ST Forum 17 Jan 07
IN REPORTING on plans to promote community ties among residents of HDB estates, the article, 'Community ties: It's the basics that count' (ST, Jan

, quoted common misperceptions of the Residents' Committees (RCs), raised at focus- group discussions.
The purpose of the People's Association (PA) grassroots organisations (GROs), including the RCs, is to foster active citizenry. As part of the process, they organise community activities, but this should not be construed as their having sole responsibility or a monopoly in holding such activities.
It is to the credit of many individuals and groups that they also do their part in organising activities, jointly with the GROs or separately.
We are delighted that some residents of Block 176 in Woodlands Street 13 hold social and community activities, and not leave everything to the RC.
That RCs are party-political - which is cited by some as the reason they are reluctant to join as members - is a misperception. There is much media and public attention when RC members visit households with their advisers. In contrast, the many frequent visits by RC members on their own, and the good community service they render, do not attract such notice.
RCs are part of the PA (a government body) grassroots network, and thus an extension of the Government. RC members serve in the interest of residents, regardless of political affiliation. Any RC member who takes part in party-political activities does so in his personal capacity.
Recruitment is a challenge for all voluntary organisations. RCs have fared well, with membership of about 11,000 and average growth of 2.6 per cent in the last three years. About 40 per cent of RC members are professionals, managers, executives or businessmen, while more than one third are below 45.
The PA appreciates the efforts of grassroots volunteers in strengthening community ties. We would like to invite more people to join the grassroots movement for on-going leadership renewal and to improve our activities, so as to better serve residents and build a more cohesive community.
Ooi Hui Mei (Ms)
Director
(Corporate Communications)
for Chief Executive Director
The People's Association