THE star that guided Singaporeans on the path to a prosperous city-state for more than 40 years has fallen.
Whether or not one agrees with him and his uncompromising approach to dealing with the opposition, former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew miraculously turned the tiny red dot into a nation well respected and well regarded by many in the world.
Indeed, without the careful planning and push of Mr Lee and his team of capable ministers, the question of whether a small city-state, completely devoid of natural resources, would have been able to survive and prosper in a sometimes-hostile environment on gaining independence is moot.
Through sheer grit and determination, Mr Lee and his team were able to galvanise the ground and rally a great majority of Singaporeans to work hard to eventually arrive at what Singapore is today.
A highly principled, resolute and dominant political leader has died, ending an important and glorious phase in the history of Singapore's successful development into a reputable metropolis.
Political differences aside, Mr Lee is our most respected leader since independence.
Regardless of how one views his leadership style and his, at times, rather controversial policies, it is right that all Singaporeans, old and young, salute the passing of a man of great stature; a leader who spent a major part of his life working and leading this nation on a path to achieving a set goal for the betterment of Singaporeans.
While we mourn his death, let us hope his never-say-die spirit would inspire all Singaporeans to be pragmatic and stay united to achieve further heights to ensure that this tiny red dot remains relevant in this region of the world.
Soon Kim Hock
Whether or not one agrees with him and his uncompromising approach to dealing with the opposition, former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew miraculously turned the tiny red dot into a nation well respected and well regarded by many in the world.
Indeed, without the careful planning and push of Mr Lee and his team of capable ministers, the question of whether a small city-state, completely devoid of natural resources, would have been able to survive and prosper in a sometimes-hostile environment on gaining independence is moot.
Through sheer grit and determination, Mr Lee and his team were able to galvanise the ground and rally a great majority of Singaporeans to work hard to eventually arrive at what Singapore is today.
A highly principled, resolute and dominant political leader has died, ending an important and glorious phase in the history of Singapore's successful development into a reputable metropolis.
Political differences aside, Mr Lee is our most respected leader since independence.
Regardless of how one views his leadership style and his, at times, rather controversial policies, it is right that all Singaporeans, old and young, salute the passing of a man of great stature; a leader who spent a major part of his life working and leading this nation on a path to achieving a set goal for the betterment of Singaporeans.
While we mourn his death, let us hope his never-say-die spirit would inspire all Singaporeans to be pragmatic and stay united to achieve further heights to ensure that this tiny red dot remains relevant in this region of the world.
Soon Kim Hock
