Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli concluded a “fulfilling trip” to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan from September 1 to 4, 2024. During his visit, he engaged in dialogues with Emirati and Jordanian leaders on cooperation in areas such as Islamic education, social and family development, including support for persons with disabilities, and humanitarian aid to Gaza. On September 4, Masagos witnessed the handover of a US$854,000 (S$1.1 million) cheque by Singapore charity Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) to the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), marking the second and final tranche of donations raised during Ramadan.
Background
The donation presented by RLAF is part of a larger fundraising effort that collected a total of S$2.1 million from March 20 to 26, 2024. The funds are aimed at providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, focusing on children, women, and families affected by the ongoing crisis. The first tranche of S$1 million was handed over to UNICEF in Singapore on April 16, 2024, by former RLAF CEO Muhammad Faizal Othman. The initiative underscores Singapore’s commitment to humanitarian causes and its proactive role in global efforts to improve the well-being of communities in need.
Funds have been well-utilised to assist children, women, and families in Gaza: RLAF
According to a press release by RLAF, CEO Adnan Abdul Hamid presented the second symbolic cheque to UNICEF, marking the successful completion of the donation transfer. “RLAF is satisfied that the funds have been well-utilised so far to assist children, women, and families in Gaza, ensuring that critical needs are met effectively,” the charity stated. The donations support the establishment of safe Temporary Learning Spaces in shelters for internally displaced children, serving as hubs for informal education, social and emotional support, and essential services for 840 children aged seven to 13. Additionally, 24 teachers are being trained to deliver crucial educational and emotional support to children affected by the crisis. To date, RLAF has raised S$10.2 million over two campaigns, contributing to Singapore’s total aid of S$17 million for Gaza.
Deeply grateful for overwhelming support by the people of Singapore: Masagos
In a Facebook post on September 4, Masagos expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the people of Singapore. “Many have contributed generously to this humanitarian relief effort dedicated to the children, women, and families in Gaza affected by the crisis,” he said. He also thanked the Jordanian government for supporting Singapore’s efforts to facilitate the third tranche of humanitarian aid to Gaza in March 2024, noting that Jordan plays an important role in the current Middle Eastern regional tensions. “This joint effort underscores our shared commitment to help the Palestinian Authorities and the people of Gaza affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis,” Masagos wrote. He assured that Singapore will continue to work with Middle Eastern partners to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and ensure that the aid reaches those in dire need.
Future implications and ongoing efforts
Singapore’s aid to Gaza since the start of the current crisis serves as a tangible demonstration of the nation’s dedication to humanitarian causes. The funds raised and the collaborative efforts with international organisations like UNICEF highlight Singapore’s proactive role in global humanitarian efforts. Moving forward, Singapore aims to continue its partnerships with Middle Eastern countries to provide timely and effective aid to those affected by crises. The ongoing support and future initiatives will focus on addressing immediate needs and contributing to long-term recovery and development in affected regions.
