SINGAPORE - Ex-convicts released from prison will soon get financial help from a new fund that will fully sponsor their studies.

Launched on Tuesday at the Supreme Court, the Yellow Ribbon Fund Subhas Anandan Star Bursary Award will be supported through donations and fundraising activities. About $100,000 has been raised so far.

The new fund is named after veteran criminal lawyer Subhas Anandan, 66, as a tribute to him.

The initiative is spearheaded by the Association of Muslim Lawyers and will be administered by the Yellow Ribbon Fund, which helps in the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders.

Law Minister K. Shanmugam, the guest of the honour at the event, said: "No matter what the crime... Subhas will represent the accused and make sure the case is put forward fairly and ably. By displaying compassion for the accused, and faith in his reformation, Subhas sets an example for all lawyers."

In his speech, Mr Subhas thanked his family and friends for their support and encouragement earlier this year when he was diagnosed with kidney failure, and said it was an honour to have such a tribute paid to him.

"It is even more prestigious for me, because it is (by) the Association of Muslim Lawyers for a non-Muslim like me," he said.

Selection for applicants of this fund will start next year. Inmates who are due for release soon or ex-offenders who have been released not more than two years from the prisons can apply. Those interested can write in to yellow_ribbon_proj@yahoo.com.sg to apply.