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{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2016}} | {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2016}} | ||
{{Infobox President | {{Infobox President | ||
|honorific-prefix = ] ] ''Haji'' |
|honorific-prefix = ] ] ''Haji'' | ||
|name = Yusof bin Ishak<br />'''يوسف بن |
|name = Yusof bin Ishak<br />'''يوسف بن إسحاق ''' | ||
|honorific-suffix = ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] | |honorific-suffix = ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] | ||
|image = | |image = | ||
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|predecessor = Newly created post<br><small>(he was previously ] of Singapura)</small> | |predecessor = Newly created post<br><small>(he was previously ] of Singapura)</small> | ||
|successor = ] | |successor = ] | ||
|office2 = 1st ] | |office2 = 1st ] of ] | ||
|term_start2 = 16 September 1963 (retroactive) | |term_start2 = 16 September 1963 (retroactive) | ||
|term_end2 = 9 August 1965 (retroactive) | |term_end2 = 9 August 1965 (retroactive) | ||
|monarch2 = ] | |monarch2 = ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
|primeminister2= ] (1959-1990) | |primeminister2= ] (1959-1990) | ||
|predecessor2 = Newly created post<br><small>(he was previously ] of Singapore)</small> | |predecessor2 = Newly created post<br><small>(he was previously ] of ])</small> | ||
|successor2 = Position abolished | |successor2 = Position abolished | ||
⚫ | |office3 = 2nd ] of ] | ||
|order3 = 2nd | |||
⚫ | |office3 = Yang di-Pertuan Negara of Singapore | ||
|term_start3 = 3 December 1959 | |term_start3 = 3 December 1959 | ||
|term_end3 = 16 September 1963 (retroactive) | |term_end3 = 16 September 1963 (retroactive) | ||
|monarch3 = ]<br>] | |monarch3 = ]<br>]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
|primeminister3= ] (1959-1990) | |primeminister3= ] (1959-1990) | ||
|predecessor3 = ] | |predecessor3 = ] | ||
|successor3 = Position abolished | |successor3 = Position abolished | ||
|birth_name = Yusof bin Ishak |
|birth_name = Yusof bin Ishak | ||
|birth_date = {{birth date|1910|8|12|df=y}} | |birth_date = {{birth date|1910|8|12|df=y}} | ||
|birth_place = |
|birth_place = ], ], ], ] <br> {{small|(now ])}} | ||
|death_date = {{Death date and age|1970|11|23|1910|8|12|df=yes}} | |death_date = {{Death date and age|1970|11|23|1910|8|12|df=yes}} | ||
|death_place = |
|death_place = ] | ||
|restingplace = ] | |restingplace = ] | ||
|restingplacecoordinates = | |restingplacecoordinates = | ||
|nationality = ] | |nationality = ] | ||
|spouse = |
|spouse = ] (Singapore's first First Lady of Singapore, m. 1948, 1933– ) | ||
|children = Orchid Kamariah binti Yusof (1949- )<br>Dr "Baba" Imran bin Yusof (1950- )<br>Datin Zuriana binti Yusof (1953- ) | |children = Orchid Kamariah binti Yusof (1949- )<br>Dr "Baba" Imran bin Yusof (1950- )<br>Datin Zuriana binti Yusof (1953- ) | ||
|alma_mater = ] (formerly Victoria Bridge School)<br>]<br>(distinction in ])<br>(awarded ]) | |alma_mater = ] (formerly Victoria Bridge School)<br>]<br>(distinction in ])<br>(awarded ]) | ||
|occupation = Politician<br>Journalist |
|occupation = Politician<br>Journalist | ||
|religion = ]<br>(Creed: ])<br>(Denomination: ]) | |||
|signature = | |signature = | ||
|website = | |website = | ||
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|nickname = '''Also known as''' | |nickname = '''Also known as''' | ||
*Yusof Ishak<br> | *Yusof Ishak<br> | ||
*Father of Malay Nationalism<br> | *Father of Malay Nationalism{{citation needed|date=August 2017}}<br> | ||
*Father of Malay Journalism<br> | *Father of Malay Journalism{{citation needed|date=August 2017}}<br> | ||
*Founding Fathers of Modern Singapore<br> | *Founding Fathers of Modern Singapore{{citation needed|date=August 2017}}<br> | ||
*Father of Meritocracy, Multi-racialism and Modernisation of Singapore<br> | *Father of Meritocracy, Multi-racialism and Modernisation of Singapore{{citation needed|date=August 2017}}<br> | ||
|allegiance = |
|allegiance = ] (to 1946)<br>] (to 1959)<br>] (to 1963)<br>] (to 1965)<br>] (to 1970) | ||
|branch = ] ] (to 1933)<br>] ] (to 1957)<br> ] ] (1957-1970)<br>] ] (1963-1965)<br> ] ] (1966-1970) | |branch = ] ] (to 1933)<br>] ] (to 1957)<br> ] ] (1957-1970)<br>] ] (1963-1965)<br> ] ] (1966-1970) | ||
|serviceyears = 1929–1970 | |serviceyears = 1929–1970 | ||
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* ] (1962-1966) | * ] (1962-1966) | ||
|}} | |}} | ||
{{Refimprove|date=August 2017}} | |||
{{Malay name|Yusof|Ishak|note=on}} | {{Malay name|Yusof|Ishak|note=on}} | ||
Tun ''Haji'' |
Tun ''Haji'' '''Yusof bin Ishak''' (]: يوسف بن إسحاق ;{{IPAc-en|ˈ|j|ʊ|s|ɒ|f|_|b|ɪ|n|_|ˈ|ɪ|s|.|h|ɑː|k}} {{respell|YUUSS|off|_|bin|_|ISS|hahk}}; {{post-nominals|list=]}}, ] 12 August 1910{{spaced ndash}}23 November 1970) was a ] politician and the first ], serving from 1965 to 1970. Before becoming head-of-state, Yusof was a well-known ] and co-founded '']'', which is still in publication today. He started journalism after he graduated from ] in 1929 and in 1932, he joined Warta Malaya, a well-known Malay newspaper company at that time. He left the company in 1938 and co-founded ''Utusan Melayu''.<ref name=IstanaSG>{{cite web|url=http://www.istana.gov.sg/the-president/former-presidents/encik-yusof-ishak|title=Encik Yusof Ishak|publisher=Istana Singapore|accessdate=6 April 2016}}</ref> | ||
Yusof held many appointments within the Singaporean government, he served on the Film Appeal Committee from 1948 to 1950 and was also a member of both the Nature Reserves Committee and Malayanisation Commission for a year. In July 1959, he was appointed Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Singapore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html |title=Yusof Head of State. The Straits Times, p. 1. Retrieved from NewspaperSG|date=2 December 1959|accessdate=4 April 2016}}</ref> He was sworn on 3 December 1959 as Singapore's '']'' (]) after the ] won the first election held in Singapore after Singapore's self-governance.<ref>Seet, K. K. (2000). The Istana (pp.88–89). Singapore: Times Editions. Call no.: RART 725.17095957 IST; Singapore rejoices. (1959, 4 December). The Straits Times, p. 1</ref> Yusof then became the first President of Singapore after the country gained independence on 9 August 1965. | Yusof held many appointments within the Singaporean government, he served on the Film Appeal Committee from 1948 to 1950 and was also a member of both the Nature Reserves Committee and Malayanisation Commission for a year. In July 1959, he was appointed Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Singapore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html |title=Yusof Head of State. The Straits Times, p. 1. Retrieved from NewspaperSG|date=2 December 1959|accessdate=4 April 2016}}</ref> He was sworn on 3 December 1959 as Singapore's '']'' (]) after the ] won the first election held in Singapore after Singapore's self-governance.<ref>Seet, K. K. (2000). The Istana (pp.88–89). Singapore: Times Editions. Call no.: RART 725.17095957 IST; Singapore rejoices. (1959, 4 December). The Straits Times, p. 1</ref> Yusof then became the first President of Singapore after the country gained independence on 9 August 1965. | ||
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==Biography== | ==Biography== | ||
===Early life=== | ===Early life=== | ||
Born on 12 August 1910 in ], ], ], which was then part of the ] (present day ]), Yusof was the eldest son in a family of nine. He was of ] descent from his father's side while his mother was a ] from the ] region in ].<ref></ref> His father, |
Born on 12 August 1910 in ], ], ], which was then part of the ] (present day ]), Yusof was the eldest son in a family of nine. He was of ] descent from his father's side while his mother was a ] from the ] region in ].<ref></ref> His father, Ishak bin Ahmad, was also a civil servant and held the post of Acting Director of Fisheries, Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thesingaporean.com/OurSpore/AllAbtSpore/Presidents/FirstPresident.asp|title=The Singaporean Yusof Bin Ishak|publisher=The Singaporean|accessdate=6 April 2016}}</ref> His brother, ], was a ] journalist and freedom fighter. | ||
