This is more so when we have many economic collaboration projects going on there.

I believe many Singaporeans now work in China and many may even have uprooted themselves and stay there long term due to the many opportunities sprouting up from its economic revival.

When Indonesia was hit by earthquakes recently, the community here raised funds and even sent experts over to assist the country in relief efforts. It was a much-appreciated gesture which benefited both countries bilaterally.

Though China has recently powered ahead in terms of economic growth, there are still many provinces that have yet to benefit from such progress. Many still depend on air-conditioners to act as heaters and they are not sufficient to keep warm when the weather hits sub-zero for a prolonged period of snowfall.

Many also go without power and water for many weeks in the provinces. The daily news clips on people huddling together over candles and charcoal to keep warm is most heart-rending.

However, I am sure the resilience of the Chinese people will prevail over time.

Though our Prime Minister has come out to encourage the Chinese people and donated $500,000 to the country in relief efforts, I find that much more can be done to promote bilateral ties between the two countries. It is when one country decides to support another in times of need that the ties can be cemented and reciprocated if necessary.

We need to be more proactive when it comes to maintaining neighbouring ties. It is not often that a country plunges into such a climatic crisis. Any kind gestures will be most appreciated from the country in trouble. We may have missed the chance to show our support here.

Gilbert Goh Keow Wah