Former OCBC Bank chairman Lee Seng Wee dies aged 85
Mr Lee Seng Wee. TODAY file photo
SINGAPORE — Mr Lee Seng Wee, the former chairman of OCBC Bank, died on Aug 7 at the age of 85. A private service with cremation was held on Aug 8, according to Mr Lee’s wishes.
Mr Lee sustained a head injury during a fall and was brought to the Singapore General Hospital, where neurosurgery was performed. He died of complications arising from the fall.
He leaves behind his wife, 3 children and 6 grandchildren.
Mr Lee was first appointed to the board of OCBC Bank on Feb 25, 1966, and was last re-appointed as a Director on April 28 this year. He was Chairman of OCBC from Aug 1, 1995 to Jun 30, 2003, and led the successful acquisition of Keppel Capital Holdings and all its subsidiaries in August 2001.
Before he died, Mr Lee served on the OCBC Bank Board Executive Committee and the Board Nominating Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Temasek Trust, as well as a Director of Lee Foundation and several Lee Rubber Group Companies.
He was a recipient of the prestigious Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship in 2008.
A statement from OCBC bank lauded Mr Lee, saying: "He had always guided the running of OCBC Bank with the highest integrity and the biggest heart. Today, OCBC Bank is the second largest financial institution in South East Asia and is ranked the top 3 World’s strongest bank. OCBC is also well respected for its giving back to the communities in whatever ways we can.
Mr Lee always cared for the welfare of the employees. He made sure that no staff was laid off during the financial crises and that the career development of all employees is carefully considered.
Mr Lee was a very honourable man and always so humble and self-effacing whenever he was asked about his achievements. That was Mr Lee.
We will all miss Mr Lee for his wise counsel and guidance. "
In accordance with Mr Lee’s wishes, the family has requested that no wreaths be sent nor condolences be published in the press. Donations may be made to the NNI Health Research Endowment Fund. CHANNEL NEWSASIA