Yusof received his early education in a Malay school in Kuala Kurau, Perak and began his English studies in 1921 at ] in ], He was then admitted to ] in 1923 when his father was posted to Singapore. In 1924, he was enrolled in ] for his secondary education. During his time in Raffles Institution, he played various sports such as swimming, weight lifting, water-polo, boxing, hockey and cricket and had also represented the school in various sporting events. He was also part of the Singapore ] and was commissioned as the first ever cadet ] in the Corps due to his outstanding performance. Yusof received his Cambridge School Certificate with distinction in 1927, he was also awarded the ] and decided to prolong his studies at Raffles Institution until 1929.<ref name=IstanaSG/> | Yusof received his early education in a Malay school in Kuala Kurau, Perak and began his English studies in 1921 at ] in ], He was then admitted to ] in 1923 when his father was posted to Singapore. In 1924, he was enrolled in ] for his secondary education. During his time in Raffles Institution, he played various sports such as swimming, weight lifting, water-polo, boxing, hockey and cricket and had also represented the school in various sporting events. He was also part of the Singapore ] and was commissioned as the first ever cadet ] in the Corps due to his outstanding performance. Yusof received his Cambridge School Certificate with distinction in 1927, he was also awarded the ] and decided to prolong his studies at Raffles Institution until 1929.<ref name=IstanaSG/> | ||
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During the ], ''Utusan Melayu'' had to stop circulation as machinery used to print the paper were requisitioned to publish the Japanese paper, ''Berita Malai''. Yusof then moved back to Taiping and with the remaining money he had, he opened a provision shop and lived there until the war ended in 1945 and ''Utusan Melayu'' resumed publication. In 1957, Yusof moved to ] and in February 1958, the headquarters of ''Utusan Melayu'' was also relocated to the city. During the post-war period, many Malays wanted independence of Malaya from the British and Yusof, fanned this fervour through his publications which resulted in the formation of the United Malay Nationalist Organisation (UMNO) in 1946. However, his democratic ideals were different from UMNO's vision of reestablishing the monarchy of Malaya. This resulted in rising tensions within the ''Utusan Melayu'' and in 1959, Yusof had sold his shares he had in the company and resigned as UMNO had bought over almost all of the shares of ''Utusan Melayu''.<ref name=MalayNewspaper/> | During the ], ''Utusan Melayu'' had to stop circulation as machinery used to print the paper were requisitioned to publish the Japanese paper, ''Berita Malai''. Yusof then moved back to Taiping and with the remaining money he had, he opened a provision shop and lived there until the war ended in 1945 and ''Utusan Melayu'' resumed publication. In 1957, Yusof moved to ] and in February 1958, the headquarters of ''Utusan Melayu'' was also relocated to the city. During the post-war period, many Malays wanted independence of Malaya from the British and Yusof, fanned this fervour through his publications which resulted in the formation of the United Malay Nationalist Organisation (UMNO) in 1946. However, his democratic ideals were different from UMNO's vision of reestablishing the monarchy of Malaya. This resulted in rising tensions within the ''Utusan Melayu'' and in 1959, Yusof had sold his shares he had in the company and resigned as UMNO had bought over almost all of the shares of ''Utusan Melayu''.<ref name=MalayNewspaper/> | ||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ] on the morning of 3 December 1959, Yusof was formally installed as Singapore's ]]] --> | |||
===Political career and presidency=== | ===Political career and presidency=== | ||
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On 9 August 1965, Singapore was expelled from the ] and became an independent nation. The position of Yang di-Pertuan Negara was abolished and Yusof then became the first ]. As president, Yusof reached out to the people to reassure citizens astonished by Singapore's expulsion and continued to promote multiculturalism and a national identity within the country by visiting constituencies and reached out to different racial and religious groups.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/media_centre/singapore_headlines/2015/201507/headlines_20150715.html|title=Straits Times: Iseas to be named after Yusof Ishak on Aug 12|publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affair Singapore}}</ref> | On 9 August 1965, Singapore was expelled from the ] and became an independent nation. The position of Yang di-Pertuan Negara was abolished and Yusof then became the first ]. As president, Yusof reached out to the people to reassure citizens astonished by Singapore's expulsion and continued to promote multiculturalism and a national identity within the country by visiting constituencies and reached out to different racial and religious groups.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/media_centre/singapore_headlines/2015/201507/headlines_20150715.html|title=Straits Times: Iseas to be named after Yusof Ishak on Aug 12|publisher=Ministry of Foreign Affair Singapore}}</ref> | ||
Yusof |
Yusof served for three terms in office before he died on 23 November 1970 due to heart failure.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/straitstimes19701124-1.2.2.aspx|title= Cabinet pays last respects.|publisher=The Straits Times, (Retrieved from NewspaperSG)|date=24 November 1970|accessdate=6 April 2016}}</ref> | ||
==Family== | ==Family== | ||
Yusof |
Yusof is survived by his wife of twenty one years, Puan ], and three children.<ref>{{cite news|title=Growing up in the Presidents' shadow|url=http://news.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne+News/Singapore/Story/A1Story20111121-311693/5.html|publisher=]}}</ref> Puan Noor Aishah continued her husband's legacy of public service and was the first Asian to become president of the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=History of Girl Guides Singapore|url=http://www.girlguides.org.sg/ggs/slot/u48/history/Milestones&Achievements.pdf|publisher=]|date=2010}}</ref> She and her now adult children were interviewed for the ] documentary ''Daughters of Singapore'', which screened in August 2015 as part of the ] celebrations and commemorated the spouses of Yusof Ishak and ], two pioneer leaders of Singapore.<ref>{{cite web|title=Changing Lives: Puan Dr Noor Aishah|url=http://changinglives.channelnewsasia.com/digital-resources/video/puan-dr-noor-aishah/|publisher=]}}</ref> | ||
==Legacy== | ==Legacy== | ||
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'''The following institutions bear Yusof Ishak's name:''' | '''The following institutions bear Yusof Ishak's name:''' | ||
⚫ | *], opened by then-Prime Minister ] on 29 July 1966.] | ||
Yusof is buried at ]. | |||
⚫ | *] |
||
*The ] (ISEAS) was officially renamed in August 2015 as the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, so its name will call to mind Yusof’s "vision of equality, justice, harmony and strength amid diversity". | *The ] (ISEAS) was officially renamed in August 2015 as the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, so its name will call to mind Yusof’s "vision of equality, justice, harmony and strength amid diversity". | ||
⚫ | *] in ]. The opening of this mosque in 2017 was officiated by the former president's widow, Toh Puan Madam Noor Aishah, and witnessed by guests including Prime Minister ], Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs ], Mufti ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/yusof-ishak-mosque-opens-in-woodlands-8725312|title=Yusof Ishak Mosque opens in Woodlands|date=14 April 2017|work=]}}</ref> | ||
'''Other memorials include:''' | '''Other memorials include:''' | ||
*The current series of ] notes, the ] issued from 1999 onwards, features Yusof Ishak. | *The current series of ] notes, the ] issued from 1999 onwards, features Yusof Ishak. | ||
*In 2014, a wax figure of Yusof was unveiled at ]. | *In 2014, a wax figure of Yusof was unveiled at ]. | ||
*In 2015, SG50's Golden jubilee celebration of Singapore's 50th anniversary of independence, |
*In 2015, SG50's Golden jubilee celebration of Singapore's 50th anniversary of independence, Yusof Ishak was featured in all set of six ] for which he champions the caused of meritocracy, multi-racialism and modernization of Singapore.<ref>{{cite news|title=Set of six SG50 commemorative notes unveiled|url=http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/new-set-s50-s10-commemorative-notes-unveiled-sg50|work=]|date=19 August 2015}}</ref> | ||
*Yusof is buried at ], which is reserved for persons who have made a significant contribution to Singapore. | |||
⚫ | * |
||
==Personal life== | ==Personal life== | ||
{{Copy edit|section|date=August 2017}} | |||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ], ] and uplifting the ] for all Singaporeans]] --> | <!-- Deleted image removed: ], ] and uplifting the ] for all Singaporeans]] --> | ||
