Do more to reward duo who saved child : Raymond's letter to the press

My letter on the above matter is published in The Straits Times today, Monday 27^th April 2015.

The bravery of the two construction workers who saved the life of two-year-old Naurah Fitria Auni has won the hearts of many citizens (“Rescuers’ only thought was to save toddler”; last Saturday).

Children, especially toddlers must never be left alone because when they wake up and find that their parents are not around, they get frightened and start searching for them. This was probably the case with the young child.

This is where helpful neighbours who can give a helping hand to those in need of support can make a big difference in the neighbourhoods.

The two workers, Mr Subramanian Shanmuganathan and Mr Ponnan Muthukumar, risked life and limb to save the child and have taught all of us a thing or two about kindness, bravery and what it takes to to act with a clear head during a crisis.

I applaud the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) for presenting the duo from Tamil Naidu with the Public Spiritedness Award, but I am sure we can do more to recognise the bravery of the two workers.

For a start, I hope that some cash rewards and a meal or two in a fine restaurant can be offered to Mr Shanmuganathan and Mr Muthukumar by generous companies and sponsors.

The SCDF could also consider offering the duo positions in its agency in its rescue operations. If full-time employment is not possible, take the duo in as volunteers to inspire and motivate staff in the agency.

Raymond Anthony Fernando