FORMER prime minister Lee Kuan Yew yesterday described his latest book, which features his view of the world, as a “gathering of 90 years of various experiences”.
“Lee Kuan Yew: Visionary Writer and Nation-Builder”
Appearing to be in good spirits at his book launch at the Istana, Lee kuan yew quipped, to laughter from the audience: “I do not want to ruffle too many feathers.”
One chapter is devoted to discussing Singapore’s future and what a two-party system would bring.
The event was attended by 200 people, including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Environment and Water Resources Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and former senior minister S. Jayakumar.
“Mr Lee is an unapologetic realist in his perspective of international relations, one that eschews emotion or ideology,” he added.
Mr Lee followed with a brief speech, delivering his remarks in 11/2 minutes: “I won’t spoil your reading of the book by telling you more about it.”
About 20,000 copies of the book are on sale at $39.90 (including GST) at leading bookstores.
What some say about the book
MASTER OF REALPOLITIK
“Where others hedge their views with reservations, Lee Kuan Yew is blunt and goes straight to the point. No other statesman or commentator can match him as a master of realpolitik.”
– Lord Charles Powell, former private secretary to the late former British prime minister Margaret Thatcher
IF FORMER prime minister Lee Kuan Yew were in charge of Singapore today, he would introduce a baby bonus equal to two years of the average Singaporean’s salary.
This is not to boost the country’s abysmal total fertility rate of 1.2.
Declining fertility is the biggest threat to Singapore’s survival, he says.
But, Mr Lee adds: “I cannot solve the problem, and I have given up.
“If I were a young Japanese and I could speak English, I would probably choose to emigrate,” he concludes bluntly.
Mr Lee is due to launch the book officially today at the Istana. About 20,000 copies will be on sale at $39.90 (including GST) at leading bookstores from 5pm today.
