“I WILL BE MORE MINDFUL OF WHAT I SAY”
In his final broadcast, Mr Tan repeated his apologies to people offended by things he has said and done. His posts on social media about “pretty girls” have drawn criticism from netizens and women’s rights group AWARE, which said he was objectifying women.
“As an active and outgoing person, I like to share about my daily activities and observations of everyday life. I have never meant any disrespect to the people I encounter,” Mr Tan said.
“To all those who have found any of what I have said or done in the past upsetting or inappropriate, I would like to sincerely apologise for it. I will be more mindful of what I say in the future.”
He also said he has met people from “all walks of life” who have encouraged him with their support.
“I am very grateful to all those around me who are willing to put down any differences we may have and stand together with me for the benefit of Singapore.”
The presidential candidate also highlighted his past experience in making “sound investment decisions” at NTUC Income and representing Singapore in an international insurance federation.
“I believe my knowledge and experience will be useful in performing the key duty of the President. As custodian of the reserves, I will ensure that our past reserves are managed prudently to benefit Singaporeans both present and future.”
The President cannot be afraid to stand alone for what is right, he added, pointing to a time when he helped people who lost their savings on bad investments.
“As President, I will champion the well-being of Singaporeans, and always put the people’s needs above my own, to help make a better life for all of you,” Mr Tan said.
More than 2.7 million Singaporeans will head to the polls on Friday to vote for the country’s ninth President.