00:00 [President Lee's speech]
00:05 Madam President, you have been a powerful symbol of unity to all Singaporeans.
00:12 This is not just because of what the Office of the President represents,
00:16 but particularly because of how you perform your duties and led us as our President.
00:23 Throughout your tenure, you showed the way with grounded leadership and a warm heart for the people.
00:31 Your ability to empathise and resonate with Singaporeans from all walks of life
00:37 has brought our nation closer together,
00:39 and reminded us that we all have a role to play to make Singapore a better home.
00:47 As a woman from a minority community, coming from a very humble family background,
00:54 you pursued your education, graduated with a law degree,
00:58 served in the labour movement and in politics,
01:01 and eventually occupied the highest office in the land.
01:06 You showed that our meritocratic system works,
01:09 that every Singaporean can achieve his or her aspirations,
01:14 regardless of race, language or religion,
01:17 and regardless of family background or station in life.
01:22 Madam President, as your term of office draws to a close,
01:26 you can look back on a distinguished and remarkable career in public service and as our President.
01:33 I still remember what you said when you were first elected six years ago –
01:37 "I am President for everyone".
01:41 Through your leadership and heart for the people,
01:43 you have certainly fulfilled your promise.
01:46 Your efforts to expand opportunities for all
01:49 have made for a more united and inclusive Singapore,
01:52 where all of us belong and everyone has a part to play.
01:57 Your commitment to improving our society and your concern for every Singaporean
02:02 will continue to inspire and guide us all as we refresh our social compact and press forward together.
02:10 On behalf of the Government and the people of Singapore,
02:12 I thank you for your service to our nation.
02:15 We bid you and Mr Mohamad farewell and wish you all the best in all your future endeavours.
02:21 Thank you very much.
02:24 Diplomacy constitutes a key part of my work.
02:27 During my presidency and amidst the COVID-19 restrictions,
02:31 I made 21 overseas visits, including 12 state visits.
02:36 It was a chance to raise Singapore's international image,
02:40 strengthen our bilateral ties,
02:43 and open new economic opportunities for our businesses.
02:48 During my visits, I met many Singaporeans,
02:50 I appreciate their contributions and for carrying Singapore's flag high.
02:56 Being the first female head of state and from a minority community has its benefit too,
03:02 as the outside world could see that in Singapore,
03:06 meritocracy and diversity are real and not mere slogans.
03:11 I am aware that as the first female president,
03:14 I had the distinct opportunity to inspire other women and girls.
03:19 Many have shared with me about how uplifting it is for them to see a female head of state
03:26 and a strong message about women's place in our society.
03:30 As someone said to me, I have, and I quote,
03:33 "allowed people to imagine the president as a woman."
03:37 And that, I open quote, "I have not seen a woman as a woman."
03:42 And that, I open quote, "images and ideas give birth to reality."
03:50 If I have been able to empower women in Singapore to push the boundaries
03:55 and reach their fullest potential, I am most grateful for the chance to do so.
04:01 Tomorrow, a new president will be sworn in.
04:05 I wish Mr Tharman Selmurgaratnam all the best in discharging your duties.
04:11 To the people of Singapore, I am humbled by your trust and faith in me as your president.
04:18 It has been a privilege to be your voice, to listen to your concerns,
04:23 and to work tirelessly on your behalf.
04:27 I carried your aspirations in my heart,
04:30 and it is your unwavering support that has fuelled my determination to serve
04:37 every day and every step of the way.
Comments