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PM Lee Hsien Loong's statement: 'I am grieved beyond words'

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Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong gave a statement at 8am today on Mr Lee Kuan Yew's passing.

It was an emotional speech. During the Chinese part of the address, The Prime Minister had to pause to collect himself.

 

The Prime Minister's address:

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 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 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’s 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 honour 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.
 

SingaporeLee Hsien LoongLee Kuan Yew