28 March 2011

Singapore, 28 March 2011 – The three mobile network operators in Singapore - M1, SingTel and StarHub, and Ericsson’s global mobile commerce enabler IPX are pleased to announce that post-paid mobile customers in Singapore will be able to make a $5, $10 or $20 donation to aid survivors of the Japan disaster by sending an SMS to the common short-code 78888. Donations will go towards the Singapore Red Cross Society’s relief efforts in Japan. This mobile donation campaign will continue for one month, starting from 6am on 28 March 2011 till midnight on 25 April 2011.

M1, SingTel, StarHub and Ericsson, which provides the technical solution, have jointly agreed to waive all administration fees associated with such premium SMS, and forward the full proceeds to the relief organisation.

The donations will be reflected in customers' next monthly bill from their respective mobile service providers.

Donation details:-

·         For a $5 donation, SMS RC5 to 78888

·         For a $10 donation, SMS RC10 to 78888

·         For a $20 donation, SMS RC20 to 78888

Donations are not tax-deductible and persons below the age of 18 years will require parental or guardian consent before making a donation.

Mr Lim Theam Poh, Director of Operations and Head of International Services of the Singapore Red Cross Society, said, "We are grateful to the mobile industry in Singapore for coming together in support of the Singapore Red Cross Society's relief efforts to aid the survivors of the Japan catastrophe. Many Singaporeans have approached us to volunteer their assistance, and financial contributions are the best way to help, especially in an international disaster. The popularity of text messaging and the simplicity of the SMS donation channel will allow us to harness the compassion and generosity of Singaporeans and turn it into positive action for the disaster survivors."

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