Halimah Yacob Explained

Halimah Yacob
Honorific Prefix:Her Excellency Madame
Native Name Lang:zh-sg
Honorific-Suffix:[1]
Order:8th
Office:President of Singapore
Primeminister:Lee Hsien Loong
Term Start:14 September 2017
Term End:14 September 2023
Predecessor:Tony Tan
Successor:Tharman Shanmugaratnam
Embed:yes
Office1:7th Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore
Deputy1:Charles Chong
Seah Kian Peng
Lim Biow Chuan
Term Start1:14 January 2013
Term End1:7 August 2017
Predecessor1:Michael Palmer
Successor1:Tan Chuan-Jin
Constituency Mp2:Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC
(Marsiling)
Term Start2:11 September 2015
Term End2:7 August 2017
Predecessor2:Hawazi bin Daipi (PAP)
Successor2:Zaqy Mohamad (PAP)
Constituency Mp3:Jurong GRC
(Bukit Batok East)
Term Start3:3 November 2001
Term End3:24 August 2015
Predecessor3:Constituency established
Successor3:Rahayu Mahzam (PAP)
Embed:yes
Office4:Minister of State for Social and Family Development
Minister4:Chan Chun Sing
Term Start4:1 November 2012
Term End4:14 January 2013
Office5:Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports
Term Start5:21 May 2011
Term End5:1 November 2012
Minister5:Chan Chun Sing
Birth Date:23 August 1954
Birth Place:Colony of Singapore
(present-day Singapore)
Party:Independent
Otherparty:People's Action Party (2001–2017)
Children:5
Signature:Halimah Yacob signature.svg
Alma Mater:University of Singapore (LLB)
National University of Singapore (LLM)

Halimah binti Yacob (born 23 August 1954) is a Singaporean politician and lawyer who held the office of the eighth president of Singapore from 2017 to 2023, making history as the first woman to serve in this role.

A former member of Singapore's long-dominant People's Action Party (PAP), Halimah served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Bukit Batok East division of the Jurong Group Representation Constituency (GRC) from 2001 to 2015 and then for the Marsiling division of the Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC from 2015 to 2017. She made history as Singapore's first female speaker of parliament, a position she held from 2013 to 2017.

Following a constitutional amendment in 2017, the presidential election that year was specifically reserved for candidates from the Malay community. Halimah resigned from the PAP and became an independent candidate—one of the eligibility requirements for running for the presidency—and subsequently won in an uncontested election, as her rivals did not meet the necessary qualifications. During her presidency, Halimah utilised her discretionary powers to approve emergency funding for Singapore's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and advocated for women's rights. She chose not to seek re-election in the 2023 presidential election, concluding her term on 13 September 2023, after which she was succeeded by Tharman Shanmugaratnam.

Early life and education

Halimah was born on 23 August 1954 at her family home on Queen Street in Singapore during British colonial rule,[2] to an Indian father and Malay mother.[3] [4] Her father was a watchman who died due to a heart attack when she was eight years old, leaving her and four siblings to be brought up by her mother.[5] [6] Her family was in poverty at the time of her father's death, and she helped her mother to sell nasi padang outside the former Singapore Polytechnic (now Bestway Building) along Prince Edward Road.[7] [8]

Halimah attended Singapore Chinese Girls' School and Tanjong Katong Girls' School. She graduated from the University of Singapore (now the National University of Singapore (NUS)) in 1978 with a Bachelor of Laws and was called to the Singapore Bar in 1981. Halimah earned a Master of Laws from NUS in 2001 and received an honorary Doctor of Law degree from NUS in 2016.[9]

Trade unionist

Halimah began her career in 1978 as a legal officer at the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and was appointed director of its legal services department in 1992. She advanced within NTUC, holding roles such as Assistant Director of the Research Unit, Director of the Women's Development Secretariat,[10] and Executive Secretary of the United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries.[11] [12] She also served as Assistant Secretary-General from 1999 to 2007 and Deputy Secretary-General from 2007 to 2011. In 1999, Halimah became the director of the Singapore Institute of Labour Studies (now Ong Teng Cheong Labour Leadership Institute).[13] She was elected as the Workers' Vice-chairperson of the Standards Committee of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, serving from 2000 to 2002 and in 2005. Between 2003 and 2004, she was the Workers' Spokesperson for the ILC Committee on Human Resources Development and Training.[14]

Early political career

In 1993, Halimah served as one of the six assentors in Singapore's presidential election, supporting the successful candidate, Ong Teng Cheong.[15] Her first political candidacy began in the 2001 general election, where she joined a five-member People's Action Party (PAP) team running for Jurong GRC, led by Minister Lim Boon Heng. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who would later succeed her as president, also made his political debut alongside her in this election. Halimah represented Bukit Batok East as a MP until 2015, after which she was elected to represent the newly-formed Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC from 2015 to 2017.[16] [17] [18]

During her first term, Halimah was appointed Minister of State for Community Development, Youth and Sports.[19] After a cabinet reshuffle in November 2012,[20] she transitioned to serve as Minister of State for Social and Family Development. In addition to her ministerial roles, Halimah was also the chairperson of the Jurong Town Council.[21]

On 8 January 2013, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong nominated Halimah to succeed Michael Palmer as Speaker of Parliament after Palmer resigned due to revelations of an extramarital affair.[22] She was elected to the position on 14 January 2013, becoming the first woman in Singapore's history to hold this role. During her tenure, she also led a legislative delegation to Mexico.[23] In January 2015, she was co-opted into the PAP's Central Executive Committee (CEC), the party's highest decision-making body.[24]

