“It is so dramatic for us in Malaysia, so far from the scene of disaster, to read about unfolding events in Japan since the earthquake and tsunami struck on 11th March 2011. Things seem to be getting so much worse before they can get better as the drama involving the nuclear plants now take centre-stage on the media.
However as we sit comfortably at home in Malaysia, watching TV or reading Internet news, let us not forget that we have the luxury to stop watching or reading, and go out to have our teh tarik or yum char in safety with our families. The whole disaster has been surreal and so distant that none of us have to step outside our own comfort zones.
I personally have a pen-pal friend in Sendai City whom I have corresponded with since I was 7-years old. We have tried to reach her family and her through phone, email and sms but nothing is getting through effectively. Everything there is chaos as the Japanese Government is handling so many on-going recovery efforts and escalating nuclear challenges complicate the relief efforts.
Whenever I go back to the images of shocked and homeless victims in Japan, especially those photographs of children, I am drawn back to the reality that people there are struggling to survive in the midst of winter. Those who have lost so much are even now losing more and more each day as they battle winter cold and harsh conditions.
Hence, given the generous nature of Malaysians, it is natural to come up with an initiative to allow Malaysians of all walks to give something meaningful to those suffering victims in Japan.
Simply donate a blanket. An old clean blanket, a new store-bought wool blanket, a comforter from the supermarket, anything that gives warmth to keep away the cold of winter.
Perhaps you wish to write a message on it with a permanent marker pen. Say something like, “We are thinking of you” or “May God keep you safe” or “I hope this helps a little” or “Stay warm and brave” and send the blanket to us. Sign your name or write down your address. Maybe when things improve, you may get a “thank you” card in return from someone in Japan who felt the warm genuine comfort of your blanket and your generosity.
We shall ensure your kind donation of the blanket will be sent over to bring warmth to a homeless Japanese victim; and if you pen some words, then your words will bring comfort to warm the hearts of those who have lost so much.
I know of many who think that Japan is a rich country or that the Japanese are so well off. Let us remember that when one has lost everything in a natural disaster, there is no richness or wealth left but only suffering that remains with the sense of loss. Any small gesture of love even from afar from a stranger will do so much to warm the spirit with the good nature of human kindness.
Hence I appeal and encourage those who would not consider giving money, then give a meaningful and useful gift of human comfort. Pass us a blanket or better yet, a blanket with a kind message, and let your generous gesture reach across oceans to bring warmth to the body and soul of someone in need. Really… reach out and touch someone with this personal donation from a sincere Malaysian who cares – YOU.
Thank you.
Yours-in-Humanitarian-Service,
Rotarian Andy Khoo
President Rotary Year 2010-11
Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja
