38 Oxley Road site set to be gazetted as national monument

Key Concepts

• National Monument Gazetting: The process by which a site is officially recognized and protected for its historical and national importance.
• Preservation of Sites and Monuments Advisory Board: A body that assesses sites for their heritage value and recommends them for preservation.
• People's Action Party (PAP): The dominant political party in Singapore, founded in 1954.
• Historic Significance and National Importance: Criteria used to determine if a site warrants national monument status.
• Heritage Park: A potential future use for the 38 Oxley Road site, transforming it into a public space celebrating its history.
• Legal Aid and Support: The role of 38 Oxley Road as a place where individuals could seek legal assistance.

38 Oxley Road: Proposed National Monument

The Singapore government has announced its intention to gazette the property at 38 Oxley Road, the former residence of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew and his family, as a national monument. This decision stems from a recommendation by the National Heritage Board's (NHB) Preservation of Sites and Monuments Advisory Board, which assessed the site as being of "historic significance and national importance and worthy of preservation as a national monument." Acting Minister for Culture, Community, and Youth, David Neil, has accepted this recommendation.

Historical Significance and Founding of the PAP

The 38 Oxley Road site is considered central to Singapore's founding narrative. Specifically, the basement dining room served as the meeting place for Mr. Lee Kuan Yew and other pioneer leaders of the People's Action Party (PAP) on Saturday afternoons in 1953. These gatherings were instrumental in the formation of the PAP in 1954. The National Archives of Singapore and a Ministerial Committee report have recognized this basement as a site of major national significance.

Early PAP Headquarters and Activities

In its nascent years, the Lee family home at 38 Oxley Road also functioned as the PAP's headquarters. It was a hub for various party activities, including document signing, oath-taking ceremonies, public recruitment drives, and even silk screening of banners. Press conferences were also regularly held at the premises.

A Hub for Legal Assistance

Beyond its political and familial significance, 38 Oxley Road was also a place where individuals could seek legal help. From the early 1950s onwards, the house was frequented by a diverse group of people, including trade unionists, workers, students, journalists, civil servants, professionals, and intellectuals, all looking to Mr. Lee for assistance with their legal matters.

Next Steps and Future Considerations

The owner of the site, 38 Oxley Road Private Limited (wholly owned by Mr. Lee Hsien Yang, with his son Lee Huang Wu listed as the sole director), has until November 17th to submit an appeal. Following any potential acquisition of the site, the authorities will conduct a detailed study to determine the best course of action. The NHB has stated that all options will be considered, including partial or full demolition of existing buildings and structures. This decision is expected to be made within the current term of government.

Respecting Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's Wishes

The NHB has emphasized that regardless of the final decision regarding the site's future, they will respect Mr. Lee Kuan Yew's wishes. This includes the commitment to remove all traces of the private living spaces of Mr. Lee and his family from any preserved buildings. The government intends to convert the acquired site into a public space, with a heritage park being one of the potential outcomes.

Conclusion

The proposed gazetting of 38 Oxley Road as a national monument underscores its profound historical importance as the birthplace of the PAP and a site of significant legal and social engagement. The government's approach aims to balance preservation with respect for the Lee family's privacy, ultimately transforming the site into a public space for national remembrance.