I am grieved beyond words: PM in live address

SINGAPORE — In an emotional address to the nation, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said he was “grieved beyond words” at the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew.

“The first of our founding fathers is no more,” said PM Lee. “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 of be Singaporeans.”

“We won’t see another man like him,” said PM Lee. “To many Singaporeans and indeed others, Lee Kuan Yew Singapore.”

PM Lee, who first addressed the nation at 8am today (March 23) in Malay, followed by Mandarin and English, was especially emotional during his Mandarin speech.

PM Lee noted how Mr Lee Kuan Yew “pushed us hard to achieve what seemed impossible” when he was Prime Minister, and “in old age continued to keep a watchful eye on Singapore”.

“Singapore was his abiding passion. He gave of himself in full measure to Singapore.”

PM Lee quoted his father, who had said previously: “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.’”

But even as Singapore mourns the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, “let us also honour his spirit”, said the Prime Minister. “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.”