Local NGO does not need Singapore Government’s endorsement to register in Gaza, say authorities

On September 22, Singapore authorities clarified to an NGO founder that humanitarian organisations carrying out operations in the West Bank and Gaza do not require government endorsement for registration. The clarification came after Gilbert Goh, the founder of Love Aid Singapore, requested endorsement from Singapore. Goh, a local activist, has been providing aid in Gaza since the region's situation worsened almost two years ago.

The authorities met with Goh on September 21 to discuss matters raised by him, including his intention to sign a memorandum of understanding with Al-Awda Hospital in Gaza's Nuseirat district. The COC's office clarified to Goh that this was Love Aid Singapore's decision, but also emphasized the importance of conducting proper due diligence on proposed partners. The Palestinian Authority indicated that Al-Awda Hospital is not affiliated with them and has no role in its management.

Goh expressed his frustration after receiving official advice from Palestinian authorities, stating that he had to shut down a polyclinic in Gaza due to the lack of official registration. The authorities' clarification has now allowed him to consider partnerships that would enable him to run his polyclinic without separate registration. Additionally, the lack of registration has affected schools he supports, as they no longer receive safety alerts.

The Singapore authorities encouraged Singaporeans to continue supporting Gaza's humanitarian efforts through credible channels, such as the Palestinian Authority, international agencies like UNICEF and the World Food Programme, and local charities like the Singapore Red Cross and Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation.