Philanthropy Must Evolve, Cannot Rely On Donations Alone - Zulkifli

BANGI, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- Philanthropy can no longer rely on traditional donations alone and must be data-driven and impact-focused, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan.

He said the humanitarian and philanthropic landscape now faces new challenges, requiring innovation, including hybrid financial instruments such as blended finance, venture philanthropy, and strategic collaboration among public, private, and non-governmental organisations.

“We can no longer rely on old practices. We need to professionalise the way we help others.

“We need to explore how these financial instruments can be used to bring greater benefits to society. Donations alone are not enough to fully realise the potential of philanthropy in our country,” he said at the 2025 Strategic Partners Appreciation Ceremony of the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM), here today.

Zulkifli said philanthropy must keep pace with global changes, demanding efficiency, professionalism and transparency in managing public and corporate donations, thus all welfare initiatives should be data-driven and impact-focused, with clear measures of effectiveness rather than symbolic gestures or based on perception alone.

“In changing our approach, we must focus on data and impact. We cannot just worry about appearances by showing donations if they make no real difference,” he said.

Zulkifli warned that poor governance and weak integrity can erode public trust, even in long-established charitable organisations.

“Even a century of good work can be undone by a single act of wrongdoing or dishonesty, shattering public trust,” he added.

At today’s event, Zulkifli handed over Sinar Lestari and YaPEIM education aid and presented appreciation certificates to the foundation’s strategic partners.

Also present were Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Marhamah Rosli, YaPEIM Board of Trustees chairman Abdul Khudus Mohd Naaim, and YaPEIM director-general Zabidi Nasan.

-- BERNAMA