In today’s rapidly changing social landscape, non-profit organisations like Jamiyah Singapore, play a crucial role in supporting communities and addressing societal needs. Central to their mission is the ability to stay informed and proactive in responding to government policies and evolving social issues.

We spoke with Mr Muhd Khair Baharin, Chief Corporate Officer and Secretary-General of Jamiyah Singapore to delve deeper into how the organisation utilises news subscriptions from SPH Media to enhance their programme planning and community outreach efforts to impact diverse range of communities – including staff, programme beneficiaries, volunteers and residents of their Halfway House and Nursing Home.

Why does Jamiyah Singapore subscribe to SPH news publications?

At Jamiyah Singapore, our commitment to serving the community extends beyond immediate care to proactive engagement with ongoing social and governmental developments.

SPH’s publications, such as The Straits Times and Berita Harian, are invaluable resources that offer comprehensive coverage and insightful analysis of local and internal news. This knowledge is crucial for planning and executing our programmes across Welfare Homes, Education and Community Engagement, ensuring we remain aligned with current affairs, government policies and social issues affecting our beneficiaries.

How does staying informed benefit Jamiyah Singapore’s outreach efforts?

The insights gained are instrumental in shaping our strategies. For instance, recent reports on the increase in drug usage among young people have prompted proactive measures at Jamiyah Halfway House to address and reduce this pressing issue. Similarly, updates on mental health awareness empower our social work and counseling teams to provide more informed and supportive care to our beneficiaries.

"By staying informed through SPH Media’s reputable publications, we can adapt our services swiftly to meet evolving needs and trends," Mr. Khair commented. "This not only strengthens our commitment to our beneficiaries but also reinforces our role as a leading non-governmental organisation dedicated to enriching lives and fostering community well-being in Singapore."

Beyond programme planning, how else do you utilise these news subscriptions?

The subscriptions help foster a sense of community awareness amongst our residents at Jamiyah Nursing Home and Jamiyah Home for the Aged. Residents appreciate staying informed about broader societal issues, which enhances their sense of connectedness and engagement with the world around them. Our staff and volunteers at the Homes also enjoy reading news to and with our residents as a form of social activity.

Additionally, insights from news about social and economic trends help Educational Centers enrich their curriculum and guide our FoodBank in addressing food security effectively.

"Keeping abreast of community trends and needs allows us to serve better and adapt our services accordingly," says Mr Khair. "Overall, the publications improve our strategic planning, increase resident participation, and enhance the credibility and professionalism of our communications."

How do residents at the Welfare Homes respond to the availability of our news publications?

The response has been positive. Many residents have expressed that the publications have helped them stay connected to the community and the world and have sparked meaningful conversations and discussions within our Welfare Homes.

"Most of our residents read the newspapers on a daily basis. Some even eagerly ask for them before they arrive. It's clear that reading is not just a pastime but a cherished habit."

Why would you recommend SPH Media’s student publications to other schools and parents?

The comprehensive coverage across various topics is invaluable for different industries and sectors, offering insights that aid strategic decision-making and planning. The convenience of both print and digital formats caters to diverse preferences. Moreover, staying well informed enhances staff engagement, fosters in-depth discussions and promotes community awareness, all of which are crucial for effective operations and client relations, no matter which industry you’re in.