Community organisations pay tribute to Mr Lee Kuan Yew

SINGAPORE — Eight community organisations came together today (March 27) to pay tribute to Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew at Kallang Theatre — where Mr Lee gave his last National Day Rally speech as Prime Minister in 1990.

Organisers said more than 2,000 guests were present — including representatives from the business community, council and board members of community organisations, as well as school teachers and students.

Several cabinet ministers such as Deputy Prime Ministers Teo Chee Hean and Tharman Shanmugaratnam were also present.

Mr Teo, who spoke after a one-minute silence was observed, said the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew saw the importance of inculcating a sense of belonging and ownership in every Singaporean, regardless of race.

“He recognised that harmony rested on a delicate balance based on give-and-take, mutual trust and understanding, and treating everyone fairly — regardless of race, religion or creed,” he said.

Leaders from the Malay, Eurasian, Indian and Chinese communities who spoke after Mr Teo thanked Mr Lee Kuan Yew for his work in bringing the people in Singapore together, while still allowing them the opportunity to upkeep their respective heritage.

Mr Shaikh Syed Isa Semait, former mufti of Singapore from 1972-2010, singled out the Mosque Building Fund scheme as one of Mr Lee’s greatest contribution to the Malay community.

“The result is an effective system of fundraising. Today we are able to build our mosques on our own. I am grateful, that besides meeting the needs of our religious life, our mosques have also helped to raise the good name of Singapore,” he said.

Dr N Varaprasad, life trustee of Singapore Indian Development Association, said Mr Lee’s support of the minority communities was both political as well as instinctive.

“He truly believed in non-racial politics, and that it was the performance of the individual that counted, not his or her ethnicity. Yet, he was aware that to carry the ground, he had to ensure that all races had to be represented.”

Mr Benett Theseira, president of The Eurasian Association of Singapore, also paid tribute to Mr Lee’s effort in building the Singapore brand.

“For such a small country, Lee Kuan Yew and Singapore have an exceptionally strong brand. Not just because we have been successful economically but also because we are known for our integrity, the quality of our execution and our innovation.”

Mr Chua Thian Poh, who represented the Chinese community, wrapped by the speeches by urging the people to “celebrate his life, achievements and legacy”.

“Mr Lee Kuan Yew dedicated his entire life to Singapore and its people. He was the pioneering architect of the Singapore miracle, leading us through turbulent times and transforming Singapore into a country and a home that we can all the proud of,” Mr Chua said.