Dear Tze Guan

My wife and I are indeed saddened to learn of the passing away of your beloved father and former President, Mr Ong Teng Cheong. We share in this moment of grief and loss. More than the loss of a dear friend, we have also lost an illustrious Singaporean and a respected national figure.

My personal association with your late father dates back to his days in the NTUC. His genuine concerns for the ordinary man, his common touch with the rank and file, the selfless sense of duty with which he devoted himself to the workers who placed their trust in him � these qualities marked him as an outstanding leader in the labour movement that he led and transformed. And these were the same qualities that he brought to the Office of the Elected President, leaving his mark in the hearts and minds of Singaporeans.

For those of us who have had the privilege of knowing Teng Cheong, his indefinable personal touch, his many varied talents, and his warm friendship will always remain in our memory. As he lived in retirement, I recall the occasions we met. He always showed us great courtesy and consideration. As he fought his ailment, he took his illness courageously. Whatever pain he felt within, he never revealed outwardly. As always, Teng Cheong was a man of quiet strength, dignity and grace.

For the contributions he made to Singapore, he deserves our utmost praise and gratitude.

My wife and I send you and the family members of your late father our deepest sympathies and condolences.

Yours sincerely,

 S R NATHAN