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The Last Fools – The Eight Immortals of Lee Kuan Yew
As Lee Kuan Yew and his Old Guard founding leaders attempted to shape an improbable nation from a tropical island with no hinterland, they depended on this elite collection of bureaucrats to turn their ideas into icons. The chosen octet not only built the world’s best airport, the best sea port, and the best airline, but also designed a housing, healthcare, infrastructure, security, leadership, and financial system that rivalled the best in the world.
Yet as Third World transformed into the First through the sheer creativity and grit of these men, the Eight Immortals faded from public memory, slowly forgotten by a young nation racing into the future. Some of their names adorn libraries, institutions, and scholarships, but few in Singapore would be able to recall the achievements of George Bogaars, Andrew Chew, Hon Sui Sen, Howe Yoon Chong, Lee Ek Tieng, Ngiam Tong Dow, J. Y. Pillay, and Sim Kee Boon.
For the first time, The Last Fools tells the extraordinary and inspiring stories of these eight civil servants. Through the eyes of eight experienced journalists and authors, this independent book reveals the trade-offs, sacrifices, and secrets behind the breathtaking rise of the tiny nation. Award-winning editor Peh Shing Huei delivers a provocative read that provides insights into how Singapore has become one of the world’s most developed economies and peaceful countries.
Yet as Third World transformed into the First through the sheer creativity and grit of these men, the Eight Immortals faded from public memory, slowly forgotten by a young nation racing into the future. Some of their names adorn libraries, institutions, and scholarships, but few in Singapore would be able to recall the achievements of George Bogaars, Andrew Chew, Hon Sui Sen, Howe Yoon Chong, Lee Ek Tieng, Ngiam Tong Dow, J. Y. Pillay, and Sim Kee Boon.
For the first time, The Last Fools tells the extraordinary and inspiring stories of these eight civil servants. Through the eyes of eight experienced journalists and authors, this independent book reveals the trade-offs, sacrifices, and secrets behind the breathtaking rise of the tiny nation. Award-winning editor Peh Shing Huei delivers a provocative read that provides insights into how Singapore has become one of the world’s most developed economies and peaceful countries.
224 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
July 10, 2022
While many books have been written on Lee Kuan Yew and the members of the Old Guard, few (or perhaps even none) have given recognition to the ones who were relied on to turn ideas into icons. This is where The Last Fools comes in, introducing us to eight lesser known pioneer civil servants and bureaucrats who helped shaped Singapore into what it is today.
Covering many of the aspects Singapore is known for—from healthcare to housing, from ports to aviation—this book delves deeper into the makings of these implemented systems that completely transformed the country. Filled with grit and a special brand of tenacity, each of these men brought their own unique sensibilities to the industries they worked in, and all of their stories are bound to be inspiring for the younger generation who may not know much of their contributions.
Personally, I found these collection of semi-biographies to be extremely educational and accessible, with each chapter reading like a story while also providing some needed background information for the context. Moreover, I liked that the writing and depictions of these men was kept as neutral as possible, with all the facts being backed by extensive research. I think one thing readers can take away from these stories is the humility that was present in everything these men enacted—humility which resulted in caring for those on the ground, humility which led to good leadership, humility in committing to the long haul not for the glory but for the sake of others.
Similar to this review, the only thing I felt was lacking was the absence of female representation, though this was likely also due to the fields of politics and business largely being male-dominated in the previous generations, especially so in the upper management.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable and informative read and I highly recommend it to those interested in having a brief overview of the early days of an independent Singapore!
Thanks to Nutgraf Books for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Covering many of the aspects Singapore is known for—from healthcare to housing, from ports to aviation—this book delves deeper into the makings of these implemented systems that completely transformed the country. Filled with grit and a special brand of tenacity, each of these men brought their own unique sensibilities to the industries they worked in, and all of their stories are bound to be inspiring for the younger generation who may not know much of their contributions.
Personally, I found these collection of semi-biographies to be extremely educational and accessible, with each chapter reading like a story while also providing some needed background information for the context. Moreover, I liked that the writing and depictions of these men was kept as neutral as possible, with all the facts being backed by extensive research. I think one thing readers can take away from these stories is the humility that was present in everything these men enacted—humility which resulted in caring for those on the ground, humility which led to good leadership, humility in committing to the long haul not for the glory but for the sake of others.
