AC5007 - Batch 8 - DAVID SUWARNO KUSWEANTO

Thesis_davis_turn it in .pdf

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Singapore's 38 Oxley Road: A Case Study in Heritage and Political Legacy

David Suwarno Kusweanto A0287349J

Dissertation submitted to Department of Architecture in Partial fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree of MASTER of ARTS IN ARCHITECTURAL CONSERVATION at the DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE (DOA) NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE (NUS)

Supervisor: Johannes Widodo (Dr)

April 2024

Abstracts This study explores the complex interplay of heritage conservation, political legacy, and personal wishes, using the ongoing debate surrounding 38 Oxley Road, the former residence of Singapore's founding Prime Minister “LKY” (Lee Kuan Yew), as a case study. Following Lee's death in 2015 and, more recently, that of his daughter Dr. “LWL” (Lee Wei Ling) in 2024, a dispute has intensified among his children regarding the house's future, pitting Lee's expressed desire for demolition against arguments for its preservation as a site of national significance. Employing qualitative content analysis of news coverage, government statements, and legal documents, this research examines the political dimensions of heritage conservation, the role of government in familial decisions involving politically prominent figures, and the economic considerations influencing potential outcomes for the property. Hypotheses explored include the influence of competing interpretations of “LKY”'s wishes, the Singaporean government's motivation to maintain political stability, and the economic value of the property under various scenarios. The study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted factors shaping the controversy and the broader implications for heritage policy and political veneration. The research scope encompasses historical context, family dispute, legal/ethical considerations, public opinion, governmental policy, economic potential, and potential outcomes. Ultimately, the paper contributes to the dialogue on how societies balance personal legacies with national heritage, and the challenges of navigating politically charged conservation projects.

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Acknowledgements Gratitude is offered by the author before the Almighty G-d, who reigns over the heavens and the earth, and bestows love and power, enabling the author to complete this dissertation entitled “Singapore's 38 Oxley Road: A Case Study in Heritage and Political Legacy” as well as Rabbi Cohen. The preparation of this Final Project is carried out as a requirement for obtaining a bachelor’s degree in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning. The author wishes to express thanks to all parties who have supported, motivated, or guided the completion of this Final Project. The author would like to show complete gratitude: 1. To the author’s family for their unwavering love, patience, and belief in the author, which have been the foundation of the author’s perseverance and success. This dissertation would not have been possible without all of them.

2. To the author’s supervisor, Dr Johannes Widodo, for his guidance, insightful feedback, and unwavering support throughout this research journey. His expertise and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping this dissertation; and 3. To author’s co-supervisor, Dr Maxime Cedric Decaudin, whose thoughtful advice and constructive critiques greatly enhanced the quality of this work. His support was essential in refining author’s research approach and analysis; and 4. To Dr Ho Puay Peng and Dr Nikhil Joshi for their academic guidance and encouragement, which have significantly contributed to the author’s learning and the development of this dissertation; and 5. Luk Ying Xian for her careful review and valuable suggestions during the revision process; and

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6. To Liauw Kee Wei for introducing the author to the economic aspects related to the 38 Oxley Road house, which enriched the analytical depth of this study; and 7. To Felcia, Gabriel, Jia Yi, Lara, Rithanya, Sharmila, and other master’s students from the conservation programme for their continuous support and encouragement throughout this endeavour; and 8. To the author’s Basyan classmates for their prayers and moral support; and 9. To the author’s Chavrusah for their spiritual guidance and encouragement, which sustained author’s during challenging times.

The author is fully aware that the preparation of this dissertation is not without its shortcomings. Therefore, the author sincerely apologises for any errors or deficiencies that may be present in this dissertation. It is the author’s hope that this dissertation will be beneficial to all readers in general, and especially to those in the field of heritage conservation.

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Table of Contents Abstracts ................................................................................................................................................ 1 Acknowledgements .......................................................................................................................... 2 Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................... 4 List of Table and Images ................................................................................................................ 6 Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................. 7 Chapter 1.1: Objectives .............................................................................................................. 8 Chapter 1.2: Overview of Works ........................................................................................... 9 Chapter 1.3: Hypotheses ......................................................................................................... 10 Chapter 1.4: Summary of Methodology........................................................................... 11 Chapter 2: Literature Review .................................................................................................... 12 Chapter 2.1: Process of Politics ........................................................................................... 12 Chapter 2.2: Veneration in Politics .................................................................................... 13 Chapter 2.3: Architecture of Politics Veneration ....................................................... 15 Chapter 2.4: Difficult Political Architecture ................................................................. 17 Chapter 3: Methodology .............................................................................................................. 19 Chapter 3.1: Data Collection ................................................................................................. 19 Chapter 3.2: Data Analysis ..................................................................................................... 20 Chapter 4: Results and Discussion ......................................................................................... 22 Chapter 4.1: “LKY”’s House .................................................................................................... 22 Chapter 4.2: The Physical Attributes of the Site ......................................................... 23 Chapter 4.3: The Story (The Straits Times Narrative) ............................................. 24 4

Chapter 4.4: “LHY” Narrative................................................................................................. 28 Chapter 4.5: Government’s Plan ......................................................................................... 29 Chapter 4.6: All Actors and Opinions ............................................................................... 31 Chapter 4.7: Land Ownership and Heritage ................................................................. 33 Chapter 4.8: Economic Development ............................................................................... 36 Chapter 4.9: What to Do? ........................................................................................................ 38 Chapter 5: Conclusion ................................................................................................................... 40 Bibliography ...................................................................................................................................... 41

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List of Table and Images Figure 1 Opinions and Actors Scale of Demolish-Conserved (Source by Author) .... 33 Table 1 NHB Option for 38 Oxley Road (Source: NHB) ....................................................... 30 Table 2 Option and Their Estimation (Source by Author) ................................................. 37

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Chapter 1: Introduction Heritage conservation is a crucial endeavour that focuses on preserving and protecting our cultural, historical, and architectural legacy for future generations.

This practice encompasses a wide range of activities, including the restoration of historic buildings, safeguarding archaeological sites, and maintaining traditional practices and customs that define a community's identity (Shah et al., 2023). By valuing and conserving our heritage, we not only honour the past but also foster a sense of belonging and continuity within societies. Heritage conservation promotes education and awareness, allowing people to connect with their roots and appreciate the diverse narratives that shape our world. Ultimately, it serves as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the stories, artistry, and craftsmanship continue to inspire and inform the present and the future.

The birthplace of a country's leader often holds significant heritage value, serving as a symbol of national pride and identity of place. This location can become a focal point for historical interpretation, reflecting the life and ideals of the leader who emerged from it (Englund & Englund, 2021, p. 175). For instance, the preservation of such sites allows visitors to explore the early influences that shaped the leader’s vision and contributions to the nation. These birthplaces often transform into museums or cultural centres, promoting educational programs that highlight the leader's legacy and its impact on the country's development. In theory, by conserving these sites, communities not only pay tribute to their leaders but also encourage a deeper understanding of their history, values, and the socio-political context in which they operated. Ultimately, the heritage associated with a leader’s birthplace enriches a nation's narrative, fostering a sense of connection and continuity among its citizens.

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A leader of a country is inherently connected to politic, hence his house and all of its conservation efforts are also connected to politics. Politics can refer to a process through which groups of people gather to make collective decisions, often within the framework of a government or other organizational systems (Hix & Høyland, 2022).

The word "politics" comes from the Greek word "politikos" (πολιτικος), which means "of, for, or relating to citizens". This word is derived from "polis" (πολις), meaning "city" or "city-state". In ancient Greece, the polis was the central unit of political life, where citizenship and civic engagement were paramount (Chilufya, 2021, p. 165). From here, it can be derived that there will be a lot of discussion in regards to conservation efforts with political nature in the background.

Political leaders are viewed differently by their people and sometimes different period of time means a different way to look at political leaders. In the case of Chartwell (Winston Churchill house), Mandela House, and Mao’s birthplace; they all were turned into Museums and touristic activities (Wang, 2020, p. 36). In the case of Hitler’s birth house, it tells a more complicated history and ethics for conservation.

Over the year it has become pilgrimage place for the Neo Nazi movement (Langeder, 2023). Debate surrounding its demolition is being dropped and instead the place will be turn into a police station, a place that would not be attractive for the Neo Nazi.

Chapter 1.1: Objectives A tamer example of a political leader intertwined with a conservation project is the house of “LKY” (Lee Kuan Yew) who is Singapore's founding Prime Minister. Since his death in 2015, a vigorous debate has emerged regarding the fate of his residence at 38 Oxley Road. The differing perspectives among his children have raised significant issues surrounding conservation, particularly the indecisiveness that has led to the house remaining unused for nearly a decade. This situation also prompts 8

critical questions about the extent of governmental involvement in family decisions, especially when the family in question is politically prominent.

The debate was resurrected and intensified following the death of “LKY’s” daughter, Dr. “LWL”, in October 2024. In the wake of her passing, “LHY” applied to demolish the house, aligning with their father's expressed wishes. However, this request has been temporarily halted by the government, which is currently evaluating the implications of such an action. The National Heritage Board (NHB) has emphasized that immediate demolition could prevent a thorough exploration of preservation options, highlighting the complex interplay between personal wishes and national heritage considerations.

Chapter 1.2: Overview of Works The central focus of this study is the property located at 38 Oxley Road, Singapore, and the complex array of issues surrounding its future. This involves examining the expressed wishes of Singapore's first prime minister, “LKY”, regarding the house, the conflicting views of his children, and the Singaporean government's evolving position on the matter. The paper addresses the historical, political, and personal dimensions of the controversy. The scope of the research encompasses a comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted issues related to 38 Oxley Road. This includes: •

Historical Context: Examining the history of the house, its architectural significance as a late 19th-century bungalow, and its role in Singapore's political history; and

•

Family Dispute: Analysing the public dispute between “LKY’s” children regarding the interpretation of his wishes and the handling of the estate; and

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•

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Investigating the legal aspects of the case, including the validity of “LKY’s” final will, the role of the Attorney-General's Chambers, and the ethical implications for the involved parties; and

•

Public Opinion: Assessing public sentiment regarding the fate of the house, as reflected in surveys and media commentary; and

•

Government Policy: Tracing the evolution of the Singaporean government's position on the matter, including the deliberations of a ministerial committee and the considerations of public interest; and

•

Economic Potential: Evaluating the economic implications of each potential outcome for 38 Oxley Road. This includes analysing the property value, potential revenue from tourism if preserved, costs associated with preservation or demolition, and the impact on surrounding property values. The study will consider the economic trade-offs between preserving a historical site and allowing for redevelopment, including potential impacts on land value and urban planning; and

•

Potential Outcomes: Evaluating the various options for the property's future, considering the perspectives of different stakeholders, and assessing the potential consequences of each decision.

Chapter 1.3: Hypotheses Primary Hypothesis: The controversy surrounding 38 Oxley Road is primarily shaped by competing interpretations of “LKY’s” wishes, as articulated in his will and public statements, reflecting broader tensions between personal legacy, national heritage, and public interest in Singaporean politics.

Alternative Hypothesis: The Singaporean government's approach to 38 Oxley Road is motivated by a desire to maintain political stability and manage the “LKY” legacy, 10

potentially overriding considerations of individual property rights or economic efficiency.

Economic Hypothesis: The economic value of 38 Oxley Road, whether as a redeveloped private property or a preserved heritage site, is a significant factor influencing the perspectives of different stakeholders and the feasibility of various intervention options.

Chapter 1.4: Summary of Methodology This research will be conducted using qualitative method content analysis of news coverage, government statement and other. This involves systematically analysing the content of texts (news reports, government statements) to identify patterns, themes, and biases. It can reveal the frequency of certain keywords, the tone used to describe events, and the overall framing of political issues. Statutes and laws are used to analyse certain aspect of ownership of the house 38 Oxley Road and basic economic analysis is used to understand the potential price of each option of intervention for 38 Oxley Road.

Research Scope To analyse the evolution of political discourse and identify indicators of it becoming counterproductive.

To assess the role of government in family decisions and the implications when families are politically active or influential.

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Chapter 2: Literature Review Chapter 2.1: Process of Politics Originating in classical Greek, the root form "politic" means "city," "citizen," and "civic" (Beard, 2000, p. 4). This concept implies that political rule is a rule that is founded on the understanding that everyone has different interests and values that need to be reconciled in society and that public procedures can be institutionalised to achieve consensus (Crick, 2004, p. 69-70).

