View source for Benjamin Sheares

{{Short description|President of Singapore from 1971 to 1981}}
{{good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=June 2020}}
{{Infobox officeholder
| name = Benjamin Sheares
| image = Benjamin Sheares at the University of Malaya in Singapore, 1951 (cropped).jpg
| imagesize = 
| caption = Sheares in 1951
| order = 2nd
| office = President of Singapore
| term_start = 2 January 1971
| term_end = 12 May 1981
| primeminister = [[Lee Kuan Yew]]
| predecessor = [[Yusof Ishak]]<br/>[[Yeoh Ghim Seng]] (acting)
| successor = Yeoh Ghim Seng (acting)<br>[[Devan Nair]]
| deputy1 = 
| birth_name = Benjamin Henry Sheares
| birth_date = {{birth date|df=yes|1907|8|12}}
| birth_place = [[Singapore in the Straits Settlements|Singapore]], [[Straits Settlements]]
| party = [[Independent (politician)|Independent]]
| death_date = {{Death date and age|1981|5|12|1907|8|12|df=yes}}
| death_place = Holt Road, Singapore
| death_cause = [[Lung cancer]]
| restingplace = [[Kranji State Cemetery]]
| nationality = [[Singaporeans|Singaporean]]
| alma_mater = [[National University of Singapore|King Edward VII College of Medicine]]
| spouse = {{marriage|Wong Ah Foon|1931|1947|end=div}}<br>{{marriage|[[Yeo Seh Geok]]|1939}}
| children = 3; including [[Constance Sheares|Constance]] and [[Joseph Sheares|Joseph]]
| occupation = {{hlist|Physician|academic}}
| website = 
| title = 
| honorific_suffix = [[Order of the Crown of Kedah#Commander|DPMK]] [[FRCOG]] [[Fellow of the American College of Surgeons|FACS]]<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 October 1978 |title=Distinction And Dignity |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19781002-1.2.57.2? |access-date=30 October 2024 |work=[[The Business Times (Singapore)|The Business Times]] |pages=17 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>
| width = 
}}
'''Benjamin Henry Sheares''' (12 August 1907 &ndash; 12 May 1981) was a Singaporean obstetrician, gynaecologist, and academic who served as the second [[president of Singapore]] between 1971 until his death in 1981. Born in [[Singapore in the Straits Settlements|Singapore under British rule]], Sheares graduated from the [[King Edward VII College of Medicine]] in 1929. He specialised in [[obstetrics and gynaecology]] and worked at the [[Singapore General Hospital]] and [[KK Women's and Children's Hospital|Kandang Kerbau Hospital]] (KKH), eventually serving as the acting professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at the [[University of Malaya in Singapore]]. He later became the professor of obstetrics and gynaecology in 1950, becoming the first local to rise to such a position, as high-ranking colonial officers were usually appointed instead.

Sheares retired in 1961 due to health complications and went into private practice before being elected as the president of Singapore by [[Parliament of Singapore|parliament]] following the death of incumbent president [[Yusof Ishak]]. Sheares was sworn in on 2 January 1971 following a unanimous agreement by Parliament and served as the president of Singapore for three terms, from 2 January 1971 till his [[List of heads of state and government who died in office|death in office]] on 12 May 1981. He was succeeded by [[Devan Nair]] on 23 October 1981. During his presidency, he officiated multiple events and ceremonies such as the [[1971 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting]] and the [[1973 SEAP Games|7th South East Asian Peninsular Games]].

Regarded as "the father of obstetrics and gynaecology in Singapore", Sheares was known for standardising the [[Lower segment Caesarean section|lower Caesarian section]] in Singapore and creating an [[Artificial vagina creation|artificial vagina]]. The lower Caesarian section has since become the standard procedure in Singapore whilst his method to create an artificial vagina has been dubbed the "Sheares operation" and is used to help women who suffer from birth defects such as [[vaginal agenesis]] or in [[Sex-change operation|sex-change operations]]. Sheares remains the only president to have been elected for three terms. Both the [[Benjamin Sheares Bridge]] and Sheares Hall at the [[National University of Singapore]] are named after him.

==Early life and education==
[[File:Benjamin Sheares 1940s full photo.jpg|left|thumb|Sheares in the 1940s]]
Sheares was born on 12 August 1907 in government housing in [[Singapore in the Straits Settlements|Singapore]], when it was a part of the [[Straits Settlements]], to Edwin Henry and Lilian Jane Sheares ([[née]] Gomez). Sheares's grandfather was from England but went to India to work with [[East India Company]]. According to Sheares's grandmother, her brothers had a dispute with the family, which led them to move out of England and change their surname from "Shears" to "Sheares".<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=1, 4}}</ref>

Edwin was born in 1863 in Madras, India. Edwin moved to Penang as a teenager, where he met and married Lilian in 1902; she was born in Singapore and raised in Sumatra, Indonesia. They later moved to Singapore, where Edwin worked as a technical supervisor with the [[Public Works Department (Singapore)|Public Works Department]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=4}}</ref> Edwin and Lilian had six children; they died in 1940 and 1971, respectively.<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 May 1940 |title=Funeral of Mr. E. H. Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/maltribune19400504-1.2.54? |access-date=1 November 2024 |work=[[Malaya Tribune]] |pages=4 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=19 February 1971 |title=President Sheares' Mother Dies, Aged 91 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710219-1.2.31? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=6 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

In his youth, Sheares was known affectionately as Ben or Bennie and had showed ambition to become a doctor. His sister Alice encouraged him to follow his dream against his mother's wishes, as she wanted Sheares to start work as a clerk to support the family as soon as he completed his [[Senior Cambridge]] examinations (present-day [[Singapore-Cambridge GCE Ordinary Level|Singapore-Cambridge GCE Ordinary Levels]]). He attended [[Methodist Girls' School, Singapore|Methodist Girls' School]], when it still allowed mixed-sex education, from 1912 to 1917, following the completion of his Fourth Standard Government Grant in Aid School Examination in 1917. He was then transferred to [[St Andrew's School (Secondary)|Saint Andrew's Secondary School]] in 1918. After four years with Saint Andrew's, he transferred to [[Raffles Institution]] in 1922 to study to qualify for the [[King Edward VII College of Medicine]] (KECOM).<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=6–7}}</ref><ref name=":5">{{Cite news |date=13 May 1981 |title=A Man of Humility Who Put The Nation Before Self |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810513-1.2.20.1? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

