Past and present parliamentarians gathered on Wednesday (Mar 23) in a remembrance ceremony for Singapore's founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, exactly one year after his death.

The ceremony was held at the Arts House, the site of Singapore's first Parliament. Also in attendance was Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who is the late Lee Kuan Yew's eldest son.

In her speech, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu, said: "Mr Lee's personal leadership helped set the tone and shows the Parliament that we know today.

"As we honour Mr Lee's memory, let us resolve to uphold the integrity and honour of our Parliament. As Mr Lee once said, the importance of this House depends not on its size or grandeur, but on the quality of the men and women who represent the people of Singapore. We will build on this spirit and bring Singapore to greater heights," she added.

Former Speaker of Parliament Abdullah Tarmugi related personal memories he had of Mr Lee.

"My own description of Mr Lee is that he was always 'proper'. To Mr Lee, everything must be done properly, even the smallest action or matter. He once told me: 'Dollah, a rule is of no use if it is not followed. Might as well not make one.’”

Former Deputy Prime Minister Wong Kan Seng also recalled how Lee spent 44 years of his tenure in the Parliamentary chamber "where he expounded and delivered his vision for Singapore".

"The page was turned during Mr Lee's leadership. His legacy lives on in Singapore, in the values, principles and high standards that moved Singapore from third world to first. Successive generations of Singaporeans will do well to remember how we got here," said Mr Wong.

The event also saw the launch of a new permanent exhibition at the Arts House called The Parliament in Singapore History. The exhibition looks at the history of the Arts House as well as defining moments of Singapore's Parliament.

For the month of March, visitors can also view a documentary featuring excerpts of some of Mr Lee's speeches that he delivered in Parliament.

(Channel News Asia)