The Tough Warrior of Singapore

Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, one of the Old Guard of Singaporean Leaders and former Prime Minister who stepped down in 1990, died this Monday on 23 March 2015. While some may rejoice the loss of an 'autocrat' and 'dictator', many remember that Mr Lee was a total badass in the political field and a patriot to Singapore, despite seemingly being economically-minded and pragmatic, with all his dedication and determination for Singapore's survival and success and the people's long-term happiness. Before you accuse him of being a dictator, stop and think to remember what was the country like when he started out as Prime Minister. There was riots, armed violence, intense political tensions and competition, communist uprisings and racial and religious riots. Do you honestly think that he could unite the turbulent country for the sake of vital progress by being soft, kind and liberal? He made his decisions based on what he thought was right in a time where alternative choices doesn't seem to be available and in a time when force was needed to control all that violence, and all these must have shaped his personality and world views Yes, I do disagree with some of his decisions and statements, but I still respect what he did in his prime. And also, he advocated for racial equality in a time of apartheid and racial chauvinism (looking at you UMNO).