In 1923, he successfully enrolled at KECOM as a government scholar; the scholarships were provided by the Council of the Medical College. He performed well at KECOM, earning four medals for his results and passing the [[obstetrics and gynaecology]] final examination with distinctions. Sheares donated most of the {{SGD|50|link=on}} he earned monthly from his scholarship to his mother to support the family. He graduated from KECOM in March 1929 and was among nine graduates sent to work at the [[Singapore General Hospital]] (SGH) as their first batch of trainee doctors.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=|pp=8, 10, 12}}</ref>

== Medical career ==
[[File:Kandang Kerbau Women's and Children's Hospital, Aug 06.JPG|thumb|Sheares worked as an obstetrician and later the Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at [[KK Women's and Children's Hospital|Kandang Kerbau Hospital]] ''(pictured)''.|left]]
Upon his graduation in March 1929, he worked as an assistant medical officer at SGH. Sheares was paid {{SGD|250}} a month as a local, whereas a British assistant medical officer would be paid twice his salary. The journalist K. C. Vijayan theorised that the difference in pay could be "to maintain parity with their counterparts in London", among other reasons. After getting his Licence in Medicine and Surgery, Sheares had wanted to pursue [[internal medicine]], but was unable to during his work as a medical officer at an outpatient clinic in Malacca. He worked there for two years, but was unhappy. In 1931, he was transferred to [[KK Women's and Children's Hospital|Kandang Kerbau Hospital]] (KKH), but was later transferred to SGH's obstetrics and gynaecology unit at the request of professor J. S. English on 8 April 1931. English sought Sheares due to his academic performance at KECOM.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=12}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Chia |first=Poteik |date=27 December 1970 |title=Sheares To Be President |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19701227-1.2.2? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

Sheares subsequently specialised in obstetrics and gynaecology, becoming the first Singaporean to do so. He told ''[[New Nation (Singapore)|New Nation]]'' in 1976 that "you were just ordered to specialise by the professor if you had good marks", but that "once I got involved, I loved the discipline".<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=12–13}}</ref><ref name=":1" /> He continued to study [[midwifery]] and [[gynaecology]] under English, later becoming the only assistant in the obstetric and gynaecology unit. In 1937, English posted Sheares to KKH – which was converted to a [[maternity hospital]] in 1935 – to take responsibility for all obstetric patients at KKH. Sheares divided his time between practising gynaecology at SGH and dealing with obstetric cases at KKH. In 1939, he was awarded the [[Queen's Scholar (British Malaya and Singapore)|Queen's Fellowship]], which granted him two-years of postgraduate training in London. Sheares was to use the Fellowship to prepare for the [[Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists|Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists]]'s (MRCOG) examinations, but the outbreak of [[World War II]] in Europe postponed his trip.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=14–15}}</ref><ref name=":0" />

During the war in 1941, he continued working at KKH and was in charge of its two obstetrical wards. The hospital was damaged by the [[Bombing of Singapore (1941)|bombing from the Japanese military]] and was then converted into an emergency general hospital for injured civilians. Following the [[fall of Singapore]] in 1942, the Japanese interned British doctors, leading to local doctors taking up larger roles in the medical service. During the [[Japanese occupation of Singapore|Japanese occupation]], KKH was renamed the Chuo Byoin ({{Literal translation|Central Hospital}}) and served both Japanese and Singaporean patients. Sheares was made the Deputy Medical Superintendent, which was responsible for all the Singaporean patients; the Medical Superintendent was responsible for Japanese patients.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=15–16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Leow |first=Annabeth |date=2016-10-17 |title=From Treating Sex Worker To Maternity Hospital: History of KKH |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/from-treating-sex-workers-to-maternity-hospital-history-of-kkh |access-date=2024-10-16 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |language=en |issn=0585-3923}}</ref> In August 1942, the ''[[Syonan Shimbun]]'' reported that Sheares was a part of the Japanese's "travelling dispensaries", which were mobile medical units sent to the rural areas of Singapore.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=31–32}}</ref> 

After the war, Sheares received the Good Service Certificate from the British for his "good service rendered during the war to the cause of the Allies and the liberation of Malaya".<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=35|pp=}}</ref> He was also made the acting professor of KECOM,{{efn|KECOM would merge to become the [[University of Malaya in Singapore]]'s (present-day National University of Singapore) Faculty of Medicine, following the university's creation in 1949.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=46}}</ref>}} a role he held while English was recovering in Britain after the war.<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 November 1946 |title=Dr. Sheares For U.K. |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19461121-1.2.80 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=7 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In April 1947, he left the post and went to England to resume his postgraduate studies under the Queen's Fellowship, where he was admitted to the [[Royal Postgraduate Medical School]] in [[Hammersmith]] under professor James Browne. He went on to pass the MRCOG examinations in January 1948, becoming the first Singaporean to do so. He had planned to take an examination at the [[Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh]] to join the [[Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons]] – he had registered for it in March 1948 – but returned to Singapore after being called on by then-[[List of governors of Singapore#Governors of Singapore (1946–1959)|governor of Singapore]] [[Franklin Gimson]] to return to his post as acting professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at KECOM following English's retirement.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=45–46}}</ref><ref name=":5" /><ref name=":1" />
[[File:Benjamin Sheares, 1951.jpg|thumb|Sheares in April 1951, speaking at the University of Malaya in Singapore.]]
Upon his arrival back to Singapore, he was appointed the acting professor, with the job of professor being advertised in the ''[[British Medical Journal]]''. Sheares faced prejudice as, despite serving as the acting professor for two years prior, the role of professor was not given to him as he was a local, and high-ranking colonials usually held such positions. He needed two referrals and asked English and KKH's Principal Medical Officer, who both refused and instead preferred a British medical officer. Sheares noted that the British medical officer had no experience in gynaecological surgery and poor knowledge in obstetrics. Sheares eventually got his referrals from two British physicians: Sir Eardley Holland, the chairman of the Board of Examiners who had previously examined him for his MRCOG, and Browne of the Royal Postgraduate Medical School.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=46–47}}</ref><ref name=":5" /><ref name=":1" />

