Puan Noor Aishah, Singapore's first first lady, played a significant role in the country's early nation-building years, especially in the social and welfare sectors.PHOTO: ST FILE
Noor Aishah (pic), the republic’s former first lady and the widow of the country’s first president Yusof Ishak, has died at the age of 91.
Her death was announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a Facebook post the same day on April 22.
“With grace and quiet strength, she stood by Encik Yusof Ishak and steadfastly supported him throughout our tumultuous years of nation building,” said Wong in his tribute.
“Beyond the Istana, she dedicated herself to serving others through organisations like the Singapore Red Cross and the Singapore Muslim Women’s Association.
“Her kindness and service touched countless lives – may her legacy continue to inspire us all,” Wong added.
Noor Aishah died peacefully at the Singapore General Hospital on April 22 at 4.28am, said the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
PMO said in a statement that PM Wong and his Cabinet colleagues are deeply saddened by the passing of Noor Aishah, and that they extend their deepest condolences to her family.
The government will help her family with funeral arrangements, PMO said.
She will be laid to rest at Kranji State Cemetery alongside her husband on April 22.
“As a mark of respect, she will be accorded the honour of being borne on the ceremonial gun carriage for her final journey from Masjid Ba’alwie to Kranji State Cemetery,” said PMO. — The Straits Times/ANN
