KUANTAN, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- The ONEcharity Gala Dinner has raised more than RM500,000 for five Chinese national-type schools here, surpassing its initial fundraising target with support from telecommunications provider redONE Mobile.
Funds were raised through the sale of exclusive redONE Mobile merchandise and lucky draw tickets, as well as a mobile-based online campaign spearheaded by ONEcharity founder Ben Teh, who is also redONE Mobile Group Chief Sales Officer.
In a statement, Ben said fundraising methods must continue to evolve in line with the changing needs of schools and the community.
“ONEcharity is exploring the development of a mobile fundraising platform to make future contributions to Chinese education easier, more convenient and more accessible.
“The platform could also serve as a bridge between the Malaysian Chinese community, the business sector and schools, helping to foster more sustainable support for education,” he said.
Teh also thanked the East Pahang Chinese Primary Schools Development Committee, school boards of directors, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), principals, teachers, parents and participating schools for their contributions to the event’s success.
The gala dinner, which featured 108 tables, raised funds for five schools: SJK(C) Semambu, SJK(C) Chung Ching, SJK(C) Kong Min, Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan Tanah Putih and Sekolah Menengah Chong Hwa Kuantan.
redONE Mobile Group chairman and Huazong (The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia) Permanent Honorary President Tan Sri Goh Tian Chuan said the company’s contributions over the past decade were aimed not only at providing direct assistance but also at encouraging more companies and community organisations to support Chinese education.
He expressed hope that more organisations and individuals would organise fundraising and sponsorship initiatives to ensure continued support for Chinese education.
In the same statement, Huazong Permanent Honorary President Tan Sri Fong Tian Sing said Malaysia’s multiracial society and multi-stream education system were key pillars of national unity, urging all parties to respect these fundamental aspects of the country’s diversity.
Since its establishment in 2015, the ONEcharity Chinese Education Charity Fundraising initiative has raised more than RM5 million for 108 Chinese schools across 11 states in Malaysia.
The funds have helped schools upgrade facilities, carry out essential maintenance and improvements, and support educational and school activities aimed at enhancing students’ learning environments and experiences.
--BERNAMA