With these referrals, Sheares met with the Selection Board in London and, in January 1950, became the first local professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Malaya in Singapore.<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 December 1950 |title=Local Man To Be Prof. of Midwifery In Varsity |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/singstandard19501229-1.2.33? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[Singapore Tiger Standard]] |pages=2 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Pereira |first1=Alexius A. |title=Singapore Eurasians: Memories, Hopes And Dreams |last2=Ebert-Oehlers |first2=Ann |last3=Braga-Blake |first3=Myrna |author-link3=Myrna Braga-Blake |date=21 December 2016 |publisher=[[World Scientific Publishing Company]] |isbn=9789813109612 |pages=131}}</ref> In December 1951, Sheares used the remainder of his Queen's Fellowship study to go to the United States for a year. During this period, he studied at different teaching institutions in the United States, such as the [[Mayo Clinic]].<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=21 December 1951 |title=Professor To Study Cancer In The U.S. |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/freepress19511221-1.2.72? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Singapore Free Press]] |pages=5 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> He remarked from his visit that "[KKH] was at least 50 years behind any American maternity hospital".<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=49}}</ref> Sheares returned in July 1952 to KKH and went on to improve their maternity services; he enhanced the [[antenatal]] supervision services and created a network of clinics that would be linked back to KKH. In 1952, the School of Midwifery was established, with Sheares serving as its chairman of the board, and he improved the training of midwives.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=|pp=49–50}}</ref>

From 1953 to 1955, Sheares helped design new additions to the KKH building such as the [[out-patient department]] and the front block of the hospital, stating that, "[KKH] was initially just a maternity hospital and I had to design the new buildings in such a way that the maternity [[Operating theater|operating theatres]] were in a different block from the gynaecological operating theatres."<ref name=":1" /> In 1955, Sheares became the first Singaporean to be awarded a fellowship by the [[Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists]], following his contributions to the sector.<ref>{{Cite news |date=13 February 1955 |title=Colony-Born Doctor Wins High Honour |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19550213-1.2.89 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In March 1956, he founded the ''Bulletin of Kandang Kerdau Hospital'', which later become the ''Singapore Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology'', and served as its first editor.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=60}}</ref> In 1959, Sheares advocated for [[Voluntary sterilization|voluntary sterilisation]] as a way to reduce [[Population planning in Singapore|population growth]] instead of [[Abortion in Singapore|legalising abortion]], which he garnered criticism for.<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 June 1959 |title=Women Against Sterilisation |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19590619-1.2.89 |access-date=11 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=9 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Sheares explained that even if abortions were made legal, people would still perform [[Illegal abortion|abortions illegally]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 December 1959 |title=Abortions: Legalisation Not Answer – Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/freepress19591221-1.2.12? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Singapore Free Press]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> He later stated that he believed that his critics assumed he was advocating for [[forced sterilisation]], when he was really advocating for voluntary sterilisation, further saying, "they also did not understand the consequences of letting the population grow un-checked."<ref name=":5" />

He served as the first president of the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society, which was a part of the [[Singapore Medical Association]], from 1960 to 1961. Sheares retired in March 1961 from both the National University of Singapore and KKH due to health complications such as severe acute [[gastric ulcers]]. He also had concerns that his ill health would reduce his ability to provide for his family. He subsequently went into private practice and worked at a clinic at Battery Road. He remained as an honorary consultant at KKH after his retirement.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=61}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Additionally, Sheares was a personal gynaecologist and obstetrician to certain members of the Malaysian royal families, and was a consultant in three Malaysian states. In 1965, he suddenly collapsed at work due to a massive gastric haemorrhage, and received a [[gastrectomy]] operation from his colleague and friend [[Yeoh Ghim Seng]]. In 1968 and 1969, Sheares served as the chairman of the Chapter of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and on the obstetrics and gynaecology committee of the School of Postgraduate Medical Studies, respectively.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=|pp=63–64}}</ref> In June 1970, he and economist [[Albert Winsemius]] were given the honorary degree of [[Doctor of Letters]] by the [[National University of Singapore]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Byramji |first=Nancy |date=17 May 1970 |title=Spore University To Honour Three At The Big June Ceremony |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19700517-1.2.41? |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=7 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== Notable contributions ===
Regarded as "the father of obstetrics and gynaecology in Singapore",<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=13 May 1981 |title=President Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19810513-1.2.4? |access-date=18 December 2024 |work=[[The Business Times (Singapore)|The Business Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> contributions by Sheares to obstetrics include the [[Lower segment Caesarean section|lower Caesarian section]], which he standardised, that resulted in a lower mortality and [[morbidity]] rate in pregnant women than the upper Caesarian section.<ref name="Eurasians2011">{{cite web |date=June 2011 |title=A Quiet Determination |url=http://www.eurasians.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/April-June-2011.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824005242/http://www.eurasians.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/April-June-2011.pdf |archive-date=24 August 2015 |access-date=4 April 2016 |publisher=Eurasians Singapore}}</ref> Initially, very few Caesarian sections were carried out in Singapore and, when they were, used the upper Caesarian section which was the established method at that time. Despite this, the upper Caesarian section was not used much as it had a high risk of damaging the [[Uterine|uterine scar]] at the woman's next pregnancy. Sheares knew that the lower Caesarian section would be more effective but was unable to perform it under the previous professor, English.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=28 April 1976 |title=Sheares: They Call Him The Father of Obstetrics And Gynaecology In S'pore |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19760428-1.2.68.2 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[New Nation (Singapore)|New Nation]] |pages=10–11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=33–35}}</ref>

