Unfeatured letter to the ST Forum: Attitudes toward pathways can make a significant impact The writer brings up some strong points in his letter, "Do more to balance needs of all users on pathways" (July 9, 2025). At 75, as an elderly individual with severe mobility challenges, I’ve encountered both considerate and less thoughtful cyclists. Some wheelchair users can also be inconsiderate when manoeuvring their devices. One morning, while driving my motorised wheelchair, a couple with their two young children stopped, asked their kids to let me pass, smiled warmly, and told me to take care. Their kindness deeply moved me, and I spoke with them. A few years ago, while cautiously entering an MRT train with a quad stick, some passengers pretended to sleep, but several Bangladeshi workers immediately offered me a seat. Many elderly individuals with mobility issues have shared similar positive experiences about these construction workers. On another occasion, an elderly woman standing in the train called out to able-bodied passengers, urging them to offer me a seat. With mobility challenges, as the body weakens, I’ve met very helpful bus captains, although some find it burdensome to lower the ramps. Ultimately, it all comes down to attitudes and social responsibility. Raymond Anthony Fernando

Saturday June 14, 2025 Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow Mrs Josephine Teo MFA Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Dear DPM Gan & ministers, Help raise funds for the families who perished in the Air India plane crash Reference the above urgent matter. The incident has been described as the world’s most devastating aviation disaster in a decade, leaving only one survivor among the 242 passengers. On board were two pilots and ten cabin crew members. The passengers included 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. Will the families of the deceased cope, particularly if the victims were the primary breadwinners? Did they have travel insurance? Will this tragic event lead to an increase in travel insurance premiums? The Singapore Government and the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) have pledged a total of $505,000 in humanitarian aid to support relief efforts amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. This commendable act has brought significant recognition to Singapore, its government, and its people on the global stage. Several points stand out: (1) The affected families are likely to face challenges such as depression and other severe mental health disorders; (2) the aviation industry may suffer setbacks; (3) travellers could experience anxiety; and (4) collective and concerted efforts are essential to restore the reputation of the airline industry. Singapore has had strong bilateral relations with India for decades. Building upon this foundation could assist Prime Minister Modi in managing this devastating crisis more effectively. In light of this, I urge DPM Gan and his colleagues to consider raising the much-needed funds to help grieving families rebuild their lives. Fundraising is a challenging endeavour, and planning a successful campaign requires careful strategy. The Indian channel Vasantham could host an event encouraging voluntary contributions from donors. Vasantham is a Singapore-based Indian language (predominantly Tamil) entertainment free-to-view commercial broadcast television network owned by MediaCorp, a subsidiary of the Government of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund, Temasek Holdings. Additionally, the Indian Chamber of Commerce could reach out to affluent members of the Indian community for this purpose. We could draw inspiration from the mission of the Three Musketeers: All for one and one for all. I kindly request a response from DPM Gan and look forward to your valuable consideration and support. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

It's all in he brain, its all in the heart : By: Raymond Anthony Fernando

On this urgent matter, I will focus on the lack of support from the Agency of Integrated Care (AIC) following my severe mobility issues. It centres in my brain where there are high levels of protein stuck inside, and what is vitally needed is being able to be kind and compassionate from the heart. After succeeding in securing the partial disability allowance of $400 per month from AIC through the assistance of Ms. Aileen Chin, the kind-hearted social worker from Tan Tock Seng Hospital, I made an error in judgment by applying for a full disability allowance on March 16, 2025, as my condition is worsening with nerve problems in my hands, pain in my shoulder bones, and giddiness. AIC directed two of its staff, Victor and a therapist, Irene, to visit me on Friday, 15 March 2025, at 3 pm. The assessment took just 10 minutes, and I felt uncomfortable with the manner in which both wanted to rush off. On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, as expected, I again received bad news: my appeal for the restoration of my monthly disability allowance, which I am heavily dependent on to pay for my meals, transport, and vitamins, was again rejected. I copied my appeal to my Member of Parliament, Yip Hon Weng, whom I find is pretty helpful. I was hopeful that he would speak up on my behalf. I still do. My appeal was also copied to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, all of whom I have placed my full faith in. I trust that they will not let me down. More so when these leaders have assured all Singaporeans that no one will be left behind. Application for donations from Hope GIVE. Asia A friend suggested that I apply to the above social media platform for help. After going through several rounds of answering their queries, they also rejected my pleas for help. It turned out to be another fruitless exercise. Believing in myself Despite all the hardships and rejections time and again, I will not give up. The fighting spirit in me reminds me that I have to believe in myself. If I walk by myself, it's OK, as I know it is only me whom I can trust. In believing in myself, I can sit differently, I can read things differently, I can look at life differently, and I can advocate differently. The key is to keep believing in myself.

