AN ANNUAL charity jam is aiming to raise over RM4mil for the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) paediatric intensive care unit (Picu) and Food Aid Foundation (FAF).
The 25th Charity Jam Session (CJS) 2026 will be held on June 7 at RP Entertainment Centre, The Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur, from noon to midnight.
It will feature live music performances, food and beverage, lucky draws and silent auctions.
Organising chairman SS Rajaa said the initiative, which began in 2000 as a one-off event, had grown into a long-running charity event supported by musicians, hotels, sponsors, volunteers and food operators.
CJS has three main objectives which are to raise funds for deserving organisations, showcase local talent and allow hoteliers and food partners to present their signature dishes, he said.
Rajaa said Picu continued to remain dear to their hearts.
“This heart-to-heart care that we all put in over the years has been channelled to Picu,” he told a press conference.
This year’s performers include Sharin Band, Stag, Mojo Hand, Vishnu & Friends, Infinity, Karisma Band, The Cauliflower Robbery, Chemistry, Sunny & Friends, Night Grooves and Small Stones.
Entry is via food and beverage coupons priced at RM18 each or RM180 per coupon book of 10, available pre-event and during the event.
There is no cover charge or prior reservation required.
Rajaa said this would be his last year in the role of organising chairman, as it was time to pass the baton to a new team.
Saujana Hotel Kuala Lumpur sales and marketing director Ida Izyani said the hotel was honoured to host the event again.
“Hospitality is not only to welcome guests and serve guests.
“It is bringing people together for a meaningful cause and giving back to the community,” she said.
Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) president Datin Christina Toh said the initiative showed how the hospitality industry rallied behind causes that went beyond business interests.
“We stand behind Picu as it involves saving lives,” said Toh.
FAF general manager Afraz Said said they were proud to be one of the co-organisers.
She said CJS had so far raised RM3,856,403.92 for 26 beneficiaries, supporting healthcare, humanitarian relief, community welfare and social development across Malaysia.
Afraz said the biggest portion went to healthcare, with support to UMMC’s Picu reaching RM2.84mil over the years.
“Last year RM112,746.70 was distributed to four organisations, including Picu and FAF.”
She said the foundation, established in 2013, rescued surplus food and redistributed it to communities in need.
In 2025, it distributed nearly RM2.2mil worth of food.
Afraz said rising living costs, global uncertainty and disasters continued to place pressure on vulnerable families.
“The gap is still big and we are trying to close it.”
Also at the press conference was UMMC Picu consultant Dr Chuah Soo Lin.
Members of the public can support the event through coupon purchases, sponsorships, donations or participation.