The structure of domestic politics is hierarchical. In terms of superiority and subordination, the units—institutions and agencies—stand in relation to one another. The earliest and most fundamental piece of knowledge regarding the relationships between the components of a domain is provided by the ordering principle of a system. A polity's office hierarchy is by no means fully defined, and all doubts regarding the relationships of superiority and subordination are not eliminated (Waltz, 1979, p. 48).

Even though most people view political discourse as something that happened between two opposition, politics is rarely as straightforward as two-person groups, and attempts to assign political allies and rivals have employed a variety of left-, right-, and centre-based gradations. For instance, people with strong left or right opinions are referred to as "left/right-wingers." The term "wingers" originated with warfare “those on the edge” and more recently with sport. People with less radical opinions are frequently referred to as "left-of-centre" or "right-of-centre" (Beard, 2000, p. 6).

There are many problems with studying politics as an observer. In addition to the difference between what are known as normative and empirical approaches to 12

research, there is also the issue of whether to use the person, the social, or the globe as the unit of analysis. The type of controlled experiments that are typical in the scientific and technology sciences are rarely possible for social and political researchers

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logistical

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ethical

concerns.

Concerns

over

the

representativeness of the samples employed and the longevity of data sources pose significant barriers to the application of the rigorous scientific method in situations where they are able to produce and alter huge amounts of statistical data (Axford et al., 2005, p. 4-5). This would be a reason for this thesis to approach this subject using normative approach instead of empirical one.

Chapter 2.2: Veneration in Politics It goes without saying that a system of direct discussion cannot support the practical activity of such a vast number of members of a unified organisation. Regularly convening deliberative assemblies with 1,000 members faces the greatest challenges in terms of space and distance; from a topographical perspective, however, such an assembly would be completely unfeasible with 10,000 members.

According to fair logic, the collectivity in a modern democratic party cannot handle the direct resolution of every dispute that may come up. Delegation is therefore necessary1 (Michels, 1962, p. 22). In this context, politicians are a group of individuals who receive compensation for their work and are elected, appointed, or self-designated as the main political actors (Van Dijk & others, 1997, p. 13). Brewer’s Dictionary of Politics brings up a similar definition for politician, albeit with a bit of negative connotation, “A practitioner of the art of politics, essential to the working of human society but frequently despised by those outside the political arena; indeed the word is sometimes a term of abuse.”

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That delegation manifest in what today we call as politicians.

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It also appears that our demand for a single leader to lead a social group is ingrained in our biology and psychology. It is a component of our life's genetic blueprint. The family unit effectively reinforces the necessity for a strong male leader. People were dependent on their parents for protection and sustenance during their early years since they were defenceless newborns. The conventional family unit, which was nearly universal in ancient times but is still prevalent in most societies now, is a microcosm of a totalitarian state in which each member of the family has a role to play as a part of the family (Ludwig, 2002, p. 9).

Since their actions have an impact on a country's social and economic well-being, politics and politicians are also vital to democracy (Silvester, 2008, p. 2). Judgement of political genius for these delegates is challenging due to the different approach they take compared to other professionals. To develop foreign, domestic, and economic policies, rulers frequently enlist the help of knowledgeable advisors, assigning duties to staff, diplomats, and cabinet members. They might also be held accountable for uncontrollable circumstances and given credit for the long-term results of initiatives started by their predecessors. This differs from other professionals who may not be able to assign credit for their actions (Ludwig, 2002, p. 272-273).

The general public, who frequently lack awareness and require direction, experienced a profound sense of thankfulness to politicians. The crowd's appreciation for those who write and speak on their behalf is another element that adds to the leaders' dominance and is of a higher moral calibre. The leaders gain notoriety as the people's advocates and advisors, and while the majority, who are economically vital, silently go about their everyday lives, the leaders frequently face persecution, incarceration, and exile out of loyalty to the cause (Michels, 1962, p.

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41). The chiefs' devotion endures after they pass away. The best of them are declared to be canonised. In some regions of central Italy, socialist parents refer to their sons as Lassallo and their girls as Marxina as a symbol of the new faith, much like Christians did and still do when naming their newborns after the founders of their faith, St. Peter and St. Paul (Michels, 1962. p. 44). Just like there are numerous holy sites in relations to Christianity, there are numerous “holy” sites in relation to politicians or political leader.

An example of this would be Mandela’s countless honours and various recognitions throughout the course of the last forty years or more. He has received honorary doctorates from at least 80 universities across almost 30 nations. He now enjoys his "freedom" in 42 cities (Maylam, 2009, p. 21). Mandela continued to be admired after leaving office for leading the "miracle" of a political solution to the superficial issues of apartheid, and the ANC continued to win in the South African politics between 60 and 67 percent from the national vote (Bond, 2011).

Chapter 2.3: Architecture of Politics Veneration Few arenas more accurately capture the goals, passions, and self-perceptions of leaders than their architecturally constructed shape. Designed to outlast and inspire both the populace and future generations, architecture symbolises power and authority in a unique way (Minkenberg, 2016, p. 465). Architecture is a form of veneration, in the context of politics it became political veneration. Veneration, while associated with religion, can also refer to veneration of political leader. Such cult-like behaviours are not unusual in history; many pre-modern monarchies engaged in ruler worship, as was the case in a large portion of the Communist globe in the 20th century (Marquez, 2018, p. 266).

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One of such veneration happened to Raden Panji Margono. Located inside the temple, the statue of Raden Panji Margono and its altar serve as a symbol of the Chinese community in Lasem's recognition and respect for him. He became a local hero in 1750 when he fought alongside Oei Ing Kiat and Tan Kwee Wie against the Dutch during the Yellow War (Triatmodjo et al., 2023, p. 6-7). The Chinese population in Lasem reveres Raden Panji Margono as a god, a practice that is unique in Indonesia and demonstrates the ancestors' affinity despite religious, ethnic, and other divides (Basiroen & Manuaba, 2022, p. 94).

Stories about their valour are passed down through generations. The younger generation in Lasem values and admires their gallantry. The three notable persons' unity helped unite the Javanese and Chinese in Lasem to fight the Dutch. The Chinese and Javanese had strong relationships, keeping Lasem protected from Dutch disputes. The Lasem people's fraternity and connectedness are symbolised by Babagan's Gie Yong Bio Temple. Interethnic marriages, assimilation, and acculturation are ongoing processes. Javanese coastal building design has historically inspired Chinese architecture. Javanese and original Chinese architecture have been combined to create a stunning harmony (Purwanto & others, 2017, p. 49).

