Daily Lesson from Life 08 September 2008

"MM: 'Political system has to evolve'

He says he will fortify Singapore's future as long as he can. -Tue, Sep 09, 2008 The Straits Times

MINISTER Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, who is turning 85, says he will fortify Singapore's future as long as he can.

In an e-mail response to questions from The Straits Times ahead of his birthday on Tuesday, he adhered to his lifelong focus on Singapore's well-being when asked what ranked as most important items at his age.

'As long as I am fit and alert, I will help consolidate Singapore's future,' he replied."


Mr. Lee Kuan Yew is a remarkable man. One of it's kind for sure. He has achieved many great deeds and created many miracles in his days as the PM of Singapore, an island nation with no natural resources except the deep water ports and it's people. It has been a success story acknowledged by most countries who use economics progress and prosperity as the measurement.

He once made the statement that: 'I will rise from my grave as they lowered me if Singapore is in troubles!'. He is passionate about the country, and he should be, as would any proud father of his child!

There lies that challenge. He can defend it, fortify it as long as he can, but he is no immortal. Will the land exist as it is or as it should as envisioned by him? It may if the people after him is HIM. But it is not to be. They are different from him. They are unique in their own way. They need to find their own destiny. It may be building on what he has done or it may be in an entirely different direction. Whatever it is, it is they who own the future; not old folk like Mr. Lee.

Lessons for me as a leader:

1. great to celebrate what we had achieved. At the same time do not forget that we are on this earth for a short period only. We must not fall in love with ourselves that we think only we can sustain the way we were. It has to be the next generation. Let them have their days some day!;

2. we can mold as many and as much as we could, the rest are not for us to worry or control. The next generation has to make their own decisions and direction;

3. when we dominant after a few decades, we overshadowed the future generation leaders and they cannot grow properly. They will not be allowed to grow up! This cannot augurs well for the future. We must let them or even create opportunities for them to experiment and experienced. If they failed in a 'control' manner, we can still contain the losses while they grew!

An advance birthday greeting to MM Lee. At the same time, best wishes to those who will come after him!