A 'force for good in her own right'

FROM A1 came an emblem of heritage and local traditions, wearing the sarong kebaya at state events and teaching Istana chefs recipes for local favourites like epok epok and various kuih, which have remained part of Istana cuisine.

- PRIME MINISTER LAWRENCE WONG

Mr Tharman also paid tribute to her dedication to public service, calling her a "force for good in her own right" by championing various social causes and being a dedicated patron to many organisations supporting the disadvantaged.

"Unlike Encik Yusof Ishak who passed away in 1970, Puan Noor Aishah lived to see Singapore's transformation. She could take pride in her quiet role in our foundational years of self-government and independence, for which she will stay in collective memory," he said.

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a separate post that he was deeply saddened to hear about Puan Noor Aishah's passing and sent his condolences to her family. He said the two kept in touch over the years, and that she will be deeply missed.

Thrust into the spotlight at a young age, Puan Noor Aishah carried out her duties with grace and dignity, managing a large household and improving her English to engage visiting dignitaries, said SM Lee.

He noted how Puan Noor Aishah played a vital role during Singapore's formative years, stepping up with quiet determination to support Mr Yusof and helping to keep the nation united.

"She was committed to a Singapore that was fair and just, regardless of race, language or religion. Her gentle spirit, sense of duty and grit left a deep impression on Singaporeans."

Former president Halimah Yacob said in a Facebook post that she will remember Puan Noor Aishah as a kind and gentle person who took a keen interest in Yusof Ishak Secondary School located in Bukit Batok East when Madam Halimah was an MP there.