The founder of the People's Republic of China, Mao Zedong, is regarded as one of the most significant individuals in modern Chinese history. In 1949, he led the Chinese Communist Party to victory over the KMT and established the People's Republic of China. Later that year, the Chinese government decided to emphasise the history of the CCP, especially Mao's outstanding contribution, at all Red Tourism venues (Wan, 2017, p. 150).

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Among China's top three Red Tourism educational websites that encourage patriotism is Shaoshan. It is by far the most significant location for Red Tourism in China since it is the birthplace of Chairman Mao. Shaoshan City is located in China's Hunan Province, west of Xiangtan City (Wan, 2017, p. 150). A national 5A-level tourist destination is Shaoshan Scenic Area. China's 100 national classic red scenic locations and national demonstration bases for patriotism teaching include the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall and his old home (Zhou et al., 2022, p. 51).

Every day, thousands of people visit Shaoshan. People gather to pray or leave flowers in Mao Zedong Square, where the statue is surrounded by stones that contain words from the late leader. Those who are prepared to wait in queue can also visit the Mao Zedong library, which has copies of his many publications, the Mao Zedong Memorial Museum, which holds his personal possessions, and the farmhouse where he was born and nurtured (Dong, 2015).

Chapter 2.4: Difficult Political Architecture Hitler was born at a house in the town of Braunau am Inn in April of 1889. The property has been leased by the government from its owner since 1972, and for many years it was used as a centre for people with impairments. However, after a disagreement between the government and the owner, Gerlinde Pommer, who denied permission for renovations, it was abandoned in 2011. The Austrian government announced in 2016 that it would take control of Adolf Hitler's birthplace in order to prevent it from serving as a gathering place for Nazi supporters. According to officials, the choice was made following years of deliberation over ways to thwart neo-Nazi sentiment (Bell, 2016a).

There has been much discussion about the former guesthouse's future, with opinions ranging from tearing it down to repurposing it. When its owner declined to 17

sell, the dispute became even more complex. However, according to Austrian newspaper Die Presse, Interior Minister Wolfgang Sobotka stated that an expert committee had determined that the house should be demolished (Bell, 2016b).

However, plans to convert the 17th-century home into a police station were announced by the interior ministry in 2019 (Bell, 2023).

The best use of the building, according to the Austrian government, is for the police to move in as the protectors of civil liberties. However, the plan has been criticised.

"There is a total lack of historical contextualisation," grumbled historian Florian Kotanko. He maintained that the Interior Ministry's plan to remodel the building in order to eliminate its "recognition factor" "is impossible to accomplish."

"Demystification should be a key part," he continued, supporting the idea that the building should house an exhibition on those who rescued Jews during Nazi rule (AP, 2023).

The Austrian government has faced challenges in managing Adolf Hitler's birth house in Braunau am Inn, balancing preserving its historical significance with avoiding neo-Nazi shrines. The final decision to repurpose the site as a police station has been criticized for lack of historical contextualization, highlighting the delicate balance between remembrance and responsibility.

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Chapter 3: Methodology This mixed-methods approach employs qualitative content analysis to examine textual sources, supplemented by statutory analysis of legal frameworks and economic evaluation of intervention options. Data triangulation ensures robustness by combining news reports, government statements, legal documents, and economic datasets. The design prioritises thematic exploration of political narratives while grounding findings in legal and economic realities.

Chapter 3.1: Data Collection The data collection process for this research is designed to ensure comprehensive and representative coverage of the various perspectives and factors influencing the discourse surrounding 38 Oxley Road. A multi-pronged approach is adopted, incorporating both primary and secondary sources, with careful attention to the provenance, credibility, and relevance of each data set. The sources being used in this research is as follow: •

News coverage: Articles (2015–2025) from major Singaporean outlets (Straits Times, Today) and international publications; and

•

Government texts: Parliamentary debates, press releases, and policy statements from the Prime Minister’s Office and National Heritage Board; and

•

Legal documents: Preservation of Sites Act 1973, Land Acquisition Act 1966, and relevant case law; and

•

Economic data: Historic property valuations from URA and expert assessments of 38 Oxley Road’s market value, this can be found in One Map.

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Chapter 3.2: Data Analysis The data analysis in this study employs a rigorous qualitative content analysis framework, complemented by statutory interpretation and basic economic evaluation, to provide a holistic understanding of the issues surrounding 38 Oxley Road. The qualitative content analysis is conducted in accordance with Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic approach, which involves both inductive and deductive coding. Initially, all collected texts—including news articles, government statements, and legal documents—are subjected to open coding to identify emergent themes and patterns. This inductive process is particularly attentive to recurring motifs such as “national heritage versus private ownership,” “political legacy,” and “public interest.” Following this, a deductive coding phase is undertaken, applying a set of predefined categories based on the research questions. These categories include the frequency of specific keywords (such as “preservation,” “demolition,” and “compensation”), the tone and sentiment expressed in the texts (using positive and negative sentiment scales), and the narrative structures employed in the framing of the issue by various stakeholders.

To ensure analytical rigour, the coding process is supported by the use of qualitative data analysis software, which facilitates systematic organisation and retrieval of coded data. Intercoder reliability checks are performed to enhance the validity of the findings, with discrepancies resolved through discussion and consensus. The analysis also includes a close examination of the framing strategies used in both media and official communications, paying attention to how different actors seek to influence public perception and policy outcomes.

In parallel, statutory analysis is conducted to interpret the legal provisions governing heritage property rights and state intervention. Key statutes, such as the 20

Preservation of Sites and Monuments Act and the Land Acquisition Act, are analysed through the lens of Dworkin’s interpretive theory, which emphasises the importance of legislative intent and precedent in legal interpretation. Relevant case law is scrutinised to understand how these statutes have been applied in practice, with particular attention to judicial reasoning and the balance struck between public and private interests.

The economic analysis component utilises a basic cost-benefit framework to evaluate the potential financial implications of various intervention scenarios for 38 Oxley Road. Four primary options are modelled: full preservation, partial redevelopment, state acquisition, and maintaining the status quo. For each scenario, opportunity costs, transaction costs (as stipulated by the Land Acquisition Act), and the hedonic pricing of heritage attributes are considered. Economic modelling is informed by historical property valuations, market data, and expert assessments, with sensitivity analyses conducted to test the robustness of key assumptions.

