Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat praises the contributions of Yatiman Yusof at the book launch of A Trail of Sparks and emphasizes the enduring influence of his poetry on Singapore’s culture.
Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies Heng Swee Keat praised former Member of Parliament Yatiman Yusof at the book launch of A Trail of Sparks on May 5, 2024. The event celebrated Yatiman’s poetry collection, highlighting his contributions as a changemaker, politician, and journalist.
DPM Heng, who has known Yatiman since his entry into politics, expressed deep gratitude for Yatiman’s guidance and reflections during his service in Tampines GRC. He acknowledged the profound legacy Yatiman left behind in the constituency, where residents still fondly recall his empathy and care.
The collection, which includes 119 poems spanning over four decades, is a testament to Yatiman’s gentle and thoughtful nature. Heng cited Letter To My Wife (For Su), written in 1970, as an example of the romantic sentiment woven throughout the anthology. He noted how the verses explore deep familial bonds and evoke universal emotions. DPM Heng emphasized how Yatiman’s words resonate deeply, urging readers to reflect on their common humanity and the threads that bind them together.
Yatiman’s extensive travels as a journalist and Foreign Affairs officeholder informed the second half of the collection, which shares poignant reflections on global struggles and the paths that led to them. His acute observations capture profound insights that encourage readers to reflect on societal challenges and inspire positive change.
DPM Heng expressed his admiration for Yatiman’s enduring commitment to the Malay literary community and his leadership within Angkatan Sasterawan 50 (ASAS 50). He noted how Yatiman’s work has strengthened Singapore’s Malay heritage and enriched the nation’s multicultural tapestry.
Concluding his speech, DPM Heng highlighted the final poem, Old Casuarina, which metaphorically represents Yatiman’s role in nurturing future generations. He congratulated Yatiman on the successful launch of A Trail of Sparks and encouraged him to continue creating works that inspire future changemakers.
Source – PMO
