Object size: 26.3 x 19.2 x 0.1 cm
Petir (Malay for “lightning”) is the party organ of the People’s Action Party (PAP), first published in 1956. Its name references the lightning bolt in the PAP logo. In the early years of its publication, PAP leaders such as Lee Kuan Yew, Lim Kim San, and S. Rajaratnam frequently wrote in it about the PAP’s policies. It was available in three language editions, English, Chinese and Malay.These largely consecutive issues spanning from 1959 to 1961 provide a perspective on the ongoing socio-political concerns in Singapore during this early period of self-governance, as well as the history of the PAP. During this period, a number of momentous events took place, which would have a significant impact on the future of Singapore. The PAP won the 1959 General Election, with Lee Kuan Yew becoming self-governing Singapore’s first Prime Minister. Subsequently, the Housing and Development Board and People’s Association were established in 1960, which continue to play vital roles today.
