Tall Order: The Goh Chok Tong Story Volume 1

Goh Chok Tong was an unlikely Prime Minister for an unlikely country, having neither the connections nor the cunning to rise to the top. He lost his father at a young age, lived in a two-bedroom public flat with his mother and four siblings, and needed a government bursary to complete university. Tall Order tells the extraordinary story of his life and career over half a century, revealing how Singapore's second Prime Minister rose through strength, wit, and a political nous which many, including himself, did not know he had.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2018
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

Goh Chok Tong, the Prime Minister of an unexpected nation, defied expectations with his unlikely ascent to power. Despite lacking connections and cunning, he was once criticized by his mentor, Lee Kuan Yew, for his wooden communication skills. Apart from his towering stature, which was uncommon in this region, Goh was an ordinary man. He faced numerous challenges, including the loss of his father at a young age, living in a two-bedroom public flat with his mother and four siblings, and relying on a government bursary to complete his university education. Yet, against all odds, he achieved remarkable success.

Tall Order, the first of two volumes, chronicles Goh's life and career spanning over half a century. It reveals how Singapore's second Prime Minister rose through a combination of strength, wit, and political acumen that many, including himself, were unaware of. In this volume, Goh navigates years of apprenticeship under Lee, achieving numerous policy successes while also facing political setbacks and humiliation. He played a pivotal role in making Neptune Orient Lines, Singapore's national carrier, profitable before entering politics.

Goh's contributions to Singapore's development are numerous and enduring. He introduced innovative policies and institutions such as Medisave, Total Defence, Residents' Committee, and Nominated Member of Parliament, which have become household names in the country. However, his journey was not without its setbacks, including overseeing the People's Action Party's first electoral defeat after independence at the Anson by-election.

Author and journalist Peh Shing Huei has crafted an authorized biography that delves into the private deliberations and negotiations between Goh and Lee before the maiden leadership transfer of independent Singapore. Tall Order offers rare insights into the inner workings of Singapore's political landscape and sheds light on the personal dynamics between Goh and Lee. This captivating book is the first biography of Goh, providing a compelling and insightful account of his life and contributions to the nation.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 226 x 158 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813276130