During the [[Japanese occupation of Singapore|Japanese occupation]], Sheares became the head of department of obstetrics and gynaecology at KKH. This allowed him to perform the first lower Caesarian section in Singapore which eventually became the standard routine.<ref name=":5" /> Sheares also created a technique to make an [[Vaginoplasty|artificial vagina]] for those born without one due to [[vaginal agenesis]]. The procedure involved surgically creating a cavity between the bladder and the rectum, which was then lined with either a [[Skin grafting|skin graft]] taken from the thigh or buttock, or with a [[Epithelium|membranous tissue]] located between the urethra and the rectum. After he published the method in a 1960 paper, he received praise and worldwide attention from the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia, who saw success with the method by their gynaecologists.<ref name=":8">{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|pp=58–59}}</ref><ref name=":1" /> The technique became known as the "Sheares operation", and is used to help women who suffer from birth defects such as vaginal agenesis or in [[Sex-change operation|sex-change operations]].<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=15 May 1981 |title=Flowers And Tears For Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19810515-1.2.8? |access-date=30 October 2024 |work=[[New Nation (Singapore)|New Nation]] |pages=2 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

The Sheares operation saw mention in the 1960 [[Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the British Empire|''Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the British Empire'']]. Vijayan attributes the success of his 1960 paper to his surgical experience from Sheares's past papers, such as his 1952 MD thesis of birth defects in the [[female reproductive system]] and his 1956 MS thesis on congenital and acquired [[vaginal atresia]]. His research on birth defects relating to the [[uterus]] saw international recognition, and he received the [[Master of Surgery]] from the University of Malaya in Singapore. Sheares authored and published a total of twenty-nine papers from 1940 to 1964.<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=|pp=59–60}}</ref>

==Presidency (1971–1981)==

=== 1970 presidential election ===
[[File:Mr. Lee Kuan Yew at Mayoral reception 1965 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Prime minister [[Lee Kuan Yew]] ''(pictured)'' was a supporter of Sheares' election to the presidency at all three presidential elections.]]
Following the death of incumbent [[President of Singapore|president]] [[Yusof Ishak]], six people – [[Yeoh Ghim Seng]], [[Othman Wok]], [[Wee Chong Jin]], Ismail bin Abdul, [[Punch Coomaraswamy]], and [[A. P. Rajah]] – were considered to be the most likely candidates for the role in November 1970. The president was elected by [[Parliament of Singapore|Parliament]] instead of by [[popular vote]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 November 1970 |title=Who Will Become The Next Head of State? |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19701125-1.2.71 |access-date=17 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=17 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=28 December 1970 |title=President To Be |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19701228-1.2.43.1? |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=10 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> At the [[1970 Singaporean presidential election|1970 presidential election]], then-prime minister [[Lee Kuan Yew]] nominated Sheares to become president and he became the second president of Singapore on 2 January 1971 after he was sworn in, following a unanimous agreement by Parliament.<ref>{{Cite news |date=30 December 1970 |title=Election of President Today |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19701230.2.37 |access-date=17 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=6 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chia |first=Poteik |date=3 January 1971 |title=Sheares Is Sworn In As The President |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710103-1.2.8? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=30 December 1970 |title=Election of President of The Republic of Singapore |url=https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/topic?reportid=009_19701230_S0004_T0025 |access-date=13 December 2024 |publisher=[[Parliament of Singapore]]}}</ref> His mother was 91 years old when she learnt that her son had become the president of Singapore. Just two weeks before she died, she said "God has blessed Bennie especially after the way he looked after us and me."<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=15}}</ref>

Speculation on why Sheares was chosen to become the president include that he was [[Nonpartisanship|non-partisan]], as he was not a part of any political party, or that he was from a [[Demographics of Singapore|minority race in Singapore]], to show the equality in the then-mostly Chinese dominated government. The ''[[Far Eastern Economic Review]]'' stated in a 1971 issue that Sheares was largely chosen due to his profession and success, along with showing diversity in the government. After the [[1959 Singaporean general election|1959 general election]], where the [[People's Action Party]] (PAP) won in a [[landslide victory]], the PAP was critical of the medical profession and the university due to their "flaccid [[anti-colonialism]]". Sheares' appointment to the presidency served as a symbol of unity between the government and academics.<ref name="annals">{{Cite journal |last=Sheares |first=Joseph H. H. |author-link=Joseph Sheares |date=July 2005 |title=Benjamin Henry Sheares, ''MD'', ''MS'', ''FRCOG'': President, Republic of Singapore 1971–1981; Obstetrician and Gynaecologist 1931–1981 : A Biography, 12th August 1907&nbsp;– 12th May 1981 |url=http://annals.edu.sg/pdf/34VolNo6200506/V34N6p25C.pdf |url-status=dead |journal=Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore |volume=34 |issue=6 |pages=25C–41C |doi=10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.V34N6p25C |issn=0304-4602 |pmid=16010377 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060209204009/http://annals.edu.sg/pdf/34VolNo6200506/V34N6p25C.pdf |archive-date=9 February 2006}}</ref>

=== First presidential term (1971–1974) ===
During his first term in 1971, he was appointed [[Chancellor (education)|Chancellor]] of the [[National University of Singapore]] and he served in that role till 1981.<ref>{{Cite news |date=24 March 1971 |title=Sheares Is Varsity's New Chancellor |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710324-1.2.93? |access-date=1 November 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=17 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=30 July 1980 |title=Sheares To Be Chancellor |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19800730-1.2.22.4? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=6 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=28 February 1976 |title=Sheares To Continue As Varsity Chief |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760228-1.2.44? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> That same year, Sheares opened the [[1971 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting]], holding dinners and tours for the representatives.<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 January 1971 |title=Social Events After Sundown For The VIPs |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710114-1.2.56? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=9 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=16 January 1971 |title=Perwakilan C'wealth di-jamu di-Istana |trans-title=Representatives of C'wealth Were Entertained At The Istana |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19710116-1.2.11? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[Berita Harian]] |pages=2 |language=Malay |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In July 1971, Sheares awarded the first [[Singapore Armed Forces Overseas Scholarship]]s, the second highest scholarship award to the [[President's Scholar]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 July 1971 |title=President Praises Student's Decision To Join SAF |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710702-1.2.114? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=20 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In October 1971, Sheares opened the {{SGD|10000000|link=on}} [[Sentosa Satellite Earth Station]], the first site in Singapore to use satellites for communication.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Raman |first=P. M. |date=23 October 1971 |title=Singapore Joins Satellite Club For Communications |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19711023-1.2.34.1? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=9 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Later that month, following the British's announcement of withdrawing their troops from Singapore in August, Sheares attended a dinner in honour of the British's role in Singapore alongside other Parliament members.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chandran |first=R. |date=17 October 1971 |title=Lee's Tribute To British Peace-Keeping Role In S-E Asia |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19711017-1.2.5? |access-date=16 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> The following year, Sheares spoke on the importance of maintaining [[Singapore–United Kingdom relations|relations with the British]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 February 1972 |title=Sheares: We'll Always Value Ties With British |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19720219-1.2.7.12? |access-date=16 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=7 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In February 1972, Sheares hosted a 3-day visit for [[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth II]] and her family's visit to Singapore. He was awarded the Honorary Knight Grand Cross of The Most Honourable [[Order of the Bath]], and gave the [[Order of Temasek]] to Queen Elizabeth II and [[Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh]]. He gave the [[Distinguished Service Order (Singapore)|Distinguished Service Order]] to [[Anne, Princess Royal|Princess Anne]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 February 1972 |title=Sunshine Welcome! |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19720219-1.2.3? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref name=":7" />

