AirAsia Foundation provides boost for social enterprises in creating sustainable, thriving urban communities

KUALA LUMPUR, December 16, 2023 -- AirAsia Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Capital A Berhad, is proud to support the causes of local social enterprises in creating sustainable and thriving urban communities through a special event called the ‘City Catalysts’ held at the Central Market here today.

This curated event serves as a platform for social entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, with a series of workshops and talks fostering sustainable development and community empowerment in urban spaces. Notable social enterprises include Destination GOOD; Eat, Shoots, Roots; Asli & Co Craft; Hara Makers; Kraf Kadamaian; Sluvi; Oililin; Coffee for Good; Jom MakCik; Gerai OA; and Athena Empowers.

The event also featured talks addressing various aspects of community development, such as urban farming, making travelling accessible for seniors, and empowering marginalised communities through cycling. These include a talk on “Ageless Adventures” by Jom MakCik and “Pedaling Progress” by The Basikal, which are both recipients of AirAsia Foundation’s Social Enterprise Grant Funding. Additionally, the event offered a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Borneon beads and traditional hand-tap tattoos by Eleanor Goroh from Sabah.

Another special addition to the lineup from East Malaysia is Sluvi, a social enterprise dedicated to uplifting farmers through their skincare products. Their long-term goal is to create a better farming ecosystem in Sarawak villages, enabling farmers to gain sustainable income, improve their knowledge in sustainable farming and produce quality natural ingredients.

Yap Mun Ching, Executive Director of AirAsia Foundation said: “Across Asean, we have helped fund 31 social enterprises, reaching a total of 12,001 family and community members in seven countries. This extensive outreach translates to a substantial investment of US$171 per beneficiary, making a direct impact on 3,334 individuals. These facts underscore our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities, showcasing the transformative power of social entrepreneurship.

“As we continue to support local social businesses, we envision a future where our efforts contribute to the long-term prosperity and vibrancy of the communities we serve. ‘City Catalysts’ exemplifies this dedication, providing a dynamic platform for entrepreneurs and paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive economic landscape. Supporting our local brands is pivotal, not only for preserving our traditional heritage and culture but also for fostering economic resilience and sustainable development. By championing these local social enterprises, we hope to contribute to job creation, community empowerment, and the overall well-being of our society.”  

The public can play a crucial role in sustaining this momentum, especially during this season of giving. Elevate your shopping experience with one-of-a-kind items that make a difference by visiting destinationgood.com for your favourite products. This online platform serves as a continued connection to the impact generated by these entrepreneurs, allowing consumers to support and engage with these social enterprises after the event.

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