Tailoring a philanthropy framework for Asian entities
A newly formed group aims to champion multi-year research efforts in this area, which will culminate in a landmark report planned for release in 2027
THE socio-economic and cultural backdrop of Asia fosters a philanthropic landscape that is fundamentally more collective than individualistic. It is also often aligned with that of the state and corporates.
This is the view of the newly set up Commission on Asian Philanthropy. The Asian perspective contrasts with what is seen in the Western model, where wealthy individuals and foundations give to independent, non-governmental organisations, it said.
The group, also known as “the Commission”, was launched at the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024 on Tuesday (Sep 10) in Hong Kong. It aims to establish a framework to define the scope and opportunity of Asian philanthropy and establish an “in Asia, for Asia” ecosystem.
The group consists of 10 representatives from organisations located across the region, including in Singapore and Japan.
The need for such an entity is important as the region’s wealth is growing at a rate 1.7 times faster than the global average and now constitutes 36 per cent of global wealth – a trend expected to persist.
The Commission said: “(However), the major philanthropic models in Asia... remain inadequately understood. Data regarding the current size and growth potential of these models in specific markets is often incomplete, absent, or based on generalised assumptions. Research is necessary to understand the diverse factors driving the growth of Asian philanthropy, explore their full potential for impact, and outline the infrastructure necessary for advancement.”
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Hence, it will champion multi-year research efforts in this area, which will culminate in a landmark report planned for release in 2027. The report will feature recommendations and calls for sustained action and transformation, with the goal of translating the evidence-based recommendations of the report into concrete and tangible actions.
The main challenge faced in this journey “would be the inherent heterogeneity of Asia, stemming from its vast size and rich cultural diversity”, said the spokesperson of the group.
The Commission comprises philanthropic organisations, which include Tanoto Foundation that is headquartered in Singapore, Tata Consultancy Services, Tencent Charity Foundation, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust and The Nippon Foundation.
Lester Huang, club steward at The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “Asia needs its own infrastructure to ensure that philanthropy has a recognised and valued role across its diverse contexts and to address the urgent social needs of the region.”
Ichiro Kabasawa, executive director of The Nippon Foundation, noted: “The potential for growth in Asian philanthropy is immense, but it requires a shift from fragmented, individual efforts to a cohesive, strategic approach. By uniting philanthropic leaders to tackle social challenges and strengthen sector capabilities, the Commission will... create evidence-based strategies and foster long-term systemic change that meet the needs of the Asian philanthropic landscape.”
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