Having worked at the former Fullerton Building from 1961 to 1997, I was filled with a deep sense of nostalgia and joy to read that the iconic building has been gazetted as Singapore's 71st national monument ("Fullerton holds special meaning for Singaporeans, says PM Lee" and "Fullerton Building now a national monument"; both published on Tuesday).

This majestic edifice is steeped in history.

It was the mile zero from which distances were calculated in Singapore.

It housed the General Post Office, as well as various government organisations that provided vital services, and formed the planning nerve centre for the infrastructural and technological modernisation of our country.

Historic events that shaped our nation's destiny took place within its corridors and vicinity.

It was where the British decided to surrender to the Japanese in World War II, where the Japanese governed Singapore from, and near the site of the People's Action Party's electrifying lunchtime election rallies.

It has also hosted many foreign dignitaries, including former United States president Bill Clinton.

The Fullerton Building has contributed immensely to the richness of Singapore's history since its inception in 1928.

Its dynamic transformation over the years is a reflection of the nation's own metamorphosis from a Third World village to a thriving First World metropolis.

V. Subramaniam (Dr)