Public holiday on July 14 a hoax: President's Office

SINGAPORE - The President's Office clarified Monday afternoon that they did not issue a letter declaring July 14 a public holiday.

The President's Office said in a statement to the media: "It has come to our attention that there is a letter circulating on mobile and online platforms in the name of President Tony Tan Keng Yam declaring today (14 July) a public holiday.

"We would like to clarify that the President's Office did not issue such a letter."

The letter, which claimed to be written by President Tony Tan, declares July 14 as a public holiday to allow Singaporeans a chance to watch the World Cup Final and bond with each other.

According to the hoax letter, the decision had the approval of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Government offices will be closed as well.

"Public holidays are announced by the Ministry of Manpower and can be found on their website," added the President's Office.

natlim@sph.com.sg