Dr Tony Tan: 'A busy and fulfilling first year' as President

Dr Tony Tan says key concern now is on how to build a caring, compassionate society

By Tessa Wong, The Straits Times, 2 Sep 2012

President Tony Tan Keng Yam yesterday used his one-year anniversary in office to take stock of the past year and set out his priorities for the future.

He described his first year as "very busy, but fulfilling and meaningful", while adding that his main concern now was on how to help build a caring and compassionate society.

It was a concern that was also reflected in his decision to mark the milestone by launching the President's Challenge Volunteer Drive and visiting the Lions Befrienders' seniors activity centre in Bendemeer Road.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the visit, he noted that Singaporeans live in "very uncertain economic times now", with major structural problems happening in the economies of Europe and other parts of the world.

He said he will do his part in helping the Government steer Singapore through these "volatile economic waters", stressing that a strong economy was needed to make sure the country had the means to help the less fortunate.

He also called on more Singaporeans to step up and volunteer.

"While we have to look out for all these problems overseas, what's affecting us, we should not just lay back and do nothing. We should try and do what we can on the proactive basis," he said.

The President's Challenge Volunteer Drive encourages individuals, schools and organisations to take part in volunteering activities.

Asked about the highlights of his year in office, Dr Tan named two in particular. The most exciting one was cheering on Singapore's athletes at the Olympic Games in London, he said.

Another was when he was inducted into the Honorary Senate of the Foundation Lindau Nobel prizewinners Meetings in July.

"I was proud on that occasion to stand together with eight other scientists from Singapore to profile Singapore as a research and development hub to a very distinguished audience comprising Nobel laureates," he said.

He also hosted many heads of state visiting Singapore, and represented the country in international meetings and diplomatic visits.

"I think this is very important because although Singapore is a small country, it doesn't mean that we will have a small impact. We can have a big impact.

"But you have to make yourselves relevant to the world, have to expand your space and exchange views so that people can learn more about us," he said.

In this way, he added, he hoped to make the country more noticeable in the world, and improve the opportunities for Singaporeans, particularly young ones, to fulfil their dreams.

At home, Dr Tan said that he has met with many citizens in ceremonies, community visits and tea sessions.

He said: "I've been able to meet a very wide range of Singaporeans from all walks of life and learn more about their concerns, aspirations, worries and what they would like Singapore to be... I intend to continue doing more of this in the coming years."