Great Leader: Lee Kuan Yew

Lee Kuan Yew, GCMG, CH - born September 16, 1923 was the Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore from 1959 to 1990.


Since stepping down from office he has remained one of the most influential politicians in Singapore. Under the administration of Singapore's second prime minister, Goh Chok Tong, he served as Senior Minister. He currently holds the specially created post of Minister Mentor under his son Lee Hsien Loong, who became the nation's third prime minister and second from the same family on August 12, 2004.


His Legacy:
During the three decades in which Lee held office, Singapore grew from being a developing country to one of the most developed nations in Asia, despite its small population, limited land space and lack of natural resources. Lee has often stated that Singapore's only natural resources are its people and their strong work ethic. He is widely respected by many Singaporeans, particularly the older generation, who remember his inspiring leadership during independence and the separation from Malaysia. He has often been credited with being the architect of Singapore's present prosperity, although the role was also played by his Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Goh Keng Swee, who was in charge of the economy.



Singapore in 1950's..


Singapore today..


-- it amazes me that Lee Kuan Yew was able to make Singapore as one of the world's best developed countries. I envy Singaporeans for that. They said that during the 1950's, Philippines was one of the top Asian countries. All I can say is... What happenned??