Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew has declared the 'old system, the old paradigm' no longer valid, as he called on Singapore's younger leaders to shape the vision of the island-state's future.
On the eve of his 80th birthday, which he celebrates today, the founding father of modern Singapore told The Sunday Times: 'I suggested both the remaking of Singapore and the remaking of the PAP [the ruling People's Action Party] several years ago. I cannot do it because my feeling and touch are for those of an older generation, as are my terms of reference.'
Mr Lee said he had tried to build into the system basic principles, such as integrity, a strong sense of duty, no abuse of power and meritocracy.
'If the younger leaders think this is too regulated and clinical, they can change these precepts, but it may be costly,' he added.
'I believe if we lose integrity, bend rules on meritocracy and have no constancy of purpose, or govern by taking straw polls, Singapore will not thrive.'
He noted that Singapore was 'visibly loosening up', but he cautioned that it had to be at a pace which Singaporeans could accept.
