SINGAPORE — Doctors had considered all possible causes for Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s fainting episode during the National Day Rally, and concluded it was a vasovagal syncope, said Mr Lee on Thursday (Sept 1), as he assured that he is “all right”.

“That to a layman means you stood up and you fainted, and fortunately, it’s nothing worse,” he said. 

Mr Lee said doctors have advised him against overstraining himself, and to maintain a sustainable pace. 

“(Doctors) say don’t overstrain yourself and if you think you’re going to faint, squat down and don’t keel over,” said Mr Lee in a recorded interview to be aired on Sunday night. 

On Aug 21, Mr Lee had a brief fainting spell three hours into his NDR speech. After taking an hour’s break, he returned to the stage to complete his delivery. 

In a statement released the next day, the Prime Minister’s Office said that Mr Lee had “taken ill” due to a temporary drop in blood pressure, resulting from prolonged standing, exhaustion and dehydration.

Doctors confirmed that there were no cardiac abnormalities and no stroke.  

Asked about any new measures to be taken during his overseas trips, Mr Lee said that he is usually accompanied by a doctor on his travels.  

“I usually have a doctor travel with me when I’m going on working trips as I will be tomorrow. I just have to keep a sustainable pace,” he said.