Remember Mr Lee’s legacy in other ways

The focus of the discussions about 38 Oxley Road has been on the options for the home, various allegations, conflicts of interest and ways to conclude the dispute.

Amid all the heat, Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s thoughtfulness was mentioned in Parliament (‘Lee Kuan Yew had mulled over preservation of Oxley Road house’; July 5).

Despite his objection to the idea of preserving his home, he was prepared to listen to alternatives. There are also other aspects of this debate that must not be lost on us.

First, every stakeholder may have good intentions for preserving Mr Lee’s legacy, though the methods of achieving that differ.

To his younger son and daughter, this would mean demolishing the home according to their parents’ wishes. To the Government, represented by the Cabinet, the house has historical significance and would provide a deeper sense of history for the nation.

Second, this dilemma should help to focus attention on the search for a solution.

Let us also focus on Mr Lee instead and his determination as the prime minister who led Singapore to independence.

In addition to a Founders’ Memorial, a memorial stone should be erected in front of the former City Hall to serve as a dedication to this founder of modern Singapore, who succeeded against all odds.

Although I originally supported the idea of preserving the Oxley home, I no longer do so because we can remember Mr Lee’s contribution differently, and because we should show our appreciation for his thoughtfulness for Singapore by honouring his wish.