It is heartwarming to see that, in the middle of this unfortunate crisis sweeping across the world, there are numerous noble souls who have come up in solid support of their governments and authorities by offering material and financial support.
Hopefully, we will rid ourselves of the Covid-19 pandemic very soon but, while we wait for that to happen, it is only right to record the contribution of such Good Samaritans – and countless others – who have come up with gestures and offers of support.
These people have themselves been blessed with bountiful goodness by the good Lord and it is only appropriate they pass on their blessings to those who would use it in this time of need.
Take the example of legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who has put all the hotels he owns in Portugal at the disposal of the government to accommodate the patients – and he is personally bearing all costs of treatment.
Kuwaiti businessman Fawaz Al Marzouq has provided a generous $10 million support and the owner of Alibaba has put $114 million at the disposal of his government for the purchase of medical equipment as also $14 million to develop a vaccine to counter the deadly virus.
These are but some examples that we knew about and have been publicised. I am sure there are many others who have made similar contributions and takes initiatives.
However, in spite of all this, I note with some regret there are many businessmen, traders, and others in the private sector who have earned millions but have failed to step up and offer assistance – in cash or kind. It seems their contributions are zero. After all, they made their fortunes from this great nation and it is time they give back to it now – this is the opportunity.
There are commercial and trading families from whom the nation expects more contributions. I feel it is necessary to raise this issue because society expects a lot from them, even in modest ways, to embody the social partnership.
There are many projects that are desperately needed. These include centres for the elderly, the visually impaired and orphans. We need health centres and units for chronic diseases and we have to increase the capacity for critical care in hospitals.
The list goes on.
These sustainable projects are necessary and urgent for the people. Everyone knows there is an acute shortage of these centres.
This is what Bahrain deserves. May the good Lord keep this country safe and reassured, away from any evil.