 Singapore 's Elected Presidency scheme was created as a constitutional safeguard for the nation 's future to prevent irresponsible governance . Being directly elected by the people gives the President legitimacy and moral authority to serve as a check on the executive 's powers . The President 's two main responsibilities are the protection of Singapore 's past reserves and the preservation of the integrity of the public service . However , the President 's role is custodial and ceremonial – he does not exercise executive powers . In fact , the President is generally required to act in accordance with the advice of the Cabinet , or of a Minister acting under the general authority of the Cabinet , in the exercise of his functions under the Constitution or any other written law , unless the contrary is expressly provided for . 
