During the swearing-in ceremony of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on September 14, 2023, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong highlighted the significant symbolic role that the new head of state will play in enhancing Singapore’s unity and cohesion, a key objective of both his campaign and the government.

As Singapore faces an increasingly turbulent global landscape and its society evolves, PM Lee underscored the necessity of having a leader with the “right experience and abilities, values, and character” in the highest office. He stated, “As you have said, it’s the things that cannot be measured that will be critical to our nation’s future: Our instinct to stand together in difficult times and look out for one another, our ability to empathise with fellow Singaporeans, and draw strength from our diversity.”

PM Lee also emphasized President Tharman’s enthusiasm for sports and the arts as unifying elements that could contribute to a rich and diverse society.

President Tharman’s significant electoral success—garnering 70.41% of valid votes on September 1, compared to 15.72% for Ng Kok Song and 13.87% for Tan Kin Lian—demonstrates the public’s high regard for him and resonance with his campaign message of unity encapsulated in the slogan “Respect for All.”

The Prime Minister noted three positive outcomes from the election:

Singaporeans selected a candidate “eminently qualified for this high office,” citing President Tharman’s extensive experience in public service, cabinet roles, and 22 years as a Member of Parliament for Jurong.
The election results reflect a diminishing emphasis on race in the electoral process, showcasing Singaporeans’ ability to elect a president from a minority community based on merit.
Voters displayed a deeper understanding of the president’s roles and responsibilities compared to previous elections, focusing on how candidates would exercise their custodial powers rather than just political platforms.
In addition to fostering national unity, PM Lee pointed out two other vital responsibilities of the presidency: overseeing the nation’s reserves and serving as Singapore’s representative on the global stage. He pledged government support for President Tharman in fulfilling these duties.

On the topic of safeguarding the reserves, PM Lee expressed confidence in President Tharman’s abilities, noting his extensive experience in economic and financial matters. As Singapore’s “top diplomat,” the Prime Minister is certain that President Tharman will excel in strengthening international ties and creating new opportunities for the nation and its citizens.

Lastly, PM Lee welcomed President Tharman’s wife, Jane Ittogi, to her new role, acknowledging her future contributions alongside her husband.