Saturday, July 16, 2005
Thanks to NKF, the state of charity in Singapore is in dire straits indeed. However, the whole issue reveals just as much about the average Singaporean as it does about T T Durai and gang. Two things, first, we are a very money minded bunch, and second, we rally aren't as helpful as what seems to be the case.
The Money
We are a nation that was really built upon the economy and trade. Without the physical movement of good through our ports, our 'nation' will still be a sleepy fishing village that can rival almost rural water-front society. No wonder that money is so important. We cannot stand the thought of wasting it on ourselves, less to say somebody trying to waste for. Enter the NKF and its band of sdooH niboR (Robin Hoods). Using public sympathy, and the sad plight of patients,a massive $262 million was amassed to be used as reserves for first class flights and gold plated taps. Provocative reporting led to a public outrage, which in effect was just saying that if I do not travel first class, why should you? While it is difficult to make a case for the NKF board, its is equally difficult to argue that we should all stop donations to the NKF, which up to yesterday was the charity par excellence of Singapore.
The Help
Over and above the money, I think what is pretty much interesting to note is that money is not always the most important factor in charity. Over and above that, it is always important to keep in mind that action speaks louder than words and much more than fifty dollar bills. Actions in terms of visiting old folks, or doctors providing care to patients for free or at least a discounted rate, are all part of charity. Thus while we are so involved in the money, perhaps we should try to take a step back and look at where we want to go as a society. Just putting a $5 donation every month in hope of helping some poor soul is akin to feeding a tiger bamboo shoots, an outcome that we should all try to avoid.
The Aftermath
In the end its all psychological. Just as NKF used the dead and dying trick on so many of its shows to get you to call its hot-line, the irksome face of its board members are now have the exact reverse effect on donations. And its not only NKF. Practically every charitable organization, related or otherwise to the NKF will suffer from suspicions of its true motives and intentions. Whether true or unfounded is of secondary importance. More than anything else, NKF betrayed the trust of the people. This should be main the main bone of contention, no that it had spent our money or hoarded it for its own ends.
11:50 PM
