Working together to build a caring society

Mr Hussaini Abdullah, President of PERTAPIS

Committee Members,

Distinguished Guests

Ladies and Gentlemen

1. A very good evening to everyone!  It gives me great pleasure to be with you today, to commemorate the 47^th Anniversary of PERTAPIS.

Meeting community needs

2. For almost five decades, PERTAPIS has been focused on addressing social issues in Singapore through its various welfare projects. Beyond running welfare homes for disadvantaged children, youth and senior citizens, PERTAPIS also supports more than 400 lower-income families, as well as people with chronic illnesses and disabilities. By meeting the needs of diverse groups within our community, PERTAPIS has made a difference in the lives of many Singaporeans.

3. One beneficiary of PERTAPIS is Mr Azlan, who sought assistance under the PERTAPIS' Family Welfare and Empowerment Programme after being retrenched. PERTAPIS provided Mr Azlan with some relief through food items and tuition for his four school-going children. Mr Azlan has since gotten back on his feet and started a food business, and their children's studies have also improved tremendously. Mr Azlan's wife has also become an active participant in PERTAPIS programmes. This shows that a little help to those in need can go a long way.

4. PERTAPIS would not have come this far without the support of businesses and individual donors. Some of the organisations which have supported PERTAPIS include the DS Lee Foundation, Second Chance Properties, Far East Organization, Bengawan Solo, MUIS and Sheng Siong. By being here tonight, you have helped PERTAPIS to raise more than $300,000 for its beneficiaries. Please give yourselves a big hand. Thank you very much!

Better together

5. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” To this end, I commend PERTAPIS for working closely with other social service agencies and community organisations. By doing so, PERTAPIS has been able to benefit a wider group of people, and make a greater impact.

6. PERTAPIS has also been able to steadily grow and mobilise a committed group of over 300 volunteers to meet community needs. By inspiring others to step forward, and collaborating with other partners, PERTAPIS is helping to grow SG Cares – a national movement to support Singaporeans in building a more caring and inclusive society. When we work with one another towards a common good, we are ensuring that no one is left behind.

7. Once again, I congratulate PERTAPIS on your anniversary, and look forward to your contributions to society for many more years to come. My thanks to the organising committee and all of you who have come together to make tonight possible. I wish you all an enjoyable night ahead. Thank you.