While I respect Mr Tan Yew Hock's views on the collective sales of properties (Collective sales destroying communities; June 9), I disagree with him.

Inflation has been rising faster than salaries. Retirement requires funds in order for us to be self-reliant. Medical costs are escalating and we cannot expect free healthcare services or even Central Provident Fund savings to provide for everything.

People are living longer, while the birth rate is falling. We cannot and should not expect that our children will look after us. When children grow up, they have their own financial and family commitments, so we should not be a burden to them.

One must face reality - "community togetherness" with current neighbours may get disconnected but not necessarily broken or discontinued when we move away, and there are always opportunities to create or join other communities and bond with future neighbours.

Nothing is permanent.

Wanting to "make a fast buck" and live a flamboyant and extravagant lifestyle is not the main driver behind many people opting to sell or participate in collective sales.

Instead, the sales may address many other financial needs, for example, education, medical, retirement or old-age expenses, and for these to be managed without having to seek financial support from the Government or extended family members.

As long as such opportunities for collective sales are handled fairly, legally and in the proprietor's financial interest, this helps support the majority to gain financial independence, and I am all for it.

Kumar Pillay Thangavalu