Career
He was a prolific writer for Chinese newspapers and other publications, championing socio-political issues, and exposing evils by mercenary businessmen and the Japanese government during the Japanese occupation of Singapore. Lee was a reporter, before and after the war. He was an altruistic man who worked out of his interest in social commentary work, and wrote pr bono for local Chinese newspapers.
From 1945 to his death, Lee wrote a total of 132 articles for local newspapers.
Through his articles Lee obtrusively voiced his opinions, and offended many important people in the Malayan society. As a result, Lee adopted different pen-names to have his work published.
Lee died of illness in 1947 at the age of 34. Upon his death, the local literary circle honoured him with an elaborate funeral, and a commemorative feature in the Chinese newspapers, honoring him with the title of Singapore Cultural Warrior.
