National Team players, FAS staff spread Hari Raya cheer to homes for underprivileged and aged

SINGAPORE, 24 MAY 2020 – With the restrictions put in place by the government to stem the spread of COVID-19, this year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri will take on a very different atmosphere for the Muslim community.

Traditionally a time for family and friends to renew and strengthen relationships, that won’t be possible this year – especially for residents of homes for the aged and underprivileged as they will not have the opportunity to see their immediate families.

In order to spread some festive joy to these people, four Singapore National Team players – Shahdan Sulaiman, M. Anumanthan, Zaiful Nizam, Nur Izzati bte Rosni – and Football Association of Singapore (FAS) staff – Yazeen Buhari (General Secretary), Eric Ong (Head, National Teams Management), Julie Teo (Head, Grassroots & Women’s Football) – delivered cookies and cakes to four homes last Tuesday and Wednesday.

The goodies were packed at the players’ respective houses before they drove to their various destinations to make the deliveries, with the beneficiaries being residents from Pertapis Children’s Home, Pertapis Centre for Women & Girls, Jamiyah Halfway House and Jamiyah Home for the Aged.

Goalkeeper Zaiful, who plays for Balestier Khalsa, said, “I think this is humanity, you know? To give back to the community. You can be a soccer player, a celebrity, or whatever; but humanity, you can’t buy.”

Still Aerion midfiielder Izzati added, “At this time, where it’s very hard to even celebrate Hari Raya, I think it’s good that we give them (goodies like) cookies to at least (help them) have the vibes of Hari Raya.”

Hougang United midfielder Anu noted, “I feel like I can just do my part… to make them happy and in this difficult time where (less fortunate) people cannot see their families as often, it’s the least I can do.”

The FAS strongly believes in giving back to the community and are grateful to have the opportunity to do so during this period. Stay safe, stay healthy and here’s wishing all of you Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!