Similar to this review, the only thing I felt was lacking was the absence of female representation, though this was likely also due to the fields of politics and business largely being male-dominated in the previous generations, especially so in the upper management.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable and informative read and I highly recommend it to those interested in having a brief overview of the early days of an independent Singapore!
Thanks to Nutgraf Books for sending me this copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2022
Loved the accessible writing which introduces us to the hidden roles of pioneer civil servants who played critical roles in Singapore’s desperate transformation.
The ex-colony of Singapore was in great disrepair and presented the independent government with the labours of Hercules. These civil servants had to transform aspirational visions to reality. They worked tightly with the politicians we know more of, and after decades of hints and indirect sources, this book presents a look at their secret roles.
This functions an introduction, so might feel like an appetiser, and for a few, the authors make a reference ego books they consulted as six of the articles are posthumous.
Easily read by everyone. Good present for a friend too.
This was a print book.
The ex-colony of Singapore was in great disrepair and presented the independent government with the labours of Hercules. These civil servants had to transform aspirational visions to reality. They worked tightly with the politicians we know more of, and after decades of hints and indirect sources, this book presents a look at their secret roles.
This functions an introduction, so might feel like an appetiser, and for a few, the authors make a reference ego books they consulted as six of the articles are posthumous.
Easily read by everyone. Good present for a friend too.
This was a print book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2022
Great introductions to the bureaucrats that turned ideas to icons. Piques readers' interest to learn more about these lesser known men by answering the question "how should this man be immortalised in Singapore?". The Last Fools was an easy and insightful read.
March 5, 2023
Eight lesser known public servants who helped Lee Kuan Yew and his Old Guards build Singapore from a Third World into today’s First World. Many of what we see in Singapore today are fruits of the seeds planted by these eight ‘immortals’.
At its infancy, Singapore’s political landscape was threatened by the rise of communism in the form of Barisan Socialis. It was George Bogaars, then Director of Special Branch, through the controversial Operations Coldstore, seized many of Barisan Socialis’ party members and solidified PAP’s political leadership. After Singapore’s expulsion from Malaysia, Bogaars moved to the new Ministry of Interior and Defence as a Permanent Secretary where he helped establish National Service, the backbone of Singapore defence. In his years in private sector, Bogaars was made the Chairman of Keppel Shipyard but his stint was marred by the decision to purchase Straits Steamship company at a high price.
Another ‘immortal’ Andrew Chew was a doctor turned administrator. From a lacklustre healthcare system during British colonial days, Chew was the architect behind many of Singapore’s hospital systems today as well as establishing a comprehensive A&E network around the island. Chew, who later became the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Health, was instrumental in the establishment of Medisave and MediShield. Even today, both systems helped keep Singapore’s health care costs low compared to other developed countries.
Hon Sui Sen was probably one of the more prominent amongst the eight as he made the switch from public service into politics and served as Finance Minister. He was the first chairman of EDB and also had an eye for scouting talents, discovering the likes of Tony Tan and Goh Chok Tong. Under his leadership in EDB, Singapore’s economic landscape boomed with many successful foreign and local investments. As a reluctant politician, he was Finance Minister for 13 years, during which he weathered financial crises and solidified Singapore’s status in the international stage.
Howe Yoon Chong was dubbed the man who sees the future. As the Chief Executive of HDB, he was the man in charge for building enough houses for Singaporeans. In 3 years, he built more houses than the British did in 30 years. He was then appointed as the Chairman of PSA and once again demonstrated his foresight by investing in a modern terminal, capable of handling containers. This set Singapore’s path to being one of the major shipping ports in the world. Howe was also behind the building of Changi Airport, which replaced the old Paya Lebar airport. With Changi Airport, Singapore became the aviation hub in the region. With maritime and aviation challenges settled, Howe then embarked on an other ambitious project, to build Singapore’s MRT system. Howe then made the transition to politics, but was marred by his untimely report to move CPF withdrawal age from 55 to 60 years old. Nevertheless, many of Howe’s recommendations were eventually accepted, again showing he’s the man who saw the future. Today, one cannot miss Howe’s blueprint when looking at Singapore’s skyline.
