SINGAPORE: Former GIC chief investment officer Mr Ng Kok Song filed his nomination papers at the People’s Association headquarters at King George’s Avenue on Tuesday morning (Aug 22).
In his speech, Mr Ng Kok Song said he is standing for President to protect Singapore’s three national treasures – the reserves, good public administration, and social stability. “I spent my entire career at GIC and MAS helping to build up our reserves,” he said, adding that he worked 45 years in public service and has what it takes to uphold the integrity of public service appointments.
View this post on Instagram
He said he does not belong to any political party and is “well placed to unite the people of Singapore”.
“I humbly ask you, my fellow Singaporeans, to choose me as your President”, he added.
Mr Ng Kok Song’s symbol is the palm of a hand with a heart within it.
Mr. Ng Kok Song said the five fingers symbolize the various races in Singapore, and the palm signifies that while people might come from different races and religions, “we are one palm, we are one country”.
He added that he wanted to unite all the people of Singapore, regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation.
When interviewed by the media, Mr Ng Kok Song left it open when reporters asked him to respond to Mr Tan’s comment that he was not a “strong” candidate.
“What are my chances? I do not know; it is up to the people of Singapore,” said Mr. Kok Song.
“As far as I’m concerned, I have come forward to serve you, and I ask you to give me the chance to serve you. I want to be your trusted friend at the Istana.”
The Elections Department said the three candidates signed an undertaking to campaign for election “in a manner that is dignified, decorous and consistent with the President’s position as the head of state and the symbol of national unity”.
They also made a statutory declaration on their nomination papers, saying they have read the explanatory material and understand the President’s role under the Constitution, a spokesperson added. /TISG
Read also:
The “true independent” Tan Kin Lian grew NTUC Income’s assets from millions to billions
Calvin Cheng predicts a two-horse Presidential race — Tharman and Tan Kin Lian
Presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian raises concern over tight timeline
Tan Kin Lian launches second bid for presidency, aims to restore trust and hope