Following the announcement of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s impending resignation on May 15, 2024, tributes from more than a dozen People’s Action Party (PAP) Members of Parliament flooded social media, celebrating his leadership over the years.

Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat praised PM Lee for his “quiet wisdom and steady hand,” highlighting his ability to guide Singapore through numerous crises, including the global financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Today, Singapore stands out as a beacon of openness and collaboration amid a more reticent global environment,” Heng stated, emphasizing the nation’s continued optimism and cohesion in challenging times.

Education Minister Chan Chun Sing remarked on the challenges of leadership succession, expressing gratitude for PM Lee’s guidance throughout his tenure. “We are sure that PM will continue to do so in his ways, even in the next lap of our journey,” Chan affirmed.

The announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will be sworn in as Singapore’s next prime minister on the same day PM Lee steps down, marking the conclusion of nearly two decades of Lee’s leadership.

Ministers took to social media to share personal anecdotes and highlight PM Lee’s contributions to their respective ministries. Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat noted that PM Lee’s emphasis on enhancing Singapore’s status as a global air and sea hub has significantly bolstered the nation’s economic competitiveness and workers’ livelihoods. In 2023, Singapore’s container throughput reached a record 39 million twenty-foot equivalent units.

Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu acknowledged PM Lee’s strong support for various environmental initiatives, including the carbon tax and the goal of producing 30% of Singapore’s nutritional needs locally by 2030.

National Development Minister Desmond Lee reflected on PM Lee’s establishment of the ComCare Fund in 2005 to aid low-income Singaporeans, which has evolved to include initiatives like the Workfare and Progressive Wage Model.

Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo shared a personal anecdote about PM Lee’s unique approach to policy discussions, recalling a time when he requested visual aids to understand the impact of the Silver Support policy for seniors, a request that resulted in a collaborative and effective presentation.

MP Nadia Samdin, who represents Ang Mo Kio, noted PM Lee’s deep connection with his constituents, describing him as a respected figure in the community, whose presence is felt across the constituency.

PM Lee has served as an MP since entering politics and has represented Ang Mo Kio for decades, further solidifying his legacy within Singapore’s political landscape. As the nation prepares for a new chapter in its leadership, the tributes reflect the respect and gratitude for PM Lee’s longstanding service.