Election symbols revealed

[hurley]

The four presidential candidates have unveiled their election symbols.

These symbols will be printed on the ballot paper, along with a black-and-white photograph of the candidates.

Dr Tan Cheng Bock will use a palm tree to symbolise his campaign.

He said in a Facebook post: "The leaves of the palm represents our multiracial society, the trunk represents them coming together, and the roots represents us taking root in Singapore."

Dr Tan also said that the tree represents his name, as his Chinese name includes the word for 'tree'.

Mr Tan Jee Say's symbol is a heart, which stands for conscience and emphathy.

Dr Tony Tan's symbol is a pair of dark-rimmed glasses that resemble his trademark spectacles. These 'spectacles' were also seen on the front of the cream-and-purple caps worn by his supporters during Nomination Day.

In a Facebook post, he said: "No one has ever ruined his or her eyesight by taking a long-term view."

He also told reporters after Nomination Day formalities ended: "Spectacles look into the distance, and I think that is a good symbol of how I feel - to be able to see clearly, steadily, into the future."

Mr Tan Kin Lian will be using a raised hand in a speech box as his election symbol.

Mr Tan said in a Facebook post that the raised hand represents the people of Singapore and the five fingers symbolise the values of honesty, fairness, a positive attitude, courage and public service. The represents his slogan to be the Voice of the People.