The preservation of 38 Oxley Road, the former home of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, is back in the spotlight as Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Edwin Tong, announced the need for a new study on the property. This decision comes following the recent application for its demolition by Mr Lee Hsien Yang, Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s younger son.
New Study Necessitated
In response to parliamentary queries from Progress Singapore Party’s Non-Constituency Member of Parliament Leong Mun Wai and WP-Sengkang MP Louis Chua, Tong clarified that prior findings from the National Heritage Board (NHB) concerning the property were not presented to the Preservation of Sites and Monuments Advisory Board (PSM AB). This omission has prompted the government to initiate a new assessment.
- Previous findings included the site’s “architectural, heritage and historical significance”.
- Reports indicate that no decision was made previously, leaving all options open.
- The ongoing study aims to address this gap and will include the PSM AB’s independent assessment.
Link to Demolition Request
The urgency of this new study is heightened by Mr Lee Hsien Yang’s application to the Urban Redevelopment Authority for the house’s demolition, aligning with his parents’ wishes. Tong explained that this step is essential for proper consideration of preservation options.
Historical Significance of 38 Oxley Road
The property is not just a familial residence; it played a crucial role in Singapore’s political history. Key figures like Dr Goh Keng Swee and Dr Toh Chin Chye convened meetings in its basement dining room in the 1950s, catalysing the formation of the ruling People’s Action Party.
Continued Family Disputes
This preservation debate brings back memories from 2017 when former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong faced allegations of misusing government influence for personal matters regarding the property. While the ministerial committee previously concluded Mr Lee Kuan Yew preferred the house’s demolition, there were also considerations for preservation under certain conditions, ensuring family privacy.
As the situation unfolds, the National Heritage Board’s assessments could very well shape the future of 38 Oxley Road, with recommendations expected to guide the Minister on potential preservation orders.