In a world where challenges transcend borders, and collective action becomes paramount, the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA) emerges as a beacon of hope. Launched by Temasek Trust, the PAA seeks to galvanise the power of philanthropy across the globe, bringing together over 80 members and partners from the Americas, the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East.
A World of Opportunities in Asia
Asia’s vast scale, rich diversity, and dynamic development present an unparalleled opportunity to drive positive change. With over 50% of global emissions and 60% of the world’s population, the region shoulders a significant burden when it comes to climate change. The challenges Asia faces are intricate and interlinked, and addressing them requires collaborative, collective action.
Desmond Kuek, CEO of Temasek Trust, emphasises the significance of this alliance, saying, “Collaborative, collective action is key to tackling the interconnected and complex challenges confronting them. The opportunity for philanthropic capital to catalyze positive impact in Asia is immense.”
“The Philanthropy Asia Alliance is driven by the immense opportunity to mobilise collective
action to catalyse and scale Asian solutions for the world. We will deepen
our partnerships, harness our strengths, and forge new pathways to make the impossible
possible. We welcome members and partners with the same ambition and bias for action to
join us in this collaborative journey of giving and catalytic impact,” said Lim Seok Hui,
CEO, Philanthropy Asia Alliance.
A Multi-Sector Approach
The PAA is more than just an alliance; it’s a catalyst for change. It focuses on building capabilities, capacities, and communities within the philanthropic sector. Its goal is to harness multi-sector partnerships to catalyze Asian solutions to global challenges.
With collective pledges crossing S$1 billion (US$777M), including a US$100M commitment from Temasek Trust, the PAA is poised to make a significant impact.
During the 3rd Philanthropy Asia Summit (PAS), Lim Boon Heng, PAA Chairman, also announced a distinguished patron, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of the Republic of Singapore who recognises the significance of the PAA
He said:”It can only be addressed through a whole new wave of innovations, in virtually every sector, including farming. PAA will bring global and regional philanthropies together to work with governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to catalyse and scale up these innovations.”
One of the PAA’s most powerful tools is its Calls to Action (CTAs). These curated initiatives focus on Climate and Nature, Inclusive and Holistic Education, and Global and Public Health. They tap into philanthropic capital to drive positive change. PAS 2023 showcased eight CTAs, ranging from decarbonizing rice to enabling healthcare access in the Philippines.
As the PAA grows and engages a global community of philanthropists, governments, businesses, and stakeholders, its potential to address complex, interlinked challenges becomes even more promising. With a commitment to catalytic impact, the PAA charts a course toward a brighter future for Asia and the world.
The philanthropic journey is just beginning, and the PAA invites all with ambition and a bias for action to join in the collaborative journey of giving and catalytic impact. The challenges may be unprecedented, but together, they can make the impossible possible.
