Politics
Tan Kin Lian: Rekindling Singapore’s spirit of unity and pride as Singapore’s president
Speaking in his debut presidential candidate broadcast on Thursday, Tan Kin Lian aspires to reignite the cherished “spirit of unity and pride” Singaporeans held dearly fifty years ago.
“I believe I can perform my duty best if [I] am in touch with the pulse and heartbeat of the people,” he asserted.
![](https://gutzymedia.s3.ap-northeast-2.amazonaws.com/wp/2023/08/17062842/TKL-broadcast2.png)
In his debut presidential candidate broadcast today, former NTUC CEO Tan Kin Lian signalled his intention to foster a collaborative relationship with the elected government rather than taking an adversarial stance.
The 75-year-old presidential hopeful expounded on his strategy to protect Singapore’s past reserves and maintain the integrity of the public service.
Expressing his aspirations, Tan appealed for a “strong mandate” to offer an independent viewpoint and cooperate with the ruling government to address forthcoming challenges.
Tan’s humility and connectivity with the common man became a focal point of his address. Sharing insights from his “humble background”, he underscored a lifetime of resonance with “the hardship and aspirations” of the masses.
“I believe I can perform my duty best if [I] am in touch with the pulse and heartbeat of the people,” he asserted.
Further amplifying his vision, Tan spoke of reigniting “the spirit of unity and pride” that Singaporeans cherished half a century ago.
He argued that a unified nation living harmoniously can be realized when citizens are financially secure and concentrate on the collective good.
He emphasised that his 30-year tenure as the CEO of NTUC Income between 1977 and 2007 has equipped him with the requisite expertise to execute his presidential obligations.
Tan contended that while academic prowess remains essential, there is an equivalent need for experienced professionals familiar with ground realities. He intends to strike this balance when endorsing top public service appointees.
Additionally, Tan expressed the importance of astute investments of the reserves to ensure long-term returns without high risks.
He voiced his desire to cooperate with the government to judiciously utilize past reserves for current and forthcoming generations.
Tan, together with Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a former senior minister of the People’s Action Party (PAP), and former GIC chief investment officer, Ng Kok Song will deliver their speeches in the upcoming broadcast, scheduled for 30 August at 7 pm.
IMDA and ELD: President cannot voice opinions on legislation or government actions unless explicitly advised by the government.
Just earlier today, Tan told the media that the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) had trimmed segments of his speech for the national broadcast.
In a joint statement, the IMDA and the Election Department justified the edits: “Mr Tan Kin Lian’s original script had inaccuracies about the President’s role. He incorrectly suggested that the President could guide the reserves’ investment strategies and influence government policies.” and that some portions exceeded the purview of the Singapore President’s powers.
The cut content highlighted Mr Tan’s vision of the president’s office influencing certain policies, specifically addressing the cost of living, housing affordability, and job stability.
Mr Tan also indicated an intent to advise the PM against the planned 1% GST hike in 2024.
Reacting to the truncation, Mr Tan clarified that his aim was not to overpromise. He stressed that he has consistently communicated his aspiration to utilize the presidency as a medium to convey the citizenry’s feelings and apprehensions to the administration.
![](https://gutzy.asia/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Gutzy-Logo-whiteS.png)
-
Politics1 week ago
Jamus Lim on Minister Chee Hong Tat’s remarks on fiscal policy: Calls for genuine debate over rhetoric
-
Opinion2 weeks ago
Lawrence Wong must face MPs in Parliament, not hide behind compliant media
-
Politics2 weeks ago
SM Lee: Singaporeans must ‘change attitudes’ as Govt promises ‘bold and necessary changes’
-
Community1 week ago
Toast Box faces backlash and boycott calls amid price increases
-
Media6 days ago
Notice to Our Readers: Moving Back to The Online Citizen
-
Singapore1 week ago
Singapore introduces new scheme in April 2025 offering up to S$6,000 in financial support for retrenched workers
-
Politics1 week ago
Jamus Lim raises concerns over high cost of living and its impact on Singaporeans’ sense of belonging
-
Singapore1 week ago
Tan Suee Chieh: Sacrificing NTUC Income’s values for short-term gains undermines its foundation
To all govt civil servants !!!!
Voting is SECRET !! Vote with Wisdom ..
TCB: This is the only chance for you.
Can feel TKL sincerity.
Lets give him our votes !
How are overseas votes secured from the time votes are casted and how to know all is proper?
Tanjong pagar 2 sets of cards printed. I assume there will not be 2 sets of votes . Wink wink.
In sg, how can we express our views? Their malicious people can make all sorts of false accusations. If we do it, they can destroy us.
Cut all the crabs and bs lah. Since your last PE fiasco where have you been? Since then we have two GE where are you and your participation? You disappeared and happily enjoyed your social media posting. If you really have the people heart you would have joined a party or formed a party like tcb. You suddenly last minute appeared to run thinking you stand a better chance this time, and asking others to step down to improve your chance, on the pretext of “independence” – probably independent for yourself to make a name and glory. Knowing PE has… Read more »
He speaks his mind and is not too worried about the establishment. He is sincere and not sophisticated. Most important he identifies himself with the people. He should be voted in as the next President. This, if successful will be the beginning to remove the strangle hold of the PAP. The State can breathe a little easier.
A SG president is not abt policy in SG, tats the job of PM.GOVT, the nature of u is kind @heart, SG wil luv abt U.WIFE, brin more on her, cos on international, she need to show HOW SHE HANDLE 1ST LADY! U got 7days…..
❤ I never have a sg leader I elected. 56 years old. Country 58 years old. The Majority will never change and so do I. So it’s not gonna change in my life. I have no country and does not like the mindset of majority. Dirty Politics and Extreme KiaSu.
Who wants to buy my citizenship let me know. Oh, I forgot, it has no resale value.😢