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A number of political leaders have responded to President Halimah's decision not to run for re-election, including Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Ministers (DPMs) Heng Swee Keat and Lawrence Wong, and National Trades Union Congress' (NTUC) Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng.

As many look back on her presidency and impact, more tributes continue to pour in for President Halimah.

NTUC President: Contributions to the country and people are aplenty

NTUC President Mary Liew shared her most memorable moments with President Halimah, stating that President Halimah has always been "humble and approachable".

One instance was during a dialogue the NTUC Women's Committee had with President Halimah. They discussed issues around women workers, like the challenge of retaining women in the workforce while meeting the needs of caregivers.

"Her kindness and empathy for women, especially those with caregiving needs continue to inspire us to represent female workers and secure better rights for them," said Liew.

When talking about the Covid-19 pandemic, Liew described President Halimah as "decisive" and supported the Government's use of the reserves, which in turn helped Singaporeans in the form of relief packages.

"As the first female President in Singapore's history, President Halimah took on the responsibility with courage, strength and empathy.

I would like to take this opportunity to say: Thank you, President Halimah, for building a more caring and compassionate society; strengthening the social compact; and standing with Singaporeans, especially during the challenging years of Covid-19."

Chairman of Council of Presidential Advisers (CPA): "Clear and forthright in stating her opinions and views"

Chairman of the CPA Eddie Teo said to CNA that President Halimah was "an authentic and genuine champion of causes to hear heart".

In addition, President Halimah was "easy to work with" as she was "clear and forthright in stating her opinions and views".

"There was no need to second-guess her position on any issues... Very often, she was the one who asked the most difficult questions," said Teo.

Tributes from various unions

Various unions have also shared their appreciation and gratitude for President Halimah for her years of service.

The Young Singapore Maritime Officers' Union shared on Facebook that President Halimah played "a crucial role" in the 1970s and 1980s in assisting them to recover outstanding wages for their seafarers and foster win-win solutions for all parties involved.

"Throughout her tenure as President, Madam Halimah has consistently made a positive impact on the lives of our workers. Her selflessness has touched the hearts of many and despite her demanding schedule, she has always been ready to provide invaluable advice to SMOU on relevant industrial relations and international issues.

We extend our best wishes to her and express our heartfelt gratitude for her unwavering support towards our seafarers and workers."

The Union of Security Employees (USE) also posted on Facebook, offering their gratitude to President Halimah for her service.

President Halimah served as a Trustee from 1992 to 2017 and played a significant role in guiding the union's progress.

"We salute you for your service to Singapore and Singaporeans, Mdm President."

The Healthcare Services Employees' Union (HSEU) also expressed their gratitude to President Halimah.

In the Facebook post, HSEU wrote how President Halimah's "openness and candidness" made them feel like equals.

"We salute you for all you have done. You are always an inspiration to every worker especially women."

Tributes from charities and non-profit organisations

Local charity Society for the Physically Disabled (SPD) shared that President Yacob was "one of the most avid and vocal disability advocates SPD has known."

They highlighted how President Halimah agreed to be their patron, and on the occasions she visited SPD, she took the time to interact with their staff and clients.

"We are privileged to have her as a friend of people with disabilities, and look forward to her continued support in the time ahead."

New Life Stories, a non-profit organisation that aims to prevent intergenerational incarceration, shared how President Halimah was an "exceptional leader who has shown unwavering support" for the organisation.

"As we bid farewell to President Halimah Yacob as our leader, we cannot help but feel a sense of sadness. Her graciousness and love for our families have been a source of inspiration for us all, and we will miss her dearly. Her leadership has been a beacon of hope for many, and her legacy will live on for generations to come.

Thank you, Mdm President, for your dedication to our community and our families. Your commitment to serve and support our community is a shining example of what a leader should be. You have been an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to have had you as our leader."

The Muslim Trust Fund Association paid tribute to President Halimah's legacy, expressing their appreciation for her "unwavering support and boundless kindness".

"Thank you, dear Mdm Halimah, for your immeasurable contributions to our organisation and for being a steadfast ally to our many beneficiaries. You have left an indelible imprint upon our hearts, and your compassion will forever be woven into the tapestry of our journey."

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Top photo via President Halimah/Facebook, SPD/Facebook