Lee Ek Tieng was another lesser known figure behind Singapore’s bustling life along its waterways. Working in the Sewerage Department, Lee was among many who transformed Singapore’s rivers from smelly dumpsters into network of clean water reserves. As the Chairman of PUB, with the strong foundation built during the clean up phase, Lee was able to leverage on new technologies to recycle water and make Singapore less dependent on Malaysia for drinking water.
Ngiam Tong Dow, another EDB Chairman made waves through his courage to question the political elites. He was not shy in calling out politicians and public servants alike for being disconnected from the people on the ground. However, in one interview, his criticism of the new generation of PAP leaders as overpaid and less dedicated than the pioneers, drew ire amongst the leadership and began his fall of his public career.
J.Y. Pillay was the father of Singapore Airlines. Following the break up of Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA) after Singapore’s split, Pillay negotiated on behalf is Singapore and had the foresight to build Singapore Airlines as an international airlines from scratch. From the outstanding service to the introduction of the iconic Singapore Girl, Pillay brought Singapore Airlines to international stage and sustained profitability, without government support. While his contribution was in the private sector, the success of Singapore Airlines formed one of the important cornerstones to the success of Singapore.
Following Howe’s Changi Airport project, Sim Kee Boon was tasked, as the Permanent Secretary of Communications, to plan, design and build Changi and move the airport from Paya Lebar. He did it flawlessly without much fanfare. Sim was then appointed as the Executive Chairman of the troubled Keppel Corporation. Under his leadership, the company pulled itself out of the hole and became highly profitable after his 15 years as Executive Chairman, earning him the title ‘Mr Keppel’.
The short biographies of each of the ‘immortals’ showed the importance of appointing the right leaders in the right place, at the right right time. Each played the cards dealt to them as well as they could, guided by Lee Kuan Yew and his Cabinet. With benefit of hindsight, each of these men did the best they could to carve out critical building blocks that made Singapore such a successful nation today.
At its infancy, Singapore’s political landscape was threatened by the rise of communism in the form of Barisan Socialis. It was George Bogaars, then Director of Special Branch, through the controversial Operations Coldstore, seized many of Barisan Socialis’ party members and solidified PAP’s political leadership. After Singapore’s expulsion from Malaysia, Bogaars moved to the new Ministry of Interior and Defence as a Permanent Secretary where he helped establish National Service, the backbone of Singapore defence. In his years in private sector, Bogaars was made the Chairman of Keppel Shipyard but his stint was marred by the decision to purchase Straits Steamship company at a high price.
Another ‘immortal’ Andrew Chew was a doctor turned administrator. From a lacklustre healthcare system during British colonial days, Chew was the architect behind many of Singapore’s hospital systems today as well as establishing a comprehensive A&E network around the island. Chew, who later became the Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Health, was instrumental in the establishment of Medisave and MediShield. Even today, both systems helped keep Singapore’s health care costs low compared to other developed countries.
Hon Sui Sen was probably one of the more prominent amongst the eight as he made the switch from public service into politics and served as Finance Minister. He was the first chairman of EDB and also had an eye for scouting talents, discovering the likes of Tony Tan and Goh Chok Tong. Under his leadership in EDB, Singapore’s economic landscape boomed with many successful foreign and local investments. As a reluctant politician, he was Finance Minister for 13 years, during which he weathered financial crises and solidified Singapore’s status in the international stage.
Howe Yoon Chong was dubbed the man who sees the future. As the Chief Executive of HDB, he was the man in charge for building enough houses for Singaporeans. In 3 years, he built more houses than the British did in 30 years. He was then appointed as the Chairman of PSA and once again demonstrated his foresight by investing in a modern terminal, capable of handling containers. This set Singapore’s path to being one of the major shipping ports in the world. Howe was also behind the building of Changi Airport, which replaced the old Paya Lebar airport. With Changi Airport, Singapore became the aviation hub in the region. With maritime and aviation challenges settled, Howe then embarked on an other ambitious project, to build Singapore’s MRT system. Howe then made the transition to politics, but was marred by his untimely report to move CPF withdrawal age from 55 to 60 years old. Nevertheless, many of Howe’s recommendations were eventually accepted, again showing he’s the man who saw the future. Today, one cannot miss Howe’s blueprint when looking at Singapore’s skyline.
