How many years did Lee Kuan Yew serve as Prime Minister of Singapore?

Lee Kuan Yew served as the Prime Minister of Singapore for 31 years, from 1959 until 1990. This makes him one of the longest-serving prime ministers in the world and the longest in Singapore’s history.

Background:

Lee Kuan Yew became the first Prime Minister of Singapore in 1959, when the island gained self-government from the British. He was only 35 years old at the time, but he quickly established himself as a strong and visionary leader. After Singapore’s separation from Malaysia in 1965, Lee played a central role in shaping the newly independent nation.

Tenure as Prime Minister:

• Start of service: 1959 (when Singapore gained self-governance)


• End of service: 1990 (when he stepped down voluntarily)


• Total duration: 31 years


• Successor: Goh Chok Tong became Prime Minister after Lee stepped down

Achievements during 31 years:

• Transformed Singapore from a small trading port into a modern, developed nation.


• Introduced strict governance and anti-corruption measures that built public trust.


• Created policies to improve housing, education, and healthcare.


• Turned Singapore into a global hub for trade, finance, and innovation.


• Promoted meritocracy, discipline, and multicultural harmony.

Legacy:

Lee’s 31 years as Prime Minister created the foundation for Singapore’s success story. His leadership is studied worldwide as a model of effective governance, long-term planning, and visionary nation-building. Even after stepping down, he continued to advise future leaders until his passing in 2015. Today, he is remembered as the Father of Modern Singapore.

Therefore, Lee Kuan Yew served as Prime Minister of Singapore for 31 years (1959–1990).