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The following is a letter sent to Singaporeans from Tony Tan, recently elected President of Singapore and former Deputy Chairman of the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation on Saturday, to take responsibility for the S$10 billion loss the sovereign fund suffered by investing in Swiss bank UBS.
Dear Singaporeans
I have handed in my resignation as President today. That it was possible for GIC to inflict a S$10 billion loss on our investment in UBS in such a short time shocked me, as it did everyone else, deeply. This incident has wide repercussions, including political ones. I did not take the step of resigning lightly. I am convinced that it is in the best interests of Singapore to approach the future with a new President.
The precise circumstances that led to the GIC loss in UBS are being investigated by an independent body. Many questions remain open, and it is vital that they are cleared up in a comprehensive way. What is certain is that, as former Deputy Chairman of GIC, I bear full responsibility for what occurred at the sovereign fund. That is why I want to and must act according to my convictions. I hope my resignation makes it possible for Singaporeans to return their attention more quickly to the economic challenges that we face and work harmoniously to achieve national prosperity.
We achieved a great deal together and Singapore is well positioned to withstand the uncertainties in the global outlook. The S$10 billion loss represents a significant setback in our efforts to rebuild trust in GIC. However, you should have no doubt about the fundamental strengths of GIC. Because of your trust, my fellow Singaporeans, GIC has made profits elsewhere that offset the UBS loss so that our portfolio is now at a higher level than before the crisis hit.
As I’ve always emphasized, a lot of work remains to be done. So don’t let recent events distract you. I am certain that GIC and Singapore can carve out a strong place within the fundamentally changing global circumstances.
I want to extend you my sincere thanks for your strong commitment and support. I wish you and our beloved Singapore only the best in the future.
Yours,
Tony Tan Keng Yam
(Note to clueless or those whose first language is not English – this is a spoof)
Dear Singaporeans
I have handed in my resignation as President today. That it was possible for GIC to inflict a S$10 billion loss on our investment in UBS in such a short time shocked me, as it did everyone else, deeply. This incident has wide repercussions, including political ones. I did not take the step of resigning lightly. I am convinced that it is in the best interests of Singapore to approach the future with a new President.
The precise circumstances that led to the GIC loss in UBS are being investigated by an independent body. Many questions remain open, and it is vital that they are cleared up in a comprehensive way. What is certain is that, as former Deputy Chairman of GIC, I bear full responsibility for what occurred at the sovereign fund. That is why I want to and must act according to my convictions. I hope my resignation makes it possible for Singaporeans to return their attention more quickly to the economic challenges that we face and work harmoniously to achieve national prosperity.
We achieved a great deal together and Singapore is well positioned to withstand the uncertainties in the global outlook. The S$10 billion loss represents a significant setback in our efforts to rebuild trust in GIC. However, you should have no doubt about the fundamental strengths of GIC. Because of your trust, my fellow Singaporeans, GIC has made profits elsewhere that offset the UBS loss so that our portfolio is now at a higher level than before the crisis hit.
As I’ve always emphasized, a lot of work remains to be done. So don’t let recent events distract you. I am certain that GIC and Singapore can carve out a strong place within the fundamentally changing global circumstances.
I want to extend you my sincere thanks for your strong commitment and support. I wish you and our beloved Singapore only the best in the future.
Yours,
Tony Tan Keng Yam
(Note to clueless or those whose first language is not English – this is a spoof)