SINGAPORE: President-elect Tony Tan said the election result has been decisive and he would use the mandate given to meet the expectations of all Singaporeans.
Dr Tan added he would continue to work hard to reach out to all Singaporeans via various platforms such as social media.
Dr Tan was speaking at his first news conference held on Sunday afternoon, after being elected Singapore's seventh President.
"The most immediate, urgent thing now... which I should do is to try to reach out to all Singaporeans to emphasise the fact that the president works for all citizens, not for people who are affiliated to any particular party," Dr Tan said.
"The most important, in my view, is to ensure constant vigilance to fulfil the president's custodial powers.
"I have much experience in this field. There's still a learning curve but I think it'll be short and not too steep."
On whether the voting pattern reflects a deep division in Singapore's society, Dr Tan said the country must recognise that Singaporeans are more vocal today.
"We should have a diversity of views in Singapore. It enriches our society. It makes Singapore more vibrant," Dr Tan said.
"Admittedly, it may make the process of governing more difficult because there's more 'noise'. There could be a little confusion from time to time, decision-making may be slower but that's a maturing of our democracy, civil society and our politics in Singapore, and it's a development which I welcome."
Meanwhile, Dr Tan thanked his wife, Mary Chee, for her support.
Dr Tan described his wife whom he met as a university undergrad as "the love of my life" and who has been "a pillar of support".
"Without her standing with me I would not have been able to serve Singapore," Dr Tan said.
As to her role when asked by a journalist, Dr Tan said: "She always has a deep concern for people in need... Particularly the elderly citizens. I'm sure she will fulfil her role as First Lady in her own right."
Dr Tan won 35.2 per cent of the valid votes in the Presidential Election held on Saturday.
-CNA/wk
KNN what mandate only 35% vote for him. If included spoil vote only 32%.