My letter on the above
matter is published in The New Paper today, Monday 23rd September
2013.
It was a thoughtful gesture for Parliament to celebrate the 90th
birthday of Singapore founding prime minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew last Monday.
Mr Lee showed dedication and commitment by attending the Parliament sitting
that day even though it was against doctors’ advice. That’s the mark of a true leader.
There can be no doubt about Mr Lee’s commitment to making a better life for
all Singaporeans.
He has personally supported notable initiatives, for instance in education.
I appeal to him to consider another area where a lot can be done. The
psychiatric community here is growing and many in this group are struggling to
cope.
Some are in dire need of financial assistance. They can’t find jobs because of
discrimination; and they are being left behind. Yet many in this group have hidden
talent and with training, motivation and encouragement, they can make
significant contributions to society.
A fund can be set up to support psychiatric patients and their caregivers
in their quest to find meaningful work or to set up a business. Such an initiative can even be a model for
other world leaders to support their marginalised citizens.
RAYMOND ANTHONY FERNANDO
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