In October 1972, Sheares opened the [[3rd Parliament of Singapore|third Parliament]], giving a speech about the new policies of the government for the next five years.<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 October 1972 |title=Sheares To Outline Govt's New Policies |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19721004-1.2.84? |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=19 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=12 October 1972 |title=Ceremonial Opening of Parliament Today |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19721012-1.2.3 |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> He also announced new policies to be implemented in the government, including the periodic investigations of political parties by accountants and auditors, increased subsidiaries in health and education, and increasing the wages of workers.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chia |first=Poteik |last2=Raman |first2=P. M. |date=13 October 1972 |title=Govt Plans Built-In Safeguards |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19721013-1.2.2? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> After the [[1972 Robinsons department store fire|Robinsons department store fire]] in November 1972, Sheares appointed a three-man commission to do an inquiry into the fire in December.<ref>{{Cite news |date=27 December 1972 |title=Judge Heads Fire Inquiry |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19721227-1.2.116 |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=30 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> The report was received by Sheares in August 1973, and released to the public in December 1973.<ref name="Commission">{{cite book |author1= |url=https://eservice.nlb.gov.sg/item_holding.aspx?bid=1390273 |title=Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Robinson's Fire, 1973 |date=1973 |publisher=Singapore National Printers |pages=3–11}}</ref> In February 1973, Sheares met American vice president [[Spiro Agnew]] upon his visit to Singapore, where Agnew discussed problems in [[Southeast Asia]] with other ministers.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Shen |first=Swee Yong |date=6 February 1973 |title=Agnew Has Hour-Long Talks With Lee And Raja |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19730206-1.2.101? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=28 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Wee Lian |date=7 February 1973 |title=Agnew Pledge For A Stable SE-A |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19730207-1.2.5? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In March 1973, Sheares gave a speech at the [[Singapore Red Cross Society]], praising their efforts in fundraising and stating that the society's status would soon be recognised by Singapore.<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 March 1973 |title=Sheares Praises Fund-Raisers of Red Cross Society |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19730316-1.2.56? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In July 1973, after the creation of the [[Presidential Council for Minority Rights]], Sheares swore in the chairman of the council [[Wee Chong Jin]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 July 1973 |title=Role of The Council For Minority Rights — By Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19730721-1.2.66? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In September 1973, Sheares opened the [[1973 SEAP Games|7th]] [[SEA Games|South East Asian Peninsular Games]] at the [[Former National Stadium, Singapore|National Stadium]] as the host country.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chandran |first=R. |date=2 September 1973 |title=Sheares Opens SEAP Games |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19730902-1.2.2? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== 1974 presidential election ===
At the [[1974 Singaporean presidential election|1974 presidential election]], Sheares was nominated by Lee again to continue serving as the president, delivering a motion that Sheares had shown, "courage from tenacity" and had "carried his office with unassuming dignity, application, and self-discipline".<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 November 1974 |title=A Man of Dignity |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19741107-1.2.47.2? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=12}}</ref> Following this motion, Sheares received a unanimous agreement by Parliament and was elected to serve a second term.<ref name=":6">{{Cite news |date=7 November 1974 |title=Sheares Elected To Second Term of Office |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19741107-1.2.4? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== Second presidential term (1974–1978) ===
Whilst serving his second term as president in 1974, Sheares taught demonstration classes at KKH to [[Gynaecology|gynaecologists]].<ref name=":6" /> In February 1974, Sheares assented eight acts including the [[Arms Offences Act]] and the [[List of acts of the Parliament of Singapore|Land Acquisition (Amendment) Act]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=4 February 1974 |title=Sheares Signs Eight Acts Into Law |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19740204-1.2.23? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=5 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In June 1975, Sheares stated that the government expected a growth of five percent in the economy that year.<ref>{{Cite news |date=5 June 1975 |title=Singapore Thrives On Discipline |url=https://access.newspaperarchive.com/ca/manitoba/winnipeg/winnipeg-free-press/1975/06-05/page-84 |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[Winnipeg Free Press]] |pages=84 |via=[[NewspaperArchive]]}}</ref> In July 1975, Sheares was made an honorary fellow of the [[Royal Society of Medicine]] by [[John Stallworthy (obstetrician)|Sir John Stallworthy]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=17 July 1975 |title=Sheares Made Honorary Fellow of RSM... |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19750717-1.2.80? |access-date=30 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=17 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In November 1975, Sheares gave a speech after opening the fifth Pan-Pacific Conference of the International Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled at the [[Singapore Conference Hall]], stating that more security measures should be in place to reduce workplace accidents that leave workers disabled.<ref>{{Cite news |date=3 November 1975 |title=Work On Aiding Disabled 'Now More Complex' |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751103-1.2.51? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=7 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In October 1976, Sheares appointed [[Arumugam Ponnu Rajah]] as a [[Judicial officers of the Republic of Singapore#List of judges of the Supreme Court|judge of the Supreme Court of Singapore]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2 October 1976 |title=Justice Without Fear or Favour |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19761002-1.2.29? |access-date=16 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=5 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In December 1976, Sheares dissolved the third Parliament on the advice of [[Cabinet of Singapore|the Cabinet]], issuing [[Writ of election|Writs of Election]] for the 69 constituencies.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fong |first=Leslie |last2=Lee |first2=Philip |last3=Ngoo |first3=Irene |date=7 December 1976 |title=Polls On Dec. 23 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19761207-1.2.2? |access-date=15 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In 1977, at the opening of the [[4th Parliament of Singapore|fourth Parliament]], Sheares gave a speech addressing the economics and security of Singapore, stating that they have increased from prospects given in October 1972. Sheares also talked about adopting the science, technology, management, and marketing skills from [[Western world|the West]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 February 1977 |title=Sheares: Policies Need Scrutiny And Debate |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19770209-1.2.8? |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Business Times (Singapore)|The Business Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== 1978 presidential election ===
After his second term, Sheares had originally planned to retire as he felt that he did not have the energy for another term. However, Lee persuaded him and Sheares, then aged 71, participated in the [[1978 Singaporean presidential election|1978 presidential election]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=31 December 1978 |title=Sheares Sworn In For Second Term |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781231-1.2.49? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Lee held a motion in Parliament for Sheares' re-election to the office, stating that Sheares, "undertakes his social and protocol functions with conscientious interest, never treating them as perfunctory chores."<ref>{{Cite news |date=30 December 1978 |title=Best Man For The Job |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781230-1.2.4? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

