SINGAPORE - A Tamil-language version of former President S R Nathan's memoirs was launched at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Little India on Saturday morning.

The translation of the English publication - first released in 2011 and titled "An Unexpected Journey: Path to the Presidency" - was a result of a year-long effort undertaken by Mr A Palaniappan, the Head Specialist (English/Tamil) at the Language Services Department in Parliament.

The event was attended by more than 300 guests, which included Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Law K Shanmugam.

Tamil Murasu, the Tamil-language daily of Singapore Press Holdings, sponsored the translating and publishing costs, as a gift for the Tamil community.

It is not available for sale, but copies can be obtained through donations made to the Singapore Indian Development Association (Sinda).

It will also be given free to Tamil students at Tamil Murasu events.

In the 678-page book, Mr S R Nathan recounts his difficult childhood, his experiences during the Japanese occupation in World War 2, and his time in public office.