In a strong response to ISIS-linked beliefs, Singapore detained 26 members of a foreign jihadist cell involved in extremist teachings and intervened in several cases of self-radicalised Singaporeans attempting to join ISIS in Syria in 2015.[25] During her time as an MP, Halimah condemned ISIS's acts as un-Islamic and harmful to the image of Islam, stressing that countering its ideology is more essential than military action.[26] She urges young people to resist extremism online and supports community gatherings to build resilience, highlighting the shared responsibility to prevent self-radicalisation.[27] Halimah also encourages Muslim parents to stay vigilant and promote open communication within families and communities.[28]

2017 presidential election

While speaking during the debate on the Presidential Elections Amendment Bill on 6 February 2017, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing addressed Halimah as "Madam President" twice instead of "Madam Speaker", drawing laughter from the house[29] [30] and leading to widespread speculation that Halimah would be the party's preferred candidate for the reserved presidential elections.[31] [32]

To contest for the elected presidency, which was reserved for Malay candidates,[33] Halimah announced on 6 August 2017 that she would step down as speaker of parliament and MP for Marsiling–Yew Tee the following day.[34] She also resigned from the PAP. Prime Minister Lee accepted her resignation, expressing gratitude for her contributions to labour, community, and legislative service and expressing confidence in her ability to fulfill the responsibilities of the presidency. Halimah was widely seen as the PAP's candidate for the 2017 presidential election[35] [36] and received endorsement from Prime Minister Lee.[37]

In an interview on 11 August 2017, Halimah expressed her support for the reserved presidential election, saying it demonstrated Singapore's commitment to multiracialism alongside meritocracy. While some critics argued the reserved election compromised meritocracy, Halimah disagreed, emphasising that all candidates must meet the same eligibility criteria, ensuring no compromise between merit and representation. Responding to comments on the lower qualifying threshold for public sector candidates, Halimah noted that this transparent system has been in place since 1991.[38]

Campaign

On 25 August 2017, Halimah launched her official campaign website, including her campaign slogan "Do Good Do Together", which was criticised by many for being ungrammatical. She defended her slogan, explaining that it is meant to be catchy.[39] In response to public queries whether Halimah broke election rules by campaigning ahead of the nomination day, the Elections Department clarified that its rule which forbids candidates from campaigning before close of nomination only applies to candidates who are nominated.[40]

Halimah's campaign expenses reached only S$220,875 out of the $754,982.40 legal limit. Her expenses were used for promotional material, room rental, office supplies, food, transport and phone bills.[41] Queries were also raised regarding Halimah's long affiliation with the PAP and perceived lack of political independence as she quit the party just one month ago to campaign in the election. Halimah responded by comparing herself to former President Ong Teng Cheong, who was also a PAP member before being elected.[42] She also cited that she had abstained from voting in an amendment for the Human Organ Transplant Act in 2007.[43]

Former NMP Calvin Cheng suggested that Halimah does not appear to have the professional experience needed to manage the financial reserves.[44] According to Publichouse.sg's estimate, her financial management involvement is only about $40 million, much less than the stringent $500 million shareholders’ equity requirement for private sector candidates.[45]

Election

Being the only candidate to be issued a Certificate of Eligibility, Halimah became the eighth President of Singapore.[46] Tan Cheng Bock, a former presidential candidate, wrote that Halimah "will occupy the most controversial presidency in the history of Singapore."[47] The Economist described her as "popular and able".[48]

Reactions

After Halimah Yacob's resignation as the sole minority MP in Singapore's Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC, opposition parties and residents called for a by-election, which the ruling PAP government declined to hold.[49] In response, resident Wong Souk Yee, with the support of the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), filed a lawsuit in the High Court, arguing that the Parliamentary Elections Act requires a by-election to be held when a vacancy occurs in a GRC.[50] Wong's lawyer cited Article 49(1) of the Constitution, which mandates that any vacant parliamentary seat be filled through an election, to support this claim.[51]

After the Elections Department announced that Halimah was the only possible candidate for the presidency, global media monitoring house Meltwater observed a significant increase in negative sentiment on social media surrounding the presidential elections from 11 to 12 September 2017. The sentiment observed was 83% negative and 17% positive.[52] Following the announcement, a number of Singaporeans began using the hashtag

  1. NotMyPresident
on Facebook and Twitter to voice their disappointment.[53] [54] [55] In response, The Straits Times reported that there was the use of #halimahismypresident by an "equally vocal group", urging "Singaporeans to rally round their next president".

Presidency (2017–2023)

Halimah was sworn in as the President of Singapore on 14 September 2017 at The Istana.[56] She became Singapore's first female president and the first Malay president in 47 years.[57] In her role, she was also appointed ex officio as chancellor of both the NUS[58] and Nanyang Technological University.[59]

Halimah Yacob initially decided to continue living in her public Housing Development Board (HDB) flat in Yishun after being sworn in as president,[60] [61] making her the first president to reside in public housing. Her residence was a duplex consisting of a 5-room and a 4-room flat joined by demolishing the median wall.[62] However, her decision raised security concerns, and on 2 October 2017, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that, following recommendations from security agencies due to identified threats, she moved to a more secure location.[63] [64] The government continues to oversee her residence and security arrangements.[65]

