MFA Press Release: Condolence Letters from President S R Nathan and PM Lee on the Passing of Sheikh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar

Counsellor Amr Mohamed Sayed Tantawy
Chief, Family Court
South Cairo
Arab Republic of Egypt

Dear Counsellor Tantawy

I was saddened to learn of the passing of His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar.

I was honoured to have met His Eminence during his landmark visit to Singapore and again on my subsequent state visit to Egypt in 2006. His Eminence had contributed greatly to Al-Azhar's continuing role as a key centre of Islamic learning. In Singapore, His Eminence's message of encouragement for communities of different faiths to live in harmony and cooperation resonated strongly with all Singaporeans.

As a well-loved and highly respected Islamic teacher and leader, His Eminence will always be remembered for his clear and uncompromising stance against terrorism and extremism. His passing is a great loss to Egypt and to Muslims worldwide.

On behalf of the people of Singapore, I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

Yours sincerely

S R NATHAN
____________________________________________________

11 March 2010

Dear Counsellor Tantawy,

I am saddened to learn of the sudden passing of your beloved father, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Sayyid Tantawi.

I recall well your father's visit to Singapore in 2006, to deliver the first MUIS lecture. He was warmly received by both Muslim and non-Muslim Singaporeans. I was privileged to meet him, and was deeply impressed by His Eminence's wisdom and balanced views on Islam and inter-faith dialogue. I share His Eminence's emphasis on fostering peaceful coexistence between different faiths for the good of society. This is especially critical to Singapore, a multi-religious society, in a world where religious misunderstandings and conflicts are all too common.

On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I would like to convey our deepest condolences to you and your family.

Yours sincerely,

LEE HSIEN LOONG