This short notice comes as a surprise and we hope Safra will clarify its unorthodox decision.

First, all active and inactive national servicemen have an indirect stake in Safra - it is an appreciation for their contribution to national defence.

For the sake of Safra members who are regular gym members, Safra should take a proactive role in collecting feedback from members before making the decision to close the gym.

There was no feedback from members and Safra acted unilaterally.

Second, in the letter, Safra suggested that its Safra Town Club members switch to the Safra Mount Faber gym.

However, Safra does not understand there are many employees working near Safra Town Club. The Safra gyms open at 7am, unlike other privately run gyms that open at 6am. Most of us start work at 9am.

Safra needs to understand there is a big difference in travel time of more than half an hour after workout between Safra Mount Faber and Safra Town Club, and workplaces in Raffles Place and its vicinity.

Third, the letter offered Safra Town Club gym members no choice by saying we could either stay with a carrot of three months' bonus extension to current subscription or terminate gym membership with 'much regret'. Such an approach is not helpful and will not resolve the unhappiness of members.

We appeal for empathy and understanding on the part of Safra and hope it will hold a referendum before deciding on this drastic measure to close the gym.

Francis Cheng Choon Fei