Politicians pay tribute to Foreign Minister George Yeo
Politicians have expressed sadness to the news of Foreign Minister George Yeo's decision to quit politics, with some hoping he will continue to serve the country.
Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Zainul Abidin Rasheed, who worked with Minister Yeo in the Foreign Affairs Ministry and in Aljunied GRC, said he has learnt a lot from him.
"I've learnt a lot from him, his humanity, his very sincere approach to things, in handling issues, in handling our people," said Zainul, who was speaking to the press on the sidelines of the group's 'Thank You' parade at Aljunied GRC on Tuesday evening.
"We're all sad of course but after what happened, we all have to look at our individual considerations and decide what to do after that. We've got to move on," he added.
For Zainul, he will be taking some time to "refocus" and consider the options available before making any decision.
He said, "My heart is still with the people of Bedok Reservoir and Aljunied GRC. I will certainly want to continue to serve them but I have to look at other options available first and what I need to do."
Aljunied GRC candidate Cynthia Phua, who has known Minister Yeo for about 10 years, described him as a "sincere" and "sensitive" person.
One of the most important things she learnt from Minister Yeo was "the way he trusted the young, allowed the young to lead him".
Singapore Democratic Party's Tan Jee Say, who knew Minister Yeo from their university days when both men were in the UK on a government scholarship, told Yahoo! Singapore, "He's been quite innovative and different in his approach. He is a breath of fresh air in politics. It's sad to see him go."
He described the Minister as being a "gentleman" and "personable".
"He is definitely a great asset in foreign service but to make him an ambassador will just be under utilising his talents, he could in fact play a much bigger role. But its up to the leaders to decide," said Tan.
However, he added, it could be more difficult for Minister Yeo to help transform the PAP since he is no longer in political leadership.
National Solidarity Party secretary-general Goh Meng Seng said he hopes Minister Yeo will still remain in public service and serve the country.
Pointing to the Minister's strength in interpersonal relationships, Goh said he could be an ambassador for Singapore and contribute to the nation on a larger scale.
Added NSP's Nicole Seah, "I am saddened by the news. George Yeo is one of the rare few in the PAP who has touched the hearts of Singaporeans."
"As a fellow Singaporean, I hope that he will continue to serve the people. Mr Yeo has defined foreign policy in a way matched by few others and we hope that he will continue being a representative of Singapore on the global front."
Additional reporting by Liyana Low
