Ministerial statement on Singapore govt's intention to preserve 38 Oxley Road as national monument

Government's Intent for 38 Oxley Road

• 💡 The Singapore government intends to preserve 38 Oxley Road under the Preservation of Monuments Act (PMA) and acquire the site under the Land Acquisition Act if a preservation order is made.
• 🎯 This decision follows the passing of Dr. Lee Wei Ling, which led to a demolition application for the property, prompting a formal assessment by the National Heritage Board (NHB).
• 🔑 The government aims to develop the site into a public space or heritage park, ensuring accessibility for Singaporeans and safeguarding its historical significance.

Historical Significance of the Site

• 📌 The Preservation of Sites and Monuments Advisory Board (PSMAB) assessed 38 Oxley Road as having strong national significance, bearing witness to pivotal events in the 1950s.
• 🧠 It served as a crucial venue for founding leaders' discussions and decisions that shaped Singapore's independence movement and led to the formation of the People's Action Party (PAP).
• ✨ The site was a gathering point for activists and trade unionists seeking legal consultations with Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, highlighting its role in the anti-colonial struggle.

Preservation Process and Considerations

• ✅ The NHB conducts rigorous assessments for national monuments, involving thorough research and evaluation by the independent PSMAB based on historical significance, architectural merit, and authenticity.
• 🛠️ The government's intention is to preserve the entire site (land), not necessarily the existing buildings, allowing for flexibility in treatment, including potential partial or full demolitions.
• 💬 Any plans will respect Mr. Lee Kuan Yew and Madame Kwa's wishes by ensuring no private living spaces are displayed, recorded, or duplicated, prioritizing family privacy.

Future Plans and Public Access

• 🚀 If preserved and acquired, the government plans to finalize the site's exact use and configuration, including the treatment of structures, within the current term of government.
• ⚠️ There will be no public access to 38 Oxley Road in the interim period while due process, including a 14-day objection period for the owner and occupier, is followed.
• 🇸🇬 The ultimate goal is to safeguard the grounds for future generations to understand Singapore's journey and identity, rather than memorializing any single leader.