Press Release

PETALING JAYA: Star Foundation, the charitable arm of Star Media Group, has launched the Star Social Impact Grant (SSIG) to support projects that aim to aid vulnerable communities in Malaysia.

The grant is Star Foundation’s latest social initiative to provide targeted funding for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and social enterprises in carrying out impact-driven and sustainable projects to better the lives of local communities and the environment.

In response to the unprecedented challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the theme for this year’s SSIG is dedicated to projects that seek to address pandemic challenges and improve the quality of life of vulnerable communities in Malaysia.

Such projects can be implemented over a course of 12 months from grant disbursement date.

Each grant can be up to a maximum of RM50,000, depending on the complexity of the project.

NGOs and social enterprises with impactful project ideas that are aligned with Star Foundation’s five focus areas are encouraged to submit their applications for the SSIG.

The Star Foundation’s focus areas are community development, education, access to basic needs as well as infrastructure, environmental protection, and health and well-being.

Star Foundation trustee Datuk Dr Mohd Aminuddin Mohd Rouse said that since its inception, the foundation had always worked closely with NGOs in delivering aid to those in need.

“Social organisations like NGOs and social enterprises are well-versed with the needs on the ground and have the expertise to propose and implement effective solutions to address community challenges.

“As Star Media Group marks its 50th anniversary this year, we are reminded of the duty we play as The People’s Paper.

“We have seen how the people have come together in the most dire of times to help those in need, and Star Foundation is looking to play a greater part in national recovery.

“On top of our ongoing efforts in supporting NGOs with their operational expenses, the SSIG initiative will allow the foundation to work in tandem with purposeful social organisations to help provide relevant and necessary assistance to communities impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic,” he added.

Mohd Aminuddin said the SSIG was the next step in supporting promising programmes with the potential to bring about long-term impact on the communities they serve.

Star Foundation has donated a total of RM20.2mil to more than 350 organisations since 2004.

It has also been running a Medical Fund Programme since 2015 to help underprivileged individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, by sponsoring one-off medical treatment and care.

In 2020, the foundation’s Star Frontliners Initiative successfully raised and donated RM2.6mil worth of essential medical supplies such as ventilators, ICU beds, ultrasound machines and personal protective equipment, which were distributed to 34 hospitals and 15 state health departments nationwide.

For more information on Star Foundation’s work with the community, visit starfoundation.com.my