Who: Daniel Chan Wai Piew, a retired lecturer in my 50s. I am now an adjunct lecturer in business and engineering, as well as a tutor in English and Chinese for O-level students.

My family: Married to Anna Ong, a former school teacher who now owns and operates two childcare centres.

My home: A five-room HDB flat in Bishan.

My passions: I enjoy playing Chinese chess as well as international chess, often against the computer or some unknown opponent on the Internet. Another favourite pastime is surfing the Internet. I used to jog for exercise, but now, owing to pain in the knee, I walk.

I started writing to the Forum page...: In 1990, when the use of ATMs and other self-help machines was gaining momentum. I urged the banks and other establishments to have more people on standby to help the elderly and less literate users.

What I write about: Issues that affect people residing or working in Singapore. These issues concern safety, health and convenience.

Why I write: I have lived through and seen Singapore's "rags to riches" history, and am thankful for our education-social-political system which has enabled me to rise in tandem.

But there are always people who need help. The authorities and companies may have overlooked seemingly insignificant matters that are important to the common folk, particularly people who are vulnerable or less well-off . I believe our Government takes feedback from the ground seriously, and will act promptly when duly alerted.

I read the Forum page because...: The Forum page showcases a good variety of topics written in short paragraphs with relatively simple vocabulary, which make reading easy.

I follow up every day to see if there are alternative views or an official reply to an issue.

Often, a problem can be seen from different perspectives. At the end of the day, decisions made must benefit those at the bottom rung of our social ladder, as they are the ones who cannot effectively articulate their displeasure.

My wish for Singapore: In the wake of terrorist attacks in some cities, I hope Singapore will continue to be a peaceful and safe place for all, regardless of race, language or religion. The authorities must be extra vigilant against explosives and firearms, and the public must play a part in identifying and reporting suspicious characters and objects.