SINGAPORE – Last Saturday morning (Oct 7), Mr. Lim Keng Yeow and his wife, Madam Karen Phuah, faced the shock of an air raid siren echoing through the
SINGAPORE – Last Saturday morning (Oct 7), Mr. Lim Keng Yeow and his wife, Madam Karen Phuah, faced the shock of an air raid siren echoing through their home in Arnona, Jerusalem, around 8 a.m. The couple, both Singaporeans, quickly descended from their fourth-floor apartment to a basement air raid shelter, joining neighbors as they awaited safety amidst rising tensions.
This rush to shelter became a pattern, with the couple making five similar dashes throughout the day, as Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, resulting in over 700 Israeli and 400 Palestinian deaths from retaliatory strikes. “In between sirens, I just find myself wanting to get more and more information,” Mr. Lim shared. He and Madam Phuah have been in Israel since August, studying at Jerusalem University College. All classes have since shifted online to ensure safety.
While sheltering, the couple received constant alerts about incoming missiles from Israel’s emergency portal. “It really didn’t sink in until the state of war was declared,” Madam Phuah said. As a mother, she felt the emotional weight of watching her landlady bid farewell to her son and grandson as they went to join the armed forces. “I am afraid of the danger, but we stay vigilant,” she added.
Fellow Singaporean and clergyman Mr. Kenny Lim, who has lived in Jerusalem with his family for over ten years, described a strong community spirit. “I’ve experienced firsthand how neighbors here come together,” he noted, adding that despite the ongoing conflict, he has no plans to return to Singapore. “If the conflict comes here, we won’t be alone. Israelis are very helpful.”
The couple, in close communication with Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is considering a return to Singapore but faces uncertainties around flight availability due to the conflict.
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