I’ve transcribed the English portion of PM Lee Hsien Loong’s 8am address on TV.
“The first of our founding fathers is no more. He inspired us, gave us courage, kept us together, and brought us here. He fought for our independence, built a nation where there was none, and made us proud to be Singaporeans. We won’t see another man like him.
To many Singaporeans, and indeed others too, Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore. As Prime Minister, he pushed us hard to achieve what had seemed impossible. After he stepped down, he guided his successors with wisdom and tact. In his old age, he continued to keep a watchful eye on Singapore.
Singapore was his abiding passion. He gave of himself in full measure to Singapore. As he himself put it towards the end of his life, and I quote ‘I have spent my life, so much of it, building up this country. There is nothing more that I need to do. At the end of the day, what have I got? A successful Singapore. What have I given up?My life.’
I am grieved beyond words at the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew. I know that we all feel the same way. But even as we mourn his passing, let us also honor his spirit. Let us dedicate ourselves as one people to build on his foundations, strive for his ideals, and keep Singapore exceptional and successful for many years to come. May Mr Lee Kuan Yew rest in peace.”
You can watch the video of his speech here.
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Tears fell as I watched our Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong struggling during the Mandarin portion of his speech. I’m proud of him for putting on a nice shirt and a brave front for Singapore, in his time of grief.
It is a very sad day for us in Singapore. We have lost a great man, a charismatic leader, a courageous fighter. Let us continue to “strive for his ideals” and keep up Singapore’s success, and make Mr Lee Kuan Yew proud of us.
May you rest in peace, Sir.