Halimah made her first state visit as president to Brunei on 11 May 2018, where she witnessed the signing of a financial technology agreement and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to exchange information related to money laundering and terrorist financing between Singapore and Brunei.[66] At the invitation of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, Halimah was the first president of Singapore to visit the Netherlands since the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries on 7 December 1965.[67] The visit took place from 20 to 24 November 2018.[68]

To celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties, Halimah Yacob visited the Philippines from 8 to 12 September 2019, where she participated in events in Manila and Davao City, including the Philippines–Singapore Business Council Meeting, a tour of the Philippine Eagle Center,[69] and, on 9 September, oversaw the signing of eight MOUs between Singapore and the Philippines, covering areas such as infrastructure, data protection, water management, and education, alongside Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.[70] Prior to her visit to Saudi Arabia, Halimah Yacob conducted a state visit to Kuwait.[71] Later that same year, she became Singapore's first president to visit Saudi Arabia,[72] where she was conferred the collar of the Order of King Abdulaziz.[73]

In 2023, Halimah Yacob conducted several overseas visits, including trips to Malaysia[74] and Qatar.[75] During her visit to Malaysia, she participated in a tree-planting ceremony at Istana Negara, an honour typically reserved for heads of state.[76] On 29 May 2023, Halimah announced that she would not seek re-election in the 2023 presidential election. Her term expired on 13 September, and she was succeeded by the ninth president, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, on 14 September.[77]

Advocate for gender equality

Halimah's difficult upbringing inspired her to get a legal degree and defend the weak, which is why she is an advocate for women's rights. She focused on topics including equitable employment and reasonably priced healthcare when she initially entered politics in 2001 as Singapore's first female Malay MP. She stresses the necessity for ongoing cultural transformation and respect for women as equals, even as she appreciates the advancements made in gender equality.[78] As president, Halimah supported initiatives like the White Paper on Singapore Women's Development to address gender issues. She underscored the need for protections for older workers and advocated for legal reforms to ensure justice for sexual assault victims, arguing that age should not exempt offenders from punishment. Through her work under the President's Challenge, she also focused on empowering disadvantaged groups and promoting religious harmony and multicultural dialogue alongside gender equality.[79]

In 2019, Halimah advocated for companies to embrace gender equality, noting that it will increase innovation and business profitability during her speech at the Women's Forum Asia.[80] She had also publicly voiced her views about a local podcast, OkLetsGo, for their offensive remarks against women and asked the hosts of the show for an apology for their remarks.[81] [82] [83] In order to keep up with workers' concerns, she frequently met with union officials from a variety of industries. Mary Liew, president of NTUC, said that Halimah "always had a heart for women" and was aware of the problems of working moms because she was one herself.

Halimah praised the notable advancements made in women's development in Singapore during her remarks at the 9th Singapore Women Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. She highlighted the country's improved gender equality ranking and the growing number of women in leadership positions and other fields. While acknowledging the vital roles social service partners play in bolstering these efforts, she underlined the significance of male-female collaborations and called for a concerted effort to dispel gender stereotypes and improve chances for women in the workplace. Eight new inductees were recognised during the event, which highlighted their remarkable accomplishments and experiences and reaffirmed the importance of female role models in motivating the next generation to create a more just society.[84]

COVID-19 response

In April 2020, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore, Halimah approved her in-principle for the government's request to draw S$21 billion from the past national reserves, aimed at subsidising wages of 1.9 million workers and preserving jobs and businesses.[85] On 7 April 2020, the Supplementary Supply Bill was revised for the Resilience and Solidarity Budgets and the revised bill was asserted by Halimah on 9 April 2020.[86] On 5 June 2020, the Parliament of Singapore passed the Second Supplementary Supply Bill for the Fortitude Budget, to allow for the government to draw an additional of S$31 billion from the past reserves, aimed at securing employment for those who lost their jobs due to the pandemic as the country loosens restrictions after the circuit breaker.[87]

On 16 June 2020, Halimah assented to the Second Supplementary Supply Bill, which enacted the Second Supplementary Supply Act, to allow the government the additional requested funds to ease the effects of the pandemic. This marks the second time that the past reserves of Singapore were drawn in the financial year of 2020 and it was also the largest amount drawn from the past reserves since Singapore's independence, with the funds totalling S$52 billion. She was the second president to exercise the president's discretionary powers for this purpose, after President S. R. Nathan in 2009 did so for the financial crisis of 2007–2008.[88]

Post-presidency (2023–present)

After her presidency, Halimah became the chancellor of the Singapore University of Social Sciences from 1 October 2023.[89] [90] She became Stephen Lee's successor and was notable for being a SUSS patron.

On 30 August 2024, Tony Tan has been replaced by Halimah as the Securities Investors Association (Singapore)'s new chief patron. She was chosen for this esteemed position by the association because of her outstanding services to Singapore, which include her influential career as a politician and unionist and her representation of the country abroad throughout her 2023-ending president. According to David Gerald, the association's founder, Halimah's values complement the organization's objectives of defending individual investors' rights and encouraging moral business practices.[91]

Personal life

Halimah is married to Mohammed Abdullah Alhabshee,[92] [93] of Arab descent,[94] and they have five children.[62] Mohammed graduated from NUS with a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. It was also where he first met Halimah.

Although Halimah is categorised as an Indian Muslim due to her father's descent,[3] she ran for the 2017 presidential election as a Malay candidate and identifies herself as a Malay Muslim.[95] [96]

Awards and honours

Honours

On 22 May 2023, President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded Halimah the Order of Friendship 1st class. Later on 29 October 2023, she was awarded the Order of Temasek (with high distinction) for serving Singapore with distinction over four decades and for her lifetime of devoted and distinguished service.

