Lim Kean Chye

Lim Kean Chye was born on December 22, 1919. He attended University of Cambridge to pursue his law degree. His time in England shaped him politically, and he became a member of Singapore’s first political party: the Malayan Democratic Union. This party was created to demonstrate the need for self-governance and independence from British rule. Lim Kean Chye was a member of the Anti-British League and the Singapore and Malayan Bars.

His political views forced him to flee Singapore, and he lived for many years as an exile in China. He was forced to do unpaid translation work for the Chinese government until 1958 when the political situation shifted and he felt safe returning to Singapore. He was arrested immediately upon his arrival in the country, but later freed on the condition that he remain out of politics.

Lim Kean Chye said that his trials have taught him the importance of perseverance. He recently celebrated his 100th birthday.