Singaporeans, Thai dignitaries sign condolence book at S’pore embassy

SINGAPORE — Some 700 people, including Singaporeans and Thai dignitaries, have signed a condolence book for former Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew at the Singapore Embassy at Bangkok.

Thai Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn sent his representative, ACM Kasame Yoosooka, to convey his condolences.

In Bangkok, President of the Privy Council General Prem Tinsulanonda went to the Embassy to pen his tribute to Mr Lee, while Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister General Tanasak Patimapragorn represented Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha in conveying condolences on behalf of the Royal Thai Government and the people of Thailand.

“He was the statesman, the legend and my true friend. Without him, we don’t have Singapore.” General Tinsulanonda wrote in the condolence book.

Former Thailand Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai wrote on Thursday (March 26): “I’m saddened by the departure of the able leader, who’ll be long remembered for his vision and wisdom.”

About 550 Singaporeans visiting and living in Thailand also went to the embassy to pen their tributes. For some, it was a nine-hour bus ride from as far as Chiang Mai.

The Singapore-Thai Chamber of Commerce, Singapore International School of Bangkok, and Anglo Singapore International School also visited the Embassy to pay their tributes to Mr Lee.

Over at the Singapore embassy in Manila, Singaporeans and Filipinos from all walks of life visited the Embassy with their loved ones to bid farewell to Mr Lee Kuan Yew. President Benigno S Aquino III, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima were among those who gathered at the Embassy to remember the late Mr Lee. A total of 296 visitors signed the condolence book.