Yusof: Portrait of a President at Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay

In 1961, Singapore’s first president, Yusof Ishak delivered a watershed speech at the National Day Mass Rally. A man of ideals who dared to dream of a peaceful and successful nation despite 200 years of colonial rule, he spoke of how democracy could transform Singapore into a country of great national unity and solidarity.

Set against the backdrop of a young nation on the cusp of change, Yusof brings to life the defining moments that shaped both the man and the country. From his early days at Utusan Melayu, where he championed the power of a free press and the voice of the Malay community, to the complex political transitions of merger, separation, and independence, the play follows Yusof as he navigates questions of race, identity, and national unity.

Yusof traces his humble beginnings as a journalist to becoming Singapore’s first head of state and offers a glimpse into the life and times of this extraordinary leader who dedicated his life in service to Singapore. Uncover the internal dilemmas he faced, his personal sacrifices, and the enduring belief that leadership was about service. It is a portrait not only of a president but of a man who embodied the ideals of dignity, justice, and unity during Singapore’s most formative years.

First commissioned for Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts 2015, this work by acclaimed playwright Zizi Azah is brought to life once again by one of Singapore’s leading theatre companies, Teater Ekamatra. This iteration of the play sees veteran actor Sani Hussin in the role of Yusof, alongside an outstanding ensemble cast comprising Siti Khalijah Zainal, Ghafir Akbar, Dalifah Shahril, Farah Ong and Fauzie Laily. They are backed by a powerhouse creative team, namely director and set designer Mohd Fared Jainal, dramaturg Alfian Sa’at, costume designer Sufiyanto of Kebaya Societé, lighting designer Adrian Tan and sound designer Syed Ahmad.