According to Prof. Bilveer Singh, deputy head of the National University of Singapore’s Department of Political Sciences, Mr. Lee has increased the government’s accountability to the public by promoting the establishment’s responsibility to support the development of a more powerful political criticism, including by appointing a Leader of the Opposition, engaging the community on pressing problems, and tolerating concerned anti-establishment views.
Following the general election of 2020, Mr. Lee officially designated Staff ‘ Party leader Pritam Singh as the Opposition head, noting that the results showed a strong need for a diverse range of voices in parliament.
Assoc Prof. Singh said,” If asked what his most important legacy may be, it would possibly be his ensuring continued national political and economic growth throughout the COVID pandemic and his careful preparation for the smooth transition of the state supervision to the 4G PAP frontrunners.”
INFRASTRUCTURE BOOM
During his presidency, Mr. Lee also spearheaded an infrastructure boom. Over the last 20 years, the number of HDB flats in Singapore climbed from 878, 000 to 1.1 million.
Dr. S. Vasoo reported that Mr. Lee personally spoke to residents of Ang Mo Kio to explain their concerns when some blocks were chosen for the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme ( SERS ).
Mr. Lee was also aware of the social impact, including disruption to residents ‘ social life and support networks, in addition to the financial aspects, such as repayment and costs, Dr. Vasoo said.
The country’s MRT and LRT network length also doubled in Mr Lee’s tenure, from 128km to 259km.
Singapore’s maritime activity also boomed, with annual port container throughput growing from 21.3 million to 39 million twenty- foot equivalent units ( TEU).
Ms. Ngiow noted that during Mr. Lee’s tenure, Singapore has received numerous strategic infrastructure projects to strengthen its position as a global hub for business, tourism, and commerce.
The development of Jewel Changi Airport is “one of them.” Initially conceived to expand aviation capacity, Jewel’s integration with retail and leisure facilities transformed it into a sought- after destination for travellers”, she said.
Another megaproject is the Tuas Port which, when fully completed in 2040, will double Singapore’s maritime capacity and increase efficiency, further solidifying Singapore’s status as a key transport player, said Ms Ngiow.