Asia-Pacific News

Lee Kuan Yew in hospital for severe pneumonia

Singapore's former prime inister and elder stateman Lee Kuan Yew
Mohd Fyrol | AFP | Getty Images

Former prime minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, has been hospitalized for severe pneumonia over the past two weeks but his condition has since stabilized, the government said Saturday.

"Mr Lee Kuan Yew was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on 5 Feb 2015 for severe pneumonia," according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). "His condition has stabilized and he remains on mechanical ventilation in the ICU. He is conscious and lightly sedated."

"His doctors are continuing to monitor his condition. PMO will keep the public informed of any significant change," the statement added.

Lee, 91, was the first prime minister of Singapore, governing the country from 1959-1990. He is widely viewed as the founding father of modern Singapore.

Just earlier this week, his son and current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong underwent surgery to treat the early stages of prostate cancer. He has been discharged and is expected to be back at work on Monday when the government delivers the 2015 budget.