In anticipation that The Straits Times will once again reject my press letter, I wrote to DPM Heng Swee Keat & the COVID -19 Ministerial Task Force on this value-added idea. Take a read, folks:
Dear DPM Heng & Ministers,
Do consider this. I appreciate a reply.
Tks
Raymond Anthony Fernando
With rebates, telcos can help people stay at home
Given the rise in the number of COVID -19 cases, it has become necessary for the government to roll out more stringent measures to tackle the virus.
We cannot deny that social distancing and self-isolation will be a challenge for many people. This is because humans are by nature innately sociable. More so because from history to the modern day we’ve lived in groups – in villages, communities and family units.
It is a fact that social isolation can have a negative impact in our lives, both for the young and the old.
One way to better manage self-isolation, especially for the elderly lonely and the vulnerable groups is to use the phone or technology. Where feasible gather a group of people to stay in touch with the elderly lonely and vulnerable groups.
With technology, staying at home helps us to stay in touch with one another with minimum loss of connectivity. Those with smartphones can use the video capabilities because seeing someone’s facial expressions can help increase connection where support, care and love during a crisis makes a big difference.
Singapore Power and the Town Councils are standing alongside the government by providing rebates and waivers for between 1.5 to 3 months.
That said, I urge the telcos to do the same as phone charges and internet usage can be rather costly, especially for the middle and lower-income groups.
Raymond Anthony Fernando
