Lee: Halimah Yacob will fulfil president's role with distinction

"The President is the apex of our political system and symbol of our multi-racial, multi-religious nation," he said in his latest Facebook posting.

Halimah is scheduled to be sworn in on Thursday at the Istana, the official residence and office of the President of Singapore.

"Mdm (Madam) Halimah has been a unionist, community leader, MP (member of parliament), Minister of State and Speaker. She will bring to the Presidency, her long experience working with Singaporeans from all walks of life, and championing workers and disadvantaged groups," wrote Lee.

He said he had congratulated Halimah on becoming Singapore's eight president.

He also thanked Mohamed Salleh Marican and Farid Khan Kaim Khan for offering themselves as candidates.

"It could not have been an easy decision for them and their families, knowing the media attention and public scrutiny this would attract. They respected the Constitution and conducted themselves with propriety and decorum.

"They did not confuse people with wild promises that exceeded the remit of the President, which had happened before. I thank them also for accepting the Presidential Elections Committee's decisions. This is the way to make our democratic processes work properly and in the interest of Singaporeans," said Lee.

Businessmen Mohamed Salleh and Farid Khan did not meet certain criteria set for the private sector.

"Mdm Halimah will be sworn in tomorrow. I hope all of us will support her as our next president. I look forward to working with her to serve Singaporeans and the nation," said the prime minister.