Ong Teng Cheong: Singapore's Fifth President and Visionary Leader

Introduction:

Ong Teng Cheong (1936-2002) was the fifth President of Singapore, serving from 1 September 1993 to 31 August 1999. A prominent political figure and respected surgeon, Ong Teng Cheong played a pivotal role in various aspects of Singapore's development. This article provides a comprehensive overview of his life, contributions, and legacy.

Early Life and Education:

Ong Teng Cheong was born on 22 January 1936 in Malacca, Malaysia. He received his early education at Saint Francis' Institution in Malacca and later pursued a medical degree at the University of Singapore. After graduating in 1963, he specialized in surgery and established his own private clinic.

Political Career:

Ong Teng Cheong embarked on his political journey in 1976 when he was elected as a Member of Parliament for the People's Action Party (PAP) representing Kim Keat Single Member Constituency. Over the years, he held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Communications and Minister for Health.

Ascendancy to the Presidency:

In 1993, Ong Teng Cheong was elected as President of Singapore. He was the first President to be elected without opposition, a testament to his popularity and respect among the electorate.

Presidency (1993-1999):

During his six-year presidency, Ong Teng Cheong introduced several significant initiatives and policies.

Economic Development:

• Established the *Economic Development Board (EDB) *to promote investment and economic growth.
• Launched the **Skills Development Fund (SDF) to upgrade the skills of Singaporeans and enhance their employability.

Social Cohesion:

• Promoted the ****"Singapore 21" initiative to foster a sense of national identity and community.
• Established the **National Arts Council (NAC) to support the development of the arts and culture scene.

International Relations:

• Strengthened relations with ASEAN countries and played a key role in the establishment of the ****ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA).
• Developed closer ties with China, India, and other emerging economies.

Legacy:

Ong Teng Cheong's contributions to Singapore extended beyond his presidency. He left a lasting legacy in the areas of healthcare, education, and social welfare.

Healthcare:

• Initiated the **Health Vision 2000 program to improve the healthcare system and make healthcare more affordable and accessible.
• Established the **National Health Service (NHS) to provide free healthcare to needy Singaporeans.

Education:

• Launched the **"Thinking Schools, Learning Nation" initiative to enhance the quality of education in Singapore.
• Established the **Institute of Technical Education (ITE) to provide vocational and technical education to secondary school leavers.

Social Welfare:

• Established the **Community Development Council (CDC) to provide social assistance to disadvantaged communities.
• Introduced the **Silver Support Scheme to provide financial assistance to elderly Singaporeans.

Personal Life and Death:

Ong Teng Cheong was married to *Ling Siew May*, and they had two children, Ting Sin and **Hsin Yee. He passed away on 8 February 2002, at the age of 66, due to lymphoma.

Conclusion:

Ong Teng Cheong was a visionary leader who made significant contributions to Singapore's development. His initiatives and policies continue to shape the nation today. His legacy lives on as a reminder of his commitment to improving the lives of all Singaporeans.

Table 1: Ong Teng Cheong's Key Initiatives as President

Table 2: Singapore's Economic Indicators During Ong Teng Cheong's Presidency

Source: Department of Statistics Singapore

Table 3: Singapore's Social Indicators During Ong Teng Cheong's Presidency

Source: Ministry of Health Singapore