Lee Hsien Yang's Move to Fulfill Lee Kuan Yew's Wish: 38 Oxley Road Demolition

Mr Lee Hsien Yang, youngest son of Singapore’s founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, announced his intention to apply for the demolition of the family home at 38 Oxley Road. This decision comes days after the passing of his sister, Dr Lee Wei Ling, the only daughter of Lee Kuan Yew, who lived in the house until her death.

Lee Hsien Yang's decision aligns with his father’s wishes, as Lee Kuan Yew had repeatedly expressed his desire for the house to be demolished after his death. However, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) have yet to receive any applications regarding the property.

Built in the 19th century, 38 Oxley Road holds historical significance, having been a site of key political meetings that contributed to the formation of Singapore’s ruling People’s Action Party (PAP). Despite Lee Kuan Yew’s wish for its demolition, Cabinet ministers opposed this, leading to a debate over its fate. In his final will, Lee Kuan Yew stated that if demolition was not possible, the house should remain closed to the public and only accessible to family.

The issue gained public attention after Lee Kuan Yew’s death in 2015, when a family dispute between Lee Hsien Yang, his sister, and their brother Lee Hsien Loong, the then prime minister, surfaced. The family accused Lee Hsien Loong of misusing his position for personal gain regarding the property.

A ministerial committee explored the fate of the house in 2017, presenting three options: demolish the house, retain just the historic basement dining room, or preserve the entire house. The issue remains unresolved, with the government yet to make a decision. Political analysts believe that while the house may become a topic of discussion in future elections, it is unlikely to influence voter decisions significantly.

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