CAPS Spotlight - January 8, 2025
Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS)
A uniquely Asian, independent action-oriented research and advisory organization.
Dear Friends, Happy New Year!
As we usher in 2025, the team is excited to embark on a new year of projects focused on enhancing both the quality and quantity of private social investment in Asia, a core principle of our work. Next week, I’ll be chairing a panel discussion at the Asian Financial Forum (AFF) 2025, themed “Business for a Better Future: The Role of Corporations in Economic and Social Advancement.” In this session, business leaders, including Mr. Ronnie Chan, CAPS’ Co-Founder and Honorary Chair of Hang Lung Properties , Mr. Nirvana Chaudhary , Managing Director of CG Corp Global , Ms. Kattiya Indaravijaya , CEO of KASIKORNBANK , and Mr. Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group , will explore strategies and collaborative approaches that foster sustainable growth and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
We also have an exciting lineup of projects, publications, and events planned for the year, covering a wide range of topics in the region. Stay tuned for updates!
Best,
Co-Founder and Chief Executive
DOING GOOD: THE LATEST IN ASIA
BYD has launched a 3 billion RMB ($409 million) education charity fund to support higher education and promote new energy vehicle technology. The fund will collaborate with over 100 universities to establish scholarships and donate new energy vehicle exhibits to 28 science museums across China. Read more here.
Amid Myanmar's ongoing crisis, acts of generosity flourished in the past year. Watch several documentary stories here about how ordinary people supported one another through initiatives such as affordable meals, donations for struggling seniors, and a family-owned business helping to keep breadwinners employed.
Wing Bank (Cambodia) has partnered with Southbridge International School Cambodia (SISC) to host the third annual Christmas Charity Fair, raising funds for the Angkor Hospital for Children , which provides critical, no-cost healthcare to over 100,000 children annually. Contributions can be made through the bank App’s “Donation & Charity” section. Read more here.
Six major Singaporean charities have partnered with Crypto.com to accept cryptocurrency donations. This initiative leverages blockchain and Web3 technologies to improve transparency, engage tech-savvy donors, and expand global fundraising efforts. Learn more about this new partnership here.
Aliet Green, a woman-owned enterprise in Indonesia, won the 2024 Local Adaptation Champions Award for empowering 1,500+ smallholder farmers with climate-smart tools. Supported by UNEP-WCMC , the initiative enhances resilience through sustainable practices, gender equity, and innovative solutions, safeguarding 500 hectares against droughts and floods. Learn more about their approaches here.
CSR spending by Islamic banks in Bangladesh dropped 27.5% to Tk0.58 billion ($4.8 million) in July-September 2024, compared to the previous quarter. Funded through Shariah-compliant sources, these programs support education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Stakeholders urge stronger CSR frameworks to address vulnerable communities' needs. Read more here.
DID YOU KNOW
Source: DECODED: Collaborative Giving in Asia, Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society
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