SINGAPORE - Singapore's pioneer generation received special mention in the Minister for Communications and Information Dr Yaacob Ibrahim's Hari Raya Aidilfitri message.

Wishing the Singapore Muslim community, he said the month of Ramadan, among other things, reminded everyone "to appreciate the sacrifice, service and love of parents, including the pioneers".

"Their selfless efforts have given us a better life," he said.

"Now, it is our responsibility to build on their legacy and take care of them during their silver years," he added.

Dr Yaacob, who is also Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs said the contributions of the pioneers to Singapore's nation building efforts has "enabled our community to progress steadily over the years in various fields".

He added that the government introduced several key programmes this year to recognise this. Among them are moves to ease the healthcare costs for Singapore's pioneers such as the Pioneer Generation Package and MediShield Life.

"Our pioneer generation had the foresight in driving various efforts that has enabled our community to progress steadily over the years in various fields. I hope that the spirit of our pioneer generation will continue to burn strongly in our youth, so that we can achieve many peaks of excellence in our community."

He added that he was heartened to see many of the youth coming forward and engaging in selfless efforts at helping the less well-off this Ramadan.

One such example was the collaboration between APEX mentors and Al-Mutaqqin Mosque in distributing hampers to the less fortunate.

Dr Yaacob did not confine his message to events in Singapore.

He said: "Our hearts also go beyond our borders. We are deeply concerned for the innocent victims in Gaza. Our mosques and the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation, have embarked on fund-raising initiatives to provide humanitarian aid to the victims.

"We pray for a swift end to the violence and a return to normalcy and peace for the people of Gaza," said Dr Yaacob.