National

Foreign

Awards

In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award in 2001,[99] the Her World Woman of the Year Award in 2003,[100] and the AWARE Heroine Award 2011.[101]

She was also inducted into the Singapore Council of Women's Organisations' Singapore Women's Hall of Fame in 2014.[102]

External links

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Notes and References

  1. Web site: Singapore's former President Halimah Yacob awarded nation's highest civilian honour . 27 October 2024 . . 25 October 2023.
  2. Web site: Lam . Lydia . 11 September 2017 . Halimah Yacob set to be Singapore's first female president: A timeline of her career . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200725114855/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/halimah-yacob-set-to-be-singapores-first-female-president-a-timeline-of-her-career . 25 July 2020 . 25 July 2020 . . en.
  3. News: New Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob tells Susan Long how she went from selling pushcart nasi padang and almost getting expelled from school to one of the highest offices in the land.. Long. Susan. 25 January 2013. The Straits Times.
  4. Book: Low . Patrick Kim Cheng . Leading successfully in Asia . 2018 . . 9783319713472 . 2nd . Cham.
  5. Book: Rajan . Uma . 50 Years of Indian Community in Singapore . 28 June 2016 . . 978-9-813-14058-5 . Pillai . Gopinath . 107 . To Singapore with Love... . Notable female politicians include Dhanam Avadai, PAP Member for Moulmein (1965–1968), lawyer Indranee Rajah, the current Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Education, and Indian-origin politician Halimah Yacob, former Minister and current Speaker of Parliament. . 29 August 2017 . Kesavapany . Krishnasamy . https://books.google.com/books?id=RHfQDAAAQBAJ&q=indian-origin+politician+halimah+yacob&pg=PA107 . https://web.archive.org/web/20200218013238/https://books.google.com/books?id=RHfQDAAAQBAJ&lpg=PA107&dq=indian-origin%20politician%20halimah%20yacob&pg=PA107#v=onepage&q=indian-origin%20politician%20halimah%20yacob&f=false . 18 February 2020 . live . amp.
  6. News: Cheam . Jessica . 10 January 2013 . A strong advocate for workers, women and minorities . live . The Straits Times . Singapore . https://web.archive.org/web/20170721022531/http://www.asiaone.com/print/News/Latest%2BNews/Singapore/Story/A1Story20130108-394132.html . 21 July 2017 . 21 July 2017 . Her Indian-Muslim father was a watchman who died when she was eight years old. . ST2013_fathaer .
  7. News: Chang. Clarence. I feared for my life. New Paper. Factiva. 25 October 2006.
  8. News: Mokhtar . Faris . 18 August 2017 . Mom's the inspiration for former Speaker . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20181114074149/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/moms-inspiration-former-speaker . 14 November 2018 . 24 November 2017 . Today.
  9. Web site: H.E. HALIMAH YACOB . 2024-10-27 . Global Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament.
  10. News: Mdm Halimah, Singapore's first woman Speaker, could make history again. Koh. Valerie. 6 August 2017. TODAYonline. 14 September 2017. en. 27 March 2019. https://web.archive.org/web/20190327174753/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/mdm-halimah-spores-first-woman-speaker-could-make-history-again. live.
  11. News: Yong . Charissa . 4 August 2017 . Homecoming for Halimah Yacob at union's dinner and dance . 8 August 2017 . live . The Straits Times . Singapore . https://web.archive.org/web/20170808053627/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/homecoming-for-halimah-yacob-at-unions-dinner-and-dance . 8 August 2017 . The United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries dinner and dance on Friday night (Aug 4) was a homecoming of sorts for Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob. She was its executive secretary from 2004 to 2011, and is now advisor to the 60,000-strong union..
  12. Web site: Portrait of Madam Halimah Yacob, Head of Legal Department in National Trades Union Congress . 2024-10-27 . . en.
  13. Book: Majulah!: 50 Years of Malay/Muslim Community in Singapore. Zainul Abidin bin Rasheed. Saat. Norshahril. 2016. World Scientific. 9789814759885. en. 20 September 2020. 6 July 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200706200036/https://books.google.com/books?id=3uixDgAAQBAJ&pg=PA287&lpg=PA287&dq=malay%2Fmuslim+knowledge+based+economy+convention&hl=en#v=onepage&q=halimah%20yacob&f=false. live.
  14. Web site: 15 January 2013 . Mdm Halimah Yacob appointed NTUC Advisor for Int'l Affairs . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170808151646/http://www.ntuc.org.sg/wps/portal/fdawu/home/workingforu/workingforudetails?WCM_GLOBAL_CONTEXT=%2Fcontent_library%2Fntuc%2Fhome%2Fworking+for+u%2F8b17ed004e305342acf3aec7b9d67807 . 8 August 2017 . 8 August 2017 . National Trades Union Congress Press Release . Singapore.
  15. Web site: CNA . 21 August 2024 . The role of Singapore's Elected President . 22 August 2023 . . en.
  16. News: Ong. Justin. PAP unveils lineup for new Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC. 6 August 2017. Channel NewsAsia. 21 August 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20170806173431/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/pap-unveils-lineup-for-new-marsiling-yew-tee-grc-8234540. 6 August 2017.
  17. Web site: U-Wen . Lee . Halimah Yacob declared president-elect after walkover victory . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20181225100633/https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/presidential-election-2017/halimah-yacob-declared-president-elect-after-walkover . 25 December 2018 . 13 September 2017 . Channel NewsAsia.
  18. News: Who is Halimah Yacob, Singapore's first female President? . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20181225100639/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/who-is-halimah-yacob-singapore-s-first-female-president-9206546 . 25 December 2018 . 13 September 2017 . Channel NewsAsia . en-US.
