects to you. We promise that we will uphold and safeguard Singapore just like how you have. Thank you Mr. Lee and now, we hope you rest in peace.
