Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence remains sage advice: Singapore PM

Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence remains sage advice in a world where differences are more easily amplified and people take offence more readily, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said.

Singapore has been celebrating 150th anniversary of Gandhi since last year when Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveild the Mahatma Gandhi Plaque at Clifford Pier in June.

Prime Minister Lee paid elaborate tribute to the Mahatma when he joined Prime Minister Modi in United Nations earlier this week.

The national hero's philosophy of non-violence remains sage advice today, in a world where differences are more easily amplified and people take offence more readily, noted the Singapore Prime Minister.

"If we take Gandhi's message to heart, then we must try our best to resolve differences calmly and peacefully, appreciating the views of the other side, and without inflaming passions or hardening attitudes.

"In doing so, we will build mutual understanding, tolerance and respect for one another," said Prime Minister Lee in an elaborate tribute to the Mahatma in New York.

Lee cited Singapore's Gandhi Memorial Hall which was built with SGD100,000 fund raised by local Indians then and has a Bronze bust, a donation by businessman Sheth G. Uttaram on April 25, 1953.

Elsewhere, the Global Indian International School (GIIS) here has three busts and a statue of the Mahatma.

Lee said "But beyond these physical traces, Gandhi's ideas and ideals have resonated and endured."
"They intend to spread the word amongst students across the world on Gandhian values of preserving the environment and sustainability. The United Nations International Day of Non Violence is also being commemorated on the day, where the High Commissioner will be delivering the keynote address."