Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong addressed the nation this morning at 8am from the Istana, following the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, the first Prime Minister of Singapore.

Lee, 91, has passed away at 3.18am this morning.

PM Lee delivered his address in three languages - Malay, Chinese and English.

As PM Lee gave his address in Chinese, he struggled to contain his emotions.

Below is a summary of PM's speech: 

1. The first of our founding Fathers: "The first of our founding fathers is no more. 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 to be Singaporeans".

2. Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore:  "To many Singaporeans, and indeed others too, Lee Kuan Yew was Singapore. As Prime Minister, he pushed us hard to achieve what had seemed impossible. After he stepped down, he guided his successors with wisdom and tact. In old age, he continued to keep a watchful eye on Singapore".

3. He gave his life to Singapore: "Singapore was his abiding passion. He gave of himself, in full measure, to Singapore. As he himself put it towards the end of his life: '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.'"

4. PM is grieved beyond words: "I am grieved beyond words at the passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew. I know that we all feel the same way. But even as we mourn his passing, let us also honour his spirit. 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."

Ho Ching, wife of PM Lee, shared this note on her Facebook. 

Top photo from Lee Hsien Loong Facebook page.

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