MyStory

Mr Alex Lee, 1979

Principal Executive (Land Lease), Singapore Land Authority

Do you know that you share a very important birthday with our country? 3rd December is the date when Singapore’s National Anthem, the new flag and Coat of Arms (State Crest) were first unveiled to the newly-self-governing state. How do you feel about that?

Frankly, I was not aware that I’m sharing a very important birthday with Singapore as the general "date of Singapore’s big occasion" is 9 August. It is rather exciting and an honour to know that 3 December is also an important date for Singapore where our National Anthem, the new Flag and Coat of Arms (State Crest) were first unveiled to the newly-self-governing state.

It’s been 50 years since Singapore achieved self-governance, and 44 years since Independence. I would like to find out more about your thoughts about Independence. Singapore has seen three governments during its history - British, Japanese and Malaysian. Have you ever wondered what it will be like if Singapore is not independent?

Certainly. Questions such as what will our quality of living and the pace of life be, should we still be with the British, Japanese or Malaysia, have often been thought of. While any outcome may well be anyone’s guess, I think Singapore might not have transformed from a third world to a first world within a single generation, and the pace of life might have been more set back and relaxed. Nevertheless, I believe each transition (in power) teaches Singaporeans valuable lessons such as the important of self-reliance for national defence and resilience in the face of uncertainty or adversity. 

Do you think it’s important for Singapore to be independent? Why?

Yes. I believe that only by being independent, developments in Singapore will then be truly in the interest of Singaporeans.

What are some of the biggest changes between the Singapore of your childhood and now? Could you share more about them?

Public transportation in Singapore. In the past, there was no transportation such as MRT or LRT. Travelling between places may sometimes mean having to change quite a few buses in order to reach the destination. With the convenience of MRT and LRT, travelling time between places is generally shorter and easier.

The quality of life has definitely changed. The transformation of Singapore in tandem with technological advances enables Singaporeans to live more comfortably today. The way we travel, the places we eat at, shop and relax, and the condition of public housing have significantly improved. I can still remember waiting for buses under a nearby HDB flat when it was raining as the bus stop neither had any seats nor shelter. Nowadays, all bus stops are sheltered and most are even come with covered linkways. All buses are air-conditioned and even some interchanges are air-conditioned too. As for public housing, it is no longer generic in its design. With the latest DBSS scheme, the public housing is even designed by private developers.

What does ‘Home’ mean to you?

It is a place where you can feel a sense of belonging and comfort. Yes, Singapore is the place in which I can feel a sense of belonging. A place where I have grown, a place where my family and friends are.

What does it mean to be a Singaporean to you?

Be able to enjoy the privileges of a citizen such as the freedom to purchase any property in Singapore, to receive subsided education and medical treatments.

Are there moments you feel proud of Singapore, or to be a Singaporean? Can you share with us these moments?

Whenever Singapore offer other nations humanitarian aid or relief. Being a small nation but being able to offer aid to other bigger nations makes all Singaporeans feel proud of Singapore.

What hopes and aspirations do you hold for Singapore?

Increase the number of mega entertainment spots which operate round the clock. To continue its economic prosperity as well as maintaining its political and social stability.