Lee Kuan Yew’s Children Clash Over Fate of Historic Oxley Road Bungalow Following Sister’s Death"*

SINGAPORE, Oct 17 — The historic bungalow at 38 Oxley Road, where Singapore’s founding leaders laid the groundwork for the nation, is at the center of a family dispute among the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew's children.

The debate revolves around whether to demolish or preserve the house, which played a key role in the formation of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP). The disagreement resurfaced in 2017 and has intensified after the recent death of Lee's daughter, Lee Wei Ling.

Lee Hsien Loong, the eldest son and former prime minister, supports preserving the property, valued at around SG$30 million (RM103 million). In contrast, his siblings, Lee Hsien Yang and the late Wei Ling, cite their father's will, which calls for the house's demolition.

Following Wei Ling's passing, Hsien Yang declared he would apply for the property's demolition, stating he is the sole legal owner and executor of their father's estate. He emphasized that their father's wishes should be honored.

The bungalow, built in a former plantation area, holds significant historical importance, having been Lee Kuan Yew's residence from the 1940s until his death, and the site of pivotal political meetings.

In 2018, a ministerial committee, including now-Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, acknowledged the property’s architectural and historical value. They presented options for its future, including preserving it as a national monument or demolishing it.

Political analysts suggest that how the government resolves this issue will be closely watched, particularly as Singapore approaches its next general election. Hsien Yang expressed impatience, stating, “It has been nine years since Lee Kuan Yew’s passing. That day (to demolish the house) is today