SINGAPORE - Opposition politicians on Sunday conveyed messages of support to Singapore's founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, as his condition continued to worsen.

Mr Lee, who founded the ruling People's Action Party, is critically ill at the Singapore General Hospital.

Singapore People's Party chairman Lina Chiam, a Non-Constituency MP, said she was praying for Mr Lee, 91, and his family. Mr Lee's oldest child is Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

"I ask God to give the family strength and comfort during this period of uncertainty. May He also give comfort to Mr Lee Kuan Yew," Mrs Chiam said.

Singapore Democratic Party chairman Jeffrey George had a similar message of support. "Our prayers are with him and his family. We hope the family can pull through together," he said. "Singaporeans are naturally concerned. We hope he is not in too much pain," he added.

Non-Constituency MP Yee Jenn Jong, from the Workers' Party, said in his personal capacity: "I wish him well and pray that he can recover."

The politicians were speaking to reporters at a dinner held on Sunday night by Singaporeans First (SingFirst), an opposition party that was formed in May last year.

SingFirst secretary-general Tan Jee Say said that the party wishes Mr Lee "a good recovery". "But we have to accept the inevitable for a person of his age," he added.

Secretary-general of the National Solidarity Party Tan Lam Siong said he was "very concerned" for Mr Lee's health and hopes he can get better. He added: "If the unfortunate happens, Singaporeans must be strong. He has walked a long way with us... I hope he can stay with us for a few more years."