Honouring Yusof Ishak a timely move

It is timely and apt that Singapore’s first President, the late Yusof Ishak, is being honoured by the Government, considering his many contributions (“Initiatives to honour Yusof Ishak now all realised”; Aug 13).

Mr Yusof belonged to that league of extraordinary gentlemen who helped a nation through its early difficulties, uniting one and all. This was instrumental in leading our nation to where it is today and cannot be ignored. With the rest of the leadership, he shared a belief in what needed to be done, which has contributed to our success story.

Mr Yusof advocated the need for all men and women to be equal, educated, and be able to strive and achieve their goals. This is what laid the foundation for the peace and prosperity that we enjoy in today’s modern, progressive and dynamic Singapore.

Mr Yusof understood the need to make personal sacrifices so that a vision could be realised and this must never be forgotten, which is why the need to memorialise is so important.

Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew had a good eye for capable men, especially those who would dedicate themselves to public service. Mr Yusof was more than up to the task, at a difficult time when Singapore’s very existence was in jeopardy. It took character and strength to stand up to challenges, especially after separation from Malaysia in 1965.