Lee Ek Tieng was another lesser known figure behind Singapore’s bustling life along its waterways. Working in the Sewerage Department, Lee was among many who transformed Singapore’s rivers from smelly dumpsters into network of clean water reserves. As the Chairman of PUB, with the strong foundation built during the clean up phase, Lee was able to leverage on new technologies to recycle water and make Singapore less dependent on Malaysia for drinking water.
Ngiam Tong Dow, another EDB Chairman made waves through his courage to question the political elites. He was not shy in calling out politicians and public servants alike for being disconnected from the people on the ground. However, in one interview, his criticism of the new generation of PAP leaders as overpaid and less dedicated than the pioneers, drew ire amongst the leadership and began his fall of his public career.
J.Y. Pillay was the father of Singapore Airlines. Following the break up of Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA) after Singapore’s split, Pillay negotiated on behalf is Singapore and had the foresight to build Singapore Airlines as an international airlines from scratch. From the outstanding service to the introduction of the iconic Singapore Girl, Pillay brought Singapore Airlines to international stage and sustained profitability, without government support. While his contribution was in the private sector, the success of Singapore Airlines formed one of the important cornerstones to the success of Singapore.
Following Howe’s Changi Airport project, Sim Kee Boon was tasked, as the Permanent Secretary of Communications, to plan, design and build Changi and move the airport from Paya Lebar. He did it flawlessly without much fanfare. Sim was then appointed as the Executive Chairman of the troubled Keppel Corporation. Under his leadership, the company pulled itself out of the hole and became highly profitable after his 15 years as Executive Chairman, earning him the title ‘Mr Keppel’.
The short biographies of each of the ‘immortals’ showed the importance of appointing the right leaders in the right place, at the right right time. Each played the cards dealt to them as well as they could, guided by Lee Kuan Yew and his Cabinet. With benefit of hindsight, each of these men did the best they could to carve out critical building blocks that made Singapore such a successful nation today.
September 15, 2024
Honestly, I went into this book only familiar with one of the Eight Immortals. However, reading their stories helped my recognize the unsung heroes who laid the foundation of modern Singapore. These individuals weren’t chasing fame or recognition; their focus was on building something meaningful for the country, quietly shaping its future, and many of them did so even though they did not want to be in the limelight.
Their experiences remind me of my personal experiences working in startups—those who truly believe in the vision, grinding away in obscurity, squatting in moldy rooms to make that vision a reality. They’re there at the beginning, when the rewards are uncertain, driven by a greater cause (and sure, some also by the financial lure of future success). In contrast, many of those who join later enjoy the fruits of their labor, sitting basking in the success symbolized by beautiful skyscrapers enjoying free meals and unlimited snacks.
It makes me wonder, how many people today still embody that original, selfless drive? Are those early pioneers foolish for sacrificing so much without seeking personal glory? Or are they the unsung heroes who, despite their anonymity, leave behind an enduring legacy?
But this also raises a broader question for me: Is the act of sacrifice inherently better, or am I sitting on a moral high horse, viewing it through a biased lens? Perhaps it’s not about good or bad, but about different choices and priorities. Some people sacrifice early on for a larger cause, while others join when the fruits of those sacrifices are ripe. Does either choice make someone more or less noble? Or are both necessary parts of progress?
This book prompts reflection not just on the past, but on the nature of ambition, sacrifice, and success. The “fools” might not be fools at all—maybe they just chose a different path, one that isn’t about immediate reward but about a legacy that stretches far beyond their own lifetimes.
Their experiences remind me of my personal experiences working in startups—those who truly believe in the vision, grinding away in obscurity, squatting in moldy rooms to make that vision a reality. They’re there at the beginning, when the rewards are uncertain, driven by a greater cause (and sure, some also by the financial lure of future success). In contrast, many of those who join later enjoy the fruits of their labor, sitting basking in the success symbolized by beautiful skyscrapers enjoying free meals and unlimited snacks.
It makes me wonder, how many people today still embody that original, selfless drive? Are those early pioneers foolish for sacrificing so much without seeking personal glory? Or are they the unsung heroes who, despite their anonymity, leave behind an enduring legacy?