As ]'s ] (1963-1966) erupts across the region with Singapore having to be separated from Malaysia in 1965, some Malays felt betrayed and thought of migrating to Malaysia as they saw PAP as the only party that fights for merger, has failed in the battle for merger. But Yusof relentlessly walked the ground for hours under the searing heat of the sun, ignoring pain in both his legs, visiting every constituents around the island to soothe their fears. Ensuring all Singaporeans that he as a ] race will stay in Singapore despite the many tumultuous challenges facing the newborn nation and ensuring that all Malays are protected and had the education and health care they needed and prove that they were not discriminated against, in a ]-majority city.<ref>http://video.toggle.sg/en/series/men-with-a-mission/ep1/368862</ref> | As ]'s ] (1963-1966) erupts across the region with Singapore having to be separated from Malaysia in 1965, some Malays felt betrayed and thought of migrating to Malaysia as they saw PAP as the only party that fights for merger, has failed in the battle for merger. But Yusof relentlessly walked the ground for hours under the searing heat of the sun, ignoring pain in both his legs, visiting every constituents around the island to soothe their fears. Ensuring all Singaporeans that he as a ] race will stay in Singapore despite the many tumultuous challenges facing the newborn nation and ensuring that all Malays are protected and had the education and health care they needed and prove that they were not discriminated against, in a ]-majority city.<ref>http://video.toggle.sg/en/series/men-with-a-mission/ep1/368862</ref> | ||
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This has led ] shedding tears over the National TV after the separation was announced by Malaysian founding-Prime Minister ] that Singapore is to be kicked out of the Federation of Malaysia.<ref>http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/lee-kuan-yew-singapore-will-survive-look-back-countrys-founding-father-1492582</ref> | This has led ] shedding tears over the National TV after the separation was announced by Malaysian founding-Prime Minister ] that Singapore is to be kicked out of the Federation of Malaysia.<ref>http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/lee-kuan-yew-singapore-will-survive-look-back-countrys-founding-father-1492582</ref> | ||
What's next for Singapore during those tumultuous period? It was |
What's next for Singapore during those tumultuous period? It was Yusof's determination, courage and persuasion that the Malays do not leave Singapore where some have already left to be part of the larger Malay peninsula in case an invasion by Indonesia's Sukarno armed forces occurred. Yusof told Singaporeans aloud that: "If we have a goodwill, ] (God) will show us the way. Do not worry! Nothing to be feared of!"<ref>http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1072_2010-03-25.html</ref> | ||
Fears and rumours spreads uncontrollably that is if once the Malays in Singapore left for Malaysia and leaving only the Chinese community behind, the invasion (annexation) might commence soon by Sukarno. But as promised by |
Fears and rumours spreads uncontrollably that is if once the Malays in Singapore left for Malaysia and leaving only the Chinese community behind, the invasion (annexation) might commence soon by Sukarno. But as promised by Yusof, the Malay communities in Singapore stays put, never wavered and declares that: "My birth, my rights and my death is for Singapore!"<ref>http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1072_2010-03-25.html</ref> | ||
After Singapore's independence in 1965 and the periods of Konfrontasi (Confrontation; Indonesia's undeclared war) prevails, Singapore sees itself as a must and compulsory to upgrade her small, 2-infantry regiments weakling armed forces, defence and military capabilities. But Singapore's plea to the world to rebuild her armed forces were turned-away and rejected by several countries (i.e., Britain, Switzerland, India, Egypt, etc.) Singapore sees it as a 'no choice' but to seek urgent help from Israel in the 1960s. It was a low-profile engagements as Singapore is in a Muslim-dominated region.<ref>http://www.haaretz.com/a-deep-dark-secret-love-affair-1.128671</ref> | After Singapore's independence in 1965 and the periods of Konfrontasi (Confrontation; Indonesia's undeclared war) prevails, Singapore sees itself as a must and compulsory to upgrade her small, 2-infantry regiments weakling armed forces, defence and military capabilities. But Singapore's plea to the world to rebuild her armed forces were turned-away and rejected by several countries (i.e., Britain, Switzerland, India, Egypt, etc.) Singapore sees it as a 'no choice' but to seek urgent help from Israel in the 1960s. It was a low-profile engagements as Singapore is in a Muslim-dominated region.<ref>http://www.haaretz.com/a-deep-dark-secret-love-affair-1.128671</ref> | ||
Yusof's astuteness, perseverance, stoicism and patience pays off big time after a short-2 months period of post-Singapore's independence, President Sukarno's Konfrontasi ends, with Major-General ]'s take-over of the government with his military reserved unit after a failed coup led by PKI's ].<ref>https://global.britannica.com/event/September-30th-Movement</ref> | |||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ] period]] --> | <!-- Deleted image removed: ] period]] --> | ||
With Konfrontasi soon coming to the process of ending, Suharto became Indonesia's second President and rules the most populous Muslim nation with an iron-fist for 3 decades. Suharto normalizes relations with its neighbours Singapore and Malaysia. A boost to multilateral ties in the region. Stability, peace, trades and economy flourished throughout Southeast Asia during his time in office.<ref>https://global.britannica.com/event/September-30th-Movement</ref> | With Konfrontasi soon coming to the process of ending, Suharto became Indonesia's second President and rules the most populous Muslim nation with an iron-fist for 3 decades. Suharto normalizes relations with its neighbours Singapore and Malaysia. A boost to multilateral ties in the region. Stability, peace, trades and economy flourished throughout Southeast Asia during his time in office.<ref>https://global.britannica.com/event/September-30th-Movement</ref> | ||
The goodwill of |
The goodwill of Yusof has played a pivotal role in the peace and stability for the region with Singapore's forging better, closer and stronger ties with its neighbours (Indonesia) despite the bitter memories of 1963's Konfrontasi, ] and hence the hanging of two Indonesian marines in 1968 at ].<ref>http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_62_2004-12-17.html</ref> | ||
As a famous journalist who walks the ground and knows every situation, Yusof was an avid photographer and has a keen interest in photography and videography.<ref>http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/article/yusof-bin-ishak-first-head-of-state</ref> | As a famous journalist who walks the ground and knows every situation, Yusof was an avid photographer and has a keen interest in photography and videography.<ref>http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/article/yusof-bin-ishak-first-head-of-state</ref> | ||
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Yusof was also an ] enthusiast. After hours, he spends his time tending orchids at ]. He also attended many flower exhibitions and admiring award-winning orchids.<ref>http://ifonlysingaporeans.blogspot.sg/2014/08/yusof-ishak-man-and-his-passions.html</ref> | Yusof was also an ] enthusiast. After hours, he spends his time tending orchids at ]. He also attended many flower exhibitions and admiring award-winning orchids.<ref>http://ifonlysingaporeans.blogspot.sg/2014/08/yusof-ishak-man-and-his-passions.html</ref> | ||
Yusof was also a devoutly religious person, he opens several mosques, Islamic religious institutions and officiated many welfare organizations in Singapore. He also attends many religious functions particularly ] recitation competition throughout his lifetime as well as celebrations of Prophet ]'s birthday (]). In 1963, he went for his ] to ] |
Yusof was also a devoutly religious person, he opens several mosques, Islamic religious institutions and officiated many welfare organizations in Singapore. He also attends many religious functions particularly ] recitation competition throughout his lifetime as well as celebrations of Prophet ]'s birthday (]). In 1963, he went for his ] to ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Yusof bin Ishak - The Republic of Singapore’s First Head of State|url=http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/article/yusof-bin-ishak-first-head-of-state|website=www.nas.gov.sg|publisher=Archives Online|accessdate=3 August 2017|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20170803203103/http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/article/yusof-bin-ishak-first-head-of-state|archivedate=3 August 2017|quote="These pictures were personally taken by President Yusof Ishak during his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1963."}}</ref> | ||
==Other legacies== | ==Other legacies== | ||
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===Senior appointments=== | ===Senior appointments=== | ||
