A Singaporean man, known only as “Z,” has successfully raised over S$30,000 to help a family whose Bukit Merah flat was destroyed in a fire. The fundraising campaign, which began on Sep. 15 via TikTok, quickly garnered support, with more than S$4,000 raised in the first phase by Sep. 17. However, the family has since indicated that they do not require further donations.
Background
The fire, which broke out on Sep. 10, left the Liu family in a difficult situation, having lost all their belongings. Liu, a cleaner, and his wife, a canteen stall assistant, have a combined monthly income of about S$2,000, making it challenging to replace essential items. Their 11-year-old daughter was particularly affected, losing her school computer and personal belongings.
Raising funds
Z, who runs the TikTok page “Something For Someone,” decided to use his platform to help the Liu family after seeing public interest in assisting them. He set up a PayNow QR code for donations and shared it on TikTok. Z visited the empty flat in Bukit Merah, leaving a note and a plushie as a gesture of hope. Despite concerns about the handling of donations, Z assured that his intentions were sincere and focused on helping the family.
“I have always believed in the good of helping others regardless if they are a stranger or not. I am here to inspire others, [and] small gestures can go a long way,” Z said.
Not moving back
On Sep. 17, Z handed over more than S$4,000 in cash to Liu, who expressed gratitude for the support. Liu mentioned that the family had received various donated items, including furniture and appliances, and had settled into their new home. They have decided not to return to their Bukit Merah flat.
“Liu would like to thank everyone for their concern, love, and donations. It will help them a lot to cooperate after the incident,” Z wrote on TikTok.
Help from MP
Radin Mas Member of Parliament Melvin Yong also visited the Liu family. In a Facebook post on Sep. 16, Yong confirmed that the family had settled into their new accommodation and thanked local grassroots leaders and the family service centre for their support.
“I am relieved that there were no serious injuries reported due to the fire incident and those conveyed to the hospital for smoke inhalation have all returned home safely,” Yong wrote.
Family does not require more donations
The Radin Mas Constituency Office confirmed that various government agencies are aware of Liu’s situation and are monitoring it. However, the family has expressed frustration with social media comments and indicated that they do not need further donations. Z has since closed the fundraiser earlier than planned and is considering distributing the remaining funds to neighbours affected by the fire or donating to another charity.
“This is not my money, this is money of the people. I will make sure it is handled properly,” Z stated.
Difficult situation
Liu previously told Shin Min Daily News that the fire was likely caused by his three-year-old son playing with a lighter. The family faced a tough situation, losing all their belongings and struggling to replace essential items on their limited income.
Small acts of kindness
Z is no stranger to acts of kindness. In June 2024, he provided drinks to workers cleaning up an oil spill at East Coast Park and has performed other small gestures, such as giving out drinks to strangers and helping people in the rain.
“I have always believed in the good of helping others regardless if they are a stranger or not. I am here to inspire others; small gestures can go a long way. Even things that are non-monetary can help, like words of encouragement and acts of service,” Z said.