But this also raises a broader question for me: Is the act of sacrifice inherently better, or am I sitting on a moral high horse, viewing it through a biased lens? Perhaps it’s not about good or bad, but about different choices and priorities. Some people sacrifice early on for a larger cause, while others join when the fruits of those sacrifices are ripe. Does either choice make someone more or less noble? Or are both necessary parts of progress?
This book prompts reflection not just on the past, but on the nature of ambition, sacrifice, and success. The “fools” might not be fools at all—maybe they just chose a different path, one that isn’t about immediate reward but about a legacy that stretches far beyond their own lifetimes.
May 10, 2023
My journalism background has made me a bit of a nerd. I set breaking news alerts, pore through local and international news, and find enjoyment watching news programmes.
So when this book was featured in the papers, my interest was piqued. Although I’ve heard of these names, I’m not very familiar with this group of civil servants who have been credited for much of Singapore’s development and achievements. The book didn’t disappoint! I was thrilled by the fascinating anecdotes and nuggets of information. They left me in awe of how impressive and capable these pioneers were. Imagine having to develop things from scratch, from new flats to an MRT system to cleaning up polluted rivers to establishing container ports. Imagine the amount of resistance faced and the magnitude of the tasks ahead. But they were never stumped by the challenges. We have them to thank for the Singapore of today that we so often take for granted.
There were so many quotable quotes. My favourite came from Hon Sui Sen: “Just because you hate the music doesn’t mean you have to shoot the piano player!” Another gem: “If I am still around and in charge in 1986, I will find out where it went wrong… I have got a special piece of lead not for striking medals - I think I’ll add it to their water supply.” - Lee Kuan Yew.
I love the way the stories were spun — they were written with such flair and were at times stirring, at others poignant. Every story was compelling and each writer (compliments to Peh!) was able to skilfully set the scene and open the tale with a dramatic encounter, painting a visually arresting image of the men at work.
I highly recommend this book if you are an amateur history buff.
So when this book was featured in the papers, my interest was piqued. Although I’ve heard of these names, I’m not very familiar with this group of civil servants who have been credited for much of Singapore’s development and achievements. The book didn’t disappoint! I was thrilled by the fascinating anecdotes and nuggets of information. They left me in awe of how impressive and capable these pioneers were. Imagine having to develop things from scratch, from new flats to an MRT system to cleaning up polluted rivers to establishing container ports. Imagine the amount of resistance faced and the magnitude of the tasks ahead. But they were never stumped by the challenges. We have them to thank for the Singapore of today that we so often take for granted.
There were so many quotable quotes. My favourite came from Hon Sui Sen: “Just because you hate the music doesn’t mean you have to shoot the piano player!” Another gem: “If I am still around and in charge in 1986, I will find out where it went wrong… I have got a special piece of lead not for striking medals - I think I’ll add it to their water supply.” - Lee Kuan Yew.
I love the way the stories were spun — they were written with such flair and were at times stirring, at others poignant. Every story was compelling and each writer (compliments to Peh!) was able to skilfully set the scene and open the tale with a dramatic encounter, painting a visually arresting image of the men at work.
I highly recommend this book if you are an amateur history buff.
July 30, 2024
Sometimes, I look around at the Singapore we live in today, and I'm struck by a great sense of pride and wonder at how we progressed so quickly as a nation in 65 years. It took so much foresight from LKY and his band of merry men to establish protocols, rules and laws that would lead to the Singapore we know today.
This book sheds some light on that, by going over the 8 key Perm Secs that worked with LKY and his founding class of PAP men on these policies. It's nice to see these folks highlighted, as we usually read about the politicians that made this happen (Goh Keng Swee, S Jayakumar etc) but never the leaders of the Civil Service.
I like that this book had short but clear summaries on the issues discussed, how they determined that this issue was important to fix, and then how the executed it. I sometimes wished that these would be more detailed, but in the author's defence, it was probably made to be shorter and more accessible, and I could always read the national archives if I wanted that information.
Writing was also super clear and easy to read, and then I realised that this is the same guy who wrote the book on Philip Yeo, which makes sense.
This book sheds some light on that, by going over the 8 key Perm Secs that worked with LKY and his founding class of PAP men on these policies. It's nice to see these folks highlighted, as we usually read about the politicians that made this happen (Goh Keng Swee, S Jayakumar etc) but never the leaders of the Civil Service.