* Second Lieutenant, ], 1933– | * Second Lieutenant, ], 1933–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Writer, Editor, Rafflesian (]), 1933– | * Writer, Editor, Rafflesian (]), 1933–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Founder, Sportsman (Magazine), 1933– | * Founder, Sportsman (Magazine), 1933–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Managing Director, Accountant, ], 1933– | * Managing Director, Accountant, ], 1933–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Founder, Managing Director, ] (first-ever Malay newspaper), 1939–1959 | * Founder, Managing Director, ] (first-ever Malay newspaper), 1939–1959{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Chief, Member, Films Appeal Committee, 1948–1950 | * Chief, Member, Films Appeal Committee, 1948–1950{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Chief, Member, Nature Reserves Committee, 1948– | * Chief, Member, Nature Reserves Committee, 1948–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Chief and Patron of the Arts Scene, Malayanisation Commission, ], 1948-1950 | * Chief and Patron of the Arts Scene, Malayanisation Commission, ], 1948-1950{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Chairman, ], July 1959– | * Chairman, ], July 1959–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Colonel, ], August 1963– | * Colonel, ], August 1963–{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* Chancellor, ], 1965–1970 | * Chancellor, ], 1965–1970{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
===Opening ceremonies=== | ===Opening ceremonies=== | ||
'''Yusof Ishak officiated many events including:''' | '''Yusof Ishak officiated many events including:''' | ||
* 1959 – Announced Singapore's application of membership to the ] | * 1959 – Announced Singapore's application of membership to the ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – Declares open to National Carnival, at ] | * 1960 – Declares open to National Carnival, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – Opening Ceremony of Art Exhibition of the Children's Festival, at the ] | * 1960 – Opening Ceremony of Art Exhibition of the Children's Festival, at the ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Opening of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Regional Conference | * 1961 – Opening of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Regional Conference{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Opening of the 9th International Bazaar in Aid of the Blind, at ] | * 1961 – Opening of the 9th International Bazaar in Aid of the Blind, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Opening of |
* 1961 – Opening of the Malay Paintings Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Opening Ceremony of the Colour Slide Exhibition, at ] | * 1961 – Opening Ceremony of the Colour Slide Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ] welcomes H.M. King ] of ] arriving at Singapore Airport in 1962, following behind is Prime Minister ]]] --> | <!-- Deleted image removed: ] welcomes H.M. King ] of ] arriving at Singapore Airport in 1962, following behind is Prime Minister ]]] --> | ||
* 1961 – Opening of the Grand Prix, at ] | * 1961 – Opening of the Grand Prix, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1962 – Opening of the Malayan Writers Conference, at ] | * 1962 – Opening of the Malayan Writers Conference, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Declares open to the Fourth Session of Legislative Assembly, at ] | * 1963 – Declares open to the Fourth Session of Legislative Assembly, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Opening of the 14th annual open exhibition of Singapore Art Society, at ] | * 1963 – Opening of the 14th annual open exhibition of Singapore Art Society, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Opening of the Road Safety Photographic Exhibition, at ] | * 1963 – Opening of the Road Safety Photographic Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Opening of the Second Malaysia Student Photographic Exhibition, at ] | * 1963 – Opening of the Second Malaysia Student Photographic Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Opening of the Rotary Conference, at ] | * 1963 – Opening of the Rotary Conference, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Declares open to Orchid Flower Show, at ] | * 1963 – Declares open to Orchid Flower Show, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Declares open to exhibition of photos, books and paintings, at ] | * 1964 – Declares open to exhibition of photos, books and paintings, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Opening Ceremony of the Singapore Association for the Blind (Fun Fair), at ] | * 1964 – Opening Ceremony of the Singapore Association for the Blind (Fun Fair), at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Opening of the Assembly Hall, at ] | * 1964 – Opening of the Assembly Hall, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Declares open to 15th Annual Art Exhibition, at ] | * 1964 – Declares open to 15th Annual Art Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Declares open painting class by the Malay Youth Artists group, at ] | * 1964 – Declares open painting class by the Malay Youth Artists group, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition in conjunction with Anti-Leprosy Campaign, at ] | * 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition in conjunction with Anti-Leprosy Campaign, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition of Paintings By Six Artists, at ] | * 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition of Paintings By Six Artists, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Opening of the National Language Month, at ] | * 1965 – Opening of the National Language Month, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1966 – Opening of the National Language Book Show, at ] | * 1966 – Opening of the National Language Book Show, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1967 – Declares open to Singapore Grand Prix, at ] | * 1967 – Declares open to Singapore Grand Prix, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1967 – Declares open to 3rd Annual Al-Qur'an Reading Competition, at ] | * 1967 – Declares open to 3rd Annual Al-Qur'an Reading Competition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1969 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1969, at ] | * 1969 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1969, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1970 circuit, at ] | * 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1970 circuit, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
''' |
'''His wife Noor Aishah officiated many events as the First Lady, including:''' | ||
* 1960 – Declares open to Family Planning Exhibition, at ] |
* 1960 – Declares open to Family Planning Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – Declares open to Art of Japanese Floral Arrangement Exhibition, in ] |
* 1960 – Declares open to Art of Japanese Floral Arrangement Exhibition, in ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work', ], at Telok Paku |
* 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work', ], at Telok Paku{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Declares open to The Flower Arrangement Demonstration Show, at ] |
* 1961 – Declares open to The Flower Arrangement Demonstration Show, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work' and exhibition of Social Welfare Department, at ] |
* 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work' and exhibition of Social Welfare Department, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Opening of the Mammoth Exhibition and Sale-of-Work, at ] |
* 1963 – Opening of the Mammoth Exhibition and Sale-of-Work, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – Singapore Amateur Athletic Association Open Championship, at ] |
* 1963 – Singapore Amateur Athletic Association Open Championship, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Declares open to 'Annual Sale of Work' for ] |
* 1964 – Declares open to 'Annual Sale of Work' for ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Opening of the ] Exhibition |
* 1964 – Opening of the ] Exhibition{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – Opening of the Flower Arranging and Sewing Exhibition, at ] |
* 1964 – Opening of the Flower Arranging and Sewing Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Commence of the Red Cross fun fair at ] |
* 1965 – Commence of the Red Cross fun fair at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Declares open to Siglap Children's Festival, at ] |
* 1965 – Declares open to Siglap Children's Festival, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Opening of the Social Welfare Homes' Sale of Works, at ] |
* 1965 – Opening of the Social Welfare Homes' Sale of Works, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1965 – Opening of the Christmas Fair, at ] |