Reply from MOH

20th March 2024 Dear Mr Raymond, Thank you for your suggestions on 9 March 2024, received by the Ministry of Health regarding the need to improve mental health awareness and reduce stigma of mental illnesses. We wish to share that this is a focus area of the National Mental Health and Well-Being Strategy which was launched last year, and there have been ongoing efforts to address this. One example is the Health Promotion Board (HPB)’s “It’s OKAY to Reach Out” campaign in 2021 which strived to normalise conversations on mental health and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. The Beyond the Label (BTL) Movement started by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) since 2018 is another campaign that raises mental health awareness and combats stigma. We are also enhancing mental health literacy and building resilience among our youth through the Character and Citizenship Education curriculum in schools. Students are taught to overcome stigma and show care, respect and empathy to all. In Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), students are trained to provide emotional support to their peers in mental distress. Today, over 48,000 frontline personnel such as the police, school teachers and other frontline personnel have received training to detect and support individuals with mental health issues. Such training would be extended to more segments of our population to further strengthen our community support networks and our collective resolve as a society to overcome stigma. We appreciate the time taken to share your concerns with us. Thank you and we wish you good health. Yours sincerely, Siti Hanom for Quality Service Manager Ministry of Health, Singapore

Silver Ribbon Singapore Porche Poh who is their Executive Director wrote a timely press letter to the Straits Times Forum. I followed up with my views as well. Unfortunately, it was not published, as I had expected. Here is my article: Letter to the forum: Adopt a more compassionate, caring and understanding approach to mental illness I agree wholeheartedly with Silver Ribbon Singapore’s Porsche Poh that the police must be competent in handling persons with mental disorders (Ensure police are competent in managing mental health crises, Mar 9). As a staunch mental health advocate who has helped my late wife through her battle with schizophrenia for four decades and many other psychiatric patients and their caregivers, I have found that when empathy, understanding and kindness are woven in, there is a good chance of patients being able to move on in life. There is a dire need to be mindful of the tone, tempo and attitude when handling persons struggling with mental health issues. There may be relatives who are in denial about a loved one’s mental illness. This is one reason why it is crucial for public education on mental health issues to be intensified in all sectors of the population, including schools and tertiary institutions. Lack of knowledge about mental illness can contribute to unintentional negativity. Unfortunately, mental illness is often viewed as a shameful illness which is why many sufferers do not want to seek the much-needed treatment. Members of Parliament need to carry out periodic home visits to ensure that residents are able to cope with the cost of living, health issues and job losses. Whenever persons with mental disorders are brought in by the police either from endangering their lives and those around them, society will view them as troublemakers. This will further deepen the stigma against mental illness. Bear in mind that an inclusive society is one that supports people, provides opportunities and celebrates diversity without discriminating or having prejudiced beliefs against persons with special needs. RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO

