Dr.Balaji Sadasivan, Senior Minister of State for Foreign affairs died of colon cancer yesterday morning. He was 55 years old at the time of death as he left behind his wife, Dr Ma Swan Hoo whom he met in medical school and two children Anita and Dharma.
Dr. Balaji sought treatment for colon cancer a few years ago at Gleaneagles Hospital where he had surgery to remove a tumor in the year 2008.
Despite his diagnosis and his many visits to the hospital for treatment, Dr Balaji was still very active in his various roles even till a week ago before his death.
In a condolence letter to Dr Balaji’s wife, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong described him as a “thoughtful and articulate” person, who has a “broad interest in Singapore and the world”.
Mr. Lee added that Dr Balaji was “a dedicated community leader, a distinguished public servant and a humble and dependable colleague and friend”.
Mr Wong Kan Seng, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs who was at the wake said: “ I met Dr Balaji two weeks ago at my office, where I held briefings for ministers of state. He felt very weak but he turned up.”
Dr. Balaji was also an MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC. Before he entered politics, he was a neurosurgeon at Gleneagles hospital. In 2001, he joined as a candidate for the People’s Action Party, contesting in Ang Mo Kio GRC. In his nice years of public service, he contributed to many ministries, including those for the Environment, Health, Transport and Foreign Affairs.
Members of the public can offer their condolences at Cheng San CC today and tomorrow, from 11am to midnight. The funeral will be at 3.45pm at Mandai Crematorium.
