Opposition Leader Low Thia Khiang gave a speech today in Parliament during the tribute to Lee Kuan Yew. Speaking in Mandarin, he praised Mr Lee for his achievements but he also reminded the house that there were several Singaporeans who were sacrificed in the nation building process and our success was not because of the PAP's one party rule.
He noted that Mr Lee was a controversial figure but he was an extraordinary political leader.
Mr Low credited Lee Kuan Yew for making Singapore what it is today from a time when there was high unemployment and regional uncertainty. It was but a small island which relied on the port for the economy and relied on the British for defence.
Mr Low said that during these uncertain and turbulent times, Singapore needed a global vision and it needed to attract foreign investment without becoming a disposable pawn for larger countries. This was a big test for Mr Lee Kuan Yew.
It was thanks to Mr Lee's wisdom and courage that he was able to win the respect of global leaders for Singapore's benefit.
Low Thia Khiang also said that it was thanks to Mr Lee's fighting spirit, tenacity but above all, his sincerity which won the hearts of the people who had a mutual trust in him and a common direction.
It was because of this relationship and consensus with the people that Mr Lee was able to bring Singapore form third world to first in just 1 generation.
However, while acknowledging Mr Lee's achievements, Low Thia Khiang also noted that he felt it was not the PAP's one-party rule which was the key to Singapore's success.
He pointed out that many Singaporeans were sacrificed in the progress of nation building and "Society has paid the price". Because of this Mr Lee remains a controversial figure.
Mr Low said that he has a deep respect for Mr Lee Kuan Yew who crafted policies based on the situations at the time and he was a rational made who had the long-term interest of the country in mind.
However, he noted that policy-making cannot just be about rational considerations. He warned that without taking a compassionate approach, the country risks causing hurt and resentment and if this is allowed to build up, it could lead to disunity and social turmoil.
He also said that from his dealings with Mr Lee in parliament, he did not feel that he was an autocrat who did not listen to others. If you had good arguments, you could win him over.
Indeed, Mr Low Thia Khiang said that Mr Lee helped to create the multi-racial, multi-cultural and united Singapore which would not have been possible without him.
"My deepest respect goes to founding Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew," Mr Low said.
His full speech can be seen here (from 40m): https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=2421&v=aSoyEib6N6w
See other MP's tribute speeches here: LIVE: Parliamentary Sitting to Tribute Lee Kuan Yew