Finally, the findings from the qualitative, legal, and economic analyses are integrated using a convergent parallel design. Comparative matrices are developed to link media narratives with legal constraints and economic realities, while stakeholder impact mapping and semantic network analysis are employed to visualise the interplay between different actors and themes. This multi-layered analytical approach ensures a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex political, legal, and economic dimensions at play in the case of 38 Oxley Road.

21

Chapter 4: Results and Discussion Chapter 4.1: “LKY’s” House The house at 38 Oxley Road was occupied by Mr. “LKY” from the 1940s until his passing. Important moments in Singapore's story are connected to the house. The current ruling party which is People's Action Party (PAP) was formed during the 1950s as a result of meetings held in the basement dining room by founding fathers like Dr. Goh Keng Swee and Dr. Toh Chin Chye (Ong & Ang, 2024). The pre-war bungalow at 38 Oxley Road, which was constructed more than a century ago by a Jewish businessman, has witnessed some pivotal moments in Singapore's history.

Speaking to a group of reporters from the Straits Times for the book Hard Truths to Keep Singapore In 2011, Mr. Lee declared his desire for the mansion to be demolished. In his own words, here it is (Chew, 2015): “Because I think, I've seen other houses, Nehru's, Shakespeare's. They become a shambles after a while. People trudge through. Because of my house the neighbouring houses cannot build high. Now demolish my house and change the planning rules, go up, the land value will go up.”

The dispute surrounding the house at 38 Oxley Road in Singapore is a complex family drama with national implications, deeply rooted in the legacy of Singapore's first prime minister, “LKY”. At its heart is a conflict between “LKY’s” children – “LHL” (Lee Hsien Loong), “LHY” (Lee Hsien Yang), and “LWL” (Lee Wei Ling) – over the fate of their family home and the interpretation of their father's wishes for the property after his death. “LKY” had expressed a desire for the house to be demolished, fearing it would be turned into a public spectacle, but if that wasn’t possible, to be closed to all but his family.

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The discord became public in 2017, when “LHY” and “LWL” accused their brother, “LHL”, of exploiting their father's legacy for political advantage (Lim, 2024). They alleged that “LHL” was obstructing the demolition of the house against their father's wishes and abusing his power as Prime Minister. “LHY” has consistently advocated for the demolition of the house, while “LHL”, though acknowledging his father’s initial preference, expressed concerns about the circumstances surrounding the final will and raised questions about the feasibility of demolition, citing the property's historical significance.

Chapter 4.2: The Physical Attributes of the Site The house was constructed in the late 19th century, specifically around 1898, and is an example of the “Early style” bungalow typical of that era in Singapore. Its architectural character remains largely intact, despite some additions and alterations over the years. The house is raised on low piers for ventilation and features a front verandah leading to the entrance porch, which was a common design to suit the local tropical climate. Architectural details include full-length French windows, fretted timber balusters, pilasters, and plinths, all characteristic of bungalows from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The floors are timber, and the house’s simplicity is reflective of the era’s design ethos. The roof tiles show Chinese influence, while the overall form blends Anglo-Indian and local vernacular elements, sometimes referred to as “Anglo-Malay bungalow” style.

The property sits on a freehold plot measuring approximately 1,120.5 square meters (about 12,060 square feet). This land size is notable, as it is large enough to accommodate the equivalent of around 12 four-room HDB flats. The house originally included five bedrooms, with three additional rooms at the back that served as

23

servants’ quarters. Over time, the property was fortified with steel gates, brick walls, and bullet-proof windows due to security concerns during “LKY’s” political career.

The bungalow itself is one of a matching pair built at the end of the 19th century; its twin at 40 Oxley Road has since been demolished and redeveloped. The house’s structure includes a basement, which is unusual for such bungalows, as this space was added by the original owner. The interior has remained largely unmodified, making it a rare surviving example of its type in Singapore. The property also includes parking space and is surrounded by a garden, typical of landed houses in the area. The surrounding neighbourhood has seen significant redevelopment, with many old houses replaced by modern condominiums and residential buildings.

Despite minimal maintenance over the decades, the house retains much of its historical and architectural significance, serving as both a family home and a site of key national events, including the founding meetings of the PAP in its basement.

Chapter 4.3: The Story (The Straits Times Narrative) Their father had made this wish public, according to a 2015 statement from Mr. Lee's younger son, Mr. “LHY”, and only daughter, Dr. “LWL”. According to both siblings, Mr. Lee designated them as trustees and executors in his final will and testament, which was dated December 17, 2013. The announcement coincides with calls to make Mr. Lee's house, which has stood for more than 60 years, a museum or heritage site. The statement was given a month after the late prime minister’s death and in their own words of calling the demolition of the house (“Mr “LKY” Wanted Oxley Road Home Demolished as Stated in Will; Children Ask Public to Respect Wishes,” 2015).

“Our father has given his life in service to the people of Singapore. We hope that the people of Singapore will honour and respect his stated wish in his last will and testament.”

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The executors and trustees of Mr. Lee's estate, son “LHY” and daughter “LWL”, made a Deed of Gift of certain furniture and personal belongings from 38 Oxley Road, the address of Mr. Lee's residence, according to a statement released on Thursday, June 11, 2015. These included all of the dining room furniture, the desks in the study and work areas, including the desk he had worked on for many years, clothes from several historical events, and numerous other personal belongings. These presents are being prepared as the focal points of the 2015 SG50 Tribute Gallery major public exhibition (Kumar, 2015).

According to a survey conducted in December 2015 by the Hong Kong-based market research firm YouGov, most Singaporeans are in favour of tearing down the residence of the late prime minister “LKY” in line with his wishes. Seventy-seven percent of the 1,000 respondents to the online survey agreed with his request that the house should be demolished. Sixty-one percent of those who voted in favour of this said it was crucial to honour his request, while the remaining respondents stated they wished to protect his privacy. According to a YouGov survey, 15% of participants favour keeping the house. Seventy-five percent of this group believed that because the house has significant historical and cultural significance, it should be made public (Tham, 2015).