  19. Web site: Mdm Halimah Yacob. Parliament of Singapore. 6 August 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170806172111/https://www.parliament.gov.sg/mps/list-of-current-mps/mp/details/halimah-yacob. 6 August 2017.
  20. News: Singapore reshuffles Cabinet. 6 August 2017. Channel NewsAsia. 31 July 2012. https://web.archive.org/web/20170806172007/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-reshuffles-cabinet-8358488. 6 August 2017.
  21. Web site: Jurong Town Council's Audited Financial Statements, Auditors' Reports and Annual Report For FY2010/2011 . 8 August 2017 . https://archive.today/20170808161922/http://library.parl.gov.sg/sites/default/files/paperpresented/pdf/2015/S.97of2011.pdf . 8 August 2017 .
  22. News: Saad. Imelda. PM Lee to nominate Halimah Yacob as next Speaker of Parliament. ChannelNewsAsia. 8 January 2013. https://archive.today/20130215171522/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1246664/1/.html. 15 February 2013.
  23. News: Sim . Royston . 2017-08-07 . Halimah Yacob steps down as Speaker and MP, resigns from PAP to run for President . 2024-10-27 . The Straits Times . en . 0585-3923.
  24. News: 7 January 2015 . Four more co-opted into PAP central executive committee . https://web.archive.org/web/20170807213312/http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/four-more-co-opted-pap-central-executive-committee . 7 August 2017 . 7 August 2017 . TODAYonline . en.
  25. Kam . Stefanie . 2015 . Singapore . Counter Terrorist Trends and Analyses . 8 . 1 . 37–41 . 2382-6444.
  26. News: Chong . Zi Liang . 22 November 2015 . The Sunday Times - Counter ISIS ideology on social media: Halimah . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20160419211136/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/counter-isis-ideology-on-social-media-halimah . 19 April 2016 . 23 July 2017 . The Straits Times . Singapore.
  27. News: Heng . Janice . 25 December 2016 . Build community ties to guard against terror: Halimah . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20161225132911/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/build-community-ties-to-guard-against-terror-halimah . 25 December 2016 . 23 July 2017 . The Straits Times . Singapore.
  28. News: Wong . Pei Ting . 16 June 2017 . Keep a close watch on daughters too, as IS not just targeting men: Halimah . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190107180453/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/keep-close-watch-daughters-too-halimah . 7 January 2019 . 23 July 2017 . Today . Singapore.
  29. News: Teoh . Hannah . 6 February 2017 . Sylvia Lim, Chan Chun Sing spar over issue of first elected president . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171212031700/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/sylvia-lim-chan-chun-sing-spar-over-issue-of-first-elected-president-114816839.html . 12 December 2017 . 11 December 2017 . Yahoo News Singapore . en-SG.
  30. News: 7 February 2017 . No by-election if minority MP leaves GRC, says Chun Sing . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170722003525/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/singapolitics/no-by-election-if-minority-mp-leaves-grc-says-chun-sing . 22 July 2017 . 11 December 2017 . The Straits Times . en.
  31. News: Tan . Clement . 14 February 2017 . To preserve social harmony, Singapore has racial requirements for its next president . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171212084112/https://qz.com/908967/to-preserve-social-harmony-singapore-has-racial-requirements-for-its-next-president/ . 12 December 2017 . 11 December 2017 . Quartz.
  32. News: Massita . Ahmad . 9 February 2017 . Singapore may create history having first Malay female president . https://web.archive.org/web/20170219154351/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2017/02/09/singapore-may-create-history-having-first-malay-female-president/ . 19 February 2017 . 27 October 2024 . The Star.
  33. News: Yong . Charissa . 8 November 2016 . Parliament: 2017 presidential election will be reserved for Malay candidates, says PM Lee . https://web.archive.org/web/20170806145023/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/parliament-2017-presidential-election-will-be-reserved-for-malay-candidates-says-pm-lee . 6 August 2017 . 6 August 2017 . The Straits Times . en.
  34. News: 7 August 2017 . PM Lee accepts Halimah Yacob's resignation from the PAP . https://web.archive.org/web/20170807211217/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/pm-lee-accepts-halimah-yacob-resignation-from-the-pap-9099312 . 7 August 2017 . 7 August 2017 . Channel NewsAsia.
  35. News: Tham . Yuen-C . 6 August 2017 . Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob to run for President in coming election . https://web.archive.org/web/20170806134339/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/speaker-of-parliament-halimah-yacob-to-run-for-president-in-coming-election . 6 August 2017 . 6 August 2017 . The Straits Times . en.
  36. News: 6 August 2017 . Halimah Yacob announces bid to be Singapore's next President . https://web.archive.org/web/20170806144839/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/halimah-yacob-announces-bid-to-be-singapore-s-next-president-9097256 . 6 August 2017 . 6 August 2017 . Channel NewsAsia.
  37. News: Siau . Ming En . 7 August 2017 . Halimah will bring dignity, warmth to presidency if elected: PM . https://web.archive.org/web/20170807223132/http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/pm-accepts-halimahs-resignation-pap-charles-chong-be-acting-speaker . 7 August 2017 . 7 August 2017 . Today . en.
  38. News: Hussain . Zakir . 11 August 2017 . Reserved presidential election affirms Singapore's core values: Halimah Yacob . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171212022228/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/reserved-election-affirms-spores-core-values-halimah . 12 December 2017 . 20 December 2017 . The Straits Times.
