Public calls for centralised donation drive
By Rosli Abidin Yahya

A collection point for tsunami victims

For a country that sees only occasional heavy rains and flash floods, the massive tsunami that struck the region last Sunday brought shock to the population.

The Asian tragedy has also brought out the best in the people; tsunami donation drivers have received overwhelming support.

However, some people said they were confused by the large number of donation drives, and believed they ought to be centralised.

"All agencies and organisations must unite through a single body including airlines and shipping companies to ensure free transportation for the donations.

"Such centralised charity drive will also ensure all donations reach the victims in 11 tsunami-hit countries," they said.

The comments were made following rejections of donated goods by at least one charity drive because "the organiser was unsure if she had the capability to deliver donated clothes to victims in Aceh".

They said through a centralised organisation, donated items could reach victims in all affected countries.

One supporter of the setting-up of a centralised organisation is Deputy President of the Persatuan Peniaga-Peniaga Melayu Brunei (PPPMB) Hj Osman Hj Omar.

"PPPMB is set to hold a meeting not only for its members but also all members of non-government organisations in the country to discuss the need for a centralised organisation," he said.

The Ex-Civil Servants (Pekira) also announced that it will hold a meeting on January 8 at its headquarters in Berakas to discuss the form of donations most appropriate for tsunami victims.

Director of Information and Public Relations of Pekira Hj Mohd Zaide bin Hj Damit said all committee members are welcome to attend the meeting.

He said the catastrophe of tsunami shattered the belief, long held dear by the population, that Brunei is invincible in the face of natural disaster.

"The gigantic waves that swept across the Indian Ocean towards south and southeast Asian coastlines washed away this myth for good. What is amazing is how quickly the tragedy was replaced by a stronger sense of realism, determination and solidarity, as shown by donors.

"We are grateful that Brunei was spared by the December 26 tsunami. But at the same time, it showed how fragile we are in this world.

"I hope we all learned from the devastation. If we emerge from the wreckage with humility and a better understanding of ourselves, especially our limits and potentials, we will be better off to create a better nation," he said.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin