S. Rajaratnam, The Authorised Biography, Volume One: The Singapore Lion

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.“Irene Ng has written a book that gives a comprehensive portrayal of Mr Rajaratnam - one of Singapore’s outstanding leaders who played a crucial part in the momentous and crisis-ridden transition to independence. This is a book about the man and his wisdom. One would fail to appreciate him until one reads this absorbing book and reflects on the acuity and breadth of his insights and his wisdom.”—S.R. Nathan, Sixth President of Singapore“In the course of a 33-year career in diplomacy, I met many great leaders. Having done so, I can confidently assert that S. Rajaratnam was one of the greatest leaders I met. Sadly, few in Singapore understand how great Rajaratnam was. This well-researched comprehensive volume by Irene Ng therefore fills a real need. Both Singaporeans and non-Singaporeans will benefit a lot from reading it.”—Kishore Mahbubani, Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore“Rajaratnam is one of the founding fathers of modern Singapore. He was Singapore’s first and longest serving foreign minister. He was a rebel and a revolutionary. He was an intellectual and a man of action. In this wonderful book, Irene Ng tells the story of this remarkable leader of Singapore. I found the book both enjoyable and insightful.”—Tommy Koh, Ambassador-At-Large, Singapore Read more