The Singapore Lion: S. Rajaratnam, The Authorised Biography (Volume 1)

Mentioned by Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s Fourth Prime Minister, in an interview

S. Rajaratnam was one of the most significant and influential founding fathers of modern Singapore. This first volume of Irene Ng’s biography of Rajaratnam gives unparalleled insight into his early life and influences. The riveting story spans his birth in 1915 to Singapore’s independence as part of Malaysia in 1963, arguably the most formative years in his life and also for the nation on the cusp of independence. It traces his family roots in Ceylon and Malaya, his political awakening in London during the Second World War, and his transformation into a crusading journalist and feisty politician in Singapore.

From his battles with the colonial authorities, communists and communalists to his campaign for democratic socialism and the country’s independence, The Singapore Lion provides new insights into the role that Rajaratnam played in the history of anti-colonial politics and in the country’s struggle to shape its future. It casts new light on his relationship with his colleagues, including Lee Kuan Yew, and on his personal life. The Singapore Lion is the first definitive account of his crucial role in combating the problems of race and religion and in shaping Singapore’s national identity as its first Culture Minister. The author has drawn on extensive research and hundreds of interviews to create an authoritative and engaging portrait of a towering figure in Singapore’s history.