URGENT FUND RASING

Title: I have advocated for others; let me advocate for myself. What happened to Raymond Fernando? “I am a 73 years old author and mental health advocate, and prior to her passing, caregiver to my spouse of 40 years. I resigned from my broadcasting job and dedicated 40 years to caring for my beloved late wife who battled schizophrenia and depression for almost all her adult life. My caregiving experience enables me to educate the public on mental health issues and it has made me passionate about it. To make ends meet, I started my literary career, and my books have allowed us to make ends meet for the past 2 decades. Age catches up with us all, and I lost my wife in 2013. Thereafter, it became increasingly challenging to find platforms that supported book sales. I was badly hit when we went through the COVID pandemic in 2020, when the religious organisations where I previously sold my books stopped allowing me to do so. While I still write about subjects, I am passionate about, it has been hard to sustain my livelihood and I have been depleting my savings to make ends meet. Presently, I struggle with several chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. While I took these in my stride, the recent diagnosis in August 2023 with Magnetic Gait severely affected my mobility, placing me at high fall risk. I am still active as a mental health advocate, with my most recent contribution being a sharing on mental resilience at the Australian High Commission this month. I do this, in spite of my physiological challenges, with no remuneration, because I firmly believe that we need to take care of each other. How can you help? In my time of need, I sincerely ask for your support for my daily living expenses. I am seeking more secure ways of financing myself in the long run, and these funds will buy me time to do so.” Your support of $3,900 will help cover Raymond’s monthly expenses on meals and transportation for 6 months ($650 x 6 months). Find out more about Raymond Fernando For his advocacy efforts, Raymond Fernando has been conferred several awards from many institutions and organisations, the most recent ones being the “Pioneer of Promise Award” by the Silent Heroes Management & the “Patient Caregivers Award” by Tan Tock Seng Hospital. Find out more about Raymond Fernando on his social media platforms: LIST ● : Facebook ● Blog: Ray of Light Find Raymond Fernando featured in other Youtube videos: LIST ● Living with a schizophrenic for 40 years - YouTube ● Raymond Anthony Fernando - Silent Hero Story | 2022 "Pioneer of Promise" | Singapore Silent Heroes Notable awards Raymond Fernando has received: LIST ● “Model Caregiver Award” by AWWA (2010) ● Mental Health Champion Award (2011) ● Traffic Police Award for road safety poem

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Serious gating issues unresolved, show concern and compassion to seniors

Dear PM Lee & Ministers and CEO TTSH Serious gating issues unresolved, show concern and compassion to seniors I refer to the above matter and appreciate your concern for lonely seniors like myself. In Parliament on Monday, PM Lee presented a grim picture of what the world is today and called on all Singaporeans to support DPM Lawrence Wong. I agree that we should support DPM Wong because he is a kind politician who welcomes feedback. But at the end of the day, the Cabinet has to prove beyond a shadow of doubt that they can help seniors like myself with improvements to our healthcare system and to be sensitive to the needs of all Singaporeans– many of whom are struggling with the high cost of living here. For months now I am facing endless problems with the gating issues which until today have gone on unresolved, and placing me at high risks of falling down. What is just as troubling is that there is poor coordination and competence in the 2 doctors I am seeing at the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI)I, TTSH. Today 20th April 2023, after waiting for an hour, I managed to see Neurosurgeon Dr Nicole Keong and she asked if I would want surgery on my brain by inserting a stent from the brain to the spine. The risks include infection and that there is no guarantee that the gating issue will be resolved. I requested some medicine to help resolve the gating issue, but she told me I should ask Dr Fifi from NNI to prescribe medicines. The last time I asked Dr Fifi for medicines she said it is not necessary and that I ought to consider brain surgery given that there are high levels of protein in my brain and spine. Neurosurgeon Dr Nicole Keong told me this afternoon that the brain is stable now. I am perplexed as to why both doctors cannot come together on a given appointment to help resolve this gating issue where I have to hold the walls in my flat to move about. Seriously! I will have to wait about 2 weeks until I see Dr Fifi on 8th May 2023 and in the meantime, what is going to happen to me if I fall down because that is the reality of gating issues. I suggest that a directive be issued so that my gating issue is resolved- once and for all. I can’t be a prisoner in my own home and having to spend taxi money when I go out for breakfast and lunch when the CC staff are not available to buy my meals. Be sensitive when giving out GST cash In a new report, it was mentioned that effective 1st June 2023, diners who fail to clear their trays and cutlery will be fined $300 at least without any warning given this time around. Nobody feels comfortable when they are having their meals and are watched by the NEA staff and her volunteers – some of whom are downright arrogant. Then at the same period, the GST cash will be given out. This can give the impression that while giving out goodies on the right hand, the left hand takes it back. This is poor PR and will not augur well for the government. In conclusion, I trust that with the government's support, kindness and compassion, my gaiting problem will be a thing of the past and I can go on to lead a normal life. Kindly give me a reply and if that takes time, I appreciate an interim response. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

