SM Goh Chok Tong’s Condolence Letter on the Passing of Dr Goh Keng Swee

Dear Mrs Goh

My wife and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of your dear husband, Dr Goh Keng Swee. Singapore has lost a founding father and one of the most brilliant architects of our nation. Please accept our heartfelt and deepest condolences.

Singapore is a nation fought for, won and built by a group of exceptional men. Dr Goh was a key member of this small group, which led Singapore through uncharted and treacherous waters and laid the foundation for Singapore’s development and success. Without Dr Goh, there would not be the Singapore miracle of today.

Dr Goh was highly respected as a practical man full of bold and creative ideas. When faced with a problem, he analysed it with far-sightedness and produced practical solutions. He played a key role in creating many important economic institutions such as the Economic Development Board and the Jurong Town Corporation. As Defence Minister, he built up from scratch the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) into a credible defence force.

Dr Goh was an inspiration to my generation of political leaders. We benefitted from his brilliant and strategic thinking. He was also selfless in stepping down in 1984 from all ministerial appointments and from parliament in favour of political renewal. We felt the heavy responsibility of carrying on where he left off.

For me personally, Dr Goh was more than just a national hero. He was also an influential mentor. I had the good fortune to work for him as a young civil servant in the Ministry of Finance and later as a colleague in Cabinet. When I first stood for elections in Marine Parade in December 1976, he gave me sound advice on how to fight and win. Later, he also guided me in my initial years as the Minister of Defence.

Dr Goh is undoubtedly one of Singapore’s outstanding national heroes. Those of us who knew and worked with Dr Goh will never forget his brilliance, insightfulness and wry sense of humour. Dr Goh dedicated himself to Singapore. His contribution was unique. His legacy will be enduring.

Yours sincerely,

GOH CHOK TONG