This received unanimous support from Parliament and Sheares was elected to a third term. This also made Sheares the first president to serve three terms. Upon his re-election, Sheares received praise for his service to the presidency from members of parliament [[Yeo Choo Kok]], [[Sidek Saniff|Sidek bin Saniff]], and [[Ang Kok Peng]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=30 December 1978 |title=Unanimous Support For Sheares' Re-election |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781230-1.2.75? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=16 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== Third presidential term (1978–1981) ===
During his third term in 1978, Sheares opened the [[ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly]] at [[Mandarin Hotel]] and the sixth Asia and Oceania Congress of Endocrinology at [[Shangri-La Hotel Singapore|Shangri-La Hotel]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=27 September 1978 |title=Sheares Opens AIPO |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780927-1.2.116? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=28 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=19 January 1978 |title=Sheares To Open Medical Congress |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780119-1.2.58? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> At the latter, Sheares gave a speech on how more research in [[family planning]] for women was needed to strengthen future policies.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 January 1978 |title=Sheares: More Family Planning Study Needed |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780123-1.2.86? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=24 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In October 1978, Sheares appointed [[T. S. Sinnathuray]] as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Singapore.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hwang |first=T. F. |date=3 October 1978 |title=Sinna's Call To His Brothers In Law |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781003-1.2.71? |access-date=16 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=11 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 September 1978 |title=Elevated |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19780922-1.2.50? |access-date=16 December 2024 |work=[[The Business Times (Singapore)|The Business Times]] |pages=12 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In 1979, Sheares assented multiple acts such as the [[List of acts of the Parliament of Singapore#1979|Money-Changing and Remittance Business Act 1979]] and the [[List of acts of the Parliament of Singapore|State Immunity Act 1979]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=8 October 1979 |title=President's Assent For These Acts |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19791008-1.2.36? |access-date=13 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Throughout the 1970s, the [[trade union]] in Singapore had been growing exponentially, especially that of the [[National Trades Union Congress]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://archive.org/details/managementofsuce0000unse |title=Management of Success: The Moulding of Modern Singapore |date=1989 |publisher=[[Institute of Southeast Asian Studies]] |isbn=978-9971-988-96-8 |pages=164 |access-date=16 December 2024}}</ref> In 1980, Sheares was involved in improving commercial and economic relations with Kuwait after a visit by the Emir of Kuwait [[Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah|Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah]] where they discussed strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Teo |first=Edmund |date=21 September 1980 |title=Singapore Economic Mission To Boost Ties In Kuwait |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19800921-1.2.30? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=5 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In February 1981, Sheares opened the [[5th Parliament of Singapore|fifth Parliament]] and gave a 15-minute long speech.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Thomas |first=Margaret |date=4 February 1981 |title=Sheares Underscores Virtues of Success |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19810204-1.2.6? |access-date=14 December 2024 |work=[[The Business Times (Singapore)|The Business Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Sheares served his third term as president until his death in office in March 1981.<ref name=":3" /> [[Devan Nair]] succeeded him as president.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fernandez |first=Ivan |date=13 October 1981 |title=Man Who Will Be The People's President |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19811013-1.2.67? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=14 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> According to a medical assistant of his, Sheares had possibly donated his entire salary as president to charity.<ref>{{cite news |author1=Chew |first=Shing Chai |date=10 August 2011 |title=Good Presidents Past |url=http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_700466.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110817060335/http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/Story/STIStory_700466.html |archive-date=17 August 2011 |access-date=19 September 2017 |work=[[The Straits Times]]}}</ref>

==Personal life==
[[File:Benjamin Sheares and his family.jpg|thumb|Sheares with his family {{Circa|1946}}]]
Sheares' first wife was Wong Ah Foon, whom he married in 1931<ref>{{Harvnb|Vijayan|2025|p=13}}</ref> and divorced in 1947.<ref>{{Cite news |date=20 February 1947 |title=Sheares Divorce |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/maltribune19470220-1.2.96? |access-date=8 May 2025 |work=[[Malaya Tribune]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> He married his second wife [[Yeo Seh Geok]], a trained [[midwife]], in 1939 and they had three children together.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lim |first=Suan Koon |date=3 January 1971 |title=The New First Lady Has Grace And Charm To Win The Hearts of All |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19710103-1.2.36.5? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=10 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Their daughter, [[Constance Sheares|Constance]], is an arts administrator, curator, and writer.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Lo |first=Tien Yin |date=22 August 1988 |title=Local Artists Gain Respect |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/newpaper19880822-1.2.20.1 |access-date=18 November 2020 |work=[[The New Paper]] |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Their son, [[Joseph Sheares|Joseph]], is a surgeon who specialises in [[cardiothoracic surgery]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=13 August 1993 |title=Sheares Has A Smile, Thanks To Son's Help |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19930813-1.2.38.3? |access-date=8 May 2025 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=27 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

