The Benjamin Sheares Story: From Pioneering Gynaecologist to Singapore President

The Benjamin Sheares Story: From Pioneering Gynaecologist to Singapore President
K C Vijayan, author
Date of publication:  2025
Publisher:  ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute
Number of pages:  179
Code:  BM642
Soft Cover
ISBN: 9789815306347
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Reviews

“He was the father of O and G in Singapore. He delivered thousands of babies including me. He was kind to all his patients no matter who they were. He was a good President and we should not forget him. ”
-- Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-at-Large, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Singapore
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About the publication

“My mum was told to abort the foetus after doctors told her the baby was stillborn. She refused to accept the opinions of three doctors consulted... (and) made the trip to Singapore where she consulted a doctor named Benjamin Sheares. He examined her, then reassured her with a smile: ‘Madam, your baby is alive, and fine.’ I would like to remember my mum and Dr Sheares, I would not be here today without either of them.”
—Michael Chiang, prominent Singaporean playwright, born 1955
“For once Mahathir agrees with him! We are mighty proud of Harry Lee’s choice of a president.”
—Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, 29 December 1970, on learning Lee Kuan Yew would nominate Benjamin Sheares as Singapore’s President.

Step into an extraordinary life. The Benjamin Sheares Story: From Pioneering Gynaecologist to Singapore President is a rich tapestry of voices and reflections, anecdotes and historical snapshots weaving together the narrative of a man whose impact spanned both medicine and nation-building. From the crowded maternity wards during the baby boom to the highest office in the land at the Istana, Sheares carried with him the same quiet dignity and distinction. As Singapore’s second President (1971–81), he personified the success of a Singapore Story during a time of transformation for a young nation. Sheares was a Tamil-speaking Eurasian of humble beginnings and embodied the very spirit of Singapore: resilient, inclusive and forward-looking. More than a modest biography, this book is our SG60 tribute to Sheares, offering readers a deeply human portrait of a remarkable man.

Contents

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