“Beyond Singapore’s First Female President: Reflecting on Halimah Yacob’s Six-Year Term “

SINGAPORE – President Halimah Yacob announced on Monday that she will not seek re-election in the upcoming presidential election. Over her six years in office, she has been a strong advocate for social causes, particularly for vulnerable groups like individuals with disabilities and older workers. Here are five notable aspects of her presidency:

1. A President of ‘Firsts’
As Singapore’s first female president and the eighth president overall, Madam Halimah has actively promoted gender equality. She notably supported the 2022 White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development and has participated in various forums, including the Women’s Forum Global Meeting. Additionally, she is the first Malay president since Mr. Yusof Ishak, the first head of state to live in public housing during her term. Although she initially resided in her Yishun flat, security concerns later prompted her to relocate.

2. Outspoken on Social Issues
Madam Halimah has been a vocal advocate for social justice, emphasizing the protection of older workers. In October 2022, she argued against any legal changes that would weaken protections for older workers facing dismissal due to age. She also called for a review of laws allowing men over 50 to evade caning for serious crimes, stating, “Rapists should not be spared the cane just because they are 50 years old.”

3. Promoting Interfaith Harmony
A strong proponent of interfaith dialogue, Madam Halimah initiated the International Conference on Cohesive Societies in 2019 to address topics such as faith and identity. Following incidents of racism in June 2021, she expressed concern about the long-term effects of prejudice on future generations, highlighting the need for unity and understanding.

4. Shining a Light on the Social Sector
Under her leadership, the President’s Challenge has prioritized empowering individuals with disabilities and supporting caregivers. In 2018, she launched the Empowering for Life Fund to assist disadvantaged groups in improving their circumstances. Madam Halimah has actively participated in social service events and supported The Straits Times Singaporean of the Year award, attending every ceremony since its inception in 2015.

5. Making the Istana More Accessible
Before taking office, Madam Halimah emphasized the importance of making the Istana more accessible. She introduced the Picnic@Istana series, designed to welcome the public to the grounds, and initiated the creation of an Inclusive Garden in 2021, catering to visitors with varying needs. The garden features wheelchair-friendly paths and sensory-stimulating plants, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. In May 2022, an animated children’s book about the Istana was released to engage younger audiences with its history.