* 1965 – Opening of the Christmas Fair, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1966 – Declares open to Girl Guides' fun fair, at ] |
* 1966 – Declares open to Girl Guides' fun fair, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1967 – Declares open to Social Welfare Annual Sale of Work, at ] |
* 1967 – Declares open to Social Welfare Annual Sale of Work, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1969 – Declares open to ] "Ang Pow '69" carnival, at ] |
* 1969 – Declares open to ] "Ang Pow '69" carnival, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1970 – Young Women Muslim Association handicraft exhibition, at ] |
* 1970 – Young Women Muslim Association handicraft exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1970 – Opening of the National Safety First Council of Singapore's Home Safety Exhibition, at ] |
* 1970 – Opening of the National Safety First Council of Singapore's Home Safety Exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Sogetsu Association's fifth annual floral exhibition, at ] |
* 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Sogetsu Association's fifth annual floral exhibition, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
'''Yusof Ishak also opened schools and institutions including:''' | '''Yusof Ishak also opened schools and institutions including:''' | ||
<!-- Deleted image removed: ] Chairman ], Finance Minister ], ] and President ] at ] in 1965]] --> | <!-- Deleted image removed: ] Chairman ], Finance Minister ], ] and President ] at ] in 1965]] --> | ||
* 1960 – ] | * 1960 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – Community Centre, at ] | * 1960 – Community Centre, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – ] | * 1960 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – ], at ] | * 1960 – ], at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – ], at ] | * 1960 – ], at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1961 – ] | * 1961 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1962 – ], Singapore Anti-Tuberculosis Association (SATA) | * 1962 – ], Singapore Anti-Tuberculosis Association (SATA){{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1962 – ] (Military Mosque) | * 1962 – ] (Military Mosque){{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – ] (Panggong Negara), at ] | * 1963 – ] (Panggong Negara), at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – ] (for Indian-Muslim communities) | * 1963 – ] (for Indian-Muslim communities){{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – ] | * 1964 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1964 – ]'s Singapore branch, at ] | * 1964 – ]'s Singapore branch, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1966 – ], at ] | * 1966 – ], at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
''' |
'''His wife Noor Aishah officiated many events as the First Lady, including:''' | ||
* 1960 – ] Golden Jubilee Camp, at ] |
* 1960 – ] Golden Jubilee Camp, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1960 – ] |
* 1960 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1962 – ] |
* 1962 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1963 – ] |
* 1963 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1967 – ], at ] |
* 1967 – ], at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1968 – ] (Day Care Center) |
* 1968 – ] (Day Care Center){{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1968 – ] |
* 1968 – ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1969 – ] ] Centre, at ] |
* 1969 – ] ] Centre, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1970 – ] (YWCA) hostel, at ] |
* 1970 – ] (YWCA) hostel, at ]{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
'''Other achievements:''' | '''Other achievements:''' | ||
* 1932 - Boxing Champion, winning the ] cup 1932 | * 1932 - Boxing Champion, winning the ] cup 1932{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
* 1933 - Weightlifting Champion, National Lightweight category | * 1933 - Weightlifting Champion, National Lightweight category{{citation needed|date=August 2017}} | ||
==Titles and styles== | ==Titles and styles== | ||
*''' |
*'''3 December 1959{{spaced ndash}}16 September 1963''': ''Paduka Yang Mulia'' Yang di-Pertuan Negara, Yusof bin Ishak | ||
*'''3 December 1959{{spaced ndash}}16 September 1963''': ''Paduka Yang Mulia'' Yang di-Pertuan Negara, Inche Yusof bin Ishak | |||
*'''16 September 1963{{spaced ndash}}9 August 1965''': ''Tuan Yang Terutama'' Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Yusof bin Ishak | *'''16 September 1963{{spaced ndash}}9 August 1965''': ''Tuan Yang Terutama'' Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Yusof bin Ishak | ||
*'''9 August 1965{{spaced ndash}}23 November 1970''': His Excellency, President of the Republic, |
*'''9 August 1965{{spaced ndash}}23 November 1970''': His Excellency, President of the Republic, Yusof bin Ishak | ||
==Awards and honours== | ==Awards and honours== | ||
* ] ], 1st Class | * ] ], 1st Class<ref>http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jfyryToSqKo/UX0lV2gXD3I/AAAAAAAAAhs/Ly0aaaTcWw4/s1600/sheares-reduced-medal.jpg</ref> | ||
* ] ], ''Tun'', (Malaysia), Grand Commander | * ] ], ''Tun'', (Malaysia), Grand Commander<ref>http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html#honours</ref> | ||
* ] ] (Selangor) | * ] ] (Selangor) | ||
* ] ] (Brunei), 1st Class | * ] ] (Brunei), 1st Class<ref>http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html#honours</ref> | ||
* ] ], 1st Class | * ] ], 1st Class | ||
* ] ], 1st Class | * ] ], 1st Class |
Revision as of 11:58, 7 August 2017
His Excellency Tun HajiYusof bin Ishak يوسف بن إسحاق D.U.T. (First Class), S.M.N. (Tun), Pingat Kemahkotaan 1961, First Class - D.K. (Laila Utama), Sijil Kemuliaan (First Class), D.U.B.C. (First Class), P.J.G. (First Class), D. Litt. (National University of Singapore) | |
---|---|
1st President of Singapore | |
In office 9 August 1965 (retroactive) – 23 November 1970 | |
Prime Minister | Lee Kuan Yew (1959–1990) |
Preceded by | Newly created post (he was previously Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Singapura) |
Succeeded by | Benjamin Henry Sheares |
1st Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Singapura | |
In office 16 September 1963 (retroactive) – 9 August 1965 (retroactive) | |
Monarch | Putra of Perlis |
Prime Minister | Lee Kuan Yew (1959-1990) |
Preceded by | Newly created post (he was previously Yang di-Pertuan Negara of Singapore) |
Succeeded by | Position abolished |
2nd Yang di-Pertuan Negara of Singapore | |
In office 3 December 1959 – 16 September 1963 (retroactive) | |
Monarchs | Queen Elizabeth II Hisamuddin of Selangor |
Prime Minister | Lee Kuan Yew (1959-1990) |
Preceded by | Sir William Allmond Codrington Goode |
Succeeded by | Position abolished |
Personal details | |
Born | Yusof bin Ishak (1910-08-12)12 August 1910 Terong, Taiping, Perak, Federated Malay States (now Malaysia) |
Died | 23 November 1970(1970-11-23) (aged 60) Singapore |
Resting place | Kranji State Cemetery |
Nationality | Singaporean |
Spouse(s) | Noor Aishah binti Mohammad Salim (Singapore's first First Lady of Singapore, m. 1948, 1933– ) |
Children | Orchid Kamariah binti Yusof (1949- ) Dr "Baba" Imran bin Yusof (1950- ) Datin Zuriana binti Yusof (1953- ) |
Parent |
|
Alma mater | Victoria School (formerly Victoria Bridge School) Raffles Institution (distinction in Cambridge School Certificate) (awarded Queen's Scholarship) |
Occupation | Politician Journalist |
Website | http://www.istana.gov.sg/ |
Nicknames | Also known as
|
Military service | |
Allegiance | Straits Settlements (to 1946) Colony of Singapore (to 1959) Colony of Singapore (to 1963) Malaysia (to 1965) Singapore (to 1970) |
Branch/service | Federation of Malaya Police (to 1933) Malaya Command (to 1957) File:Crest of the Singapore Armed Forces.png Singapore Infantry Regiment (1957-1970) Malaysian Armed Forces (1963-1965) File:Crest of the Singapore Armed Forces.png Singapore Armed Forces (1966-1970) |
Years of service | 1929–1970 |
Rank | File:Singapore Army OF5.svg Colonel; CINC |
Unit | Singapore Infantry Regiment Singapore Armed Forces |
Commands | Commander-in-Chief Colonel of the Regiment |
Battles/wars | World War II (1939-1945) Part of (Cold War)
|
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Tun Haji Yusof bin Ishak (Jawi: يوسف بن إسحاق ;/ˈjʊsɒf bɪn ˈɪs.hɑːk/ YUUSS-off bin ISS-hahk; DUT (First Class), SMN 12 August 1910 – 23 November 1970) was a Singaporean politician and the first President of Singapore, serving from 1965 to 1970. Before becoming head-of-state, Yusof was a well-known journalist and co-founded Utusan Melayu, which is still in publication today. He started journalism after he graduated from Raffles Institution in 1929 and in 1932, he joined Warta Malaya, a well-known Malay newspaper company at that time. He left the company in 1938 and co-founded Utusan Melayu.
