KUALA LUMPUR: The Sompo Welfare Foundation has presented a cheque amounting to RM22,500 to the Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) Malaysia.
This is the eleventh time Malaysia has received international grant support from the Sompo Welfare Foundation.
Berjaya Sompo Insurance, the Malaysian operating entity and part of Sompo Holdings (Asia) Pte. Ltd, recommended WAO to be one of the grant recipients for their continuous advocacy for women's rights, specifically against violence against women.
WAO provides shelter to an average of 100 women and children each year who flee from abusive homes.
WAO also advocates to end violence against women and to shift the public's mindset and behaviour towards recognising women's rights.
The grant will primarily support WAO's initiatives, providing essential provisions, psychosocial support, recreational activities, and skills enhancement programmes to help survivors overcome trauma and rebuild their lives.
With a specific focus on healthy eating, the funds will also ensure access to nutritious meals, indirectly improving the quality of life and educational prospects for survivors and their children.
Access to regular meals and essential items, such as toiletries and personal hygiene products, is vital for creating stability and security for shelter residents, many of whom have fled abusive households seeking refuge.
By addressing immediate needs and providing emotional support, WAO aims to empower survivors, helping them regain self-belief and awareness of their rights for a sustainable life free from violence and discrimination.
Tan Sek Kee, CEO of Berjaya Sompo, said, "At Berjaya Sompo, we aspire to create a diverse and inclusive society. We are honoured to collaborate with WAO in their mission to support survivors of domestic violence."
“Through this partnership, we look forward to providing more than financial assistance. We would like to also play an active role in contributing to survivors' holistic well-being and empowerment, enabling them to rebuild their lives with dignity and strength", he added.
Jun Ishak, chief human resources officer and ESG social pillar lead for Berjaya Sompo, together with Masaru Watanabe, representing Sompo Welfare Foundation, presented the RM22,500 mock cheque to Amnani Abdul Kadir, artnership director for WAO.
In her acceptance speech, Amnani said, “We are grateful for the generous support from the Sompo Welfare Foundation. The Grant will enhance our ability to provide comprehensive support to survivors of domestic violence. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to creating a society where every individual is free from violence and discrimination and where survivors are empowered to live with dignity.”
