Singapore’s founding father dies at 91

monjola sotubo

March 23, 2015 8:29 AM

Lee, considered to be the founding father of the Asian country, passed away at the Singapore General Hospital early on Monday, March 23.

Singapore's first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew died on Monday, March 23, at the age of 91.

Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew has died at the age of 91.

He had been admitted into the hospital over a month ago and had been receiving treatment for severe pneumonia and a subsequent infection.

Lee has been hailed as the architect of Singapore's prosperity after he transformed the nation from a small port city into a wealthy global hub.

He was also praised for being a visionary and for fostering relations between Asia and the U.S.

Lee’s death has elicited an outpouring of tributes from all over the world. US President Barack Obama said in a statement:

“Minister Mentor Lee’s views and insights on Asian dynamics and economic management were respected by many around the world, and no small number of this and past generations of world leaders have sought his advice on governance and development.”

Obama also described Lee as “a true giant of history.”

The Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), Ban Ki-moon also said that he was "deeply saddened" by Lee's death.

“He fought for our independence, built a nation where there was none, and made us proud to be Singaporeans. We won't see another man like him,” Lee’s son, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said.

The deceased statesman was Singapore’s Prime Minister for 31 years.

He will be receive a state funeral March 29, after an official week of mourning.

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