  39. News: Koh . Valerie . 30 August 2017 . 'Do Good Do Together' catchy, easy to understand: Halimah . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190424182046/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/halimah-defends-ungrammatical-campaign-slogan-calls-it-catchy . 24 April 2019 . 31 August 2017 . Today . en.
  40. Web site: 30 August 2017 . PE2017: Election Dept Clears Halimah Yacob of Breaking No Campaigning before Nomination Day Rule . https://web.archive.org/web/20170906061950/http://redwiretimes.com/kua-politics/pe2017-election-dept-clears-halimah-yacob-of-breaking-no-campaigning-before-nomination-day-rule/ . 6 September 2017 . 12 September 2017 . RedWire Times.
  41. News: President Halimah Yacob's campaign spent $220,875. hermesauto. 7 October 2017. The Straits Times. 13 November 2017. en. 13 November 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20171113165738/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/president-halimahs-campaign-spent-220875. live.
  42. Web site: Yong . Nicholas . 29 August 2017 . PE2017 - Look at my credentials, not my past affiliations: Halimah Yacob . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190329135844/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/pe2017-look-credentials-not-past-affiliations-halimah-yacob-055114938.html . 29 March 2019 . 12 September 2017 . Yahoo News.
  43. Web site: Kotwani . Monica . 29 August 2017 . 'I do not serve any political party': Halimah Yacob talks about her independence, unveils Presidential campaign slogan . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171206192454/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/i-do-not-serve-any-political-party-halimah-yacob-talks-about-her-9166308 . 6 December 2017 . 12 September 2017 . CNA.
  44. Web site: Cheow Pong . Chan . 17 July 2017 . Ex-NMP Calvin Cheng: Halimah Yacob should not run for President . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171031065442/https://mothership.sg/2017/07/ex-nmp-calvin-cheng-halimah-yacob-should-not-run-for-president/ . 31 October 2017 . 12 September 2017 . Mothership.
  45. Web site: 12 September 2017 . Candidates with more finance experience than Halimah Yacob disqualified . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170912102444/https://publichouse.sg/disqualified-presidential-candidates-more-qualified-than-halimah-yacob-in-financial-matters/ . 12 September 2017 . 12 September 2017 . Publichouse.sg.
  46. Web site: 11 September 2017 . Halimah Yacob set to be next President after other potential candidates fail to qualify . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190414193854/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/halimah-yacob-set-to-be-next-president-after-other-potential-9205542 . 14 April 2019 . 12 September 2017 . CNA.
  47. News: Lee . Vernon . 13 September 2017 . Tan Cheng Bock: Halimah Yacob to assume the 'most controversial presidency' in Singapore's history . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20180612142436/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tan-cheng-bock-halimah-yacob-assume-controversial-presidency-singapores-history-121318729.html . 12 June 2018 . 13 September 2017 . Yahoo News Singapore . en-SG.
  48. News: Only one Singaporean is fit to be president. 14 September 2017. The Economist. 13 September 2017. 13 September 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170913185053/https://www.economist.com/news/asia/21728865-or-so-government-concludes-only-one-singaporean-fit-be-president. live.
  49. Web site: Teoh . Hannah . 19 October 2016 . PE 2017: SDP suing government for not calling by-election . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170914220932/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/sdp-files-lawsuit-singapore-government-not-calling-marsiling-yew-tee-election-093640222.html . 14 September 2017 . 15 September 2017 . Yahoo News Singapore.
  50. Web site: Court Hearing on By-Election for Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC to Be Held in Jan 2018. 13 November 2017. 20 December 2017. 16 November 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20171116235825/http://redwiretimes.com/kua-politics/court-hearing-on-by-election-for-marsiling-yew-tee-grc-to-be-held-in-jan-2018/.
  51. Web site: 22 January 2018 . SDP's Legal Challenge Calling for By-Election in Marsiling–Yew Tee GRC Heard in Court . https://web.archive.org/web/20190713182439/http://redwiretimes.com/kua-politics/sdps-legal-challenge-calling-for-by-election-in-marsiling-yew-tee-grc-heard-in-court/ . 13 July 2019 . 25 March 2019 . RedWire Times.
  52. News: Tay . Vivienne . 12 September 2017 . Online sentiments surrounding Halimah Yacob's presidential walkover . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170912093741/http://www.marketing-interactive.com/online-sentiments-surrounding-halimah-yacobs-presidential-walkover/ . 12 September 2017 . 13 September 2017 . Marketing-Interactive . en-US.
  53. News: Lee . Vernon . 11 September 2017 . PE 2017: PEC decision on Halimah Yacob's eligibility sparks #notmypresident hashtag . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170913143420/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/pe-2017-pec-decision-halimah-yacobs-eligibility-sparks-notmypresident-hashtag-143620822.html . 13 September 2017 . 13 September 2017 . en-SG.
  54. News: 11 September 2017 . #NotMyPresident starts trending in Singapore after elections confirmed to be a walkover Coconuts Singapore . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170913135950/https://coconuts.co/singapore/news/notmypresident-starts-trending-singapore-elections-confirmed-walkover/ . 13 September 2017 . 13 September 2017 . . en-US.
  55. News: Yong . Charissa . 12 September 2017 . Social media abuzz over Halimah Yacob's presidential walkover . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20170913135911/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/social-media-abuzz-over-halimah-yacobs-presidential-walkover . 13 September 2017 . 13 September 2017 . The Straits Times . en.