The upcoming public rental housing scheme for senior singles

18th March 2023 DPM Lawrence Wong Care -off the Ministry of Finance Dear DPM Lawrence Wong, The upcoming public rental housing scheme for senior singles I refer to the above matter and would like to offer some suggestions to improve on the scheme. I hope as DPM you could discuss my proposal to the MND Minister and his MOS at the same ministry. I had much earlier proposed a scheme for homeless people (See- “Ray of Light: A roof over the head, a meal on the table: A public suggestion to the Singapore Government on the homeless in Singapore (rayhope8.blogspot.com).” With 24 people cooking in one kitchen, there is bound to be arguments and conflicts. It is not easy to manage seniors as many of them are grumpy, get agitated easily and are inpatient. Then there are toilets to be shared and this too poses another set of problems. When I use the handicapped toilet at the Ang Mo Kio MRT station, the elderly user takes longer than necessary, and this causes annoyance on the part of other seniors. MND could look into the feasibility of employing a chef to cook some healthy food with inputs from the residents. Or it could cater meals for the residents at affordable prices and the residents pay for the meals. The other alternative is to hire a Boarding House Master to supervise the scheme so that some sort of discipline is adhered to. Imagine 24 seniors cooking at the common kitchen which has knives, choppers, boiling water and hot oiled frying pans. It is a chaos-waiting to happen. It is the same with the shared toilets. Patience is not a virtue with many seniors. So, it is best to have a small toilet in each room. I know that there is limited space, but it is better to consider the options otherwise the new rooms for residents can well become a PR disaster. Sincerely, RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO

Trust in the 4 Hs'

Words of wisdom from Rev. Fr Jerry Orbos of the Philippines: "For a peaceful life, don't forget these four H's: • Honesty. Yes, honesty is still the best policy. An honest person is a person at peace. • Humility. A person finds peace and contentment when he has no airs about himself, when he knows and accepts himself and does not pretend to be something or someone else. • Hard Work. There is no substitute for hard work. You know how empty it feels to be all form and no substance. Are you hard working or hardly working? • Holiness. Follow God's ways and you will have peace. Turn away from God and you will never find peace. And one more H - Humor! Don't take yourself too seriously. Smile, laugh, and with childlike confidence, trust in our loving Father, who has a terrific sense of humor." -Raymond Anthony Fernando-

Break the silence on inequality

28th December 202 The Cabinet of Singapore Dear PM Lee & Ministers, The Singapore Forward conversation: Break the silence on inequality Compliments of the season! In helping to build a better Singapore, I would like to present my candid views on the delicate subject of inequality here in Singapore. At the centre of challenges in life’s journey is the power of love that can unite people of all races and religions. We must therefore never be cynical about love. Despite broken dreams, empty promises, inequality, love is still a splendid virtue, so let’s embrace it and transform lives, shall we? The government needs to be open to constructive feedback and allow a free flow of ideas – without suppressing it or allowing the media to block useful suggestions. Look at today’s Forum Page in The Straits Times and you will read complaints and complaints. ST is becoming a complaints bureau. I do not take too kindly of a doctor – Dr Lim Ee Koon who suggested that abusers be castrated. His letter got published in The ST yesterday. Forum: Consider castration as an alternative to raising caning age limit | The Straits Times. As far as I am concerned, such a punishment is barbaric. Sex education, rehabilitation, and intensive counselling can help. Let’s not go back to the stone- age era. There must be equality at all levels – including gender equality. Why is it that some employers of maid have committed hideous crimes against maids and they are not caned because they are females? While it is helpful that some constituencies have rolled out programmes where needy residents are gifted with Chinese New Year cookies and ‘ang pows’, why is it that other needy folks in other constituencies do not get these. There must be better teamwork within each ministry and across the civil service where no one is left behind, in many cases through no fault of their own. One way is for the better well-off constituencies to team up with the well-off constituencies so that all estates can enjoy the fruits of labour. For example, in my SMC constituency, MP Yip can team up with the Teck Ghee constituencies for this purpose. After all, Teck Ghee is a GRC. If this can materialize, you also secure teamwork. Needy Singaporeans come from all parts of Singapore. And they include those with diabetes. Which is why I proposed to Health Minister Ong to have the meter reading devices made available at all polyclinics and private clinics at discounted prices if such equipment can be given free of charge. If we are concerned about taking control of this deadly disease. Here we have cases of inequality staring right at our faces, and it is not good in building a cohesive society where some will benefit and some will not. Let’s not deepen inequality, but take steps to narrow the social divide. Let us be gracious enough to welcome change and accept ideas, even radical ones if it can build a more cohesive society. I fondly recall former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s words of wisdom when he was asked by the media if Singapore will ever be a gracious society. Lee’s simple reply hit the nail on the head: “Not in my time”, unquote. Think about it. I appreciate a reply to my proposal, and if it takes time to respond, an interim reply will be gracious. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando LIVE LIKE A LEGEND

