Singtel, a leading communications giant, has established itself as a strong corporate citizen through impactful and purpose-driven CSR initiatives. The company goes beyond just fostering long-term business growth, focusing on creating shared value for stakeholders, partners, and the community. Through technology, innovation, and collaboration, Singtel drives social change and sustainable growth.
Singtel Touching Lives Fund
The Singtel Touching Lives Fund is a cornerstone of the company’s philanthropy efforts. Launched in 2002, the fund focuses on supporting children and youth with special needs in Singapore. Over the past 15 years, it has raised more than S$33 million, which has been directed toward critical educational programs run by its beneficiary organizations. This initiative highlights Singtel’s commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children and youth through education and opportunity.
Enabling Innovation Centre
Singtel’s dedication to supporting persons with disabilities (PwD) extends beyond charitable donations. In 2015, the company launched the Singtel Enabling Innovation Centre at the Enabling Village, providing PwD with training in infocomm technology and contact center skills. The centre also showcases assistive technologies that improve work productivity for PwD. Through these efforts, Singtel has not only provided support to the PwD community but has also begun hiring PwD, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive employment.
Social Innovation through Singtel Future Makers
Singtel actively supports innovation in the social sector through its Singtel Future Makers program. Launched in 2018, this initiative, which operates in Singapore and Australia, aims to develop digital solutions that meet the community’s needs. The program provides funding, mentoring, acceleration, and incubation support to social entrepreneurs, building an ecosystem of partnerships that foster sustainable social change.
Advocacy for Equitable Employment
In 2017, Singtel became a founding member of the Singapore Business Network on DisAbility, advocating for equitable employment opportunities for PwD. This network seeks to advance inclusive employment practices across Singapore, highlighting Singtel’s commitment to creating an inclusive workforce.
Promoting Responsible Digital Citizenship
As a leader in mobile technology, Singtel recognizes the unintended consequences of technology, particularly for vulnerable children and youth. In 2014, the company launched the notAnoobie app, which provides parents with resources to protect their children in the digital age, covering topics like cyberbullying and online privacy. Furthermore, Singtel introduced Singapore’s first Cyber Wellness Toolkit for special education schools, aimed at helping students with special needs develop safe online habits and recognize internet dangers.
Holistic Approach to CSR
Singtel’s CSR strategy is built on a strategic, holistic, and collaborative approach, which fosters partnerships across the government, non-profit, and private sectors. This approach enables the company to create sustainable and lasting impacts on its beneficiaries and the community. Singtel’s CSR initiatives have not only benefited the community but also engaged employees, becoming the top driver for staff engagement according to the company’s latest staff survey.
Employee Engagement and Volunteering
Singtel encourages its employees to contribute to the community through various volunteering initiatives. One notable initiative is VolunTeaming, where employees volunteer as a department to build rapport and foster inclusion. In 2016, Singtel staff organized a carnival for 1,000 students with special needs, offering games, activities, and food stalls. Singtel employees contribute over 15,000 hours of volunteer work annually, reinforcing the company’s commitment to social good.
Singtel’s Global Commitment to Volunteering
Singtel is the first Asia-Pacific company to join IMPACT 2030, a global business-led initiative promoting corporate volunteering in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Singtel’s involvement in the Volunteer Resource Committee, spearheaded by the National Council of Social Service, further supports its mission to enhance skilled volunteering across sectors.
Financial Commitment to Community
In the past financial year, Singtel invested nearly S$36 million in community support, including direct financial contributions, in-kind sponsorships, and staff volunteer hours. This commitment underscores the company’s belief in corporate responsibility and its ongoing support for the communities in which it operates.
Conclusion
Singtel’s CSR initiatives reflect its commitment to creating shared value, advancing innovation, and supporting vulnerable communities. Through a combination of philanthropy, employee engagement, and responsible digital practices, Singtel continues to play a crucial role in driving social change and sustainable development. The company’s ongoing dedication to these efforts is detailed in its annual Sustainability Report.
