Today, the world lost an exemplary human being. Singapore is in a very somber mood and why wouldn’t it be? Even if Mr. Lee and the public don’t always see eye to eye, how can anyone not grieve the death of a father? Lee Kuan Yew was the man that turned a swamp (his word, not mine!) into a metropolis. He paved the way for the Singapore that it is today. The radio was right, LKY doesn’t need any new monument to commemorate him. One only need to look around because his monument, a concrete tribute to and reminder of his legacy, is Singapore itself.
Beyond the red dot, the world shares the loss of this great man. Other nations may not know firsthand the specifics of his and the PAP’s rule, but that doesn’t mean non-Singaporeans are unaware of his huge impact – it can easily be seen in Singapore’s prosperity and quality of life. He was a great leader, no arguments there. But more than his policies and his political insights (HDB and NS to name a few), the reason I look up to him is his unwavering persistence. Here is a man who saw Singapore’s potential, believed in its capability, worked hard for it and overcame great odds to finally achieve its place as a world-class city. The circumstances he had to deal with were less than ideal – British pull out, being kicked out from Malaysia, rise of communism in the East – but he got through it. Even when faced with uncertainty, even when the odds were not in his favour, he held on to his vision and pushed through. So aside from thanking him for being an inspirational politician and wishing more leaders were like him (ahem, Philippines, ahem), I thank him for being an inspiring person. His memory is a reminder to chase and work had for your ambitions because anything is possible. All you need is a clear vision and lots and lots of determination. The possibility of making a mistake is quite paralysing but don’t be afraid! If it’s for an “honourable purpose“, decide, go 100%, and do your best. It’s the only thing that matters.
Rest in Peace, Mr. Lee.
