Raymond's letter to The New Paper: Compassion for dying child shows kampung spirit

Last week, a mother and child from China fell from their Bukit Batok flat. This is yet another tragedy that's so heart-wrenching. Read my response to that tragic incident in The New Paper.

Raymond's letter to The New Paper: Compassion for dying child shows kampung spirit


This letter was published today- Friday 22 April 2011, in The New Paper.

I refer to the report, “He watches as 9-year-old slowly fades away” (The New Paper, April 16).

While I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two lives through yet another tragedy, I am encouraged by the public spiritedness demonstrated by Mr Phil Devlin.

This Singaporean permanent resident from Australia went out of his way to try to save the life of the 9-year-old girl and comfort her.

It provides a classic example of how the kampung spirit can be revived here.

Mr Devlin proves that those from outside Singapore can not only contribute to the economic growth of this country, but can also play an equally important role in serving the needs of our people.

Though the child did not survive the fall, Mr Devlin's compassion and readiness to help another human being is notable. He should be commended by the authorities.

Such a commendation will go a long way in promoting a sense of caring and mutual concern for one another in our neighbourhoods.

If such virtues can infect everyone in our society, then we may see fewer such tragedies.

The Government, for its part, should provide a better support system for people who are unable to cope with the stresses of life.

Many people either just don't know where to go for help or are unwillingly to seek assistance.

Hence the need to reach out to these vulnerable groups.

RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO