This is a record of an interview with Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of modern Singapore, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his observations of the modern world and his urgent message to his son, Lee Hsien Loong. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on September 4, 2018.
Lee Kuan Yew speaks:
". I am Lee Kuan Yew. Looking back at the world I once led, I see a place of endless, bustling activity—a world of constant, chaotic motion. The number of people and vehicles is growing at an alarming, exponential rate. Think about it—the disparity is staggering. The wealthy are incredibly affluent, while those without means struggle to even put a meal on the table. Even the working class, those who toil day in and day out, are caught in this relentless cycle. They rush back and forth, working themselves to the bone, all in the hope of securing a slightly better life or satisfying their endless cravings and desires. It is truly a profound waste of a human life to spend one's entire existence chasing these fleeting things."
The Illusion of the Busy World
"As I observe the world from here, I see the and evolving into something far more dangerous. The world has become a place of dazzling lights and seductive charms, pulling everyone deeper and deeper into a whirlpool of attachment. It has become nearly impossible to change the current state of society, and the most tragic casualty of this decline is the education of our children. At such a tender age, they are already being polluted by this rapidly changing, unstable world. Their innate purity is being completely compromised. Hsien Loong, my son, this is an absolutely critical issue. Can you see it? Do you see how the very foundation of our future is being eroded?"
The Erosion of Childhood Innocence
"During my life, I lived a legendary existence, yet it was only when I truly saw the root of these problems that I realised I had to find a way to tell everyone. I gave so much of myself to politics, but looking at society today, I see that the challenges have only become more difficult. The world now requires everyone to work together with a unified heart to help one another. I truly hope that we can see some positive changes soon. For the sake of a friendlier, more compassionate world, everyone should strive to perform some small service. Only then can the lives of the next generation be improved."
A Personal Plea to My Son
"The most important service we can provide to society is through education. The magnificence of this place, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, lies in its ability to cultivate the heart and refine one's nature. I hope that you, Hsien Loong, can recognise the importance of this. As your father, I truly wish for you to come here and witness the truth for yourself. The focus of education must be shifted immediately; this is the most vital news for humanity. It is far more meaningful than reporting on the many ugly aspects of the world. Hsien Loong, I hope you will cherish this opportunity. Coming here is a matter of the utmost importance. Your father will be waiting for you. I am deeply grateful for everyone's help, which has given me this chance to speak to you all once more. Everyone can talk about principles, but not everyone has these principles in their heart. I hope you all see the gravity of this. Hsien Loong, you must understand—please, come here and find me as soon as you can."
"Namo Amituofo."
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