12-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) In a display of solidarity, Singapore has contributed S$2 million (US$1.47 million) in public donations to aid civilians in Gaza affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants, particularly Hamas. This generous sum constitutes the initial portion of funds raised by the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF), which commenced its fundraiser for humanitarian relief in the Palestinian territory on October 19.
The handover ceremony took place in Cairo and was overseen by Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Maliki Osman. Notably, Egypt’s Rafah border crossing serves as the sole entry point for humanitarian aid destined for Gaza.
Witnessing the handover to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), Dr. Maliki underscored the urgency of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the imperative need for assistance. He expressed pride in the generous response of Singaporeans, acknowledging their contributions to support the relief efforts.
The RLAF had initially raised over S$4.6 million by November 2, prompting an extension of its campaign until November 17.
A separate announcement revealed an additional contribution of US$100,000 worth of humanitarian goods from the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) to the Egyptian Red Crescent. This aid includes crucial medical supplies, food provisions, drinking water, and hygiene kits for the people of Gaza.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with authorities reporting over 11,000 casualties in Israeli retaliation following an October 7 surprise siege by Hamas that resulted in a reported 1,200 deaths.
Singapore’s commitment to alleviating the crisis was reinforced by the passing of a unanimous parliamentary motion on Monday, which included advocacy for the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza residents. Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan disclosed that Singaporeans had collectively donated nearly S$5 million to fundraising efforts by SRC and RLAF.
Dr. Maliki, who also holds the position of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Education, received briefings from the Egyptian Red Crescent and UNRWA on the situation at the Rafah crossing and the prevailing humanitarian conditions in Gaza. During discussions with Egyptian leaders, he reiterated Singapore’s support for the humanitarian relief initiatives undertaken by the Egyptian government, the UN, and other stakeholders.
Singapore, having voted in favor of a UN resolution to protect civilians and uphold legal and humanitarian obligations amid the conflict, remains committed to addressing the escalating crisis in Gaza. As pleas for a ceasefire persist, Israel faces mounting pressure to ensure the safety of civilians, particularly as shortages of food, water, and medicine exacerbate an already dire situation in the region.