Strength in unity: In celebration of Singapore’s 57th birthday

Strength in unity: In celebration of Singapore’s 57th birthday It’s time to jump for joy and bring good cheer For Singapore turns 57 this delightful year In the heartlands and many other places The Singapore flag unfurls – majestically You’re on track so, welcome to our beautiful Lion City Let’s adopt the motto of the 3 musketeers By being, “All for one, and one for all” From strength to strength, there is unity To parents, we embrace filial piety Lending a helping hand to the needy in the community The parade will be awesome, the fireworks mesmerizing With the colours in the sky absolutely dazzling The camaraderie cements us as one people, one nation As the government with all cities build healthy relations National service has transformed boys to men And collectively, they make a united stand To defend Singapore to the very end For with patriotism in all its glory, we stand to gain My late wife and I appreciate the colours of white and red We are fortunate, in this nation, to be born and bred There will be challenges now and, in the years, ahead Together, we can overcome adversities and concerns But this positive and uplifting message – I want to spread Stay healthy – in body and mind– as one resilient Singapore As we open the skies and welcome tourists to our shores “Many happy returns of the day, Singapore” Yeah! You are loved – now and forever more Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando © copyrightraymondfernando 20 July2022

Learn and Earn By: Raymond Anthony Fernando

Many of us would have heard of the adage, “An idle mind is a devil’s workshop.” From what I read from it, I believe that when we have nothing to do, we are likely to make unwise decisions and get into hot soup. The good news is that now people are living longer. The bad news is that with biological ageing, older people will experience a range of chronic conditions that includes depression and dementia. When this scenario develops, it will badly affect the quality of life, where people either end up in nursing homes or losing the will to live when depression rears its ugly face. Those are the realties! In addition, those who neglect the power of education could end up losing their jobs, and face financial hardships. This is more so in a highly competitive world where only the best will survive. We must not place a timeline on learning. I enjoy expressing myself through writing so that my mind is kept busy most of the time. Indeed, an active mind is a healthy mind. Additionally, reading – be it on the internet or in print literature. is also important to keep us updated with what is going on in the world. But we must be able to distinguish between “fake news” and "authentic news" or we will be trapped by making wrong choices. I have always subscribed to sharing my experiences and ideas, because I fervently believe that if one has skills, share it. I have attended courses at the Lifelong Institute, one of which was on making improvements at the workplace. I was able to put across how ideas and suggestions had made improvements in the media company where I worked for 3 decades which participants could apply in their own lives. This is the reason why I embrace lifelong learning. There are two reasons why I fully support this useful programme. Firstly workers, including those who have retired can learn new skills and contribute to the economy by having better chances of job retention and providing sustainable income to support themselves and their families. Secondly, acquiring knowledge makes them feel valued and appreciated. Thus, lifelong learning will make us productive and give us a positive outlook in life where there is satisfaction and motivation both at the workplace, in the community and even in our homes. With scammers worldwide wanting to make easy money in a digital world, we all need to learn the latest in technology, lest we get conned by con men where we make wrong decisions due to lack of wisdom and clarity through one of the important organs in our body– the mind. When it comes to global competitiveness, Switzerland has the most skilled workers because from early school days, they participate in vocational training. In fact, 70 percent of secondary school students there are actively involved in this form of education. We need to emulate the attitude of the Swiss to ‘reach for the stars.’

