Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s thumping victory last Friday, by the largest margin in a Singapore presidential election, shows that the country’s electorate is mature, thoughtful and judicious, say voters.
Following a campaign in which the independence of the presidential candidates drew attention and race became a subliminal issue, voters set aside political ideologies and social media persuasions to elect the 66-year-old based on his merits.
Mr Tharman secured 70.4 per cent of the ballot, former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song 15.72 per cent and former NTUC Income chief executive Tan Kin Lian 13.88 per cent.
“Mr Tharman’s popularity in Taman Jurong has now translated across the nation,” said community leader N. Varaprasad, a former CEO of the National Library Board and adjunct professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS).
“People see in him a true Singaporean, a man of the people, and one who can move in the highest of circles. A Renaissance man, he can connect with people of all races and social groups.”
Sree Narayana Mission (Singapore) CEO S. Devendran said: “Mr Tharman’s victory is testament to the Singapore electorate’s political maturity. Singapore has elected a Singaporean Indian, not an Indian Singaporean
“This president will bring to the office one of the sharpest and keenest financial and economic minds. Critically, he will also bring empathy and respect for all Singaporeans.
“He has the ability to work with the government and give advice to help build a better and more compassionate and respectful Singapore.”
To theatre personality Daisy Irani, the significance of Mr Tharman’s win is colossal.
“I felt much trepidation over how much importance the electorate would put on race in making a vote,” she said.
“My heart surged with pride and respect for my countrymen when they picked the best man for the job despite all the subliminal suggestions on social media that they would be better served by a member of the majority.
“It is testament to Singaporean wisdom that when it comes down to brass tacks, we can be truly colour-blind.”
Mr Ramky Subramanian, CEO of Fincrest Advisors (Singapore) and ex-chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (Singapore chapter), pointed out that “Mr Tharman’s win indicates that Singapore is truly an open society that honours merit, track record and capabilities over race, ethnic background and religion”.
“It’s a great positive for the country,” he said.
Voters believe Mr Tharman will be dynamic and create an impact.
“His domain knowledge, expertise and experience, especially in the management of reserves, will be a great advantage,” said Ms Purnima Kamath, founder and CEO of event management company De Ideaz.
“Mr Tharman’s presence on the international stage is already world-class. He has always stood by ‘respect for all’, which has resonated regardless of race, language and religion.”
Voters believe Mr Tharman will bring to bear his extensive experience as Senior Minister, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, as well as his leadership position with major international organisations such as the International Monetary Fund, World Economic Forum and United Nations Development Forum.
“He brings to the table vast knowledge, impeccable credentials and extensive experience as a leader who can tackle complex issues and policies and represent Singapore on the global stage,” said technopreneur Anton Ravindran.
“Plus he has the ability to unify people from diverse backgrounds, beyond race, religion and language.”
Ms Ranjani Rangan, chairman of the International Trade Council, South East Asia, said that “given Mr Tharman’s excellent people skills and how he is widely respected, he will be a steady pair of hands for the future for Singaporeans”.
Mr Chandran Nantha Kumar, chief sustainability officer and vice-president of operations at Interplex Precision Technology Singapore, is confident Mr Tharman will incorporate sustainability in his engagements.
“He believes it’s not only about the quantity and quality of each initiative, but also the viable culture of growth that is cultivated among Singapore residents, a culture of sustainability that can grow exponentially even amid uncertainties,” said Mr Kumar.
Mr Tharman has always been a supporter of progress within the Indian community. In his past roles as chairman of Sinda and Senior Minister, he made valuable contributions to many important development initiatives benefiting Indians in Singapore.
“He can do even more to bring the Indian community together,” said Singapore Indian Association president Tamil Marren.
“We hope he can further unify the nation through community integration initiatives that involve native Indians, grassroots leaders, academics and new immigrants.
“Just like past presidents Devan Nair and S.R. Nathan, Mr Tharman too can become an inspirational leader.”
Mr George Koshy, commercial manager at Newport Duty Free, feels “Mr Tharman has the well-rounded attributes of experience, expertise, humility and affability to help Singapore navigate a complex global environment”.
“He will unite all Singaporeans,” said the 58-year-old.
Dr Sandhya Singh, convenor of Hindi and Tamil languages at NUS, said: “Mr Tharman has been exceptional in all the roles he has played.
“He has a wealth of professional experience and his character is commendable. He will excel given his skills and charisma.”
Mr Tharman, whose wife Jane Ittogi is a Singaporean of Japanese-Chinese heritage, is the first non-Chinese presidential candidate to win an open, contested and direct election.
Community leader Varaprasad is confident Mr Tharman will navigate the system with diplomacy.
“He can provide guidance from behind the scenes and share his knowledge and experience to younger leaders. He will also lead the way to a fairer society, giving the people the respect and dignity they deserve.”