In 1939, he was [[Exoneration|exonerated of all blame]] for a traffic accident where he hit a ten-year-old boy.<ref>{{Cite news |date=17 October 1939 |title=Doctor Exonerated From Blame |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/maltribune19391017-1.2.28?qt=sheares&q=Sheares |access-date=8 May 2025 |work=[[Malaya Tribune]] |pages=3 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In 1955, Sheares and his family were robbed in their [[bungalow]], which was provided by the University of Malaya in Singapore, and had {{SGD|10000|link=on}} worth of jewellery and cash stolen from them.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 July 1955 |title=Prof. Sheares Robbed: 6 Men Take $10,000 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19550722-1.2.18? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> In November 1971, Sheares underwent medical treatment for a [[vascular disorder]] in the United States as the operation required had not yet been developed in Singapore.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 November 1971 |title=President Sheares Off To U.S. For Medical Treatment |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19711122-1.2.11? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> He returned in February 1972.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1 January 1972 |title=Sheares Due Back In A Month |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19720101-1.2.18 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=2 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

== Death and funeral ==
{{multiple image
| align             = left
| direction         = vertical
| width             = 200
| header            = 
| image1            = ST13May1981.jpg
| image2            = Tomb of President Benjamin Sheares.jpg
| caption2          = ''[[The Straits Times]]''' report on 13 May 1981 on Sheares' death ''(top)'' and his grave at [[Kranji State Cemetery]] ''(bottom)''.
}}
On 2 March 1981, it was discovered that Sheares had [[lung cancer]]. On May 3, Sheares suffered from a [[Ischemic stroke|brainstem ischaemia]] which caused him to go unconscious.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Philip |date=13 June 1981 |title='He Was A Good Man' |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810613-1.2.2? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> On 7 May, Sheares slipped into a coma after developing a [[Cerebral Haemorrhage|cerebral haemorrhage]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=11 May 1981 |title=Sheares In A Coma |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810511.2.2 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> On 12 May, two nurses from the [[Ministry of Health (Singapore)|Ministry of Health]] and a security officer with [[Oxygen tank|oxygen cylinders]] and a stretcher were sent to his house. He died later that day at 2:10 pm.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=12 May 1981 |title=Sheares Dies |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19810512-2.2.2? |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[New Nation (Singapore)|New Nation]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

News of his death was first announced at 2:47 pm and all scheduled radio and television programs were cancelled. The flag at [[Former City Hall, Singapore|City Hall]] was flown at [[half-mast]] in respect. An [[open casket]] service was held at his home with the first visitors being Chief Justice [[Wee Chong Jin]] and his wife, deputy prime minister [[Goh Keng Swee]] and his wife, and prime minister [[Lee Kuan Yew]], [[Kwa Geok Choo|Lee's wife]], and [[Lee Wei Ling|Lee's daughter]]. Other visitors included environment minister [[Ong Pang Boon]] and member of parliament [[Lee Chiaw Meng]].<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Lee |first1=Philip |last2=Ngoo |first2=Irene |last3=Bala |first3=K. |date=13 May 1981 |title=Singapore Mourns |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810513-1.2.2 |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

Sheares' body was [[laid in state]] on 14 May with about 85,000 people showing up to pay their respects on 15 May.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Lee |first1=Philip |last2=Ngoo |first2=Irene |last3=Bala |first3=K. |last4=Han |first4=Jalean |date=15 May 1981 |title=The People's Tribute |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810515-1.2.3 |url-access=subscription |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]] |quote=Eighty-five thousand Singaporeans each bade a silent personal farewell to the late President Sheares as his body lay in state at the Istana yesterday.}}</ref> On 16 May, Sheares' coffin was carried from [[the Istana]] to [[Kranji State Cemetery]] to be buried where he was given a [[21-gun salute]] by the [[Singapore Armed Forces]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Teo |first=Lian Huay |date=16 May 1981 |title=All Eyes On The Last Journey |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19810516-1.2.77? |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[New Nation (Singapore)|New Nation]] |pages=26–27 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Foreign dignitaries who attended his funeral include Indonesian president [[Suharto]], Thai prime minister [[Prem Tinsulanonda]], Malaysian deputy prime minister [[Mahathir Mohamad]], governor of Malacca [[Syed Zahiruddin|Syed Zahiruddin Syed Hassan]], and Filipino speaker of the house [[Querube Makalintal]]. Other countries such as New Zealand, Myanmar, Japan, South Korea, Brunei, Maldives, Nauru, Sri Lanka, United States, and Australia also sent their representatives.<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 May 1981 |title=Suharto Heads The Attending Funeral |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810515-1.2.8 |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last1=Lee |first1=Philip |last2=Ngoo |first2=Irene |date=16 May 1981 |title=Moving But Dignified Ceremony |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810516-1.2.3 |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

United States president [[Ronald Reagan]] stated that Sheares' had "an unselfish public devotion which all Americans admire." Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia [[Ahmad Shah of Pahang|Sultan Ahmad Shah]] stated that he was "an illustrious son of Singapore who had contributed much to the existing close relationship between [the] two countries."<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 May 1981 |title=More Messages of Condolence |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810514-1.2.34? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref> Prime minister Lee said that "his humble and unassuming manner belied an intense commitment to excellence".<ref name=":4">{{Cite news |date=13 June 1981 |title='He's Gave Me A Lesson On How To Die, How To Leave This World In Grace And In Dignity' |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810613-1.2.43 |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=10 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

=== Legacy ===
Sheares is the first and only president to serve three terms and was also the longest-serving president at 10 years, before it was surpassed by [[S. R. Nathan]] in January 2010, who served for 12 years.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chong |first=Zi Liang |date=22 August 2016 |title=Former President S R Nathan Dies, Aged 92 |url=https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/former-president-sr-nathan-dies-aged-92 |access-date=21 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |language=en |issn=0585-3923}}</ref>

