Mr Lee pointed to his own journey in school, set against the backdrop of Singapore’s separation from Malaysia to become an independent nation.
Singapore experienced “formidable” challenges at the time, he recalled, noting the lack of defences, as well as an economic and unemployment problem.
“We did not talk about different pathways to learning. We had no enrichment programmes. And of course, no Edusave awards and scholarships – never imagined of,” he added.
“And yet the Pioneer Generation, the Merdeka Generations, we knuckled down. We worked hard, we learnt, we adapted. We bonded together to tackle the challenges, resourcefully and with resilience. Step-by-step, we created better lives for ourselves and our children, and that is how Singapore got here.”
With today’s resources, Mr Lee said he is confident Singapore can rise above any challenges, as the nation marks 60 years of independence.
“The government will walk with you. But what it depends on most critically is each person -yourself. Your determination to make the most of what you have. To learn, adapt, overcome – despite challenges, despite occasional setbacks. Your faith that we will pull together as one people, one nation, and build a brighter future for all of us,” he said.
