I was saddened to hear of the death of Mr Pakir Singh, former chief executive of the Singapore Hotel Association and Shatec, and father of Singapore's hospitality training.

He was a symbol of the dynamism and idealism of his generation. He was a natural student leader and earned my respect and attention, not by his brilliance, debating skills or discipline, but by his non-parochial sociability and openness.

There were absolutely no barriers of religion, class or racialism in him. It was a joy to be in such delightful company.

Later in life, Mr Singh showed us what creative journalism was, though his writings in the local papers. We lamented the day he left the world of journalism because his values were reflected in his writing.

Students, journalists, hoteliers and employees whom he worked with will surely miss him.

My condolences and those of my family go to his loved ones.

Haji Zainuddin Hj Mohd Ismail