Halfway across the world, we're still tied to conflict

Demonstrators protest outside parliament against airstrikes on Syria, in London, on Dec 2, 2015. Photo: EPA

Too often while eating outside, I have been approached by people asking me to donate money. They often come armed with letters from government departments, presumably to prove their authenticity.

But when even an august organisation such as Jakim (Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia) or a well-to-do foundation such as YAPEIM (the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation) can come under scrutiny, it makes me wonder how reliable somebody who approaches me off the street can be.