SINGAPORE — Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said about 1,500 Singaporeans will be invited to the Istana on Feb 9 as the country honours its pioneer generation.

Speaking to reporters after his annual visit to essential services personnel during the first day of Chinese New Year today (Jan 31), Mr Lee said those invited to the function have made significant contributions to nation building.

They include former political leaders, community leaders, and also ordinary Singaporeans from different professions.

Mr Lee said some of the guests have already been informed, but the list is still being worked out as he wants to make sure it is representative of the pioneer generation.

He said that it is not possible to cover everybody as there are hundreds of thousands in that generation.

To ensure that no one gets left out, the government will be organising events throughout the year to honour the rest of Singapore’s pioneer generation.

Today morning, Mr Lee met some 80 Home Team officers from the Queenstown Neighbourhood Police Centre and Alexandra Fire Station.

He thanked them for their service and dedication in responding to emergencies and keeping the country safe. CHANNEL NEWSASIA