At 56, Mr Roslan Bin Maarof could have settled into quiet retirement. Instead, he chose to look for purposeful ways to give back to the community. Now at 58, he will be receiving the Singapore Red Cross Commendation Award for his sustained service as a medical chaperone. 

When one thinks about their retirement plans, most would dream up an idyllic beach, perhaps a lodge hidden away in the mountains, or even a ranch in the countryside. While the landmarks and locations may differ, the agenda is always almost the same — a long blissful sunset ride into a life of rest and relaxation. Yet, that was the opposite of what 56-year-old Mr Roslan Bin Maarof had in mind for his retirement. For him, this season of retirement was merely the beginning of his journey of service as a volunteer for the Singapore Red Cross (SRC). 

A Search for Meaning 

Like many others in retirement, Mr Roslan faced the challenge of how to spend his time meaningfully after decades in the workforce. 

“I was looking for something purposeful to fill my time after retirement and give back to the community. By chance, and perhaps fate, I came across the SRC medical chaperone role.” 

SRC’s Medical Chaperone & Transport (MCT) department offers crucial transport and medical chaperone assistance to elderly individuals and persons with disabilities from lower-income homes. The programme helps clients get to-and-from their appointments at healthcare service facilities and day activity centres with the help of drivers and chaperones like Mr Roslan.

“Within a few months, I realised how much I enjoyed it, especially the many warm and light-hearted conversations I’ve had with both colleagues and clients during our journeys together.”

It has been two years since Mr Roslan took the plunge to serve as a volunteer but he remains motivated, citing the clients as the main reason . 

“Many clients live alone, have limited mobility, and feel lonely. I always greet them with a big smile, introduce myself, and start with simple, friendly questions. If they’re open, I chat more, hoping to brighten their day and make them feel less alone.”

And the Award Goes to

“I feel deeply grateful and honoured to receive the SRC Commendation Award this year. I’m especially thankful to my senior, Rina, for guiding me in my early days and patiently answering all my questions.”

To others interested in volunteering with MCT, Mr Roslan recommends following one’s heart and passion. 

“There are many ways to serve — find one that truly speaks to you, and you’ll discover that giving your time can be as rewarding for you as it is for those you help.”