  56. Web site: Yuen-C . Tham . 13 September 2017 . Halimah Yacob to be sworn in as Singapore's 8th president on Thursday: PMO . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171217185633/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/madam-halimah-yacob-prepares-to-hand-in-papers-for-presidential-election . 17 December 2017 . 11 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
  57. Web site: 13 September 2017 . Halimah Yacob named Singapore's first female president . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190502112130/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/09/halimah-yacob-named-singapore-malay-president-170913073940319.html . 2 May 2019 . 14 September 2017 . Al Jazeera.
  58. News: Bei Yi . Seow . 14 November 2017 . NUS welcomes President Halimah Yacob as new chancellor . 27 October 2024 . The Straits Times.
  59. News: 11 September 2018 . New NTU Chancellor visits campus . 27 October 2024 . Nanyang Technological University.
  60. Web site: 14 September 2017 . Halimah wants to continue living in her HDB flat . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200715062543/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/halimah-wants-to-continue-living-in-her-hdb-flat . 15 July 2020 . 15 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
  61. News: Yuen-C . Tham . Seow . Joanna . 14 September 2017 . Halimah wants to continue living in her HDB flat . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20171218183428/http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/halimah-wants-to-continue-living-in-her-hdb-flat . 18 December 2017 . 20 December 2017 . The Straits Times.
  62. News: Zhang . Laura . 8 August 2017 . Our First Gentleman to be, Mohamed Abdullah Alhabshee . https://web.archive.org/web/20170817134932/http://www.theindependent.sg/our-first-gentleman-to-be-mohamed-abdullah-alhabshee/ . 17 August 2017 . 17 August 2017 . The Independent Singapore .
  63. Web site: 2 October 2017 . President Halimah to move out from Yishun residence to a new location . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20190227190553/https://www.theonlinecitizen.com/2017/10/02/president-halimah-to-move-out-from-yishun-residence-to-a-new-location/ . 27 February 2019 . 20 December 2017.
  64. Web site: Tian Tian . Ang . 3 October 2017 . President Halimah to move out of Yishun flat . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200715174942/https://www.tnp.sg/news/singapore/president-halimah-move-out-yishun-flat . 15 July 2020 . 15 July 2020 . The New Paper.
  65. Web site: 2 October 2017 . President Halimah Yacob to move out of Yishun HDB flat: MHA . https://web.archive.org/web/20171206095836/http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/president-halimah-yacob-to-move-out-of-yishun-hdb-flat-mha-9270082 . 6 December 2017 . 20 December 2017 . CNA.
  66. Web site: 12 May 2018 . Singapore, Brunei ink pacts to boost cooperation in finance . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711080929/https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/government-economy/singapore-brunei-ink-pacts-to-boost-cooperation-in-finance . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . The Strait Times . The Business Times.
  67. Web site: 11 September 2018 . State visit by the President of Singapore . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200713120200/https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/latest/news/2018/11/09/state-visit-by-the-president-of-singapore . 13 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . NetherlandsWorldwide .
  68. Web site: 19 November 2018 . MFA Press Statement: State Visit by President Halimah Yacob to the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 20 to 24 November 2018 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711080417/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2018/11/NetherlandsPreVisit . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . .
  69. Web site: State Visit by President Halimah Yacob to the Republic of the Philippines. The Istana, President of Singapore. 7 September 2019. 11 July 2020. 12 July 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200712204913/https://www.istana.gov.sg/Newsroom/News-Releases/2019/09/07/State-Visit-by-President-Halimah-Yacob-to-the-Republic-of-the-Philippines. live.
  70. Web site: 9 September 2019 . Singapore, Philippines ink agreements on education, infrastructure and personal data protection . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711134012/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/singapore-philippines-mou-50th-anniversary-diplomacy-11888296 . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . CNA.
  71. News: 4 November 2019 . State Visit by President Halimah Yacob to the State of Kuwait from 3 to 4 November 2019 . 27 October 2024 . Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore.
  72. News: Koh . Fabian . 2 November 2019 . President Halimah to make Singapore's first state visit to Saudi Arabia . 27 October 2024 . The Straits Times.
  73. Web site: 2019-11-06 . President Halimah conferred Saudi Arabia's highest civilian honour . 2024-10-27 . The Straits Times . en . The Business Times.
  74. News: 22 March 2023 . State Visit by President Halimah Yacob to Malaysia, 20 to 22 March 2023 . 27 October 2024 . Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore.
  75. News: 19 June 2023 . State Visit by President Halimah Yacob to the State of Qatar, 19 to 22 June 2023 . 27 October 2024 . Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore.
  76. News: Yan Han . Goh . 22 March 2023 . Much scope for Singapore and Malaysia to expand cooperation: President Halimah . 27 October 2024 . The Straits Times.
  77. Web site: 29 May 2023 . President Halimah Yacob will not stand for re-election in 2023 poll . 9 June 2023 . CNA.
  78. News: Yuen-C . Tham . 2022-01-05 . President Halimah on why she became a lawyer and advocate for gender equality . 2024-11-02 . The Straits Times . en . 0585-3923.
  79. News: Yan Han . Goh . 2023-05-29 . A president of ‘firsts’, a champion of social causes: Here’s a look at Madam Halimah Yacob’s term . 2024-11-02 . The Straits Times . en . 0585-3923.
