Singaporeans pay last respects to Lee Kuan Yew on social media
updated the 6 October 2015 à 23:15
Heartfelt tributes poured as Singaporeans mourn the passing of our nation’s founding father and first prime minister on social media.
Singapore went into mourning yesterday as news of Lee Kuan Yew‘s passing was made official with a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office. Mr Lee’s deteriorating condition over the past few weeks meant the announcement was seemingly impending, as people began to leave heartfelt tributes outside the Singapore General Hospital where he was being treated.
Politicians around the globe were quick to send in their condolences. Former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong posted on Facebook that “He has bequeathed a monumental legacy to Singaporeans – a safe, secure, harmonious and prosperous independent Singapore, our Homeland. He was a selfless leader.” UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon described Mr Lee as a “legendary figure in Asia, widely respected for his strong leadership and statesmanship.”
His son, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was “grieved beyond words” at the death of his father. In an emotional speech to the nation that was broadcast live from the Istana at 8am, yesterday, PM Lee paid tribute to the Singapore’s founding father in Malay, Chinese and English.
World leaders aside, Singaporeans themselves took to their social media accounts to express their commiseration and sincere gratitude to the late leader.
Karen George