Yusof held many appointments within the Singaporean government, he served on the Film Appeal Committee from 1948 to 1950 and was also a member of both the Nature Reserves Committee and Malayanisation Commission for a year. In July 1959, he was appointed Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Singapore. He was sworn on 3 December 1959 as Singapore's Yang di-Pertuan Negara (head of state) after the PAP won the first election held in Singapore after Singapore's self-governance. Yusof then became the first President of Singapore after the country gained independence on 9 August 1965.
His portrait appears on the Singapore Portrait Series currency notes introduced in 1999.
Biography
Early life
Born on 12 August 1910 in Terong, Taiping, Perak Darul Ridzuan, which was then part of the Federated Malay States (present day Malaysia), Yusof was the eldest son in a family of nine. He was of Minangkabau descent from his father's side while his mother was a Malay from the Langkat region in Indonesia. His father, Ishak bin Ahmad, was also a civil servant and held the post of Acting Director of Fisheries, Straits Settlements and Federated Malay States. His brother, Aziz Ishak, was a Malayan journalist and freedom fighter.
Yusof received his early education in a Malay school in Kuala Kurau, Perak and began his English studies in 1921 at King Edward VII School in Taiping, He was then admitted to Victoria Bridge School in 1923 when his father was posted to Singapore. In 1924, he was enrolled in Raffles Institution for his secondary education. During his time in Raffles Institution, he played various sports such as swimming, weight lifting, water-polo, boxing, hockey and cricket and had also represented the school in various sporting events. He was also part of the Singapore National Cadet Corps and was commissioned as the first ever cadet officer in the Corps due to his outstanding performance. Yusof received his Cambridge School Certificate with distinction in 1927, he was also awarded the Queen's Scholarship and decided to prolong his studies at Raffles Institution until 1929.
Journalism career
After graduating from Raffles Institution in 1929, Yusof began his career as a journalist and went into partnership with two other friends to publish, Sportsman, a sports magazine devoted entirely to sports. In 1932, Yusof joined Warta Malaya, a well-known newspaper during that time. Warta Malaya was heavily influenced by developments in the Middle East and Yusof wanted a newspaper dedicated to Malay issues. He fulfilled his vision by establishing Utusan Melayu with several Malay leaders in Singapore in May 1939.
During the Japanese Occupation of Singapore, Utusan Melayu had to stop circulation as machinery used to print the paper were requisitioned to publish the Japanese paper, Berita Malai. Yusof then moved back to Taiping and with the remaining money he had, he opened a provision shop and lived there until the war ended in 1945 and Utusan Melayu resumed publication. In 1957, Yusof moved to Kuala Lumpur and in February 1958, the headquarters of Utusan Melayu was also relocated to the city. During the post-war period, many Malays wanted independence of Malaya from the British and Yusof, fanned this fervour through his publications which resulted in the formation of the United Malay Nationalist Organisation (UMNO) in 1946. However, his democratic ideals were different from UMNO's vision of reestablishing the monarchy of Malaya. This resulted in rising tensions within the Utusan Melayu and in 1959, Yusof had sold his shares he had in the company and resigned as UMNO had bought over almost all of the shares of Utusan Melayu.
Political career and presidency
Yusof held several appointments within the Singaporean government, he had served on the Film Appeal Committee from 1948 to 1950 and was also a member of both the Nature Reserves Committee and Malayanisation Commission for a year. After his resignation from Utusan Melayu, Yusof took the position of Chairman of the Public Service Commission of Singapore at the invitation of then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
After PAP's victory from the 1959 Singaporean elections, Yusof was appointed as Yang di-Pertuan Negara and was sworn on 3 December 1959. During his time as Yang di-Pertuan Negara, Singapore was divided by racial conflicts. Yusof actively promoted multiculturalism and reached out to people of all races to help restore trust and confidence after the 1964 racial riots.
On 9 August 1965, Singapore was expelled from the Malaysia and became an independent nation. The position of Yang di-Pertuan Negara was abolished and Yusof then became the first President of Singapore. As president, Yusof reached out to the people to reassure citizens astonished by Singapore's expulsion and continued to promote multiculturalism and a national identity within the country by visiting constituencies and reached out to different racial and religious groups.
Yusof served for three terms in office before he died on 23 November 1970 due to heart failure.
Family
Yusof is survived by his wife of twenty one years, Puan Noor Aishah, and three children. Puan Noor Aishah continued her husband's legacy of public service and was the first Asian to become president of the Singapore Girl Guides Association. She and her now adult children were interviewed for the Channel NewsAsia documentary Daughters of Singapore, which screened in August 2015 as part of the SG50 celebrations and commemorated the spouses of Yusof Ishak and David Marshall, two pioneer leaders of Singapore.
Legacy
The following institutions bear Yusof Ishak's name:
- Yusof Ishak Secondary School, opened by then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew on 29 July 1966.
- The Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) was officially renamed in August 2015 as the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, so its name will call to mind Yusof’s "vision of equality, justice, harmony and strength amid diversity".
- Masjid Yusof Ishak in Woodlands. The opening of this mosque in 2017 was officiated by the former president's widow, Toh Puan Madam Noor Aishah, and witnessed by guests including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim, Mufti Fatris Bakaram.
Other memorials include:
- The current series of Singapore dollar notes, the portrait series issued from 1999 onwards, features Yusof Ishak.
- In 2014, a wax figure of Yusof was unveiled at Madame Tussauds Singapore.
- In 2015, SG50's Golden jubilee celebration of Singapore's 50th anniversary of independence, Yusof Ishak was featured in all set of six SG50 Commemorative Notes for which he champions the caused of meritocracy, multi-racialism and modernization of Singapore.
- Yusof is buried at Kranji State Cemetery, which is reserved for persons who have made a significant contribution to Singapore.