  80. Web site: Yun Ting . Choo . 18 September 2019 . Gender equality and women leaders benefit companies and society: President Halimah . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711083427/https://www.straitstimes.com/business/gender-equality-and-women-leaders-benefit-companies-and-society-president-halimah . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
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  82. Web site: Awang . Nabilah . 15 June 2020 . President Halimah Yacob calls on Okletsgo hosts to apologise to all women for misogynistic comments . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200710221332/https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/president-halimah-yacob-calls-okletsgo-hosts-apologise-all-women-misogynistic-comments . 10 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . Today .
  83. Web site: Elangovan . Navene . 30 May 2023 . President Halimah Yacob's support for women, the disadvantaged lauded; some people disappointed she will not seek re-election . 2024-11-02 . TODAY . en.
  84. Web site: 8 March 2023 . Speech by President Halimah Yacob at the 9th Singapore Women Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony . 2024-11-02 . The Istana.
  85. Web site: Lai . Linette . 8 April 2020 . Singapore sets aside $60 billion for the fight against coronavirus: DPM Heng . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711094841/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-sets-aside-60-billion-for-fight-against-virus-dpm-heng . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
  86. Web site: Ho . Grace . 9 April 2020 . President Halimah assents to draw on $21 billion from past reserves for historic Resilience and Solidarity Budgets . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711082848/https://www.straitstimes.com/politics/president-assents-to-historic-resilience-and-solidarity-budgets-draw-on-21-billion-from . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
  87. Web site: Mohan . Matthew . 26 May 2020 . S$33b Fortitude Budget aimed at providing jobs, supporting workers and firms through 'difficult period' of COVID-19 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711201734/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/covid-19-fortitude-budget-heng-swee-keat-key-announcements-12770060 . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . Channel News Asia.
  88. Web site: Ho . Grace . 16 June 2020 . Coronavirus: President Halimah gives assent to additional $33b in support packages . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20200711130915/https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-president-halimah-gives-assent-to-additional-33b-in-support-packages . 11 July 2020 . 11 July 2020 . The Straits Times.
  89. News: 25 September 2023 . Former president Halimah Yacob named as new SUSS chancellor . The Straits Times . en.
  90. Web site: SUSS Welcomes Former President of Singapore Madam Halimah Yacob as Chancellor . 1 August 2024 . Singapore University of Social Sciences . 25 September 2023.
  91. Web site: Zhu . Michelle . 2024-08-30 . Former president Halimah Yacob joins Sias as chief patron . 2024-11-02 . The Business Times . en.
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  93. News: Mohamad Salleh . Nur Asyiqin . 29 August 2017 . Halimah Yacob unveils presidential election campaign slogan and team . https://web.archive.org/web/20170829145331/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/halimah-yacob-unveils-presidential-election-campaign-slogan-and-team . 29 August 2017 . 29 August 2017 . The Straits Times . en.
  94. Web site: Getting to know Mohamed Abdullah Alhabshee, husband of Madam Halimah Yacob. Thoughts of Real Singaporeans. 29 July 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170729132917/https://www.thoughtssg.com/2017/06/11/getting-to-know-mohamed-abdullah-alhabshee-husband-of-madam-halimah-yacob/. 29 July 2017. 11 June 2017.
  95. News: Tham . Yuen-C . 17 July 2017 . More consultation needed before my decision to run for president: Halimah Yacob . live . The Straits Times . Singapore . https://web.archive.org/web/20170717160403/http://www.straitstimes.com/politics/more-consultation-needed-before-my-decision-halimah . 17 July 2017 . 21 July 2017.
  96. Web site: Halimah Yacob named Singapore's first female president . Al Jazeera . 14 September 2017 . 14 September 2017 . 2 May 2019 . https://web.archive.org/web/20190502112130/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/09/halimah-yacob-named-singapore-malay-president-170913073940319.html . live .
  97. News: Shafeeq . Syarafana . 30 October 2023 . Former president Halimah Yacob awarded Order of Temasek for lifetime of devoted, distinguished service . The Straits Times.
  98. Web site: 22 May 2023 . Tokayev awards President Halimah Yacob of Singapore with 1st-degree Dostyk Order . 27 October 2024 . "Kazinform" International News Agency . en.
  99. News: 29 July 2009 . Cultural Ambassador is Berita Harian Achiever of the Year 2009 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20150525183819/http://www.sph.com.sg/media_releases/836 . 25 May 2015 . 21 May 2011 . Singapore Press Holdings.
  100. News: Her World Woman of the Year celebrates 20 years. Her World. 21 May 2011. 25 March 2011. https://web.archive.org/web/20161230122619/http://womanoftheyear.herworldplus.com/2003-halimah-yacob. 30 December 2016. live.
  101. Web site: Recipients of AWARE Awards 2011. Association of Women for Action and Research. 28 July 2017. https://archive.today/20170728215420/http://www.aware.org.sg/events-archive/the-aware-awards/recipients-of-aware-awards-2011/. 28 July 2017.
  102. Web site: Halimah Yacob, trade unionist and first woman Speaker of Parliament. Singapore Women's Hall of Fame. Singapore Council of Women's Organisations. 28 July 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170728215619/http://www.swhf.sg/the-honourees/19-government/146-halimah-yacob. 28 July 2017.

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