Lee Kuan Yew dies at the age of 91

The passing of a Giant of Asia

 

 Lee Kuan Yew                                                                                                                                                                              16 September 1923 - 23 March 2015

 

We mourn the loss of one of the greatest leaders of our time, Mr.Lee Kuan Yew (LKY) of Singapore. He was a great man who is credited by the world at large for the success and highly elevated socio-economic status of his country today. Singapore may be a tiny and inconspicuous dot on the world map but has become a highly developed and modern state comparable or even better than many first world countries. 

No one will dispute that it was due to none other than its founding Father and first Prime Minister LKY. It was his wisdom and foresight that steered the country to great heights as seen today. Its economy is strong and stable, the people of diverse ethnicity peaceful and united, standard of education high, low crime rate and the people are modern, progressive and enjoying a high standard of living.

LKY has been through many political crises during more than five decades of his political career. He was seen as a dictator and suppressor of free speech and democracy by his opponents. He sent many of them to jail denying their rights and even destroying the family lives and political careers. It is undeniable that he had his shortcomings and mistakes, who doesn’t? 

But LKY always thought and believed that what he did was right for his country and he did not waver from his vision to create a united ,progressive and prosperous nation that is admired and respected by many around the world and envied by its neighbors who remain lagging far behind despite their vast resources.

On a personal level, his tremendous love for wife of over sixty years, right until her sickness and death illustrated the humane aspects of this great leader which is rare for a man of his stature. Reading of his love story with his wife only makes one respect him more.  

LKY may be gone but leaves behind a nation and its people who are respected and admired by the whole world. I am sure Singaporeans of all race and creed and from all walks of life will be grateful to him as it was because of him that can now walk with their heads high. His opponents may not like him by I am sure they too will admire him for his courage, wisdom and foresight that very few leaders have today. We have indeed lost a giant and an illustrious son of Asia.

We extend our deepest condolence to his family and his people and may he rest in peace.