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Monday, March 23, 2015
Today, LKY passed on.
I wonder how his last days went.
An extraordinary man he was. Never worked with him nor experienced his leadership nor am I part of the generation whose lives he transformed from 3rd world to first. But the qualities he espoused and emphasized, the image of Singapore he had in his mind, is clear for all us to see.
Trustworthy with high standards. Those are the 2 qualities I think many think Singapore is - a place that is good and easy to do business in, and in its people businesses trust. Qualities that was driven into us by our parents, who in turn was driven by the system put in place. Much of what we are now has been shaped by you and your team. Of course, along with economic growth and essential qualities built for success, also other things like MRT, Changi Airport, HDB, Defence, etc.
Far away I am in London now, somehow a part of me wishes I could be back in Singapore during this period as well. It is this overseas education journey that I am on that has shown me what Singapore really is in the international context - and what defines me and us as Singaporeans - what I have come to be proud of.
It is always admirable to see someone slog hard - for their whole life hard - for the cause they believe in. I totally feel for that kind of commitment, desire and effort. You have been markedly different - you have built a nation, and inspired a region.not many have the quality and influence together - not many have the vision, and then have the determination for success.
I thank all the workers that are working overtime in ensure safety and security of our country right now, those who ensure that the memorial service goes through smoothly and nicely, and reporters and newsworkers working overtime to bring Singaporeans around the world up to date. Lee Family - much condolences, and stay strong. Thank you LHL for making the tough speech that you did - much respects. I dont really believe in the afterlife, so Im a little sad to note that LKY cant see the nation's overwhelming appreciation and emotions for all his work and effort for all of us and the generation before us. I wish the actions of appreciation and mourning we have now have 3 main effects - to express our gratitude and grief in this tough time for the nation and hence make us feel better; to share this tough time with Lee Family and hopefully make them feel better; to inspire and remind leaders, current and future, of the important role we have in society and the country - and the importance of doing it well.
RIP Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
@ Anfield @..:: 9:28 AM
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