Heng Swee Keat will remain in ICU 'for some time': PM Lee

Singapore

FINANCE Minister Heng Swee Keat is now in stable condition, but he will remain under intensive care "for some time", said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

He shared these details in a Facebook post on Friday evening, as concern over Mr Heng's condition grew.

"He was sedated. His condition is stable, but he will remain in the ICU (intensive care unit) for some time," wrote Mr Lee.

On Thursday, Mr Heng was admitted to Tan Tock Seng Hospital after suffering a stroke and collapsing at a weekly Cabinet meeting in the afternoon.

It was later revealed that the stroke was caused by an aneurysm, which is a localised weakening of a blood vessel.

He then underwent initial neurosurgery to relieve pressure in his brain caused by the bleeding. "The aneurysm was successfully closed," said the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Thursday night.

Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam will be covering the duties of Finance Minister, PMO added.

Mr Lee later visited Mr Heng on Friday evening.

"He is in very good hands, like all patients at the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI)," said Mr Lee in the Facebook post.

Mr Lee also spoke with Mr Heng's family, and said they are touched by the sympathy and support they have received, and asked to convey their thanks to everyone.