S’pore RLAF raises over S$8 million for Gaza humanitarian relief campaign

SINGAPORE: The Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF), a non-governmental organization established by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has announced the successful culmination of its Humanitarian Relief for Gaza campaign.

In a Facebook post dated 9 March, 2024, RLAF revealed that a total of S$8,114,422 had been collected during the campaign period, which ran from 19 October to 17 November, 2023.

In the post, RLAF, dedicated to extending compassion to those in need regardless of faith or race, expressed gratitude to the numerous individuals and groups who generously contributed to the cause.

The funds amassed will be directed towards providing crucial aid, including health services, relief supplies, and shelter provisions, to communities impacted by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In compliance with regulatory standards and as part of its commitment to transparency and accountability, RLAF confirmed that the collected funds had undergone meticulous auditing.

The audit report has been duly submitted to the Commissioner of Charities (CoC), it said.

Moreover, RLAF emphasized its proactive approach in monitoring the delivery of aid to Gaza’s beneficiaries.

Working closely with its network of partners, the foundation ensures efficient coordination and timely assistance.

RLAF has facilitated interactive sessions, including video conferences, allowing partners to provide updates and address inquiries regarding the aid distribution process.

Looking ahead, RLAF announced plans for another fundraising initiative during the upcoming Ramadan period.

Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli affirmed RLAF’s commitment to continuing its support for Gaza.

“As we welcome the blessed month of Ramadan next week, let us also intensify our prayers for peace and protection – not only for the people in Gaza, but also elsewhere in the world and here at home,” Masagos stated.

The forthcoming campaign is scheduled to take place from 20 to 26 March 2024.

Singapore’s aid efforts

Former Singaporean President Halimah Yacob expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza on 26 February, emphasizing the “degradation of the human soul” and called for the public to “stand on the side of humanity.”

In parallel, Singaporean activist and founder of Love Aid Singapore, Gilbert Goh, has remained steadfast in their humanitarian endeavours in Gaza.

Recent updates from the organization highlight the continued operation of their food kitchen for Palestinians, despite facing heartbreaking losses, including the tragic death of nine Palestinian workers in Jabalia North Gaza due to bombings.

Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, announced on 29 February, 2024, that Singapore plans to donate a third tranche of aid for Gaza through Jordan.

Last October, Hamas, a Palestinian militant group, launched a surprise attack on Israel.

In their operation, 1,139 people were killed and 253 were kidnapped as hostage. As of 14 February, 134 hostages remain in captivity after an earlier exchange deal brokered by Qatar.

In response, Israel heavily bombed Gaza and sent in ground troops, resulting in the death of over 30,000 Palestinians, as reported by the territory’s health ministry and the displacement of 1.9 million civilians — around 85% of the total Gaza.