SINGAPORE: Some 2,000 people, including those in wheelchairs, turned up for the Handicaps Welfare Association's fundraising event on Sunday morning.

Some got a little assistance, while others managed fine on their own at the 3-km "Wheel, Walk or Jog" event that was held at the Botanic Gardens.

Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo said: "As we were climbing up a gentle slope just now, I noticed someone having difficulty wheeling himself up because he was tired. Then you realise how something you take for granted can become so difficult for someone with a handicap.

"I hope sensitivity becomes part of our culture, part of our value system in Singapore – always keep an eye out for the person who's in difficulty."

The Handicaps Welfare Association hopes to raise S$300,000 from the event.

The money will go towards funding its programmes which include rehabilitation therapy and transport services for the disabled.


- CNA/so