Singapore’s founder sedated, on life support

In this March 20, 2013, file photo, Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew attends the Standard Chartered Singapore Forum in Singapore. AP

SINGAPORE — Singapore’s government says Lee Kuan Yew, the city-state’s founding father, remains on life support in intensive care being treated for severe pneumonia.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office says the 91-year-old is sedated and on mechanical ventilation.

It said Thursday his doctors have restarted him on antibiotics, and are continuing to monitor him closely.

Lee was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on Feb. 5.

Singapore’s first prime minister, Lee ruled for 31 years until 1990, and has been credited with transforming Singapore from a slow port city to a wealthy, bustling metropolis.

In a 2013 book, Lee said he signed a legal document informing doctors that if he’s fed by a tube and unable to recover, he wishes to make “a quick exit.”

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