Fast moving escalators now has reduction in speed/ Exceptional service from SMRT staff

31st March 2022 Fast moving escalators now has reduction in speed/ Exceptional service from SMRT staff This morning when I went to top up my MRT card, I was pleasantly surprised to observe that the speed of the escalators has been slowed down, making it somewhat easier for people with mobility issues to make use of the devices. The MRT staff told me that yesterday the LTA staff came down to adjust the speed of the escalators to make it more elderly friendly. I shared with the staff and his manager that I had in fact highlighted this troubling issue with the MOT Minister & the LTA management. I am deeply encouraged that the government is receptive to feedback and takes remedial steps to provide a safe environment for our seniors and those with disabilities. Another pleasant encounter today was when SM Yusof and his subordinates – ASM Zaki, ASM Diki and SASM Joftari displayed much compassion and empathy seeing me struggling to walk about. They immediately got me a wheelchair and helped move me to the bus stop some 100 metres away and waited till I got safely into the bus before heading back to the control station. SM Yusof reminded me to seek the assistance of the MRT staff every time I was at the gates of the Ang Mo Kio MRT station heading downtown. With COVID-19 making life challenging for all of us, we need to embrace ideas and suggestions that can troubleshoot any problems coming on-stream. And both the government and the local mainstream media must be receptive and open to ideas that can make life far better for all living here – citizens as well as foreigners who work here. To throw out ideas due to biases is not in keeping with a gracious and enlightened society. The recent collaborative Omega and Swatch watches at Ion Orchard and Marina Bay Sands last Saturday where crowds swelled (Omega x Swatch collection draws snaking queues at Ion Orchard, MBS, March 26) is a sad reflection of what kind of society we are seeing. Home Affairs Minister Shanmugam was deeply concerned as one person even challenged the policeman to shoot him. Even though there is for retailers/shops/restaurants to revive poor businesses, a better solution is to get potential buyers to submit their request via email or an apps and then go for a lucky draw and explain that due to limited stock and to prevent the spread of COVID, there is a dire need to undertake such promotions in a calibrated way. Once the winners are chosen, have the collection dates on a few dates to avoid bunching. The same procedure should apply to other promotions including this at McDonalds or Hello Kitty soft toys. In many of the proposals I put up at government level, even though systems are weak, I will also provide possible and pragmatic solutions. MOT Minister Iswaran: Kindly convey my deepest appreciation to the SMRT officers as they need to be valued and appreciated. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

Accidents waiting to happen: LTA needs to take immediate and concrete steps to prevents accidents at the escalators

28th March 2022 The Management MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY 1 Hampshire Road Singapore 219428 Accidents waiting to happen: LTA needs to take immediate and concrete steps to prevents accidents at the escalators “Lifelong learning has to be matched with Lifelong Improvements.” -Raymond Anthony Fernando- I refer to the above matter and urge all at the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to review the current system for the escalators which are moving way too fast and placing the elderly at high risks of falling down and meeting with serious accidents. I am told by the MRT staff that the management of the escalators is managed by the (LTA) and though they empathize with me and our elderly seniors who have mobility issues, this matter, I am advised, has to be raised to the governing authority. On several occasions, had it not been for the timely intervention by SMRT staff, I would have fallen and met with a serious accident. The MRT staff are well trained and act promptly to prevent seniors from meeting with serious accidents. I commend them and hope that the LTA can do likewise. While we have a pretty good transport system in place, we must take it to the next level and make it elderly friendly as well – bearing in mind that Singapore is seeing one of the fastest ageing populations in the world. The government has been doing its part to provide good measures of support for seniors and thus it is only proper for the other agencies to work closely with one another so that our seniors who helped build our nation to what it is today are well taken care of. Males contributed to NS while their spouses played a supporting role. Between myself and my 4 other brothers, we contributed more than 20 years of NS. Although there are lifts at MRT stations and bus interchanges, there are places within these places where you have no choice but to take the escalators. LTA needs to do a thorough review of the systems island-wide. We are told by Health Minister Ong Ye Kung and MOH officials to avoid visiting the A & E and hospitals unless it is urgent. To this end, the LTA has to also do its part to rally around MOH as they are facing high stress levels. While systems are in place, there is a dire need to review it periodically or when feedback is given as these speedy escalators are accidents waiting to happen. As one SMRT staff member in his 50s rightly pointed out to me, “These days everybody is in a big hurry.” Despite mobility issues, our seniors need to be appreciated and valued. And most certainly, they, like the younger generation, must have a better quality of life. They need to go out for meals, have social gatherings by meeting up with friends/relatives, attending religious events, attend to medical appointments and even travel. More so now when the MTF has come up with more opportunities for social gatherings. Even the timers at traffic crossings are not elderly friendly and the elderly have to practically rush before the green man turns to red. I would like a reply to my proposal; and if it takes a while to review/remedy the situation, an interim response will be appreciated. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

