SINGAPORE - Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, in a letter to US President Barack Obama on Monday (June 13), conveyed his condolences on Sunday's shooting at an Orlando nightclub - the worst mass shooting in US history.
Mr Lee wrote that he was "deeply shocked and saddened" by the tragic event, which killed 50 people and injured 53 more.
"On behalf of the Government and people of Singapore, I offer my deepest condolences to the victims and their families on this horrific tragedy," he said.
"Nothing can excuse such brutal and senseless acts of violence. Singapore and Singaporeans stand in solidarity with the United States and the American people during this time of grief."
Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, wrote in a Facebook post: "Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones, and to those who are suffering from the trauma of the shooting,"
"Let us treasure the peace and harmony we enjoy in Singapore, and focus on the common humanity we share, rather than allow those with bad motives to divide us or create conflict," he added.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Monday (June 13) morning that the Singapore Embassy in Washington had contacted most of the Singaporeans registered in Orlando, and ascertained that they are safe.
It added that there are no reports of Singaporeans affected by the incident.
In a Facebook post, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam wrote: "It just goes on and on. The madness is not going to stop. We watch, and ask when and where such terror will strike next."
Mr Shanmugam added that Singapore should be prepared to respond "hard and fast" if terror strikes.
Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen wrote in his post: "It has no place among peace-loving communities - no religion or belief condones it. No motivation justifies such a senseless and heinous act."
Dr Ng also said such incidents are no longer "isloated or uncommon", and urged Singaporeans to be constantly vigilant and to protect each other.
Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan described the shooting as "senseless and tragic".
"Our deepest condolences and prayers for the victims and their families," he said.
