One step forward for Singapore’s community

12th August 2004 marked new beginnings for Singapore with the swearing in of our new Prime Minister Mr. Lee Hsien Loong and his Cabinet Ministers. The dignified and inspiring swearing in ceremony at the Istana took place before and audience that embodied what Prime Minister Lee called the “rich tapestry” of Singapore and which His Excellency President S R Nathan described as “representing a cross section of Singapore”.

Our own Bahá’í community in Singapore was greatly honoured when Mr. Selvam Satanam, in his capacity as Chairman of The Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Singapore, received an invitation on 3rd August 2004 from the Istana to attend this important state function. The invitation marked a milestone in the recognition of our Faith and community in Singapore. The friends no doubt share in the Assembly’s great joy in this gesture shown to our Faith and community. The Universal House of Justice “was pleased to note the recognition of the Faith indicated by the invitation sent to the chairman of your Spiritual Assembly for the swearing in of the new Prime Minister of Singapore.”

On behalf of our community, the Assembly had on 5 August 2004 conveyed to the outgoing Prime Minister Mr. Goh Chok Tong our community ‘s gratitude for his years of service as Prime Minister of Singapore and our prayers for many years more of good health and happiness as he serves in new capacities. In a reply dated 10 August 2004, which he personally signed, Mr. Goh wrote, “I am heartened by your kind words and good wishes. It has been a satisfying 14 years serving my country and people. I feel blessed to be able to do so. I am grateful for your support.”…