Thank You, Our Founding Father, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew

Words cannot express how we feel towards the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

We’re grateful for what he has done for Singapore. We’re grieved that we’ve lost our visionary leader. Yet, we stand strong, knowing that we have to stand strong to fulfill his vision, to be a vibrant and sustainable Garden City.

I admire Mr. Lee Kuan Yew for various reasons.

1. He always dared to speak his mind

His once famous quote was “I have been accused of many things in my life, but not even my worst enemy has ever accused me of being afraid to speak my mind.” 1955, The Wit & Wisdom of Lee Kuan Yew

Even though his opinions might not be agreed by many people. He always ensured he said what he felt and explained his rationale. Some people may not like his iron fist way of managing people. But it was necessary during those days. Look at where this has brought Singapore, from a third to first world city.

Speak with power, stand by your convictions and what you believe in.

“I stand by my record. I did some sharp things to get things right – too harsh – but a lot was at stake. But at the end of the day, what have I got? Just a successful Singapore.” – Mr. Lee Kuan Yew

2. His tenacity

Possibly the most emotional outburst our founding father has ever shown was when he voiced his anguish over the separation from Malaysia.

Yet, he never gave up.

He promised to deliver Singapore to independence and he did. In order to achieve his vision, he was relentlessly improving today’s Singapore for tomorrow. Even after he retired as Prime Minister, he was Minister Mentor, to guide his future leader to help achieve Singapore’s potential.

“At the end of the day, what have I got? A successful Singapore. What have I given up? My life.” – Late PM Lee Kuan Yew.

His never-say-die attitude is something I always admired. Be relentless for what you envision because once you achieve it, its priceless.

3. Always keep learning 

During today’s digital age, one would find it difficult to keep up with the times. But not our first Prime Minister, even at 70 years old, he learnt how to use the computer. He always believed in learning new things in order to improve productivity and efficiency.

He also learnt from various people. He would meet with different international leaders and built close ties with them. This would help Singapore stay relevant as well as learn from their best practices.

Because of his active mind, his opinions were always valued. He was regarded by many global presidents as a “visionary leader” and a man of “highest international influence”.

There will not be another man, who can replace Singapore’s first founding father.

Even as we mourn for his death, let us remember to carry on his vision, which is to be a successful Singapore.

Thank you, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, for everything you’ve done for us.