Singapore’s former President Madam Halimah Yacob has addressed the dire situation in Gaza, where over 8,000 Palestinians, including 3,000 children, have lost their lives. She emphasized the suffering due to bombings and resource blockades and called for urgent international intervention.
Additionally, Singapore supported a recent UN resolution for a humanitarian truce and civilian protection.
Former Singapore President Madam Halimah Yacob will receive the prestigious Order of Temasek for her impactful service.
Madam Halimah Yacob, Singapore’s former President, is set to become SUSS Chancellor on October 1st, succeeding Stephen Lee, who held the role since 2018.
Her appointment follows her recent resignation as the country’s eighth President on September 13th.
Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, lauded former President Mdm Halimah Yacob for her remarkable leadership during the demanding Covid-19 pandemic.
He commended Mdm Halimah for her diligent approach to her duties, “asking rigorous questions to understand the rapidly evolving situation”, and ensuring that the requested draws on reserves were necessary and justified.
Outgoing President Halimah Yacob emphasized the importance of unity in her farewell speech at the Istana. As Singapore’s first female president, she reflected on her term, initiatives, and challenges. The nation prepares to welcome Tharman Shanmugaratnam as her successor.
Mdm Halimah Yacob, Singapore’s 8th President, stressed the “robust and intense” of discussions on tapping into the nation’s reserves during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, questions linger about her role in the decision and her capacity to oversee former PAP colleagues. Bertha Henson, former Associate Editor of The Straits Times, highlighted that Mdm Halimah did not address whether she had discussed the potential replenishment of reserves.
As Mdm Halimah Yacob’s term nears its end on 13 September, with Tharman Shanmugaratnam succeeding her, her tenure will be remembered for her leadership during the global crisis and the unique circumstances surrounding her walkover presidency in the 2017 reserved election.
Questioning the title ‘People’s President’: Does Madam Halimah Yacob stand in the same legacy as Ong Teng Cheong?
During Singapore’s 58th National Day celebration, President Halimah Yacob seemed uncertain during the Guard of Honour inspection, despite guidance markers. This sparked online discussions and humorous comparisons with U.S. President Joe Biden’s moments of confusion.
Outgoing Singapore President Halimah Yacob expressed sadness at her final National Day Parade, marking the end of her six-year term. The 2023 NDP, held on Wednesday, stood out as the first full-scale parade since the Covid-19 pandemic.