In a few months' time, the Presidential Election will be held. After very careful consideration, I have decided not to stand for re-election.

It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as the eighth President of Singapore for the past six years. The experience has been most inspiring and, at the same time, humbling.

I was aware of the tremendous responsibilities of the Presidency when I took office in 2017 and I have tried my best to fulfill them. My aim was to help create a more caring and compassionate society. I am glad that I was never alone in this journey. I was supported by many Singaporeans who shared strongly in this belief. Working together, we strengthened the voices of our communities and uplifted those who are most in need, particularly the disadvantaged and vulnerable among us.

The Presidency is the highest office in our land and is a key institution in our democracy. It unifies our nation by embodying our shared values and aspirations as a people. The President has significant constitutional, ceremonial, and community-related duties, and holds the second key to our reserves, and to key appointments in the Public Service. The unifying role of the Presidency, working closely together with the Government to safeguard Singapore's future, has always been critical to our nation's success, and will be even more important going forward, as we find our way in a troubled and uncertain world.

I am grateful to all Singaporeans for their trust, understanding and kindness during my tenure, and to the many community, social and business organisations, who have inspired me with their conviction and enthusiasm to build a better Singapore. During my term, I met with thousands of Singaporeans of all ages and from all walks of life. I was grateful for the chance to hear their views and concerns. Many also shared their hopes and dreams for themselves and for Singapore. We are all united by our deep love for Singapore, our desire to see Singapore do well, and our determination to make it a great home for all Singaporeans.

I have been most fortunate to be given the chance to serve all Singaporeans regardless of race, language, or social standing as the President of Singapore. I will forever cherish the fond memories of the people I have met, and the experiences acquired during my term. These will inspire me to continue contributing to our society and nation in other ways for as long as I am able to I would also like to thank my husband and family for their unstinting support throughout my Presidency.

29 May 2023