SINGAPORE in brief

Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's first prime minister. He was in office from 1959 to 1990.

The tenure made him the world's longest-serving prime minister in history. Singapore broke away from
neighbouring Malaysia and gained independence in 1965.

About half a century ago, Singapore was an island without any natural resources to call its own.

Since then, it has pulled off a dramatic transformation - boasting two casino-integrated resorts and an airport
that has frequently topped the "world's best" list.

In addition, the central business district is crowded with skyscrapers that rival neighbouring Hong Kong and
mid-town Manhattan in far-flung New York.

Mr Lee was not one to shy away from his achievements for Singapore..