I like that this book had short but clear summaries on the issues discussed, how they determined that this issue was important to fix, and then how the executed it. I sometimes wished that these would be more detailed, but in the author's defence, it was probably made to be shorter and more accessible, and I could always read the national archives if I wanted that information.
Writing was also super clear and easy to read, and then I realised that this is the same guy who wrote the book on Philip Yeo, which makes sense.
April 20, 2024
Untold story of 8 high ranking civil servants in Singapore who were key decision makers and implementors in Lee Kuan Yew's development vision. Overall it's inspiring.. But..
1. Many sections seem over dramatised, especially how each chapter starts.
2. The three who in ways fell out of grace, had jarring and seemingly unkind descriptions of how their careers ended - a complete shift of their narratives which began as glowing praises
3. Oddly placed snippets of their personal life stories - for example unnecessary tabloid-like description of Bogaars' martial affair
Perhaps still worth the read if you are interested in Singapore's history, but yes you'll need patience with the points I mentioned above.
1. Many sections seem over dramatised, especially how each chapter starts.
2. The three who in ways fell out of grace, had jarring and seemingly unkind descriptions of how their careers ended - a complete shift of their narratives which began as glowing praises
3. Oddly placed snippets of their personal life stories - for example unnecessary tabloid-like description of Bogaars' martial affair
Perhaps still worth the read if you are interested in Singapore's history, but yes you'll need patience with the points I mentioned above.
November 30, 2023
4.5 stars. This book provides short essays on 8 pioneering civil servants who played a key role laying the foundations for modern-day Singapore. I like the fact that the essays were easily digestible and they helped me better understand our nation's history. Still, because of the fact that the essays were all written by different writers, they can be a little bit uneven in terms of their coverage. Some provide a summary of their early careers while others jump straight to focusing on their most important accomplishments. I do prefer the first style as it provides more detail, but I guess I might have to read their individual biographies for that (not all of them have their own biographies)!
October 1, 2023
Picked up this book at the airport, something which I usually don’t do. (Wasn’t cheaper on Amazon, wasn’t available in Libby, there was a third reason which I forgot). In covering these 8 men in the civil service, you learn how Singapore was built and realise the path not taken (though probably taken by many others).
Also, a friend just joined the civil service (sort of) … so I was curious to learn more.
If you think about all the things that make Singapore a modern metropolis today, a feat achieved in half a century: building an international airport, a cargo terminal, a strong civil service, navigating the Cold War politics in the 60s and 70s, building an MRT, clean rivers and garden city, public housing, a world-class airline ... if you have worked in any organisations, you will appreciate that amount of willpower, effort and determination this kind of things take.
Also, a friend just joined the civil service (sort of) … so I was curious to learn more.
If you think about all the things that make Singapore a modern metropolis today, a feat achieved in half a century: building an international airport, a cargo terminal, a strong civil service, navigating the Cold War politics in the 60s and 70s, building an MRT, clean rivers and garden city, public housing, a world-class airline ... if you have worked in any organisations, you will appreciate that amount of willpower, effort and determination this kind of things take.
August 10, 2025
insights into the pioneering civil service. deviates somewhat away from the general "what they achieved", "their high ranks at young ages" storyline - and focussed on the lasting impact of their work and what had to be done to put this into action.
but still prefer The First Fools over this. there was a bit more soul in that, since more real estate could be given as the book didnt focus on achievements but more of the personal lives of the politicians.
looking forward to deeper analysis and recollection of key civil service figures
but still prefer The First Fools over this. there was a bit more soul in that, since more real estate could be given as the book didnt focus on achievements but more of the personal lives of the politicians.
looking forward to deeper analysis and recollection of key civil service figures
June 25, 2022
Generally the write up feels a bit short without going too deep into each of the eight immortal. This felt closer now as I work for the government and the characters involved have big roles even when casted in the current situation and there is an expectation that more can be written on each of them.
What they did still feels inspirational and serve as motivation to continue to cut the Gordian knot approach to problem solving.
What they did still feels inspirational and serve as motivation to continue to cut the Gordian knot approach to problem solving.