On June 26, 2017, the reason behind Prime Minister “LHL”'s younger brother, Mr. “LHY”, requesting a "immediate commitment" from the government to destroy 38, Oxley Road has been questioned by Indranee Rajah who was Senior Minister of State for Law and Finance. She wrote on her facebook (Au-Yong, 2017): “Letting the house stand for now does not go against those wishes… The matter may well not need to be decided for another 20 to 30 years. It can be decided by a future government,” 25

In response to claims made by his younger siblings Wei Ling and Hsien Yang that he had abused his position of authority and disregarded his father's desire to demolish the family home, “LHL” was in Parliament on July 3, 2017. Aware of his parents' desires, the prime minister and his spouse, Ho Ching, started talking to his father about other options following the July Cabinet meeting, in case the government refused to permit the demolition of the house. In order to protect the family's privacy, PM Lee and his wife suggested renovating the house from the inside out, tearing down the private living areas. The house's deteriorating structure would be reinforced, and the historically significant basement dining room would be preserved. In order to live in the house, a new and distinct living space would also be constructed. Following his death, Mr. “LKY” advised the family in December 2011 that it would be "best to redevelop 38 Oxley Road straightaway" and follow PM Lee and Ms. Ho Ching's recommendations (Yong, 2017a).

A ministerial committee presented three choices for the property at 38 Oxley Road on April 02, 2018: authorising its demolition, keeping it in its entirety, or keeping only the historic basement dining room. In the event that it is maintained, the government would need to purchase the land and rezone it for different purposes, including turning it into a research institute or museum. Mr. “LHY”, the house's current owner, may keep living there, make interior improvements, and even sell it if it is preserved. In either case, the residence may be gazetted along with steps to allay Mr. “LKY’s” worries about the need to preserve the family's seclusion. However, they did not reach for a decision since it wasn’t necessary at that time, saying (Toh, 2018): “Dr “LWL” is likely to continue residing there for the foreseeable future. The various options outlined in this report are drawer plans to help a future 26

government make an informed and considered decision about the property when it becomes necessary.”

The Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) referred a matter to the Law Society on January 7, 2019, regarding potential misconduct by founding prime minister “LKY’s” daughter-in-law, Mrs. Lee Suet Fern, in draughting his final will and testament (Sim, 2019): “Where a person intends to make a significant gift by will to any member of the lawyer's family, the lawyer must not act for the person and must advise him to obtain independent advice in respect of the gift. This rule applies even if the lawyer is related to the person making the gift… Mrs Lee's conduct appears to be in breach of the rules.”

In February 2020, a disciplinary tribunal found lawyer Lee Suet Fern guilty of grossly improper professional conduct in handling the last will and testament of Mr. “LKY”, Singapore's first prime minister and her father-in-law. The case was referred to the Court of Three Judges, the highest disciplinary body to deal with lawyers' misconduct, and Fern could face fines, suspension, or disbarment as a lawyer. (“How Founding PM “LKY’s” Last Will Was Executed in 16 Hours,” 2020). The highest disciplinary authority for the legal profession found Mrs. Lee guilty of misconduct unfit for an advocate and solicitor in a written ruling issued on Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, saying that she had “blindly followed the directions of her husband, a significant beneficiary under the very will whose execution she helped to rush through”. Due to her handling of her late father-in-law “LKY’s” final will and testament, senior attorney Lee Suet Fern was suspended by the Court of Three Judges for a period of fifteen months (Tham, 2020).

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The police had begun investigating Mr. “LHY” and his wife, Lee Suet Fern, in March 2023 for potential charges of giving false testimony in court, Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean said Parliament on Thursday. Mr. Teo said that the pair fled Singapore after refusing to show up for a police interview that they had initially agreed to (Tham, 2023).

Chapter 4.4: “LHY” Narrative On 14th of June 2017, the late Dr. “LWL” and “LHY” created a joint statement and published it in Facebook post. They accused the previous prime minister, “LHL” of misusing position and power over Singapore Government, saying: “We have felt threatened by Hsien Loong’s misuse of his position and influence over the Singapore government and its agencies to drive his personal agenda. We are concerned that the system has few checks and balances to prevent the abuse of government.”

On July 1st 2017, “LHY” double down on accusing his older brother when being questioned by a lot of his commentor on why did he felt compelled to bring these issues publicly.

“The answer is that we were pushed by Hsien Loong’s secret cabinet committee.”

On 9th of January 2019, responding to the potential misconduct regarding the will, the late Dr. “LWL” created a Facebook post referring this complaint is “repeats allegations made years ago by Hsien Loong through Lucien Wong, his personal lawyer (now AG).” She proceeded to show a screenshot of her post on 16th June 2017, allegedly debunking the potential misconduct regarding the will. In 2022, both “LHY”

28

and his wife sought asylum in United Kingdom. Regarding his asylum, he posted on his Facebook on 22nd of October 2024.

“I sought asylum protection in 2022. The Singapore government’s attacks against me are in the public record. They prosecuted my son, brought disciplinary proceedings against my wife, and launched a bogus police investigation that has dragged on for years. On the basis of these facts, the UK has determined that I face a well-founded risk of persecution, and cannot safely return to Singapore.”

Chapter 4.5: Government’s Plan The National Heritage Board (NHB) declared on October 24, 2024 that it will determine whether the location of founding prime minister “LKY’s” home at 38 Oxley Road “has national historical, heritage and architectural significance as to be worthy of preservation,” that it may be maintained as a national monument (Ng & Ng, 2024).

The Committee lay out three options regarding this house which can be seen in Table 1.

Option

Retain property

the Retain the Dining Allow the Property Room

and

tear to be demolished

down the rest of fully, the Property Sub-Options

and

allow

redevelopment

Option (a) Gazette The Dining Room Option (a) By the and preserve as a would be gazetted owner National

as

a

Monument.

Monument,

for

National residential use. and Option (b) By the

integrated with an State

for

29

Option (b) Gazette alternative use for alternative use (e.g. for conservation.

the site (e.g. park, park, heritage centre)

heritage

centre),

after

acquisition of the site.

Remarks

Both sub-options Even if there is Sub-option could

(a)

include public access to could result in the

further steps to the Dining Room loss of a historically significantly

for

national significant

address Mr Lee’s education

property, and the

concerns

about purposes,

potential of that

privacy

(e.g. demolition of the history

significant interior rest

of

the leveraged

renovations of the Property private

spaces, including

and/or

with private

restricted access).

being for

commercial profit. the spaces

would ensure that the privacy of Mr and

Mrs

would

Lee be

respected.

