Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, former President Tony Tan and their wives were among those who celebrated 150 years since the Istana was built, yesterday evening (6 Oct).
The commemorative event was hosted by current President Halimah Yacob and her husband. Sharing photos from the event, PM Lee shared that and Puan Noor Aishah, the wife of President Yusof Ishak, and Mrs Urmila Nathan, the wife of Mr S R Nathan, were also present at the function.
ESM Goh revealed on Facebook that the event helped raise funds for the President’s Challenge while PM Lee wrote that the evening saw live musical performances and culminated in the Istana’s first-ever light show, projected on the facade of the Istana main building.
He added: “Since it was completed in 1869, the Istana has hosted countless guests from near and far, and has been the site of many historic moments and diplomatic engagements. It stands proudly today as one of Singapore’s oldest heritage buildings, and as a distinguished institution of our nation.
“In this meaningful Bicentennial year, when we commemorate the past and set our sights ahead, I hope we will celebrate our history and continue building upon it. The world will probably look quite different by the time the Istana next celebrates its next major milestone, but I am confident that Singapore will persevere and progress.”
It was a very special evening last night. President Halimah Yacob and her husband, Mr Mohamed Abdullah Alhabshee, hosted…
Posted by Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday, October 6, 2019
Meanwhile, SingPost revealed today (7 Oct) that it will release a set of four stamps to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Istana. Noting that the Istana is “an emblem for Singapore’s warmth and friendship,” Singpost CEO Vincent Phang said:
“The Istana has a firm place in Singapore’s history, being such an open landmark as it hosts both official visits for foreign state guests as well as open houses for local residents several times a year.
“The stamp design reflects the community nature of the grounds, striking up recollections for many of us holding treasured memories for the thousands of visitors and Singaporeans who have visited its stately rooms and beautiful grounds.”