At the event on March 12, 2024, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong lauds Dr Tony Tan’s contributions to Singapore, marking the launch of his autobiography, “Tony Tan Keng Yam: My Political Journey”.
On March 12, 2024, in a gathering filled with anticipation and respect, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong addressed attendees at the launch of Dr Tony Tan’s autobiography, titled “Tony Tan Keng Yam: My Political Journey”. The event, which celebrated the remarkable political and public service career of Dr Tan, took place in a setting that brought together dignitaries, colleagues, and admirers of his work.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong expressed his honor in being part of the occasion, reflecting on Dr Tan’s nearly half-century-long dedication to public service. Beginning his career in academia at the University of Singapore’s physics department, Dr Tan ventured into banking, where he achieved notable success before entering politics in 1979. Responding to a call from then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, Dr Tan embarked on a political journey that would see him serving as a Member of Parliament for Sembawang for 27 years, holding numerous ministerial positions, and ultimately serving as Singapore’s 7th President.
Highlighting the significance of Dr Tan’s memoir, Prime Minister Lee emphasized its value in offering insights into Singapore’s nation-building efforts. The autobiography is not just a personal reflection but serves as an educational resource, especially for younger Singaporeans, providing an inside view of the country’s development and the challenges overcome along the way.
In his speech, Prime Minister Lee shared anecdotes from their shared experiences, underscoring Dr Tan’s leadership qualities, his commitment to research and development, and his role in the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He also touched on Dr Tan’s presidential tenure, noting his efforts to promote unity, volunteerism, and support for the arts and national athletes.
Prime Minister Lee concluded by acknowledging the profound impact of Dr Tan’s service on Singapore, suggesting that his autobiography could inspire future generations to contribute to the nation’s success. The event not only paid tribute to Dr Tan’s vast contributions but also celebrated the collective journey of Singapore’s growth and resilience.
Source – PMO