Personal life
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As Sukarno's Konfrontasi (1963-1966) erupts across the region with Singapore having to be separated from Malaysia in 1965, some Malays felt betrayed and thought of migrating to Malaysia as they saw PAP as the only party that fights for merger, has failed in the battle for merger. But Yusof relentlessly walked the ground for hours under the searing heat of the sun, ignoring pain in both his legs, visiting every constituents around the island to soothe their fears. Ensuring all Singaporeans that he as a Malay race will stay in Singapore despite the many tumultuous challenges facing the newborn nation and ensuring that all Malays are protected and had the education and health care they needed and prove that they were not discriminated against, in a Chinese-majority city.
At the same time, the Chinese in Singapore were more fearful than the Malays when the Federation of Malaysia collapsed as Indonesia sees this as an opportunity to annex (invade) Singapore from Batam with its growing, powerful military might with the support of PKI (Communist Party of Indonesia) movements in growing strength and influence. Also strongly-backed by China and Soviet Union in supplying of arms to Indonesia. Philippines too lauded the collapse. This has led Lee Kuan Yew shedding tears over the National TV after the separation was announced by Malaysian founding-Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman that Singapore is to be kicked out of the Federation of Malaysia.
What's next for Singapore during those tumultuous period? It was Yusof's determination, courage and persuasion that the Malays do not leave Singapore where some have already left to be part of the larger Malay peninsula in case an invasion by Indonesia's Sukarno armed forces occurred. Yusof told Singaporeans aloud that: "If we have a goodwill, Allah (God) will show us the way. Do not worry! Nothing to be feared of!"
Fears and rumours spreads uncontrollably that is if once the Malays in Singapore left for Malaysia and leaving only the Chinese community behind, the invasion (annexation) might commence soon by Sukarno. But as promised by Yusof, the Malay communities in Singapore stays put, never wavered and declares that: "My birth, my rights and my death is for Singapore!"
After Singapore's independence in 1965 and the periods of Konfrontasi (Confrontation; Indonesia's undeclared war) prevails, Singapore sees itself as a must and compulsory to upgrade her small, 2-infantry regiments weakling armed forces, defence and military capabilities. But Singapore's plea to the world to rebuild her armed forces were turned-away and rejected by several countries (i.e., Britain, Switzerland, India, Egypt, etc.) Singapore sees it as a 'no choice' but to seek urgent help from Israel in the 1960s. It was a low-profile engagements as Singapore is in a Muslim-dominated region.
Yusof's astuteness, perseverance, stoicism and patience pays off big time after a short-2 months period of post-Singapore's independence, President Sukarno's Konfrontasi ends, with Major-General Suharto's take-over of the government with his military reserved unit after a failed coup led by PKI's 30 September Movement. With Konfrontasi soon coming to the process of ending, Suharto became Indonesia's second President and rules the most populous Muslim nation with an iron-fist for 3 decades. Suharto normalizes relations with its neighbours Singapore and Malaysia. A boost to multilateral ties in the region. Stability, peace, trades and economy flourished throughout Southeast Asia during his time in office.
The goodwill of Yusof has played a pivotal role in the peace and stability for the region with Singapore's forging better, closer and stronger ties with its neighbours (Indonesia) despite the bitter memories of 1963's Konfrontasi, MacDonald House bombing and hence the hanging of two Indonesian marines in 1968 at Changi Prison.
As a famous journalist who walks the ground and knows every situation, Yusof was an avid photographer and has a keen interest in photography and videography.
Yusof was also an orchid enthusiast. After hours, he spends his time tending orchids at Sri Melati. He also attended many flower exhibitions and admiring award-winning orchids.
Yusof was also a devoutly religious person, he opens several mosques, Islamic religious institutions and officiated many welfare organizations in Singapore. He also attends many religious functions particularly Al-Qur'an recitation competition throughout his lifetime as well as celebrations of Prophet Muhammad's birthday (Maulidur Rasul). In 1963, he went for his Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Other legacies
Senior appointments
- Second Lieutenant, National Cadet Corps, 1933–
- Writer, Editor, Rafflesian (Raffles Institution), 1933–
- Founder, Sportsman (Magazine), 1933–
- Managing Director, Accountant, Warta Malaya, 1933–
- Founder, Managing Director, Utusan Melayu (first-ever Malay newspaper), 1939–1959
- Chief, Member, Films Appeal Committee, 1948–1950
- Chief, Member, Nature Reserves Committee, 1948–
- Chief and Patron of the Arts Scene, Malayanisation Commission, Singapore Arts Society, 1948-1950
- Chairman, Public Service Commission (Singapore), July 1959–
- Colonel, Singapore Infantry Regiment, August 1963–
- Chancellor, National University of Singapore, 1965–1970
Opening ceremonies
Yusof Ishak officiated many events including:
- 1959 – Announced Singapore's application of membership to the United Nations
- 1960 – Declares open to National Carnival, at Raffles Institution
- 1960 – Opening Ceremony of Art Exhibition of the Children's Festival, at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce
- 1961 – Opening of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Regional Conference
- 1961 – Opening of the 9th International Bazaar in Aid of the Blind, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1961 – Opening of the Malay Paintings Exhibition, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1961 – Opening Ceremony of the Colour Slide Exhibition, at National Library of Singapore
- 1961 – Opening of the Grand Prix, at Thomson Road
- 1962 – Opening of the Malayan Writers Conference, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1963 – Declares open to the Fourth Session of Legislative Assembly, at St. Andrew's Road
- 1963 – Opening of the 14th annual open exhibition of Singapore Art Society, at Singapore Polytechnic
- 1963 – Opening of the Road Safety Photographic Exhibition, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1963 – Opening of the Second Malaysia Student Photographic Exhibition, at Singapore Polytechnic
- 1963 – Opening of the Rotary Conference, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1963 – Declares open to Orchid Flower Show, at Happy World Stadium
- 1964 – Declares open to exhibition of photos, books and paintings, at Ramakrishna Mission
- 1964 – Opening Ceremony of the Singapore Association for the Blind (Fun Fair), at Great World Park
- 1964 – Opening of the Assembly Hall, at St John Headquarters
- 1964 – Declares open to 15th Annual Art Exhibition, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1964 – Declares open painting class by the Malay Youth Artists group, at Kampong Melayu Boys' School
- 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition in conjunction with Anti-Leprosy Campaign, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1965 – Opening of the Exhibition of Paintings By Six Artists, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1965 – Opening of the National Language Month, at Singapore Conference Hall
- 1966 – Opening of the National Language Book Show, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1967 – Declares open to Singapore Grand Prix, at Thomson Road
- 1967 – Declares open to 3rd Annual Al-Qur'an Reading Competition, at Geylang Serai Vocational School
- 1969 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1969, at Thomson Road
- 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Grand Prix 1970 circuit, at Thomson Road
His wife Noor Aishah officiated many events as the First Lady, including:
- 1960 – Declares open to Family Planning Exhibition, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1960 – Declares open to Art of Japanese Floral Arrangement Exhibition, in St Andrew's Mission Hospital