January 1, 2025
Gifted by a wise friend RM, this book recounts the stories of eight very wise public officers who had the courage to do bold things, some of which are not necessarily publicly associated with them.
Very inspiring!
Very inspiring!
May 30, 2022
An easy-to-read resource on pioneer civil servants. A timely reminder that the Singapore Story is more than just Lee Kuan Yew.
August 8, 2022
An interesting read on the civil servants that were the backbone of the industrial complex that is Singapore Inc.
August 10, 2022
It is such a refreshing angle to hear about the heroes we don't often hear about. Very enriching!
November 1, 2022
Amazing work coupled with great storytelling skills sheds light on some of our founding fathers...
December 24, 2022
An interesting collection of essays on Singapore’s founding civil servants and their vision, hustle and discipline shaping Singapore’s infrastructure and society.
December 25, 2022
This book shows a glimpse into a side of Singapore's history which is not that well known. A good book to recognise these unheralded pioneers of Singapore whom not many know of
April 9, 2023
The write-up on the second last person was so different in style. Instead of focusing first or primarily on his contributions, it kept emphasising his fall from grace.
September 21, 2025
Gd book. Easy to read 8 chapters documenting 8 great mandarins in Singapore and how they contributed in different ways to Singapore. Unsung heroes. Hope their stories can become more well-known.
June 21, 2025
Had this book sitting on my shelf for some time before finally deciding to bring it along for a 37-hour train journey from Chengdu to Lhasa. The timing turned out to be rather fitting—with Singapore’s General Election around the corner and my recent interest piqued by another book, Lee’s Lieutenants, which I had spotted while browsing a bookstore.
I first purchased The Last Fools (a 221-page read) out of curiosity about who these "last fools" were. I had three main motivations for reading it. First, I had come across three of the eight individuals featured - Hon Sui Sen, Sim Kee Boon and J.Y. Pillay - through my professional work over the past decade, and wanted to better understand their contributions and compare them with what I already knew. Second, I hoped to glean insights into Singapore’s early years and consider what lessons might be applicable to my own work and service to the country. (After all, I was taught in secondary school that we study history to avoid repeating past mistakes.) Lastly, I was drawn to the book because of the author, whose writing I’ve always appreciated for its accessible yet thoughtful style.
The book did not disappoint. The introduction was particularly illuminating, explaining the author’s rationale for writing this book and how, from a long list of Singapore’s early nation-builders, he narrowed it down to eight individuals who (despite their immense contributions) had not received as much recognition as they deserved.
In many ways, this book felt like a race against time. Conceived in 2020, it was clear that many of the figures were already no longer with us, and the rest were ageing. The authors moved quickly by interviewing those who were still alive, speaking with family members, and pulling together insights from a wide range of archival materials. The result is a compact but evocative portrait of each of the eight men, presented through succinct chapters that reveal both their public achievements and private struggles.
Here are three key takeaways that stood out to me as I reflected on their collective stories:
1. Trust and Team Dynamics
The civil servants profiled were highly competent individuals who understood their role: to get things done. While their political leaders (such as Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee and even second generations leaders such as Goh Chok Tong and Tony Tan) were responsible for articulating the vision and strategic direction of the young nation, these bureaucrats focused on execution. There were tensions at times, but mutual trust prevailed. Politicians respected their judgement because all parties shared a common goal: to build a better Singapore.
2. Attitude and Approach
What united them was a “do or die” mindset. They had an uncanny ability to distil issues to their core and make decisions with a long-term perspective. There was a kind of pragmatic idealism in the way they worked—what one might call “efficient bureaucracy,” though that phrase sounds paradoxical today. Rules did not limit them; instead, they operated from first principles, always focused on what would work best. They were not concerned with personal advancement. Instead, they were driven by a deep commitment to the national mission, even if success was far from guaranteed.
3. Humanity and Motivation
Beyond their achievements (building the foundations of modern Singapore from shipyards and airlines to HDB flats and hospitals) the book also offers glimpses into their personal lives. Some remained humble, relishing simple pleasures. Others fell out of public favour later in life, but didn’t seem to mind. Their sense of fulfilment came from service, not public accolades. The book also does not shy away from the struggles they faced, showing that they were, above all, human.
