Singapore's RLAF delivers $1.1 million to Unicef for Gaza relief, totalling $2.1 million in aid

The Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF) presented Unicef with a $1.1 million cheque, signifying the second and final tranche of a special collection of donations during Ramadan earlier in 2024 to support the humanitarian needs of Gazan children and their families.

The ceremony, held on September 4 in Amman, Jordan, was seen by Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli, according to the organization.

The donation comes at a critical time for Gaza, as the region continues to grapple with ongoing humanitarian challenges. The conflict has left countless families displaced and in dire need of assistance, with children being particularly vulnerable. This generous contribution from RLAF demonstrates the power of global solidarity and the impact that collective efforts can have on those facing extreme hardship.

It stated that the fund was utilized to assist Gaza's children, women, and families in meeting basic requirements. RLAF announced on September 4 that a total of $2.1 million was raised between March 20 and March 26.

Former RLAF CEO Muhammad Faizal Othman presented the first tranche of $1 million in Singapore on April 16, while current RLAF CEO Adnan Abdul Hamid handed over the second tranche of $1.1 million to Unicef's Middle East and North Africa regional deputy director, Mr Marc Rubin, on September 4.

The successful fundraising campaign highlights the compassion and generosity of Singaporeans, who have shown unwavering support for the people of Gaza. This outpouring of aid reflects a deep-seated commitment to humanitarian causes and a recognition of the shared responsibility to help those in need, regardless of geographical boundaries.

RLAF funding have also been used to assist establish safe interim learning environments in shelters for internally displaced children. In addition, it is being utilized to train 24 instructors to provide scholastic and emotional assistance to the afflicted children. These places serve as hubs for informal education, social and emotional support, and the delivery of crucial services to around 840 children aged seven to thirteen.

While in Jordan to give the cash, foundation representatives also paid a visit to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which organized a separate fund-raising event for the same cause in late 2023.

UNRWA officials told the foundation that the monies were used for mental health programs, food and financial assistance in Gaza, and on-the-ground emergency actions.

The collaboration between RLAF and international organizations like Unicef and UNRWA underscores the importance of coordinated efforts in addressing complex humanitarian crises. By working together, these organizations can maximize the impact of their resources and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most efficiently and effectively.

So far, RLAF has raised and disbursed $10.2 million through two campaigns to help deliver medical supplies, food, and sanitation to Gaza's afflicted populations. Singapore has provided $17 million to Gaza civilians so far, including RLAF contributions.

Following the ceremony, Mr Masagos, who is also the Second Minister for Health and Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs, wrote on Facebook on September 4: "To the people of Singapore, I am deeply grateful for your overwhelming support for this urgent and significant cause."

Singapore will continue to cooperate with its Middle Eastern partners to provide humanitarian supplies and support to Gaza, emphasizing the importance of these aids reaching their intended users who are in desperate need.

The ongoing commitment from Singapore to support Gaza reflects the nation's dedication to global humanitarian efforts. This sustained engagement not only provides immediate relief but also helps foster long-term relationships and understanding between countries, potentially contributing to broader peace-building initiatives in the region.

"RLAF is launching another fundraising drive for Gaza soon, and I wholeheartedly endorse this worthy endeavor. I am looking forward to everyone's enthusiastic support."

In a previous article on September 3, he stated that he discussed recent events with his counterparts and officials in Abu Dhabi. He noted that, with the cooperation of the United Arab Emirates, Singapore will collaborate with Cyprus to provide the fourth tranche of relief to Gaza, which will include 300 tonnes of canned sardines and 1,000 tonnes of rice.