The founder of modern Singapore Lee Kuan Yew is back home after a stint in the hospital, where he was treated for an irregular heartbeat and "stroke-like symptoms."

A state says the 89-year Lee experienced a “transient ischaemic attack” (TIA), which is a brief disruption of blood flow to the brain.  The symptoms mimic those of a stroke and usually clear after 24 hours.

Lee, often referred to as LKY, was Singapore’s first Prime Minister from 1965 to 1990 and is credited with turning the tropical port into a major shipping and financial hub.  Critics say that came at the price of near ridiculous government control of every day, from media and political freedoms, censorship and even the selling of chewing gum.