The Budimas Charitable Foundation is a Malaysian non-profit organization that was established in 1998. Its main goal is to bring love and hope to underprivileged children in Malaysia through three core programmes: the Budimas Food Charity Fund (BFCF), Budimas Education Charity Fund (BECF), and Budimas Home Charity Fund (BHCF).
Nourishing Young Lives
Through the Budimas Food Charity Fund, the foundation provides meals to 7,300 children across 162 schools in Peninsular Malaysia. This initiative ensures that underprivileged children receive food for recess every school day morning. Budimas volunteers work closely with school teachers to identify children in need, ensuring that no child goes hungry.
Education for a Brighter Future
The Budimas Education Charity Fund is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children. One of its key initiatives is establishing libraries in rural and underdeveloped communities, particularly for the indigenous Orang Asli children. Recognizing that a lack of resources can hinder a child’s passion for reading, Budimas builds these facilities and donates books to spark their curiosity and learning.
The foundation’s first library began operations in Kampung Bukit Kepong, Port Dickson, in February 2015. Today, Budimas operates nine libraries, each housing 4,000 books, benefiting a total of 954 children. Additionally, the fund offers educational scholarships to further support children in need.
A Home for Those in Need
Pusat Jagaan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Budimas Orion was built to provide shelter for orphans and underprivileged children. This initiative, spearheaded by Y.M. Tunku Dato’ Yaacob Khyra, Chairman of The Budimas Charitable Foundation, began construction in 2013 and started operations in June 2015.
The four-story, 18,500-square-foot home is supported by generous public donations and managed by the foundation. It includes dormitories, study areas, a computer lab, a dining hall, a laundry area, and outdoor recreational space, accommodating up to 150 children. The children attend government schools in Senawang, Negeri Sembilan, and receive extra classes to help them develop valuable skills. Under the supervision of a Home Master and a dedicated team, the children are nurtured in a safe and supportive environment.
Encouraging Volunteerism and Corporate Social Responsibility
The foundation aims to inspire corporate bodies to embrace the spirit of volunteerism. By setting an example, Budimas encourages companies to give back to communities and works closely with organizations looking to initiate corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities.
One of Budimas’ long-standing CSR partnerships is with Toys R Us. For over four years, the toy retailer has run an annual year-end Gift-Wrapping Campaign, where RM2 is donated for every customer who uses the service in Toys R Us stores.
A Legacy of Giving
Budimas serves the underprivileged children of Malaysia as well as acting as a guide to organizations looking to begin CSR activities, says Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer of MORS Group.
Dr. Jayanthi Desan, Lead Jury of the ACES Awards, adds, Empowering corporations to establish CSR programs of their own is a commendable way for Budimas to promote volunteerism, as well as expand its charitable outreach.
Through its unwavering commitment to children and corporate partnerships, The Budimas Charitable Foundation continues to transform lives, one act of kindness at a time.