- 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work', Cheshire Home, at Telok Paku
- 1961 – Declares open to The Flower Arrangement Demonstration Show, at National Library of Singapore
- 1961 – Declares open to 'Sale of Work' and exhibition of Social Welfare Department, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1963 – Opening of the Mammoth Exhibition and Sale-of-Work, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1963 – Singapore Amateur Athletic Association Open Championship, at Farrer Park
- 1964 – Declares open to 'Annual Sale of Work' for Tan Tock Seng Hospital
- 1964 – Opening of the Ngee Ann College Exhibition
- 1964 – Opening of the Flower Arranging and Sewing Exhibition, at Telok Kurau Malay School
- 1965 – Commence of the Red Cross fun fair at Raffles Institution
- 1965 – Declares open to Siglap Children's Festival, at St Patrick's School
- 1965 – Opening of the Social Welfare Homes' Sale of Works, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1965 – Opening of the Christmas Fair, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1966 – Declares open to Girl Guides' fun fair, at Anthony Road Girls' School
- 1967 – Declares open to Social Welfare Annual Sale of Work, at Victoria Memorial Hall
- 1969 – Declares open to Raffles Institution "Ang Pow '69" carnival, at Bras Basah Road
- 1970 – Young Women Muslim Association handicraft exhibition, at Haigsville Drive
- 1970 – Opening of the National Safety First Council of Singapore's Home Safety Exhibition, at Singapore Conference Hall
- 1970 – Opening of the Singapore Sogetsu Association's fifth annual floral exhibition, at Singapore Conference Hall
Yusof Ishak also opened schools and institutions including:
- 1960 – National Library of Singapore
- 1960 – Community Centre, at Pulau Seraya
- 1960 – Spastic Children's Association
- 1960 – Scouts Golden Jubilee Camp, at Jurong
- 1960 – Scouts Jubilee Camp, at Telok Paku
- 1961 – Malayan Orchid Society
- 1962 – Uttamram Chest Clinic, Singapore Anti-Tuberculosis Association (SATA)
- 1962 – Masjid Tentera Di-Raja (Military Mosque)
- 1963 – The National Theatre of Singapore (Panggong Negara), at Clemenceau Avenue
- 1963 – Masjid Malabar (for Indian-Muslim communities)
- 1964 – Singapore Association for the Blind
- 1964 – Bank Negara's Singapore branch, at Empress Place
- 1966 – Masjid Al-Abdul Razak, at Jalan Ismail
His wife Noor Aishah officiated many events as the First Lady, including:
- 1960 – Girl Guides' Golden Jubilee Camp, at Jurong Park
- 1960 – Young Muslim Women Association
- 1962 – Singapore Children's Society Convalescent Home
- 1963 – Singapore School for the Deaf
- 1967 – Young Women Muslim Association', at Haigsville Drive
- 1968 – Park Road Creche (Day Care Center)
- 1968 – Toa Payoh Girls' Home
- 1969 – Singapore Association for Retarded Children's Lee Kong Chian Centre, at Margaret Drive
- 1970 – Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) hostel, at Fort Canning
Other achievements:
- 1932 - Boxing Champion, winning the Aw Boon Par cup 1932
- 1933 - Weightlifting Champion, National Lightweight category
Titles and styles
- 3 December 1959 – 16 September 1963: Paduka Yang Mulia Yang di-Pertuan Negara, Yusof bin Ishak
- 16 September 1963 – 9 August 1965: Tuan Yang Terutama Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Yusof bin Ishak
- 9 August 1965 – 23 November 1970: His Excellency, President of the Republic, Yusof bin Ishak
Awards and honours
- Darjah Utama Temasek, 1st Class
- Seri Maharaja Mangku Negara, Tun, (Malaysia), Grand Commander
- Pingat Kemahkotaan 1961 (Selangor)
- Darjah Kerabat Laila Utama Yang Amat Dihormati (Brunei), 1st Class
- Sijil Kemuliaan, 1st Class
- Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang, 1st Class
- Pingat Jasa Gemilang, 1st Class
- Hon. Doctor of Letters, (National University of Singapore)
See also
- Yusof Ishak Secondary School – a Secondary School in Singapore named in his honour.
- Masjid Yusof Ishak - a new mosque located in Woodlands named in his honour.
References
- ^ "Encik Yusof Ishak". Istana Singapore. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- "Yusof Head of State. The Straits Times, p. 1. Retrieved from NewspaperSG". 2 December 1959. Retrieved 4 April 2016.
- Seet, K. K. (2000). The Istana (pp.88–89). Singapore: Times Editions. Call no.: RART 725.17095957 IST; Singapore rejoices. (1959, 4 December). The Straits Times, p. 1
- The Istana – index
- "The Singaporean Yusof Bin Ishak". The Singaporean. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- "Biography - Yusuf bin Ishak". Knowledge Net. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- "First issue of Warta Malaya (1930–1942) is published - Singapore History". History SG. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- ^ Kuntom., Ainon (1973). Malay newspapers, 1876-1973: A historical survey of the literature (pp. 27–32).
{{cite book}}
: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - "Life and times of Yusof Ishak, Singapore's first president". The Straits Times. 18 August 2014. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- "Yusof Ishak: The man and his passions". AsiaOne. 25 August 2014. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- State of Singapore. Government Gazette. Extraordinary. (G.N. 62, p.1055). Singapore. 3 December 1959.
- "Straits Times: Iseas to be named after Yusof Ishak on Aug 12". Ministry of Foreign Affair Singapore.
- "Cabinet pays last respects". The Straits Times, (Retrieved from NewspaperSG). 24 November 1970. Retrieved 6 April 2016.
- "Growing up in the Presidents' shadow". AsiaOne.
- "History of Girl Guides Singapore" (PDF). Girl Guides Singapore. 2010.
- "Changing Lives: Puan Dr Noor Aishah". Channel NewsAsia.
- "Yusof Ishak Mosque opens in Woodlands". Channel News Asia. 14 April 2017.
- "Set of six SG50 commemorative notes unveiled". TODAY. 19 August 2015.
- http://video.toggle.sg/en/series/men-with-a-mission/ep1/368862
- http://video.toggle.sg/en/series/men-with-a-mission/ep1/368862
- http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/lee-kuan-yew-singapore-will-survive-look-back-countrys-founding-father-1492582
- http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1072_2010-03-25.html
- http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1072_2010-03-25.html
- http://www.haaretz.com/a-deep-dark-secret-love-affair-1.128671
- https://global.britannica.com/event/September-30th-Movement
- https://global.britannica.com/event/September-30th-Movement
- http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_62_2004-12-17.html
- http://www.nas.gov.sg/archivesonline/article/yusof-bin-ishak-first-head-of-state
- http://ifonlysingaporeans.blogspot.sg/2014/08/yusof-ishak-man-and-his-passions.html
- "Yusof bin Ishak - The Republic of Singapore's First Head of State". www.nas.gov.sg. Archives Online. Archived from the original on 3 August 2017. Retrieved 3 August 2017.
These pictures were personally taken by President Yusof Ishak during his pilgrimage to Mecca in 1963.
- http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jfyryToSqKo/UX0lV2gXD3I/AAAAAAAAAhs/Ly0aaaTcWw4/s1600/sheares-reduced-medal.jpg
- http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html#honours
- http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_1097_2006-07-28.html#honours
- Notes
Yusof Ishak
- "Yusof Ishak". ISTANA Singapore : Office of the President of the Republic of Singapore, Government of Singapore. 28 April 2006. Retrieved 20 September 2007.
Political offices | ||
---|---|---|
Preceded bySir William Allmond Codrington Goode | Head of State of Singapore 1959-1970 |
Succeeded byBenjamin Henry Sheares |
Preceded bySir William Allmond Codrington Goode | Yang di-Pertuan Negara of Singapore 1959–1965 |
Succeeded byAbolished |
Preceded byPost created | President of Singapore 1965–1970 |
Succeeded byBenjamin Henry Sheares |
Presidents of Singapore | ||
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List | ||
Presidential elections | ||
- Misplaced Pages articles needing copy edit from August 2017
- Presidents of Singapore
- Singaporean people of Minangkabau descent
- Singaporean people of Malay descent
- Minangkabau people
- Singaporean Muslims
- Victoria School, Singapore alumni
- Raffles Institution alumni
- 1910 births
- 1970 deaths
- Malaysian emigrants to Singapore
- Honorary Grand Commanders of the Order of the Defender of the Realm