Lee Hsien Loong: A Two-Decade Political Legacy That Earned Singapore a ‘Unique Standing’

On Wednesday, Singapore witnessed a significant leadership transition as Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stepped down after 20 years in office. At 72, Lee's resignation marks the end of his tenure, during which he led Singapore through pivotal challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic [para. 1][para. 3].

Lee Hsien Loong, son of Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew, distinguished himself with his own policies and style. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, in his response to Lee’s resignation, recognized Lee's contributions in giving Singapore a unique global standing [para. 3]. Lee’s leadership emphasized policy continuity while promoting transformation. Upon assuming office in 2004, he advocated for a balance between bold new approaches and maintaining stability [para. 7].

During his tenure, Singapore’s GDP per capita rose from $27,600 in 2004 to $84,700 in 2023, reflecting significant economic growth. Monthly income per capita also doubled within this period [para. 12]. Lee was praised for his decisive actions during the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic, which included using reserve funds to maintain employment and pushing for early vaccine deployment [para. 13][para. 14].

Lee also implemented political reforms, such as relaxing restrictions on political-themed films and allowing public protests at designated sites. Despite these changes, opposition criticism persisted regarding the ruling party’s control over media and restrictions on political activities [para. 16]. Lee's leadership style has been described as gentler compared to his father’s more authoritarian approach [para. 18].

Lee faced concerns about establishing a political dynasty due to his father’s long tenure. In a 2010 interview, he emphasized Singapore’s foundational principle of meritocracy, stressing that leadership roles are based on capability rather than familial ties [para. 20].

On the international stage, Lee demonstrated adeptness in balancing relations with major powers. He visited China 14 times, upgrading bilateral relations twice, and defended Singapore’s independent stance during heightened U.S.-China tensions. Lee highlighted Singapore’s role as a bridge between East and West, supporting initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative while maintaining strong ties with the U.S. [para. 25][para. 27]. Singapore extended its defense agreement with the U.S. to 2035 and condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a stance Lee explained was about upholding fundamental international principles [para. 31][para. 32].

Lee’s tenure also saw significant diplomatic achievements. The 2018 summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as the historic 2015 meeting between Chinese and Taiwanese leaders in Singapore, underscored Singapore’s role as a facilitator of international dialogue [para. 39][para. 40].

As Lee handed over leadership to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, he called for public support for the new generation of leaders, stressing the need for unity, quality leadership, and trust between the government and the people. Lee emphasized that Singapore, given its small size, cannot afford errors in governance [para. 45].

Throughout his leadership, Lee not only enhanced Singapore’s economic and political stature but also reinforced its global influence, positioning the nation as a significant player on the world stage [para. 42][para. 46].