NEW YORK (Press Release) — The American Jewish Committee (AJC) is saddened by the death of Lee Kuan Yew, who served as Prime Minister of Singapore from 1959 to 1990. He was 91 years old.
Lee led Singapore’s separation from Malaysia and independence in 1965. He oversaw the country’s transformation from a fairly underdeveloped colonial outpost lacking any natural resources into the thriving economic hub of Asia it is today.
“As Singapore’s storied first prime minister, Lee’s unwavering dedication to religious tolerance and racial harmony are admirable and praiseworthy,” said Shira Loewenberg, director of AJC’s Asia Pacific Institute. “He had the rare ability to both envision and implement a prosperous and stable future for his country, overcoming serious challenges to Singapore’s security and self-reliance.”
Lee spoke and wrote about Singapore’s deep connection to Israel from Singapore’s independence in 1965, when Israel provided training for the new Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). Relations between Israel and Singapore continue to be strong.
AJC extends condolences to the Lee family and the people of Singapore.
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Preceding provided by the American Jewish Committee.