Reaching out to vulnerable groups with better programmes By: Raymond Anthony Fernando

From the desk of Raymond Anthony Fernando 24th January 2022 Ms SIM Ann Senior Minister of State c/o Ministry of National Development 5 Maxwell Road #22-00 Tower Block MND Complex Singapore 069110 Dear Ms Sim Ann, Reaching out to vulnerable groups with better programmes By: Raymond Anthony Fernando The death of the two 11-year-old brothers pieced at my heart, as did with many others who felt the pain of this tragedy. What more with two lives gone! Families caring for those with special needs could certainly do with more support. They must never be made to feel all alone. Mental health is a global concern, yet the level of support found in each country varies widely with cultural factors sometimes coming into play. Concerns and that much-needed support are even more vital now with the pandemic causing havoc and disrupting lives. In order to build a more inclusive and caring society here in Singapore – and elsewhere in the world in which we all look out for one another, there needs to be better support services. Given the rise in the number of people, including caregivers requiring essential services, there is a dire and urgent need to come up with a suitable programme in which citizens can seek assistance for their needs. The programme could be one in which citizens can register their names and when they need help for some services that includes caregiving. The agency appointed will then send down volunteers to assist the person who needs assistance, clock in the number of hours provided, and then later, when he/she is out of the woods, the person can provide support to another person who needs help at a later period. An exchange volunteer programme which can be termed, “Volunteer Trading Services”, and the good thing about this scheme is that there is no payment whatsoever involved. Poorer countries such as in the Philippines, India, Pakistan and Indonesia where poverty is at an all-time high, can benefit from such a scheme. Singapore can consider implementing such a scheme, perhaps on a pilot project, where caregivers for instance, can benefit from such a useful programme. Behind closed doors 80 percent of Singaporeans live in Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats. Most, with the help of government subsidies, are able to buy their own homes. With more than 1 million flats spread across 23 towns and 3 estates, the Singapore brand of public housing is uniquely different. The flats are homes for over 80% of Singapore's resident population, of which about 90% own homes. Some of our needy citizens can only afford to rent a flat or in the case of foreigners who work here, rent a room from the owners who charge the tenants anything between $500 to $900 per month, depending on the size of the room and the location. Looking from outside of the HDB flats as you walk along the corridors, you will observe that everything looks the same, the doors are fire proof and of the same colour, the window panes and the gates are almost of the same design. But while on the outside of these homes, everything is the same, what is happening behind closed doors, is a completely different story. Families could be struggling with chronic illnesses, some going through depression, teenagers could be lured into taking drugs and engaging in sex, some in deep financial crisis and others without jobs and trying so hard to put food on the table. This is why it is so important to be a good neighbour where the virtues of kindness and compassion must shine so that no one will ever feel that they are all alone. A caring society is needed to care for the needy Accidents and chronic illnesses can happen when you least expect it. When this takes place, the quality of life takes a nose-dive. We need to hear the cry of help for those in pain as well as for their caregivers. As a gracious society, we must help those struggling to cope with sickness or injuries when at times it is through no fault of theirs. More so when we are all God’s children. For myself, if I am fated to take care of sick loved ones, so be it. I have carried a heavy cross taking care of my late wife, and I will once again carry another heavy cross if that is my fate. During moments of darkness, support or a kind word helps to pull up anyone who needs a helping hand. We should never adopt this attitude of, “If it’s not my business, I need not know or I need not care.” I know for a fact that God does not give suffering, but He allows suffering so that we can move closer to Him. I can lose money, I can lose friends, but I will not lose my faith in God. For on many occasions, Jesus has carried me on His shoulders when I was really down, even when I was struggling to cope with my late wife’s battle with schizophrenia. Doris may have had a disability, but all who read and know her, are well aware that my wife had – abilities. Appoint block leaders in housing estates Another effective way to combat or prevent tragedies is to appoint BLOCK LEADERS in every housing estate, including those in private estates. Those who have some experience in mental health, including healthcare workers in mental health can take on this role where they can be approached for assistance to rally around those with special needs. IMH can provide the training. These trained block leaders can also pay weekly or monthly visits to homes where support is needed. Give an allowance to the block leaders for their time and energy. Let us all manage mental illness BEFORE it manages us. In closing, Ms. Sim Ann, I invite to view the video produced creatively by the Royal Singapore Living with a schizophrenic for 40 years - YouTube I appreciate the response to my proposal. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