Locations in Singapore such as the [[Benjamin Sheares Bridge]], Sheares Avenue, and Sheares Link are named after him.<ref>{{Cite news |date=16 August 1994 |title=How They Came To Be Named |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940816-1.2.34.18 |access-date=15 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=27 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rashid |first=Amierul |date=27 August 2023 |title=Monuments, Landmarks And More: Legacy of Singapore's Former Presidents |url=https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/monuments-landmarks-and-more-legacy-former-singapore-presidents |access-date=16 October 2024 |website=[[AsiaOne]]}}</ref> In academia, the student's residence Sheares Hall at the [[National University of Singapore]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=History |url=https://nus.edu.sg/osa/sheareshall/about/history |access-date=16 October 2024 |website= |publisher=[[National University of Singapore]]}}</ref> Benjamin Henry Sheares Professorship in Obstetrics & Gynaecology,<ref>{{cite web |title=Continuing The Medical Legacy of Prof Benjamin Sheares |url=https://www.singhealth.com.sg/rhs/news/giving-philanthropy/continuing-the-medical-legacy-of-prof-benjamin-sheares |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127015340/https://www.singhealth.com.sg/rhs/news/giving-philanthropy/continuing-the-medical-legacy-of-prof-benjamin-sheares |archive-date=27 November 2022 |access-date=4 June 2020 |website=[[SingHealth]]}}</ref> Benjamin Sheares Professorship in Academic Medicine,<ref>{{cite web |title=Professor Soo Khee Chee Named Benjamin Sheares Professor of Academic Medicine |url=https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/news/professor-soo-khee-chee-named-benjamin-sheares-professor-academic-medicine |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109080613/https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/news/professor-soo-khee-chee-named-benjamin-sheares-professor-academic-medicine |archive-date=9 January 2015 |access-date=9 January 2015 |publisher=[[Duke–NUS Medical School]]}}</ref> and the Benjamin Sheares College at the [[Duke–NUS Medical School|Duke–NUS Graduate Medical School]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Duke-NUS Medical School Names Its Advisory Colleges |url=http://newshub.nus.edu.sg/headlines/0510/dukenus_21May10.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823060457/http://newshub.nus.edu.sg/headlines/0510/dukenus_21May10.php |archive-date=23 August 2011 |access-date=1 April 2011 |publisher=[[National University of Singapore]]}}</ref> are all named after him.

== Honours ==

===Foreign===
* Kelantan
** [[File:My-KEL Order of the Life of the Crown of Kelantan 1925-2006.svg|65x65px]] Honorary Commander of the [[Order of the Life of the Crown of Kelantan]] (1964)<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 July 1964 |title=Chief of Staff Heads Ruler's Awards List |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitsbudget19640715-1.2.89 |access-date=1 January 2025 |work=[[The Straits Budget]] |pages=16 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>
* Kedah:
**[[File:MY-KED Exalted Order of the Crown of Kedah - Knight Commander (DPMK).svg|65px]] Knight Commander of the [[Order of the Crown of Kedah]] (1968)<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 February 1968 |title=Kedah Sultan Honours Prof. Sheares |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19680223-1.2.45 |access-date=10 December 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=7 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>
* United Kingdom:
**[[File:Order of the Bath UK ribbon.svg|65px]] Honorary Knight Grand Cross of The Most Honourable [[Order of the Bath]] (GCB) (1972)<ref>{{Cite news |date=19 February 1972 |title=Baginda Ratu kurniakan bintang kpd Presiden |trans-title=Her Majesty The Queen Bestows A Star On The President |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19720219-1.2.3? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[Berita Harian]] |pages=1 |language=Malay |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite news |date=19 February 1972 |title=Order of Temasek For Queen And The Duke |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19720219-1.2.2? |access-date=30 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=1 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>
* Indonesia:
**[[File:Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna rib.svg|65px]] First Class of the [[Star of the Republic of Indonesia]] (1974)<ref>{{Cite news |last=Raman |first=P. M. |date=30 August 1974 |title=21-Gun Salute And 400-Man Honour Guard |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19740830-1.2.27.1? |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=8 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>
* Phillippines:
**[[File:PHI Order of Sikatuna 2003 Grand Collar BAR.svg|65px]] Grand Collar of the [[Order of Sikatuna]], Rank of Raja (GCS) (1976)<ref>{{Cite news |date=28 January 1976 |title=The Highest Honour... |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760128-1.2.32 |access-date=16 October 2024 |work=[[The Straits Times]] |pages=9 |via=[[NewspaperSG]]}}</ref>

==See also==
* [[President of Singapore]]
* [[Benjamin Sheares Bridge]]
{{clear}}

==References==
=== Notes ===
{{notelist}}

=== Citations ===
{{Reflist}}

=== Bibliography ===

* {{Cite book |last=Vijayan |first=K. C. |title=The Benjamin Sheares Story: From Pioneering Gynaecologist to Singapore President |date=24 November 2025 |publisher=[[ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute]] |isbn=9789815306354}}

== Further reading ==

* {{cite web |date=June 2011 |title=A Quiet Determination |url=http://www.eurasians.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/April-June-2011.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824005242/http://www.eurasians.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/April-June-2011.pdf |archive-date=24 August 2015 |access-date=4 April 2016 |publisher=Eurasians Singapore}}
* {{Cite journal |last=Sheares |first=Joseph H. H. |author-link=Joseph Sheares |date=July 2005 |title=Benjamin Henry Sheares, ''MD'', ''MS'', ''FRCOG'': President, Republic of Singapore 1971–1981; Obstetrician and Gynaecologist 1931–1981 : A Biography, 12th August 1907&nbsp;– 12th May 1981 |url=http://annals.edu.sg/pdf/34VolNo6200506/V34N6p25C.pdf |url-status=dead |journal=Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore |volume=34 |issue=6 |pages=25C–41C |doi=10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.V34N6p25C |issn=0304-4602 |pmid=16010377 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060209204009/http://annals.edu.sg/pdf/34VolNo6200506/V34N6p25C.pdf |archive-date=9 February 2006 |access-date=2 May 2025}}

== External links ==

* {{Commons category-inline|Benjamin Sheares}}
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{{succession box
| before = [[Yusof Ishak]]
| title = [[President of Singapore]]
| years = 1970–1981
| after = [[Devan Nair]]
}}
{{end}}{{Portal bar|Singapore|Biography|Medicine}}{{Singapore Presidents}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Sheares, Benjamin Henry}}