Published: April 26, 2010

On April 14th 2010, Hong Leong Bank Vietnam, a subsidiary of Hong Leong Group (Malaysia), has officially announced to grant 100 scholarships worth a total of VND700,000,000 (US$36,000) within 12 months for children with difficulties but outstanding academic records in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, under the Program "Be A Guardian" project initiated by the Gentle Fund Organization (GFO).

This is a part of the Hong Leong Group's long-term commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Accordingly, Hong Leong Bank Vietnam has actively engaged itself in community improvement activities, particularly in education.

Speaking at the granting ceremony, Mr. Yap Chee Woy, Deputy General Director of the Bank said: "We are very glad to join this project. In the social responsibility policy of Hong Leong Bank Vietnam, education support has always been prioritized as children are our future. They themselves will be the backbone of a country, of a family and undertake the mission of nurturing the generations to come. We do as much as we can to ensure they have our full support on their way today. That is the way we should do for our bright future citizens".

GFO volunteers have worked hard for the list of granted children following requirements of the projects. Hong Leong Bank Vietnam will be kept updated with information of progress of sponsored children. As "the guardians", the Bank's staff will monitor monthly progress of the sponsored children and regularly encourage them in their study. This is a practical way for Hong Leong Bank to do the CSR activities in alignment with the bank's commitment for sustainable business strategy.