The eight featured in this volume - George Bogaars, Andrew Chew, Hon Sui Sen, Howe Yoon Chong, Lee Ek Tieng, Ngiam Tong Dow, J.Y. Pillay, and Sim Kee Boon - quietly shaped the trajectory of Singapore’s success. They were the indispensable bridge between political ambition and practical implementation. In giving them their due, The Last Fools fills a critical gap in our understanding of Singapore’s founding story.
I first purchased The Last Fools (a 221-page read) out of curiosity about who these "last fools" were. I had three main motivations for reading it. First, I had come across three of the eight individuals featured - Hon Sui Sen, Sim Kee Boon and J.Y. Pillay - through my professional work over the past decade, and wanted to better understand their contributions and compare them with what I already knew. Second, I hoped to glean insights into Singapore’s early years and consider what lessons might be applicable to my own work and service to the country. (After all, I was taught in secondary school that we study history to avoid repeating past mistakes.) Lastly, I was drawn to the book because of the author, whose writing I’ve always appreciated for its accessible yet thoughtful style.
The book did not disappoint. The introduction was particularly illuminating, explaining the author’s rationale for writing this book and how, from a long list of Singapore’s early nation-builders, he narrowed it down to eight individuals who (despite their immense contributions) had not received as much recognition as they deserved.
In many ways, this book felt like a race against time. Conceived in 2020, it was clear that many of the figures were already no longer with us, and the rest were ageing. The authors moved quickly by interviewing those who were still alive, speaking with family members, and pulling together insights from a wide range of archival materials. The result is a compact but evocative portrait of each of the eight men, presented through succinct chapters that reveal both their public achievements and private struggles.
Here are three key takeaways that stood out to me as I reflected on their collective stories:
1. Trust and Team Dynamics
The civil servants profiled were highly competent individuals who understood their role: to get things done. While their political leaders (such as Lee Kuan Yew, Goh Keng Swee and even second generations leaders such as Goh Chok Tong and Tony Tan) were responsible for articulating the vision and strategic direction of the young nation, these bureaucrats focused on execution. There were tensions at times, but mutual trust prevailed. Politicians respected their judgement because all parties shared a common goal: to build a better Singapore.
2. Attitude and Approach
What united them was a “do or die” mindset. They had an uncanny ability to distil issues to their core and make decisions with a long-term perspective. There was a kind of pragmatic idealism in the way they worked—what one might call “efficient bureaucracy,” though that phrase sounds paradoxical today. Rules did not limit them; instead, they operated from first principles, always focused on what would work best. They were not concerned with personal advancement. Instead, they were driven by a deep commitment to the national mission, even if success was far from guaranteed.
3. Humanity and Motivation
Beyond their achievements (building the foundations of modern Singapore from shipyards and airlines to HDB flats and hospitals) the book also offers glimpses into their personal lives. Some remained humble, relishing simple pleasures. Others fell out of public favour later in life, but didn’t seem to mind. Their sense of fulfilment came from service, not public accolades. The book also does not shy away from the struggles they faced, showing that they were, above all, human.
The eight featured in this volume - George Bogaars, Andrew Chew, Hon Sui Sen, Howe Yoon Chong, Lee Ek Tieng, Ngiam Tong Dow, J.Y. Pillay, and Sim Kee Boon - quietly shaped the trajectory of Singapore’s success. They were the indispensable bridge between political ambition and practical implementation. In giving them their due, The Last Fools fills a critical gap in our understanding of Singapore’s founding story.
May 26, 2023
Full of admiration and respect for these builders of our nation!!!
Reading these stories as a Millennium reminds me of how much I may have taken these things for granted. These people were not politicians- they didn’t do it for fame or for a political party- they simply cared for something greater than themselves. It is so inspiring to know that our nation can only achieve where it is with the talents of so many bright minds, but more so of people full of grit and sheer hard work.
Reading these stories as a Millennium reminds me of how much I may have taken these things for granted. These people were not politicians- they didn’t do it for fame or for a political party- they simply cared for something greater than themselves. It is so inspiring to know that our nation can only achieve where it is with the talents of so many bright minds, but more so of people full of grit and sheer hard work.
February 26, 2024
Good overview of these personalities in shaping policy and pillars of Singapore’s economy, they brought their personal values and skills to the table, something you hardly see among technocrats today.
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