Table 1 NHB Option for 38 Oxley Road (Source: NHB) At that time, the committee still doesn’t make a decision as Dr. “LWL” still resides in that property, “the Committee recognises that there is no need to make any decision on the Property now, since Dr “LWL” is likely to continue residing there for the 30

foreseeable future.” However, since the death of Dr. “LWL” on the 9th of October 2024, and “LHY”’s statement of applying for demolishing the house on 15th October 2024, the Ministry of National Development has said “(The) Government will carefully consider issues related to the property in due course, taking into account Mr “LKY’s” wishes and the public interest, including considering any applications with regard to the property (Chiu & Ng, 2024).”

Chapter 4.6: All Actors and Opinions On the outside, a person can frame this as a black and white issue where one side says one thing and the other sides said another. However, the truth is more complicated. Singapore’s government haven’t make any decision regarding 38 Oxley Road and as they say it the best themselves “The Government, on the other hand, is trying to keep options open (Lai, 2024).” It is best to compile all the options from various people related to this.

Mr. “LHY” stated through a post in Facebook that he will request to have the house demolished in compliance with his parents' desires. On the property, he plans to construct a modest house (Chan, 2024).

“To honour my parents' last wishes, I am applying to demolish the house at 38 Oxley Road and thereafter to build a small private dwelling, to be held within the family in perpetuity.”

According to the previous prime minister, “LHL”, on July 21, 2011, Regarding the house's condition, ministers unanimously decided against demolishing it, despite the late Mr. Lee's intentions. He recounted saying to the late “LKY” (Yong, 2017b).

“If I chaired the Cabinet meeting, this being the view of the ministers and the public, I think it would be very hard for me to override them and knock 31

the house down. I would have to agree that the house be gazetted. And if I was not PM then and did not chair the Cabinet, all the more likely that the house would be gazetted.”

As the Lee family feud takes a new turn, veteran architect Tay Kheng Soon believes that the house at 38 Oxley Road, where founding Prime Minister “LKY” once lived, should be preserved. Mr. Tay stated that the property must be maintained regardless of whether it violates the late Mr. Lee's final desires (Stolarchuk, 2023): “Its preservation goes beyond the family’s concern. It is a public matter of greatest importance. Lets be clear about this. It is even beyond Mr “LKY’s” preference!”

In December 2015, a survey showed that most Singaporean agreed for the house demolition, citing it was crucial to honour “LKY’s” wish regarding the house (Tham, 2015). However, public perception change overtime, and we can’t rely on the 2015 number for current situation. According to a survey by Answers.sg with over 14,900 participants as of October 29, 2024, 80% of them were in favour of demolishing 38 Oxley Road. Conversely, 8% took a neutral position on the matter, and 12% were against the demolition (“Strong Public Support to Honour Lee Kuan Yew’s Demolition Wish for 38 Oxley Road,” 2024).

Terence Chong And Yeo Kang Shua (Singapore Heritage Society) argue, it is not about whether the house should be demolished or not, but the assessment is the important part of a heritage thinking process. To ascertain whether the house actually has historical, national, architectural, or even aesthetic significance, expert panels made up of historians, architects, and social scientists can be formed (Chong & Yeo, 2015).

32

“However, in our opinion, the actual verdict of such panels would be of less importance than the demonstration of institutional due diligence, adherence to heritage best practices, and abidance by transparent decisionmaking processes.”

Figure 1 Opinions and Actors Scale of Demolish-Conserved (Source by Author) Chapter 4.7: Land Ownership and Heritage English land law serves as the foundation for Singaporean land law. By virtue of the Second Charter of Justice (1826), English land law was brought to this country together with other English laws and ideas. This made it possible for Singapore to implement the English doctrines of estates, tenure, and other real property ideas.

However, it was implemented subject to any local adjustments deemed required to avoid oppression or injustice. In this way, local Chinese family practices and religious laws were accommodated by adapting English common law standards (Motha & Yuen, 1999, p. 24).

This transplantation of English land law laid the groundwork for Singapore’s early property system, but as the city-state evolved, significant local adaptations and reforms were introduced to better suit its unique social and economic context. Over time, legislative changes—such as the introduction of the Torrens system of land registration in 1956 and the eventual consolidation of state land ownership through mechanisms like the Land Acquisition Act—transformed the landscape from one rooted in English private ownership norms to a system where the government 33

became the predominant landholder, reflecting Singapore’s priorities in urban planning, public housing, and national development.

Despite the fact that private "ownership" of property used to be the norm, land ownership in Singapore has changed throughout time, and the government and its statutory boards are now by far the largest landowner. In 2022, private landed properties accounted for 4.9% of resident households, while private condominiums or other flats made for 17%. There are differences in the tenure of the land that such private home is attached to or built on. For all intents and purposes, a portion of the land is practically "owned" by private individuals (such as the previously mentioned estates in fee simple, grants in perpetuity, or leasehold estates of 999 years) (Phang, 2023, p. 411).

The transformation of land ownership in Singapore—from predominantly private hands to overwhelming state control—was significantly accelerated by the implementation of the Land Acquisition Act (LAA) in 1967. This legislation empowered the government to compulsorily acquire private land for public purposes, such as housing and infrastructure, often at compensation rates below prevailing market values, especially in the Act's early years. As a result, large tracts of land were transferred from private individuals and companies to the state, fundamentally altering the ownership landscape and enabling the government to pursue large-scale urban redevelopment and public housing projects that have shaped modern Singapore (Talib, 2023, p. 2889). The Land Acquisition Act went into operation on June 17, 1967, after being put into effect on October 26, 1966. Any valuation increase resulting from public improvements to the area during the previous seven years was disregarded in the initial LAA. An modification wasn't

34

made until 1985. By that time, land prices had increased and the acquisition requirements were less stringent (binte Ramli & Talib, 2020, p. 8-9).

The main question regarding the house at 38 Oxley Road is the ownership of the house. From the outside world it is very clear that the house belongs to “LHY” who was in charge in becoming the trustee and executioner of the house according to their statement in 2015. It is also clear that the house itself falls under private ownership and is not owned by the state. Although the house itself can’t be acquired under the guise of “economic and infrastructure developments and public programmes2,” there is another board that comes to play in this regard, namely National Heritage Board.

