Dr. Lee Wei Ling, the esteemed daughter of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, has departed this world at the age of 69. The sad news was shared in an emotional Facebook post by her brother, Mr. Lee Hsien Yang, early this morning.
Expressing his sorrow, Mr. Lee Hsien Loong remarked, “I will deeply miss Ling. May she rest in peace.” He fondly remembered Dr. Lee as someone who “sympathised instinctively with the underdog, and would mobilize actively to do something when she saw unfairness, or suspected wrongdoing”.
Reflecting on her life’s journey, Dr. Lee had always been known for her fierce dedication to advocating for the marginalized. In one instance, during a fundraising event in 2003, she revealed, “I had always fought for the underdog.” Her upbringing was marked by a conscientious understanding of privilege, as she shared, “We turned off the tap so that water was not wasted, we walked out of a room and the lights and fan were off. You don’t waste water, you don’t waste electricity.”
Dr. Lee’s exceptional academic achievements and commitment to medicine were highlighted by her brother, who praised her for bringing the same intensity to her medical career as in every aspect of her life. Her compassionate nature extended to her patients, many of whom she treated with care and dedication over the years.
Tragically, in 2020, Dr. Lee disclosed that she was battling progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a degenerative brain disorder. Her brother, Mr. Lee Hsien Yang, shared her brave response to the illness, stating, “She took it with her usual fortitude and stoicism.”
In honour of Dr. Lee’s memory, Mr. Lee Hsien Yang has requested donations to be made to charities meaningful to her, including Canossa Mission Singapore, Parkinson Society Singapore and Total Well-Being SG Limited.
Furthermore, Mr. Lee Hsien Loong conveyed his heartfelt regret at being unable to fulfil their father’s wish to take care of their mother and siblings, following the passing of their father, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. Despite the perceived differences amongst the siblings, the love and support towards Dr. Lee endured.
Details regarding the funeral wake arrangements will be shared in due time, as per Mr. Lee Hsien Yang.
