Indonesia's Karim Family Foundation raises S$200,000 to support badminton world champion Loh Kean Yew

AN INDONESIAN tycoon's family foundation, the Karim Family Foundation, has raised S$200,000 to support badminton player Loh Kean Yew, the first Singaporean to win the Badminton World Federation World Championships. (see amendment note)

The Karim Family Foundation - set up by the family of Indonesian tycoon Bachtiar Karim and his wife Dewi Sukwanto - wanted to congratulate Loh for his win at the championships in December 2021, according to Zaobao.

Previously, a crowdfunding initiative Ray of Hope as well as donations from 5 business leaders in Singapore also raised over S$158,000 for the badminton player. BT understands that the crowdfunding campaign, started by Pine Garden's Cake managing director Wei Chan on Ray of Hope website, will close on Sunday, Jan 16, at 11.59pm.

Bachtiar Karim is the executive chairman of Singapore-headquartered oil conglomerate Musim Mas. In 2021, the Karim family had a net worth of around US$3.5 billion, making it the 10th richest in Indonesia, according to Forbes.

Cindy Karim, principal at the Karim Family Foundation, said the family was "inspired" by Loh's perseverance and humility "even after such an amazing feat".

Noting that the foundation has had a focus on sports development, art and culture, mental health and education, she added: "We hope to inspire future Loh Kean Yews in Singapore."

The donation is being made through a donor-advised fund with The Community Foundation of Singapore.

READ MORE:

• Business leaders raise S$50,000 to support new badminton world champ Loh Kean Yew
• Smash hits from the court: 6 business leaders serve up lessons from badminton
• After being crowned badminton's newest world champion, Loh Kean Yew can dream of Olympic glory next

Amendment note: The article and headline have been amended to correctly reflect the name of the Karim Family Foundation.