The members of the Ministry of Culture's 1967 committee decided that a national monuments trust should be granted the authority to purchase and care for sites in order to guarantee their preservation (Blackburn & Tan, 2015, p. 356). After the Preservation of Monuments Act was passed, the Preservation of Monuments Board (PMB) was created on January 29, 1971. The board is in charge of protecting monuments as historical sites that serve as a reminder of Singapore's past. The PMB became a section of the National Heritage Board on July 1, 2013, and was renamed the Preservation of Sites and Monuments. This more accurately represents its function under the Preservation of Monuments Act, which calls for the preservation of sites in addition to structures and monuments. Just like, PMB, the National Heritage Board has the ability to “acquiring, owning, holding, developing and disposing of property, both movable and immovable (National Heritage Board Act, 1993).”

2

Sometimes, public initiatives like infrastructure and economic development might result in the acquisition of private land. The Land Acquisition Act governs land acquisition in Singapore, and SLA is in charge of overseeing its implementation (SLA, 2025).

35

Based on Singapore’s law and property ownership alone, it is completely possible for the 38 Oxley Road house to become a state property and owned by the government, however, the house itself must be proven to be significant and serve as a reminder of Singapore’s past.

Chapter 4.8: Economic Development In the previous sub-section, the common agreement about this property is the lack of reason to acquire the property under the guise of economic and infrastructure developments. However, even the previous government plan, include an option that preserve the basement and dining room while changing the rest into a heritage park.

The same principle can be use, instead of heritage park, the property itself can be acquired by HDB and built into housing that is a part of HDB prime. The basement and the dining room area can be used as a public space, and another option is to demolish even the dining room to keep the privacy of the home. In this case the basement can be used as a heritage centre and on top of that is a classic HDB void deck reminiscent of the early HDB style building. As the location is used to be “LKY’s” house and located in the CBD, this should be enough to justify the HDB as HDB prime.

This is certainly will create more economic value and heritage value compared that to “LHY” wish to demolish the house and rebuilt a private bungalow on top of it.

While “LHY”’s wish is completely noble to fulfil “LKY’s” wish, it is more noble if the wish can also be a contributing factor to Singapore’s development. The reasoning was because demolition of the house and building a condo or HDB on top of it didn’t contradict his will yet can also contribute towards more economic development for Singapore itself. In this case, condo is picked due to the idea of the area is still owned by “LHY” in this case. In order to keep the integrity of the building, the maximum

36

building height for HDB or condo in this area should be only 12 floors. The calculation for each option’s estimate can be seen in the table underneath.

Option Estimation

A

Option Option B

Option C

Option E

D

Price per m2

$ -

$ 28,151.26

$ 18,059.70

$ -

$ 7,400.00

Total Price

$ -

$ 29,144,155

$ 448,720,011

$ -

$ 183,863,952

Yes

No

No

Some

Some

Physical Aspect Retained Table 2 Option and Their Estimation (Source by Author) Notes: Option A

: No demolition at all

Option B

: Demolish into private bungalow

Option C

: Demolish into private condo

Option D

: Demolish except basement for heritage centre

Option E

: Demolish except basement for HDB Prime

Each option, had its own advantages and disadvantages. Option E (Demolish except basement for HDB Prime) seems to be able to strike a balance between preserving the heritage while also moving forward towards development. Option C (Demolish into Private Condo) is the option with the most economic value while also fulfilling “LKY’s” will. Option B only manage to fulfil “LKY’s” will but lacking in the development progress and heritage conservation. Option A and D is solely focusing on heritage while option D has an added partiality trying to fulfil “LKY’s” wish. It is 37

clear that the best option in this regard are either Option C or Option E, the potential economic value serves as a bonus towards doing the ideal that is destroying the bungalow and fulfilling “LKY’s” will (Option C) or retaining some semblance of heritage (Option E).

Chapter 4.9: What to Do? The strongest ideal position to take from all of this is definitely a neutral position.

Remaining neutral on the issue of “LKY’s” house at 38 Oxley Road is a prudent approach, especially when considering the importance of a thorough heritage assessment. The house holds significant historical value as the residence of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister and as a site where pivotal discussions on Singapore’s independence took place. At the same time, “LKY” himself expressed a strong preference for its demolition, reflecting his desire to avoid hero worship and to respect the privacy of his family. These competing perspectives—between honouring personal wishes and preserving national heritage—make neutrality essential to ensure fairness and inclusivity in decision-making.

While it is clear, based on economic value alone, it is better to either demolish completely/incompletely to build an HDB/condo, a neutral stance allows for an objective evaluation of the house’s significance through Singapore’s Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) framework. This process considers not only the architectural and historical value of the property but also its social and cultural relevance to Singapore’s identity. By avoiding premature conclusions, neutrality ensures that decisions are guided by evidence and expert analysis rather than emotional or political considerations. Furthermore, the outcome of this debate could set a precedent for how private properties with historical importance are treated in Singapore. A measured approach avoids creating conflicts between private 38

ownership rights and public interest, ensuring that future cases are handled systematically.

Moreover, the decision on 38 Oxley Road will set a precedent for how Singapore handles properties with political historical significance in the future. The National Heritage Board’s ongoing assessment highlights the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the site's architectural, cultural, and historical value. However, prolonged indecision risks undermining this process and creating a perception that heritage assessments are secondary to political or familial disputes.

39

Chapter 5: Conclusion The case of “LKY’s” house at 38 Oxley Road is a sensitive one, requiring a neutral stance in the heritage assessment process. The house holds significant historical value as Singapore's founding Prime Minister's residence and a site for discussions on Singapore's independence. “LKY’s” preference for its demolition is a personal preference, highlighting the need for fairness and inclusivity in decision-making. A neutral stance allows for an objective evaluation of the house's significance through Singapore's Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA), which considers both architectural and historical value and its social and cultural relevance. A measured approach avoids conflicts between private ownership rights and public interest, ensuring future cases are handled systematically. The ongoing delay in deciding the fate of 38 Oxley Road underscores the importance of resolving this issue, as it has significant implications for Singapore's heritage, governance, and public trust. The decision on 38 Oxley Road will set a precedent for how Singapore handles properties with historical significance in the future.

40

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