16th September 2021 Ms. Grace Fu Minister - Minister at Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment The Ministerial Task Force Dr Vivian Balakrishnan MP Tin Pei Ling Poor training and lack of compassion on the part of SDA doing a great disservice to our elderly I refer to the above matter, and feel compelled to raise this issue up so that our seniors, especially those with mobility issues will be treated with some compassion, empathy and kindness. I have circulated my report to Dr Vivian Balakrishnan as well as MP Tin Pei Ling as both these politicians fully understand what our elderly seniors are trying to grapple with – in their twilight years. At 12noon today, Thursday 16th September 2021, when I went to take my lunch at the Sembawang Hills Food Center, after finishing my meals, a female Safe Distancing Ambassador (SDA) directed me to carry my crockery with the tray to the Tray return area. She and the other SDAs saw me limping with a stick, yet insisted I carry out her directive with total lack of compassion that I have severe mobility issues. She should learn a thing or two from the Wanton Mee lady who out of kindness brought my meal over to a nearby table. This middle-aged SDA officer should also learn a thing or two from the staff at HANS, Thompson Plaza whose staff will bring my meal to any table where I sit. Go and learn from these people about customer service, please! There will be less complaints about SDAs if they fully understand the medical conditions of our seniors. I am also seeing a Knee Specialist at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. I have to carry in my trousers the Vaccination certificates, carry the Trace Together Token, so now must I carry the letter from the Polyclinic Dr to confirm that I have Osteoarthritis? Give me a break, will you? I had to explain to her that I am suffering from osteoarthritis where my hands and body trembles and I am weak. She appeared unsure what to do, then approached a senior SDA staff member who also wanted me to clear my table. Finally, after explaining myself, they reluctantly agreed to ask the cleaner to take away my tray. Do I have to keep explaining myself all the time when it was clearly mentioned that the elderly and those with mobility issues will not be required to clear the crockery and trays. Is not the advisory message being carried out, with some common sense? It’s a pity that sense is not always common! Singaporeans and foreigners alike have gone through 18 months of inconveniences and we could do well with some compassion. We must be able to understand that Singapore is the BEST home to live in. Unfortunately, I can’t buy that anymore. I avoid going out too much –given the spread of the virus, but I have to eat to keep myself healthy, and more so as I am a widower. I expect a proper reply and an assurance that such heavy-handed methods will no longer recur. Thank you. Sincerely, Raymond Anthony Fernando

Lifelong learning brings much benefits

21st Nov 2020 Lifelong learning brings much benefits Dear DPM Heng & SM Tharman, I am one of the authors selected to have my works published in this book. God is good, HE watches over me, and so does my late wife. I have an article titled “The most wonderful time of the year” plus 2 creative poems in the book. This is why I embrace lifelong learning. I began my writing career at the age of 50 after leaving my job in 2001 to provide full time care for my wife and then at the age of 70 (now) I get international recognition). As in taking care of a loved one with mental illness, I advocate practising the 3PS – Patience, Perseverance & Prayer as with writing. Make A Joyful Noise is now LIVE on Amazon, and it is now International. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1736129902/ref=sr_1_3?crid=IXA2CXCWEGWM&dchild=1&keywords=make+a+joyful+noise&qid=1605815209&s=books&sprefix=Make+A+Joyful%2Caps%2C753&sr=1-3 Author copies will get to me on December 1st and I will mail your copy out immediately! We did good guys. A light in the Dark! We Rock! The link above will take you to the book on Amazon Cheers Raymond Anthony Fernando

My love matters magazine goes online

Dear all, The above will be launched soon, it’s an online magazine which focuses mainly on the power of love with inspirational stories. I will be helping the team to manage this portal, going through it everyday to see how I can address the queries etc. Do subscribe and be inspired. No payment required to subscribe. Spread the word to your colleagues, friends & associates. Help make this magazine a success. https://www.facebook.com/myLovematters.Singapore/ Cheers Raymond Anthony Fernando