Singapore — Netizens who saw a flyer mention a S$1 charge for a “chit-chat session” with Minister for Health Gan Kim Yong were confused further when a doctored version made its way around social media.
The flyer was circulated before the session on Saturday (Dec 12) but a doctored version also made its way around social media and Whatsapp Messenger, giving netizens the impression that they were being charged to chat with the minister. The doctored flyer had the words “12.12” and “Special Promotion”.
12.12 is known for having discounts and bargains as the last online shopping festival of the year.
As a result, many netizens online assumed that they were being charged S$1 to speak with Mr Gan although the flyer mentioned that door gifts would be given to each person attending the event.
Mr Gan is the adviser to Chua Chu Kang grassroots organisations.
Following the session, a post on the Facebook page of Chua Chu Kang CC said: “We understand that are some questions over the need to charge residents S$1 for the chit-chat session.”
“We would like to assure residents that the nominal fees went towards logistics, souvenirs and food. In view of safe distancing measures, the organisers decided not to provide breakfast this time round. Instead, each registered attendee was given a packet of 10 eggs at the end of event”.
The CC also clarified that the RC does not make any profit from organising community events.